What rope for ridgeline on tarp?

Going to make a trial run using a tarp this weekend. I picked up a 8x10 equinox and 50' of ezc - 2 line.

Looks like I might need more line, and or a differn't line for the ridgeline.


I saw a few videos on setup, just wonder how I should cut up these guy lines for the traditional A style setup. I plan to use something like this: http://www.bushcraftnorthwest.com/articles/tarp_dark_export.jpg




Just looking for some feedback on what lengths to cut up ahead of time.




I searched, but the search engine here never seems to accomodate me <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I wouldn't use a ridgeline unless the tarp lacks tie-outs for the center. Or unless the material appears too weak.

I use the "Ray-way" for setting up rectangular tarps A-frame style. Google it and you'll find some nice pictures and instructions.

Having said that, I use 18" peices for the corners. 12' for the ends. And 6'+ for side guy-outs. Here is some information that might be of help.

I've got that same tarp and I used to use a ridgeline like the bushcraftnorthwest guy shows on his site. Now I don't. Just attach lines to the grommets that are at end of the center seam. On the equinox tarp that is the short direction (the 8' direction) which some people find a disadvantage of that tarp (I don't mind that much if I'm on the ground, 8' is plenty long. In a hammock it would be another story). Those lines will go to the trees or trekking poles which will support the tarp. If you hang the tarp such that the white grosgrain ribbons hang down (instead of up like the bushcraftnorthwest guy does) then you can tie your headlamp up to use as a light and it will be suspended over your head.

I use 6 lines to pitch that tarp and it took about 50' of cord. You might be able to get away with less I suppose depending on how low to the ground you intend to pitch the tarp. During high winds I put two more lines on to keep the sides from flapping.

Thanks for the follow-ups.



I guess I need to seam seal the other side to be safe then if I am going to flip the tarp.



Are you able to use this in wet/windy weather without a bivy? I don't mean hurricanes but a good rain storm that often includes mild to moderate winds.


I don't own a bivy and it seemed like 8x10 was enough to use without one. I guess experience will tell. I have a new down bag arriving tomorrow I would hate to soak it on the first night out .....


If I have to buy a bivy my weight is going to start approaching my contrail. I got so used to sleeping out under the stars on my pct hike that I thought the tarp would be ideal. California desert weather is a little different then Virginia in November though.

With an 8x10 I would think you would be okay. But the only time I was under it during a storm I was in a hammock so it's not a fair comparison.

The people who use bivies and tarps frequently use a smaller tarp like a 5x8. With the 8x10 it should work without a bivy but it depends on two things. First you need to pitch pretty low to keep any windblown rain out. Second you need to have you tarp oriented correctly to the wind.

Of course the problem there is predicting which way the wind will be blowing at 2am.

One other consideration is your bag. A little spray on a synthetic bag is not an issue. But down bags don't dry quickly and so you want to try harder to keep them dry. If you have down then you'd better use a bivy.

The tarp I showed is a 9'x7'. I have it pitched high, but if you pitch it low, the coverage is pretty good. Your 10'x8' is roomier when pitched low. There's no magic with a tarp - if you've got the wind blowing right in one end you are going to have a fun night. So site selection and orientation is important. And you don't have to do your first try in a storm. Also I wouldn't think you need to seam seal that tarp - I thought they were sealed, but I've only looked at them in the catalog.

I have an Equinox tarp and it does need to be seam sealed. Especially vulnerable to leakage is where the ties are sewn to the ridgeline seam. Being silnylon, you'd need a silicone-based seam sealer like Silnet.