Recent content by BenFrank

  1. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    Yeah, I had sewn a couple tarps and a sleeping bag. The sewing is pretty straight forward but a bit of experience in seam construction and fabric management would help. A simple flat tarp (like a Kifaru sheep tarp) is a great way to learn while yielding a functional piece of gear.
  2. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    The peak and foot vents are made from no-see-um mesh. The vent covers overhang far enough that their should be no issue with water getting in. It would have to be raining absolutely sideways and even then I'm not sure if enough water could get in to cause much problem. That said I'm looking...
  3. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    It's all about site selection. Just make sure you don't pitch it in a low spot or on a non porous surface ( rock, clay, etc.). Most semi-forested areas have a thick layer of pine duff or leaf litter that will soak up any surface water. Never had an issue with water running in underneath.
  4. BenFrank

    Scared to move on from my Jetboil?!

    Never had a jetboil but have had the same pocket rocket since 2007. Never failed me. Like others have mentioned, the only issue I have is needing a small windbreak.
  5. BenFrank

    Budget spotter

    I picked up a used 65mm Vortex Razor for $600. Does just fine for my needs.
  6. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    To stiffen the vent flaps I used heavy duty 1/2" zip ties. Thanks for the info on the zipper. I'll give it a leak test after I seam seal.
  7. BenFrank

    New back country hunter. pack weight

    Here is a link to my list: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1zP0qnIx709YbxhPokleJCXB_Dfx18bRQw_GSh60ptlo/edit?usp=sharing Keep in mind this is my early season deer setup with relatively dry/warm conditions. For elk I would probable ditch the spotter. For later season I might add more...
  8. BenFrank

    New back country hunter. pack weight

    My suggestion would be to get a digital scale, weigh every piece of gear, and then list them on a spreadsheet. You will quickly see which items are your biggest offenders. From there you can start deciding which items to leave behind or which items might be worth replacing with lighter...
  9. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    Pretty much finished up. I need to work on tightening up the pitch. Adding side guy outs and maybe a couple more guy outs along the perimeter should help. Also debating on whether to add a storm flap over the zipper. Anyone have any experience with how watertight a standard coil zipper...
  10. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    The door is attached. I figured I would use the door most of the time but can roll back both sides if the weather was warm. Nice job on yours. I think you went with a more versatile design. I'm kind of limited to a single pitch configuration.
  11. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    Thanks but I don't think I have anymore skills than the next guy. A good plan, attention to detail, and a lot of patience goes along way. The machine I have I literally found on the side of the road, so no fancy equipment is required. If I calculated the value of my time this would be a VERY...
  12. BenFrank

    MYOG: Binocular Harness

    Not sure exactly which ones JReeves is using but here are several options: https://dutchwaregear.com/product-category/myg/diy-hardware/hooks/?fwp_per_page=96
  13. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    First pitch. It’s not perfect but pretty happy so far. I still need to do the vent covers. Per the the advice of others I think I’ll add at least one pull out to each side.
  14. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    Got all of my materials in and have been making good progress. Here is a rundown of the materials and cost for those interested. Ripstopbytheroll.com: (7yds) 1.1oz Sil Poly $41.65 (1yd) No see um mesh $3.00 (5ft) #3...
  15. BenFrank

    DIY 1lb 2-man Tarp/Tent

    Yes, a lot of inspiration from the LT. The materials cost almost as much but hopefully the weight savings will be worth making it myself. Searching the web I found almost the exact tent I had envisioned but looks like it is only available in the UK...
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