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Thread: Can't get a tight ridge line

  1. #1
    Alone in the Wilderness
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    Jul 2014
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    Can't get a tight ridge line

    I'm trying to use the cawley hitch to tighten my ridge line, but the tarp is weighing it down. I've tried tightening it as much as i can, but the tarp still sags. Any recommendations? Thanks!

  2. #2
    Ranger Ehecatl's Avatar
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    Nov 2012
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    I used to use the Farrimond but couldn't quite get the tension I wanted so I tend to use the haulier's hitch now and save the Farrimond for my guy lines.

    M@
    "If you were to ask me what I consider to be my finest achievement, I could answer the question without hesitation: teaching." ~ Raymond Blanc.

  3. #3
    Natural Born Bushcrafter Valantine's Avatar
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    I use this system now and find it very reliable
    http://theultimatehang.com/2012/11/v...s-with-a-tarp/

  4. #4
    Ranger OakAshandThorn's Avatar
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    Sep 2012
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    I use the a combo of the Evenk knot and tarp hitch for the ridgeline, tensioned with two prussiks (one on each end).
    Here's a link for the tarp hitch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj41GwEaKeQ
    My blog, New England Bushcraft

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  5. #5
    Tribal Elder Chubbs's Avatar
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    I use the Event knot along with the adjustable Cawley Hitch, the same ones demonstrated by forum creator and member Ashley on the Natural Bushcraft YouTube channel. Using these along with a prussik at each end of the tarp to tension, you won't have any problems.

    I used these on my tarp this last weekend and the ridge line was tight enough to strum like a guitar. Once the guy lines were in place the whole lot was very taught.

  6. #6
    As a newcomer to tarps and knots I've practised the Event knot, Cawley Hitch and Prussik...I've just had a go at the Tarp Hitch and as far as I'm concerned they are do-able knots for me. I feel confident I can achieve them when I get out in the sticks....So, thanks Guys.

  7. #7
    Alone in the Wilderness
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    Jul 2014
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    Great information, thanks everyone! I was practicing in my back yard all day and did pretty well. However, I don't know how to play the guitar yet, so I'll have to learn that on a different day. This was my first time ever learning knots and Ashley's videos were a great help. I'm going to get out there again tomorrow and try some of your suggestions. Thanks for all the advice and keep the suggestions coming! - Matt

  8. #8
    A good place to practise is Under the Kitchen Table.....from Leg to Leg....

  9. #9
    Trapper AJ's Avatar
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    May 2014
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    I like the Trucker/Truckie Hitch. You can get that really tight.

  10. #10
    Tribal Elder Humakt's Avatar
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    I use an evenk knot one end (the first one I tie) and then a guy rope knot the other - and use that to adjust tension.
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