Looking for an 8x10 all purpose nylon tarp. Want one that is light, durable, able to stand up to wind and weather yet easily packable. I like the Hilberg tarns but $175?

Thanks,

JDG

There are lots of options for tarps that don't carry some currently famous name brand. Just about any outdoor store carries them for far less than $175.

Cooke custom sewing expensive but the best. they have many options.

http://www.shop.cookecustomsew...ory.sc?categoryId=12

Cheap tarps are just that, if you are depending on them possibly on saving your life.

The money spent is well worth buying a real good one.

Out of curiosity what makes them better? I've had a nylon tarp for the past 20 years or so that has never leaked and been used a lot. Other than adding some seam seal once in a while it's still doing fine. I think I paid maybe 20 or 30 dollars for it back then. I spent more than a few nights in all kinds of weather, snow, rain and wind in the mountains risking my life I guess.

Yes there were (are) cheap Walmart alternatives but I think $175 is a bit much to pay for just a tarp. But folks now a days seem to be wrapped up in the name brand thing without adequately weighing their options .

That's really the basis for my question. Prices seem to range from ~ $50 - $185. I'm just looking for versatility and functionality.

DG,

I think if you look at some online sources and do some comparison shopping you should be able to find what your looking for for a decent price.

I'm sure some of the high end brands may be a little lighter since there are some pretty interesting fabrics out now. I guess you will have to factor that all in.

One thing about any tarp is they aren't very wind proof and not in any way bug proof. In some situations nothing can replace a tent.

Another option might be one of the floorless tipi style tents. They are wind proof, some can be made bug proof, but rodents can still get inside just like a tarp.

Lots to consider.

quote:

Out of curiosity what makes them better?

How they hold up in nasty extreme weather.

In normally weather most work very well but when the wind really starts working on them a lot of the cheaper ones fail.

Siltarp is great!

Search for Jimmy Tarps on Facebook or Ebay. Good quality, and they will custom make to your specs, or they have several pre-made sizes. They also make stuff sacks, and pack bags for several frames (Kifaru, Mystery Ranch).

Jeremy

quote:

Originally posted by p dog shooter:

quote:

Out of curiosity what makes them better?

How they hold up in nasty extreme weather.

In normally weather most work very well but when the wind really starts working on them a lot of the cheaper ones fail.

I'm in luck than.

Quote: "I think I paid maybe 20 or 30 dollars for it back then. I spent more than a few nights in all kinds of weather, snow, rain and wind in the mountains risking my life I guess".

Best thirty bucks I ever spent!

quote:

I'm in luck than

Some times things just work out.

Or times not so much.

One has to decide for one self.

What exactly do you want to do with the tarp, Doublegun? I bought a light, nylon tent fly that I use as a cooking-area tarp. It doesn't weigh much and I'm sure it cost a small fraction of $175.

If you want one of great quality for sleeping under in cold weather, maybe a small tent or bivvy should be considered.