This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step tutorial on setting up the Aqua Quest King Camo Tarp, a durable and spacious tarp ideal for various outdoor adventures. We'll cover everything from selecting the perfect trees for optimal support and minimizing environmental impact, to choosing the right cordage and hardware for a secure and stable setup. This guide emphasizes achieving maximum tension and adjustability for optimal performance in diverse weather conditions. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a beginner, these techniques will help you master the art of tarp pitching.Learn how to utilize essential knots like the bowline and trucker's hitch, along with the highly adaptable prusik knots for precise tension adjustments. Explore alternative methods using split rings for securing guy lines, offering a simplified yet robust approach. This guide will empower you to confidently set up your Aqua Quest King Camo Tarp, ensuring a comfortable and protected shelter for your next outdoor expedition. We’ll cover essential gear choices and provide tips for a streamlined and efficient setup process.
Pros And Cons
- Big
- Heavy-duty (not weight-concerned)
- Durable
- All-purpose
- Expensive
Read more: 5 Best PVC Camping Tarps for Your Next Adventure
Choosing the Perfect Trees
Before you begin setting up your tarp, selecting the right trees is crucial. Look for sturdy trees with strong branches capable of supporting the weight of your tarp and any added gear. Avoid trees with dead branches or signs of decay, which could potentially fall and cause injury. Additionally, be mindful of bird nests or other wildlife habitats to avoid disturbance or potential debris falling onto your setup.
Gear Preparation: What You'll Need
For this setup, I'm using the Aqua Quest King Camo Tarp, known for its durability and size. I prefer 550 cord for its strength and reliability. Essential gear includes carabiners (I use a figure 9 carabiner and several standard ones), and tarp clips (though not always necessary). Consider color coordination; I'm using red carabiners, but I often opt for black or camouflage to blend in better with the surroundings.
Setting Up the Ridgeline
I've pre-made a fixed loop on one end of my cordage using a bowline knot (a separate video will cover knot-tying techniques). Secure the loop around a tree branch, ensuring it's snug and won't slip. Repeat on the other side; if the distance between trees is too great, extend the cordage by connecting two sections with a reliable knot.
Tightening the Ridgeline with Trucker's Hitch and Figure 9 Carabiner
For exceptional tension, employ a trucker's hitch followed by a figure 9 carabiner. The carabiner allows for extreme tightening, ensuring a secure and stable ridgeline. This technique minimizes sag and maximizes tarp stability, crucial for diverse weather conditions.
Creating Prusik Knots for Adjustable Tension
Prusik knots are essential for fine-tuning tarp tension. Create loops of cordage and secure them around the ridgeline using overhand knots. These adjustable knots allow for easy height adjustments, especially beneficial when dealing with uneven terrain or changing wind conditions. They provide a secure and easily adjustable system for optimal tarp positioning.
Attaching the Tarp and Guy Lines
Attach carabiners to the prusik loops on the ridgeline and connect them to the tarp's attachment points. Next, create guy lines using paracord, securing them to the tarp's tie-out points. Adjust the guy lines to achieve optimal tautness and level the tarp, using the wind to your advantage. This provides stability in various weather situations.
Alternative Corner Attachment: Split Rings
William Myers of Manis Outdoors inspired an innovative approach using split rings instead of carabiners. Attaching split rings to the tarp corners provides another quick and efficient way to secure the guy lines, offering a simpler and potentially more durable solution than traditional carabiners.
Conclusion: Is the Aqua Quest King Camo Tarp Worth It?
The Aqua Quest King Camo Tarp is a substantial, durable tarp suitable for various conditions. While its weight might be a consideration for some, its robustness outweighs this for many users. The setup, while initially seeming complex, is quite straightforward once the techniques are mastered. The use of prusik knots and the optional split ring method offers excellent adjustability and a secure setup.
