This review dives into the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro hammock, a lightweight backpacking companion promising both comfort and protection from pesky insects. We unpack the hammock's features, from its durable parachute nylon construction and impressively dense mosquito netting, to the ease of setup and overall comfort during use. The review details the initial unboxing experience, highlighting both positive first impressions and minor imperfections, such as slight fraying on the shock cord. We explore the hammock's performance in the field, discussing its comfort, ease of use, and the effectiveness of the integrated bug netting.Our in-depth assessment covers the construction quality, including the zippers, stitching, and the sturdy stuff sack. We also address minor drawbacks encountered, such as the netting's initial proximity to the face, which was easily remedied. Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro, weighing its strengths against any minor shortcomings and considering its overall value for the price. It concludes with a clear recommendation based on the user’s experience, outlining whether this hammock is a worthwhile investment for adventurous sleepers.
Pros And Cons
- Made of 100% parachute nylon
- Includes no-see-um mosquito netting built-in
- High-quality stuff sack
- High-quality zipper
- High-quality nylon and stitching
- Very tight-knit mosquito netting
- Rated for 400 lbs
- Comfortable lay, quite wide
- Easy exit mechanism with zipper
- Hammock never has to touch the ground
- Shock cord had some fraying
- Mosquito netting initially hung too close to face (easily modifiable)
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro arrived in a compact stuff sack, weighing in at a claimed 30.46 oz. Included were the hammock itself, suspension ropes, shock cords, and two carabiners. The initial impression was one of lightweight, durable construction. The parachute nylon felt robust, and the integrated no-see-um mosquito netting looked promising. However, I did notice some fraying on the shock cord, a minor imperfection.
I immediately hung the hammock using my Atlas suspension system straps. The process was simple and straightforward, thanks to the included instructions. Initial impressions indicated that the hammock is of a high quality, yet also simple and quick to hang.
Mosquito Netting and Hammock Quality
The integrated mosquito netting is a standout feature. The fine mesh is impressively dense, offering excellent protection against even the smallest insects. I was very happy with this feature. The main hammock fabric itself is also high-quality parachute nylon; the stitching is neat and strong, and the zippers are smooth and reliable.
The construction of the hammock is excellent, exceeding my expectations. The stuff sack is durable and well-made, matching the quality of the hammock itself. It's a great feature to keep the hammock clean and off the ground.
Comfort and Functionality
My initial hang was comfortable, but the mosquito netting hung a little too close to my face. I easily modified this with a small clamp to keep it at a comfortable distance. I had to improvise to improve the comfort of the position of the net, which was a minor drawback.
The hammock is surprisingly wide, allowing for a diagonal lay. The zippers on both the mosquito net and the hammock functioned flawlessly. It felt like being in a comfortable, enclosed pod. I found exiting the hammock easy, with a simple pull on the netting and hammock to un-zip the entrance.
Overall Assessment and Value
The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro hammock is well-built and exceptionally comfortable. Its lightweight design, integrated mosquito netting, and high-quality materials make it ideal for backpacking and camping. I was impressed by the dense mosquito netting. The durable construction also inspires confidence for various outdoor activities.
The 400 lb weight capacity is impressive. At its normal price, it is great value for the money. While I purchased it on sale for $40, even at $70, this hammock represents excellent value and has exceeded my expectations. I would absolutely recommend this hammock to anyone seeking a comfortable, lightweight, and bug-proof sleeping solution.
