For those using or considering a Pole as a tree substitute

[cougarmeat]

Initially, pole setup instructions recommend symmetry. Sometimes, "real life" gets in the way.

This video:

shows the next course (sophomore year) in your "learning to anchor" journey.

Here is a photo of my first, "proof of concept" using the TensaOutdoor Solo pole. And yes, of course, my friends insist on matching their clothes to the tarp-du-jour.

You are looking at a WarBonnet MiniFly, A Grand Trunk model hammock (not the nano 7), and the blue RipStopByTheRoll bridge hammock kit.
Both ends of the bridge hammock and the foot end of the Grand Trunk are connected to trees. The head end of the Grand Trunk is using the pole.
Yes, "the model" is not in a diagonal orientation. She prefers the bridge hammock and used the gathered end under protest.

South end of Sparks Lake, Bend Oregon

 

[Hammock k1ng]

Initially, pole setup instructions recommend symmetry. Sometimes, "real life" gets in the way.

This video:

shows the next course (sophomore year) in your "learning to anchor" journey.

Here is a photo of my first, "proof of concept" using the TensaOutdoor Solo pole. And yes, of course, my friends insist on matching their clothes to the tarp-du-jour.

You are looking at a WarBonnet MiniFly, A Grand Trunk model hammock (not the nano 7), and the blue RipStopByTheRoll bridge hammock kit.
Both ends of the bridge hammock and the foot end of the Grand Trunk are connected to trees. The head end of the Grand Trunk is using the pole.
Yes, "the model" is not in a diagonal orientation. She prefers the bridge hammock and used the gathered end under protest.

View attachment 31
South end of Sparks Lake, Bend Oregon

that's actually really creative, although I'm curious about the stability of the Grand Trunk hammock with just the pole on one end. Since it's a gathered end hammock, does it feel as stable as the bridge hammock?
Or do you get a bit more side to side sway? Either way, you got a great solution for a hammock classic problem here

 

[cougarmeat]

Hammmock k1ng, it sounds like you are thinking there is only one line anchoring the pole. The pole is held by two lines extending out at an angle making a triangle with the pole and TWO anchor points. That keeps the pole stable, whether it's holding a Bridge or GE.

 

[Hammock k1ng]

Hammmock k1ng, it sounds like you are thinking there is only one line anchoring the pole. The pole is held by two lines extending out at an angle making a triangle with the pole and TWO anchor points. That keeps the pole stable, whether it's holding a Bridge or GE.

My bad, that makes so much more sense now! I guess I totally missed that detail in the photo. thanks for the clarification. I think it's brilliant
may I know, with those two anchor lines, how much of a hassle is it to get the tension balanced perfectly? I'd imagine on a flat surface it's pretty straightforward, but on uneven ground, does it take much fiddling to get everything dialed in?

 

[cougarmeat]

Following the video, you'll see that the goal is NOT to get the tension balanced perfectly, but instead to distribute the load on the anchors as determined by their holding power.

So yes, first course, freshman year, you try for perfectly symmetric lines - even length guys and optimum angle between ground anchors; everything textbook. Then, second course, sophomore year, you've had some experience in parks where the ground density is pretty even/standard/consistent. But now you are venturing into "real life" situations. Rocks and tree roots and shallow and/or sandy ground. As in the video, one anchor is solid, the other is a little iffy. Too iffy to hold much weight, but solid enough so that the side pull keeps the pole upright.

Essentially, you are trading the need to have two good trees (or other support) for acquiring "anchor" knowledge. I believe the pole came with what is called the "Orange" screw. They come in two lengths. Then there's the BoomStake option; that stake also comes in two lengths. Then there's the Peggy Peg, a longer, stronger version of the Orange Screw.

Note that you don't always need a ground anchor. Maybe some tree or bush would be too weak/short for a hammock support by itself, but would be strong enough for a pole anchor. So again, you are trading the need to find two good trees for the need to become an "anchor expert". I'm still learning.

I use a hammock and more often than not, my solo pole on this adventure: https://tinyurl.com/mr2nccvw

 

[beenutmeg]

This is really helpful, especially when there are no trees close enough to hang your hammock. I wish I had come across this tutorial when I first started hammocking. I can still imagine the struggle I had and ending up sleeping under the tree instead of in my hammock lol.