You’re a good teacher, Mark. I’m just running through a number of your vids as I do like the way you do things. The small stick placed between the two rear loops to create more room under the tarp is a stonkingly good idea 😉👍🏼 ATB Tim
Hi Tim, I hope you are keeping well mate 👍. The simple ideas often work out the best. It is surprising how much extra room is created just by pulling the tarp back. Many thanks for taking the time to watch the videos and for commenting. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
Brilliant, Mark. Great video, and great techniques. I love my Defender and have depended on it in extremely heavy thunderstorms that have lasted for hours. It has never leaked and never let me down, which I wish I could say for some tents I have owned. It’s just a fantastic piece of kit. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Look forward to watching more of your work. Cheers!
Hi Robert, many thanks for watching and for the great comment :) I agree, the defender tarps are some of the best on the market. I wish a bought a the larger 3x3 when I first got it, but I have been impressed by the materials and how well it holds up in storms. I also use their dry bags which are also worth a look. I think I picked a set of 3 up for around £30 if my memory is correct. They are also made of the same material as the defender tarps ;) Thanks for taking the time Robert, it is great to hear from you, all the best, Mark :)
Great video ! I like when you showed us to put a stick on the back of the tarp to pull it upwards. This increases the width which in turn increases the space under the tarp. I will try it out tomorrow. Btw Love the accent . Tks from Canada.
Another option is to use small camo bungee cords think you can get them at walmart. I used one of these tarps for years while I was in the army because sleeping under your poncho hooch always leaks....the bungee cords let you get the shelter up and take down way quicker than 550 cord, less tangle to deal with as well.
Thank you Jarred 👍. I have been quite busy lately and with the lock down here in England I haven't managed to get out as much as I would like too. But fingers crossed over the next couple of weeks, I will carry on with building my new camp. Take care my friend, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
Hi reb0254, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I find the carabiners quite handy. You could also use a wooden toggle or tie the tie out to the prusiks, but having the carabiners already attached saves time if the weather is bad. The pack is a 5:11 rush 72. Great pack :) All the best, Mark.
I've always wanted to see someone do this stuff in the horizontal rain we get up North - driving rain and sleet at you in minus ten winds. I'm thinking of getting a hammock, can't say I'm mad on the idea but like all bases covered. I have my tarps sorted, I got three cheap ones and made them as one, if i lose it that's £12 gone, no biggie, if I lost £40 + worth I'd be spitting feathers. I have been lucky over the years in getting good tents and tarps together or even making shelters from scratch with just my knife. (having had a good grounding in survival skills by professionals comes in hands ;) as does knowing common sense. Good video there sir, i got something from it. Thanks.
Hi Mark. many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Yeah I know what you mean about putting tarps up in strong winds. If it is very windy, than the shape and height is made smaller so as not too get blown all over the place. If it is too bad, then I opt for a small one man tent or a bivy bag. I agree that the cheaper tarps are fine. I use them mainly at work, but we get a few seasons out of them most times. I'm sure you would enjoy hammock camping if you decided to buy one. It takes the stress out of trying to find level ground, especially in the woodland. You don't have to spend a lot. Snugpak make some decent ones for the money as do DD tarps. I picked a couple up for £20 each off ebay a few years ago and they lasted until I gave them away. Thanks again Mark. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
I like the idea of putting it in your pocket. But reserve the wind up and tie the end with a clove hitch. Comes out much easier. Give it a try and see what you think.
Superb Mark from start to finish. I have the DD 3 x 3 and looking to change to the 4.5 x 3 for better hammock coverage. I had not heard of Aqua Quest until today whilst watching a One Tigris Kompound hammock video. I'm supposed to be out doing a bit of hedge laying but it's a tad wet so here I am lol. I have a permanent ridgeline in my local wood that's been in place now for 3 years plus and needs upgrading. Might be a job whilst out for a walk later. Thank you. Paul :)
Awesome mark .. watched this a year ago .. enjoyed it again.. love tarps .. merry Christmas buddy.. stay safe .. hope you are well ... love life ..live life ...cheers Chris & Sam
Hi Chris & Sam, many thanks for the Christmas wishes 👍. I was going to message you to say the same. I hope you all have a great time and still manage to get together...... I will look forward to seeing if you have anything new for future videos 🎅🏻🎅🏻. Stay safe, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
@@markbailey2981 cheers mark .. yes going do Christmas special on Christmas Day .. look forward to sharing are day ... looking forward to spring .. what we got on the cards is 1 weekend in big Bertha..the following weekend.we going explore & camp in tents .. just brought the tent today in sale up go outdoors.. it a big one as got get the Rotties in lol .. plus I got me phoxx 2 tent & tarp for a bit of wild camping ..if you fancy a camp it will be Awesome to meet up .. all the best my friend.. cheers Chris & Sam
@@chrisandsamlivingthedream It sounds like you will have a great time mate 👍. I nipped into go outdoors myself today too. I didn't buy anything but thought I would have a nose about to see what they had. Its a shame we didn't bump into each other. Yes, once I get back back to some normality and get my car back on the road we will have to sort something out. It would be nice to meet up 👍 . Take care mate mate..... have a great time, all the best, Mark :) :)
@@markbailey2981 love go outdoors..would of been good if we had bumped into you .. we brought the big Eurohike 4 berth .. big green tent .. it’s like an Awning lol .. canna wait get out ..cheers mark cheers Chris & Sam
Hey Mark...Great video. I like the knots that you utilized. They're much simpler than most I've seen. I'm also big fan of Aqua Quest tarps. I think they're the best built tarps for the money out there. I picked up some good tips here. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Jack, Many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Yeah, I find the Aqua stiff is some of the most reliable gear on the market. I have used their tarps for a number of years now, and have just started using their dry bags. They are the same material as their heavy weight tarps and are dirt cheap at the moment. Have a great day Jack.... all the best, Mark.
Hi Liam, I hope you are keeping well. Many thanks for watching the video. Yeah I like prefer the simpler ways of doing things. The ridge line is ready to go. Just find the trees and string it up. Then using the prusiks and carabiners makes adjusting the tarp a lot easier too. Sorry for the late reply, my notifications have been a bit slow. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Hi Steve, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) I totally agree, I love Aquaquest tarps they are always good quality and hold out the worst of the weather. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
I told you I'd let you know what I thought about my Aquaquest 13x10 tarp when it arrived. Well there was a major delay with shipping. Amazon refunded me the money since it got lost in shipping. I ordered it again with my refund money and now have it in my possession. I think it was the day after I ordered it again that the one that got lost in the mail finally arrived so I had to send it back. That's my explanation as to why it took me so long to give you my opinion of the tarp. I have to say, I'm very impressed with the quality of the Aquaquest Defender series and the size is perfect for the way I like to set up my hammock, while still allowing me to close both ends setup as an A frame with doors. It sure is a heavy duty, bomb proof tarp which is what I was looking for. I don't think I'll have to spray it with silicone any time soon with that 20,000 mm water column rating. I'd say short of a canvas tarp, which would weigh much more, this is probably the most bullet proof tarp on the market. I'm also considering adding 4x4 DD tarp to my kit as a somewhat lighter option while still being slightly larger than the Aquaquest tarp. They are made right there in England and amazingly they ship to the U.S. in 1 to 2 days while offering a great warranty. What really amazes me is similar to Aquaquest tarps, I don't think I've ever heard or seen a negative review on DD tarps, and they're affordable while still being of high quality. I could be wrong, but I think your military uses them as well. If true, that should tell you something. I'm guessing you're probably familiar with them. The Aquaquest is more of a bomb proof tarp, but while looking for a larger tarp, the next size up in the Defender series would weigh 7.2 pounds, plus I don't think I'd be tall enough to run a ridge line for it to set it up as an A frame with doors on both ends. The DD 4x4 seems to be the perfect compromise, plus it would cost me less than half the price of the Aquaquest 15'x15' tarp. I don't know if you have any experience with DD products, but I think they are right up there with Aquaquest when it comes to quality. I would say the Aquaquest defender series is the more bullet proof option, but I think I also want to give DD a go. I'm even considering their 5x5 (16'x16') tarp. That's huge and would only be intended for a group shelter. I'm only considering that one. It'd be great for a rugby team shelter.
Hi Brother, I hope you are keeping well :) Well at least you got it in the end. It's a pain when you are waiting around for something to arrive. I'm glad you are happy with it, and like you say that are bullet proof compared to some other tarps. I keep thinking of getting the next size up, but it keeps adding weight. Yes I have a couple of DD tarps. The quality of them is quite good. I use the 3x3 which I like, but it is not as tough as the Aqua Quest tarp. I bought it for the lighter weight and it has done well over the past year. As you say, they are a lot cheaper in price, but even so the quality is still good. I also have a DD hammock which is a great piece of kit. Again it wasn't too expensive. Thank you for your comment, it was interesting to read your thoughts. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 Glad to hear from you brother. Hope all is well on your end. I trust we'll have a good day in church tomorrow. I'll be teaching the younger ones in junior church. I pray that God will use me to reach some of them. I've been helping out in jr. church now foe a couple of years and have gotten to know the regular ones. Please let me know if you ever come state side. Particularly of you'll be near North Carolina. I'd love to fellowship with you, but if not here, I'll meet you on the other side. Anyway, You have a blessed day tomorrow brother.
@@markbailey2981hi thanks for this video although I know it’s 5 years old. I’m new to ‘tarping’ 😂 and looking to purchase my first tarp, can get the AQ Defender for £25 more than the DD which I know it’s lighter, should I still get the defender as it’s the best of the best? Thanks
@@anonymous4201 Both are great tarps. For most of the year I used a DD tarp, then I tend to use the heavier tarp during the winter as it seems stronger against strong winds etc.
@@markbailey2981 ok thanks I’ll have to buy both 😂 Would you say the AQ takes up double the space of the DD when compacted down into the stuff sack? I know the AQ 3x3m is twice the weight (1500g) of the standard DD 3x3m (800g)
really liked the idea of running a stick through the back loops to create more space under the tarp !! I just attached rope to the holes self but this is a way more efficient way of doing it !! :o
I cant remember where I first saw it, but it is quickest and easiest way to pull the back of the tap out that I have found. I have used different things over the years, but this way doesn't damage the material. I used to twist the fabric around a cone or pebble, but this way is more tarp friendly :) Thanks for watching Nathanael, all the best, Mark. :)
Another great video mate. Can tell its a well practiced set up, simple but definitely effective. Nice to pick up a few tips and tricks from a practiced hand. All the best
Hi Dimitri, many thanks for watching :) Yeah, I often stick to the simpler set ups. If I'm using a square tarp like my 3x3 I may set it up a plough point configuration, but most of the time I prefer the quick and easy approach. Have a great day mate, all the best, Mark. :)
Hi Linc, New Zealand, my thoughts entirely mate :) I use a tent if the weather is going to be really bad or their is a lack of trees to hang a ridgeline, but 99% of the time I use a tarp. I like to be able to nose around whilst sitting under it. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, all the best, Mark :)
Great video brother. I just ordered the Aqua Quest Defender King Camo to use for one of my hammocks. I chose the King Camo for it's 3 x 4 proportions which are ideal for configuring it as a tent with a floor and doors. I also figures it was about time I had a durable tarp that can withstand the harsh weather we can have around here.
Good morning brother, I hope you are keeping well :) I love Aqua quest tarps...…. I'm sure you will be very pleased when it comes. They do everything that I need from a shelter. They are very durable and last for years :) I was looking at the 3x4 last year. Like you say, the size means there are many configurations that can be used. I tend to use the 3x2 for day camp (just lighter to carry around), but would like a 3x3 for a bit more room. You will have to let me know how you get on with it when you have tried it. I will look forward to a review if you do one. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 Good afternoon to you brother. I'm doing well, much better than I deserve. I hope you're doing as well as you appear. Say, that's a beautiful area where you shot this video. God's creation is so amazing. I'll let you know how the Aqua Quest tarp works out for me as soon as I've had a chance to use it. I'm not sure if the ridge line will be long enough to hang a hammock the short way in it, or if I'd be better off pitching it length wise, since my hammocks are 10 feet in length. An 11 x 14.5 would have sure been nice if they made one. I'll figure those things out when I get it. You have a blessed day brother.
Still playing catch-up on the vids... I think a good quality AQ tarp may be my next purchase. My only concern are the mosquitos here in the dirty south. That alone, has always forced me to be a tent guy. But, for just a day out on the trail, the tarp may be a fantastic option. Sidebar: I get a kick out of reading the comments about your accent😂 I guess being a southerner aids in me in being able to understand everything you say😁
Hi Brian, I hope you are keeping well :) Yeah I know what you mean about flies during the warmer months. We don't get too many mosquitos here, but we do get plagued with biting midge. Sometimes when I have been out in a tarp, the only thing that works is decent insect repellent and a smokey fire lol. If I am camping around water up in Scotland, then I prefer small one man tent. It gives you a bit of relief during the evening time. Accent? What accent lol. Yeah we are known for our tough to understand accents the further up the country you travel. I thinks it's because we miss words and letters out, and it makes it sound like we speak fast. Have a great weekend Brian, all the best, Mark :)
Hi Dave, I hope you are keeping well mate. I recently bought a DD tarp too. I went for a slightly lager one than the Aqua Quest on the video (3x3), as it is lighter for its size. I wanted to keep one for my shooting kit, so I don't have to keep swapping a changing all the time, plus the Aqua quest is small enough for that kit and the DD can be used for my longer sessions or for general wild camping. Thanks again for watching Dave, have a great day, Mark.
Hi Mark I've just opened what I thought was a poncho I bought last year to go in my shooting kit but it's a desert cammo basha lol so I've had a tarp all this time and never realised. It'll come in handy though 😀
Hi Peter, I hope you are keeping well mate. I tend to use areas around Staffordshire and Wales where I tend to spend most f my time. The peak district is a stunning area, but due to the lockdown I haven't managed to get out as much as I would like. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 😀👍.
Excellent video, excellent tarp. Enjoyed learning about your methods for preparing and hanging the ridge line. Whats that hatchet/camp axe you are using?
Hi Mark. Just subscribed to your channel. Thanks for taking the time to make these very informative and entertaining videos. Please could you tell me the make and model of the axe you used in this video?
Hi Jazzmanjazzhead, I hope you are keeping well 👍. Many thanks for watching and for the sub, it is very much appreciated. The axe is made by Hultafors. It used to be called the classic hunters axe but they have changed it to the Ekelund hunting axe. I will leave you a link to their website so you can have a better look. Have a great day, all the best, Mark 😀🌲🔥. www.hultafors.com/products/axes/H0292-ekelund-hunting-axe/160443
Hey buddy, this just popped up in my You Tube list so thought I'd give it a watch. Currently, am looking for a decent sized day bag but with large side pockets. Appreciate this is an old video but this one you are using looks like it could work for me. What make/model is it?
Hi One Life Overland, I hope you are keeping well 👍. The pack is a 5:11 Rush 72. It has been a a great pack and I still use it today. I will leave you a link to them on Amazon where they have a decent range of coloures that they make. I hope this helps, all the best, Mark. www.amazon.co.uk/5-11-5-58602-026-1SZ-P-Tactical-RUSH72-Backpack/dp/B00EKJ0CVO
@@markbailey2981 Perfect. I'll take a look. Thanks. Btw good luck with the new permission, every would be woodsman and bushcrafters dream come true! Thanks again.
Hi Mike, I hope you are keeping well mate 👍. I tend to use a couple of types of thin cord, both at work on the fisheries and when camping. I tend to use para cord (Wild Elk Brand) which us very reliable and I use a tarred line, like bank line such as Catahoula which is usually a good price. My choice is the same as most other peoples, but I have found these two types to be worth a look at. Thanks for taking the time for watching and for the comment. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 👍😀.
Hi Lavuu Wildcamper, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Yeah, I just had a quick look around on ebay for you and the largest size they have is the 4x3. I think you can buy direct from AQ. If you go on their website they have a shop and they usually carry all the stock. Good luck with the search :) All the best, Mark.
Sizes in meters: 3x2 / 3x3 / 4x3 / 4.5 x 4.5 ... there is also a 6x4 but seems to be in Olive colour only, no camo Amazon.ca: www.amazon.ca/s?k=aqua+quest+defender&i=sporting&crid=OIUD1ZECISA3&sprefix=aquaquest+defender%2Csporting%2C213&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_18 Amazon.com: www.amazon.com/s?k=aquaquest+defender+tarp&crid=19QTS89840DK1&sprefix=aquaquest%2Caps%2C204&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_9 Amazon.co.uk: www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=aqua+quest+defender+tarp&crid=CMMHQ060WUDR&sprefix=aquaquest+defender%2Caps%2C272&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_18 Just bought the 4x3 at Amazon.ca, wasn't cheap for me but I think it will be worth it.
@@lavvuwildcamper Hi Lavvu Wildcamper, I hope you are keeping well. Great news on getting the tarp. They're a decent bit of kit. I wish I had used mine more over the last year, but fingers crossed we can start to get out more now. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
I have the Aqua Quest 10x7 Defender (heavy duty) and the 13x10 Safari. Love them both and wouldn't consider using another tarp. Nice demonstration sir!
Hi RB, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I have been looking at the 10X7 myself. I love my 3X9, but I have a DD in 10X7, and I like the extra room. So it is certainly making me think about getting another aqua quest in that size. The quality is brilliant for the money. I also use their dry bags quite a lot and they are just as good. They are made out of the same material as the Defender tarp and you can pick a set of 3 up for around £30. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark. :)
Hi riseofthefallen301, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. It was filmed in a local woods in Staffordshire. Unfortunately they started to do a lot of cutting there now, so a lot of the areas have been felled. Thanks again, all the best, Mark 👍😀.
Hi Mark...That is a nice tarp mate, I looked at them myself but in the end I went for the cheap option. Lots of sound advice from you as usual in the video mate. I noticed you seem to have a few Foxglove in your wood. I'm always struck by the contradiction of the Digitalis, only takes a little to kill you but has saved thousands of lives. Thanks for sharing Mark. Be safe and be lucky man. Wol.
Hi Wol, thanks for watching and for the comment brother. The tarp has served me well over the past 5 years, it has certainly earned its money. I took your advice and I bought a DD Tarp from the bushcraft show. I haven't used it yet. It is bigger than the aqua quest (its a 3x3), so looking forward to a few nights out with it soon. Yeah I noticed when I walked through the woods that there is a healthy number of Fox Gloves. Your right about the contradiction with them. I was once told if you wear a heart rate monitor and rub the flowers in between thumb and finger your pulse rate can more that double!!! Hope you have been enjoying the sun where you are........ have a great weekend Wol, all the best Mark.
These are a great and versatile piece of kit and made here in Canada. Aqua Quest should approach DND and see if they can convince them to order them for the Canadian Army. I mean the British have the Basha, the Aussie's have their hoochies and even the USMC has a reversible camo tarp they issue to their troops. Seems a no brainer.
Aqua quest are my first choice when it comes to keeping things dry. Great kit, well made and it always seem to be on offer. For the 3x2 aqua quest is around £50.00, where most Aussie military hoochies (genuine) I see are around £120.00. They may be more durable and a bit thicker material, but for what I encounter here in Britain, the aqua quest is perfect. I'm surprised that the Canadian Armed forces don't use something like a Basha. But if its anything like our MOD, they would have our boys sitting it out under a tree if they could get away with it!
They have a bunch of their camo gear on sale at the moment so I am thinking of buying a tarp, small pack and a few dry bags. Shame it is not CADPAT but old Yankie woodland works. Wish the Bivvy came in camo too. The green will work. Heck our army did not even have camo till DND came out with CADPAT in the early 2000s. Most of the reserves still use the old OD kit and they have not had a decent rucksack since 1964 which is why believe it or not a company still makes a modern version of the 64 pattern rucksack. As for a shelter the army has a groundsheet that does technically have tie off points where you could use it like a basha but it is very heavy (material is about the same weight as the material of the rucksacks) and has an awful rubber coating on one side that eventually peels away and stinks something fierce. What was often used as a tarp was a poncho which has tie off points much like what was issued to American soldiers. Funny you should mention the treatment of British soldiers by the MOD since the acronym BASHA seems to be a commentary on exactly that.
Get it whilst it's cheap that my motto lol. Yeah, I think the Canadian and British army get a similar kind of deal. For years and years I can only remember OD and the woodland pattern camo. I can remember when I was working in an outdoors shop during the first gulf war and the amount of squaddies who used to come in and buy their own kit, boots, sleeping bags, down jackets, goggles etc was crazy. I remember them saying that their issued kit just wasn't up to the job. I think they are better kitted out nowadays, but no where like the US. Yeah, its a shame they didn't make the bivvy in camo. They obviously have the fabric and I'm sure it would be as popular as the green or orange that they make. We tend to get a lot of Snupak gear here. I'm not sure if you get it over in Canada. Some of the gear is worth a look.
The reserves tend to be a mixed bag since they seem to get the newer kit last so their stuff tends to be a mix of old and new. For example new BDUs in CADPAT but the 82 pattern rucksack that entered service when I was born. Even then up until the 2000s the paras used the old 1964 pack because the wire frame of the 82 pack would shatter on impact and your kit would end up scattered everywhere. I am given to understand the Americans had the same problem with their new Molle rucksack with the original plastic frame. One thing our military got right though is the sleeping bag. There is probably no better cold weather sleep system on earth. It is designed to withstand -40 C. The old snow shoes were brilliant too. They were magnesium so if you had to make a fire in an emergency you just scrapped some off the edge and instant fire starter. We definitely had similar problems with kit in Afghanistan to start because at the time we only had the woodland version of the CADPAT camo. Green kind of sticks out over there. Now we have a desert version. Could be worse. That gray UCP the Americans were using was pretty much useless everywhere but in Afghanistan. :) If you dye it green though it is passable. On the civilian market though it is next to impossible to get any legit kit in CADPAT. Not sure about kit but the uniforms are considered to have classified tech (an infrared suppressing coating) so surplus uniforms are either held in storage and old uniforms are destroyed. The Swiss do the same with their new camo unforms. Mostly I am curious what the new rucksack is like. I suppose if I wanted a CADPAT rucksack though I could get the current version of the 64 pattern rucksack.
I have looked at the Canadian winter sleep system. And like you rightly say, its a great bit of kit. A bit too warm for the milder climate here, but if you need it, I'm sure it can't be beat. Even used it was around £150.00. I like the idea of the magnesium snow shoes, that's very clever. Yeah, we don't see much Anti Infrared clothing here either. I'm sure the British army use it....... well I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't, but I'm sure I have read something about it. You can buy most ex issue kit, even old vehicles, but as you say, the anti infrared clothing you don't really come across. From time to time I use ex issue clothing. Mostly when out shooting or working. It is cheap and the woodland camo pattern still works for those pesky squirrels. I was even daft enough to buy one of the old chemical warfare suits. I didn't realise that it would turn everything black from the carbon liner. For months I had a black face and hands every time I put it on.
Saw a video where the individual did not recommend using bungees. He was ex-military, and he said if you had to make an adjustment to the bungees in the middle of the night, you didn't want it to come loose and spring back under tension and hit you in the eye which he's experienced. In fact, I think we've all experienced that at one time or another. It's your decision.
Was down your way today boating on the Tryweryn. Was gonna nip in n see if you were at the fishery but ran out of time. Have you got some good stuff lined up film wise for the future ? You get out on many overnighters Mark
Hi Rick , I hope you are well mate and had a good time. Bet it was cold wasn't it! Isn't Tryweryn that place where they flooded the villages and farms to build the res back in the 50's. I think I've been there when I was a kid. Its mad how they could get away with that kind of thing. I'm off work for a bit now mate. So good job you didn't make a special journey down. My gaffa laid me off last week. I go back in March ready for another season. Yeah, I've just done a new video. Its processing at the moment, then I've got to upload it. It can ages sometimes. I'm not sure if you have the same trouble. Maybe I ought invest in a better computer! Yeah I get out on overnighters. I used to be out most weeks, either on my own or a group of us used to get together down in Devon, fishing and wild camping on the moors or on the coast somewhere. I move back home to help a ill relative a few years ago, so now its mainly a quick overnighter here and there when I can get out. Cheers mate, all the best Mark :)
Mark Bailey Plenty of time for a bit of bushcrafting for a bit then eh. Aye it was bloody freezing lol. Aye ridiculous really and it was to supply Liverpool an English city with water. Just to make matters worse they never even used the water. Not surprisingly the locals are still bitter and rightly so. I'm out most days and get at least one overnighter a month. Love it. Have a great weekend Mark. Look forward to your next film
Yeah, I think lake Vyrnwy is the one that does. I used to do a load of fly fishing for pike on Chew res in Somerset,. Another water with farms and houses underneath. The government only do it so that they can charge us drinking water. It rains enough in this country for us to collect it for free. Yeah I bet it cold. It has been snowing on and off here. Cheers Rick, all the best :)
The carabiners at the end of the prusik knot loops are not a bad idea... I might use that myself, save me from trying to go looking for toggles when it's raining, plus they only weigh about 5 grams each. Hope you are well, cheers.
Hi Edy, hope you are well brother. Thanks for watching........ Yeah you can pick the small carabiners up for a few pence each and they weigh very little. In fact I think mine came with a couple of flash lights that I bought and I took them off them. The sticks work just fine, but the clips make it that bit quicker, like you say especially if it is raining. Have a great weekend, all the best Mark.
Hi Shaun, I hope you are keeping well mate. Using a dump pouch is a great idea :) I have recently purchased a canvas dump pouch off eBay , so I can see me using that for job in future. Thanks for the suggestion. I hope you have a great Christmas and New Year too Shaun. Have a good one mate, all the best, Mark :)
Hi Blake, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Your right about the AQ tarps, they are a great piece of kit. I was recently looking at a 3x3 version, I like that size. Out of the few tarps that I own and use, the AQ is the most well made. Regardless of the weather, you know it won't let you down :) Thanks again Blake, have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Have a 3x3 auqa Quist Sahara tarp best tarp ever made better then a DD trap or a snugpak all-weather tarp or a kelty tarp or any other tarps from any other company
Hi Chase, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) I use a small Nikon 1 J5 camera. It is compact and light, plus you can change the lenses like an SLR. The audio is just the mic that is built in to the camera. Unfortunately it has no external port for a mic. So on windy days you are at the mercy of the weather. Thanks again for watching, all the best, Mark :)
@@Wildernessoutside Yes mate, this was filmed at hanchurch. Unfortunately they have cut this part of the wood down. I had a walk there recently and they had started to fell the trees so I have had to find a new wood. It was a shame, as it is a stunning place in the summer. Have a great weekend mate.... all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 yeah it was/is I had a little spot down there but been a few years since I've been to it, yeah when the woods got sold off the owners started the process of cuuting big swaths of the pines down ,spolit it in my opinion ,still get down there walking the dogs and mountain biking as im a blurton lad , so its not too far
Hi Michael, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) No, there is no script.... I'm not the best of readers at the best of times lol. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Hi Braz Nart'n, many thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment :) Yeah the Stoke accent can be a bit difficult to get past, but I thank you for trying :) All the best, Mark.
I like the bungees used in place of stake out lines and tensioners. Going to have to give some thought on this...
You’re a good teacher, Mark.
I’m just running through a number of your vids as I do like the way you do things.
The small stick placed between the two rear loops to create more room under the tarp is a stonkingly good idea 😉👍🏼
ATB
Tim
Hi Tim, I hope you are keeping well mate 👍. The simple ideas often work out the best. It is surprising how much extra room is created just by pulling the tarp back. Many thanks for taking the time to watch the videos and for commenting. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
Mark Bailey Keeping well thank you. Trust you are too?!
I’ll be adopting that idea 😉👍🏼
ATB 👋🏼😉
Never saw anyone wind up the paracord like this. Genius!
Brilliant, Mark. Great video, and great techniques. I love my Defender and have depended on it in extremely heavy thunderstorms that have lasted for hours. It has never leaked and never let me down, which I wish I could say for some tents I have owned. It’s just a fantastic piece of kit. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Look forward to watching more of your work. Cheers!
Hi Robert, many thanks for watching and for the great comment :) I agree, the defender tarps are some of the best on the market. I wish a bought a the larger 3x3 when I first got it, but I have been impressed by the materials and how well it holds up in storms. I also use their dry bags which are also worth a look. I think I picked a set of 3 up for around £30 if my memory is correct. They are also made of the same material as the defender tarps ;) Thanks for taking the time Robert, it is great to hear from you, all the best, Mark :)
Great video ! I like when you showed us to put a stick on the back of the tarp to pull it upwards. This increases the width which in turn increases the space under the tarp. I will try it out tomorrow. Btw Love the accent . Tks from Canada.
Hi Claude, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍. I hope you have a nice weekend, all the best, Mark :)
Awesome video! Clear, straightforward, well explained 😃
Hi shewolf, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, it is very much appreciated :) Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
a wonderful vid you sound just like a pilot on a plain so nice just listen to your voice great vid
Great idea with the stick in the back. Well done cheers!
Another option is to use small camo bungee cords think you can get them at walmart. I used one of these tarps for years while I was in the army because sleeping under your poncho hooch always leaks....the bungee cords let you get the shelter up and take down way quicker than 550 cord, less tangle to deal with as well.
i would like to see you build a log wood camp/shelter maybe mark.
take care your self and stay healty.
Thank you Jarred 👍. I have been quite busy lately and with the lock down here in England I haven't managed to get out as much as I would like too. But fingers crossed over the next couple of weeks, I will carry on with building my new camp. Take care my friend, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
Nice narration... to the point with good tempo and succinct info.
Hi Wayne, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark.
Nicely done. Good ideas. I like the carabiners and the way that you pulled the back out. Just things that you don't think of.
Hi reb0254, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I find the carabiners quite handy. You could also use a wooden toggle or tie the tie out to the prusiks, but having the carabiners already attached saves time if the weather is bad. The pack is a 5:11 rush 72. Great pack :) All the best, Mark.
I've always wanted to see someone do this stuff in the horizontal rain we get up North - driving rain and sleet at you in minus ten winds. I'm thinking of getting a hammock, can't say I'm mad on the idea but like all bases covered. I have my tarps sorted, I got three cheap ones and made them as one, if i lose it that's £12 gone, no biggie, if I lost £40 + worth I'd be spitting feathers.
I have been lucky over the years in getting good tents and tarps together or even making shelters from scratch with just my knife. (having had a good grounding in survival skills by professionals comes in hands ;) as does knowing common sense. Good video there sir, i got something from it. Thanks.
Hi Mark. many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Yeah I know what you mean about putting tarps up in strong winds. If it is very windy, than the shape and height is made smaller so as not too get blown all over the place. If it is too bad, then I opt for a small one man tent or a bivy bag. I agree that the cheaper tarps are fine. I use them mainly at work, but we get a few seasons out of them most times.
I'm sure you would enjoy hammock camping if you decided to buy one. It takes the stress out of trying to find level ground, especially in the woodland. You don't have to spend a lot. Snugpak make some decent ones for the money as do DD tarps. I picked a couple up for £20 each off ebay a few years ago and they lasted until I gave them away. Thanks again Mark. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
Now that I see how to set it up I'm buying it thank you for a grate video
I like the idea of putting it in your pocket. But reserve the wind up and tie the end with a clove hitch. Comes out much easier. Give it a try and see what you think.
Superb Mark from start to finish. I have the DD 3 x 3 and looking to change to the 4.5 x 3 for better hammock coverage. I had not heard of Aqua Quest until today whilst watching a One Tigris Kompound hammock video. I'm supposed to be out doing a bit of hedge laying but it's a tad wet so here I am lol. I have a permanent ridgeline in my local wood that's been in place now for 3 years plus and needs upgrading. Might be a job whilst out for a walk later. Thank you. Paul :)
Awesome mark .. watched this a year ago .. enjoyed it again.. love tarps .. merry Christmas buddy.. stay safe .. hope you are well ... love life ..live life ...cheers Chris & Sam
Hi Chris & Sam, many thanks for the Christmas wishes 👍. I was going to message you to say the same. I hope you all have a great time and still manage to get together...... I will look forward to seeing if you have anything new for future videos 🎅🏻🎅🏻. Stay safe, all the best, Mark 👍😀🌲🌲.
@@markbailey2981 cheers mark .. yes going do Christmas special on Christmas Day .. look forward to sharing are day ... looking forward to spring .. what we got on the cards is 1 weekend in big Bertha..the following weekend.we going explore & camp in tents .. just brought the tent today in sale up go outdoors.. it a big one as got get the Rotties in lol .. plus I got me phoxx 2 tent & tarp for a bit of wild camping ..if you fancy a camp it will be Awesome to meet up .. all the best my friend.. cheers Chris & Sam
@@chrisandsamlivingthedream It sounds like you will have a great time mate 👍. I nipped into go outdoors myself today too. I didn't buy anything but thought I would have a nose about to see what they had. Its a shame we didn't bump into each other. Yes, once I get back back to some normality and get my car back on the road we will have to sort something out. It would be nice to meet up 👍 . Take care mate mate..... have a great time, all the best, Mark :) :)
@@markbailey2981 love go outdoors..would of been good if we had bumped into you .. we brought the big Eurohike 4 berth .. big green tent .. it’s like an Awning lol .. canna wait get out ..cheers mark cheers Chris & Sam
Hey Mark...Great video. I like the knots that you utilized. They're much simpler than most I've seen. I'm also big fan of Aqua Quest tarps. I think they're the best built tarps for the money out there. I picked up some good tips here. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Jack, Many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Yeah, I find the Aqua stiff is some of the most reliable gear on the market. I have used their tarps for a number of years now, and have just started using their dry bags. They are the same material as their heavy weight tarps and are dirt cheap at the moment. Have a great day Jack.... all the best, Mark.
hi mark i like that ridge line set up nice and simple not over complicated think i will give that a try great instructional vid cheers
Hi Liam, I hope you are keeping well. Many thanks for watching the video. Yeah I like prefer the simpler ways of doing things. The ridge line is ready to go. Just find the trees and string it up. Then using the prusiks and carabiners makes adjusting the tarp a lot easier too. Sorry for the late reply, my notifications have been a bit slow. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Good vid buddy .. tarp looks Awesome.. cheers Chris & Sam
Hi Chris and Sam, many thanks as always for watching and taking the time to comment :) I hope you have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
Like the video. I have a 10×13, it is quite big but I can build a tank out of it. Aquaquest is the best tarp on the market .
Hi Steve, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) I totally agree, I love Aquaquest tarps they are always good quality and hold out the worst of the weather. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
Good show thanks
Hi Willis, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Have a great day, all the best, Mark :)
I told you I'd let you know what I thought about my Aquaquest 13x10 tarp when it arrived. Well there was a major delay with shipping. Amazon refunded me the money since it got lost in shipping. I ordered it again with my refund money and now have it in my possession. I think it was the day after I ordered it again that the one that got lost in the mail finally arrived so I had to send it back. That's my explanation as to why it took me so long to give you my opinion of the tarp.
I have to say, I'm very impressed with the quality of the Aquaquest Defender series and the size is perfect for the way I like to set up my hammock, while still allowing me to close both ends setup as an A frame with doors. It sure is a heavy duty, bomb proof tarp which is what I was looking for. I don't think I'll have to spray it with silicone any time soon with that 20,000 mm water column rating. I'd say short of a canvas tarp, which would weigh much more, this is probably the most bullet proof tarp on the market.
I'm also considering adding 4x4 DD tarp to my kit as a somewhat lighter option while still being slightly larger than the Aquaquest tarp. They are made right there in England and amazingly they ship to the U.S. in 1 to 2 days while offering a great warranty. What really amazes me is similar to Aquaquest tarps, I don't think I've ever heard or seen a negative review on DD tarps, and they're affordable while still being of high quality. I could be wrong, but I think your military uses them as well. If true, that should tell you something. I'm guessing you're probably familiar with them.
The Aquaquest is more of a bomb proof tarp, but while looking for a larger tarp, the next size up in the Defender series would weigh 7.2 pounds, plus I don't think I'd be tall enough to run a ridge line for it to set it up as an A frame with doors on both ends. The DD 4x4 seems to be the perfect compromise, plus it would cost me less than half the price of the Aquaquest 15'x15' tarp. I don't know if you have any experience with DD products, but I think they are right up there with Aquaquest when it comes to quality. I would say the Aquaquest defender series is the more bullet proof option, but I think I also want to give DD a go. I'm even considering their 5x5 (16'x16') tarp. That's huge and would only be intended for a group shelter. I'm only considering that one. It'd be great for a rugby team shelter.
Hi Brother, I hope you are keeping well :) Well at least you got it in the end. It's a pain when you are waiting around for something to arrive. I'm glad you are happy with it, and like you say that are bullet proof compared to some other tarps. I keep thinking of getting the next size up, but it keeps adding weight. Yes I have a couple of DD tarps. The quality of them is quite good. I use the 3x3 which I like, but it is not as tough as the Aqua Quest tarp. I bought it for the lighter weight and it has done well over the past year. As you say, they are a lot cheaper in price, but even so the quality is still good. I also have a DD hammock which is a great piece of kit. Again it wasn't too expensive. Thank you for your comment, it was interesting to read your thoughts. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 Glad to hear from you brother. Hope all is well on your end. I trust we'll have a good day in church tomorrow. I'll be teaching the younger ones in junior church. I pray that God will use me to reach some of them. I've been helping out in jr. church now foe a couple of years and have gotten to know the regular ones.
Please let me know if you ever come state side. Particularly of you'll be near North Carolina. I'd love to fellowship with you, but if not here, I'll meet you on the other side.
Anyway, You have a blessed day tomorrow brother.
@@markbailey2981hi thanks for this video although I know it’s 5 years old.
I’m new to ‘tarping’ 😂 and looking to purchase my first tarp, can get the AQ Defender for £25 more than the DD which I know it’s lighter, should I still get the defender as it’s the best of the best? Thanks
@@anonymous4201 Both are great tarps. For most of the year I used a DD tarp, then I tend to use the heavier tarp during the winter as it seems stronger against strong winds etc.
@@markbailey2981 ok thanks I’ll have to buy both 😂
Would you say the AQ takes up double the space of the DD when compacted down into the stuff sack? I know the AQ 3x3m is twice the weight (1500g) of the standard DD 3x3m (800g)
really liked the idea of running a stick through the back loops to create more space under the tarp !! I just attached rope to the holes self but this is a way more efficient way of doing it !! :o
I cant remember where I first saw it, but it is quickest and easiest way to pull the back of the tap out that I have found. I have used different things over the years, but this way doesn't damage the material. I used to twist the fabric around a cone or pebble, but this way is more tarp friendly :) Thanks for watching Nathanael, all the best, Mark. :)
Expensive tent but seems nice I got bear hard but will get this one soon
Another great video mate. Can tell its a well practiced set up, simple but definitely effective. Nice to pick up a few tips and tricks from a practiced hand. All the best
Hi Dimitri, many thanks for watching :) Yeah, I often stick to the simpler set ups. If I'm using a square tarp like my 3x3 I may set it up a plough point configuration, but most of the time I prefer the quick and easy approach. Have a great day mate, all the best, Mark. :)
great job, who needs a tent, tarp is lighter love it
Hi Linc, New Zealand, my thoughts entirely mate :) I use a tent if the weather is going to be really bad or their is a lack of trees to hang a ridgeline, but 99% of the time I use a tarp. I like to be able to nose around whilst sitting under it. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, all the best, Mark :)
Thank You.. good idea.. I will be trying that set up .. simple .. . Quick..
Hi Joey Gibbs.... Many thanks for watching and taking the times to comment. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Great video brother. I just ordered the Aqua Quest Defender King Camo to use for one of my hammocks. I chose the King Camo for it's 3 x 4 proportions which are ideal for configuring it as a tent with a floor and doors. I also figures it was about time I had a durable tarp that can withstand the harsh weather we can have around here.
Good morning brother, I hope you are keeping well :) I love Aqua quest tarps...…. I'm sure you will be very pleased when it comes. They do everything that I need from a shelter. They are very durable and last for years :) I was looking at the 3x4 last year. Like you say, the size means there are many configurations that can be used. I tend to use the 3x2 for day camp (just lighter to carry around), but would like a 3x3 for a bit more room. You will have to let me know how you get on with it when you have tried it. I will look forward to a review if you do one. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 Good afternoon to you brother. I'm doing well, much better than I deserve. I hope you're doing as well as you appear.
Say, that's a beautiful area where you shot this video. God's creation is so amazing.
I'll let you know how the Aqua Quest tarp works out for me as soon as I've had a chance to use it. I'm not sure if the ridge line will be long enough to hang a hammock the short way in it, or if I'd be better off pitching it length wise, since my hammocks are 10 feet in length. An 11 x 14.5 would have sure been nice if they made one.
I'll figure those things out when I get it.
You have a blessed day brother.
@@markbailey2981 hey, what's the 3x4 in usa? (Feet)
@@CHANGEISGOOD311 There is roughly 3 feet to a meter, so it is about 9ft x 12ft.
Hi Mark nice see you!
Still playing catch-up on the vids...
I think a good quality AQ tarp may be my next purchase. My only concern are the mosquitos here in the dirty south. That alone, has always forced me to be a tent guy. But, for just a day out on the trail, the tarp may be a fantastic option.
Sidebar: I get a kick out of reading the comments about your accent😂 I guess being a southerner aids in me in being able to understand everything you say😁
Hi Brian, I hope you are keeping well :) Yeah I know what you mean about flies during the warmer months. We don't get too many mosquitos here, but we do get plagued with biting midge. Sometimes when I have been out in a tarp, the only thing that works is decent insect repellent and a smokey fire lol. If I am camping around water up in Scotland, then I prefer small one man tent. It gives you a bit of relief during the evening time. Accent? What accent lol. Yeah we are known for our tough to understand accents the further up the country you travel. I thinks it's because we miss words and letters out, and it makes it sound like we speak fast. Have a great weekend Brian, all the best, Mark :)
great idea mark I set my new DD tarp up for the first time last night I wish I bought one years ago. il get some of those 👍
Hi Dave, I hope you are keeping well mate. I recently bought a DD tarp too. I went for a slightly lager one than the Aqua Quest on the video (3x3), as it is lighter for its size. I wanted to keep one for my shooting kit, so I don't have to keep swapping a changing all the time, plus the Aqua quest is small enough for that kit and the DD can be used for my longer sessions or for general wild camping. Thanks again for watching Dave, have a great day, Mark.
Hi Mark I've just opened what I thought was a poncho I bought last year to go in my shooting kit but it's a desert cammo basha lol so I've had a tarp all this time and never realised. It'll come in handy though 😀
Thanks Scouse ,well explained 🙏 Could you tell me the general area were you set up . Looks lovely country
Hi Peter, I hope you are keeping well mate. I tend to use areas around Staffordshire and Wales where I tend to spend most f my time. The peak district is a stunning area, but due to the lockdown I haven't managed to get out as much as I would like. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 😀👍.
Thanks Mark, for that🙏
Excellent video, excellent tarp. Enjoyed learning about your methods for preparing and hanging the ridge line. Whats that hatchet/camp axe you are using?
Hi White Sparrow, I tend to Hultafors axes. If I remember correctly it is either the hunters model or the Agdor.
Hi Mark. Just subscribed to your channel. Thanks for taking the time to make these very informative and entertaining videos. Please could you tell me the make and model of the axe you used in this video?
Hi Jazzmanjazzhead, I hope you are keeping well 👍. Many thanks for watching and for the sub, it is very much appreciated. The axe is made by Hultafors. It used to be called the classic hunters axe but they have changed it to the Ekelund hunting axe. I will leave you a link to their website so you can have a better look. Have a great day, all the best, Mark 😀🌲🔥. www.hultafors.com/products/axes/H0292-ekelund-hunting-axe/160443
Mark Bailey Thanks Mark. I’ll check out the link. All the best. Mark.
Hey buddy, this just popped up in my You Tube list so thought I'd give it a watch. Currently, am looking for a decent sized day bag but with large side pockets. Appreciate this is an old video but this one you are using looks like it could work for me. What make/model is it?
Hi One Life Overland, I hope you are keeping well 👍. The pack is a 5:11 Rush 72. It has been a a great pack and I still use it today. I will leave you a link to them on Amazon where they have a decent range of coloures that they make. I hope this helps, all the best, Mark. www.amazon.co.uk/5-11-5-58602-026-1SZ-P-Tactical-RUSH72-Backpack/dp/B00EKJ0CVO
@@markbailey2981 Perfect. I'll take a look. Thanks. Btw good luck with the new permission, every would be woodsman and bushcrafters dream come true! Thanks again.
Great tips mate thanks for Sharing 👍
Thank you for watching :) ATB, Mark.
Enjoyed the video keep up the good work
Thank you Chasengunz Outdoors, have a great day, all the best, Mark.
What is the best cord for not picking trash that will knot well?
Hi Mike, I hope you are keeping well mate 👍. I tend to use a couple of types of thin cord, both at work on the fisheries and when camping. I tend to use para cord (Wild Elk Brand) which us very reliable and I use a tarred line, like bank line such as Catahoula which is usually a good price. My choice is the same as most other peoples, but I have found these two types to be worth a look at. Thanks for taking the time for watching and for the comment. Have a great week, all the best, Mark 👍😀.
Looking for an AQD Large size but not having any joy finding one, Great video mark as Always 👍
Hi Lavuu Wildcamper, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Yeah, I just had a quick look around on ebay for you and the largest size they have is the 4x3. I think you can buy direct from AQ. If you go on their website they have a shop and they usually carry all the stock. Good luck with the search :) All the best, Mark.
Sizes in meters: 3x2 / 3x3 / 4x3 / 4.5 x 4.5 ... there is also a 6x4 but seems to be in Olive colour only, no camo
Amazon.ca: www.amazon.ca/s?k=aqua+quest+defender&i=sporting&crid=OIUD1ZECISA3&sprefix=aquaquest+defender%2Csporting%2C213&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_18
Amazon.com: www.amazon.com/s?k=aquaquest+defender+tarp&crid=19QTS89840DK1&sprefix=aquaquest%2Caps%2C204&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_9
Amazon.co.uk: www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=aqua+quest+defender+tarp&crid=CMMHQ060WUDR&sprefix=aquaquest+defender%2Caps%2C272&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_18
Just bought the 4x3 at Amazon.ca, wasn't cheap for me but I think it will be worth it.
@@markbailey2981 Got one today 3x3 Square at last 😂
Hope you are well, haven't seen you online in a while, ATB... 👍😎
@@lavvuwildcamper Hi Lavvu Wildcamper, I hope you are keeping well. Great news on getting the tarp. They're a decent bit of kit. I wish I had used mine more over the last year, but fingers crossed we can start to get out more now. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
Thanks for the demonstration.
Hi Tom, thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. All the best, Mark. :)
I have the Aqua Quest 10x7 Defender (heavy duty) and the 13x10 Safari. Love them both and wouldn't consider using another tarp. Nice demonstration sir!
Hi RB, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I have been looking at the 10X7 myself. I love my 3X9, but I have a DD in 10X7, and I like the extra room. So it is certainly making me think about getting another aqua quest in that size. The quality is brilliant for the money. I also use their dry bags quite a lot and they are just as good. They are made out of the same material as the Defender tarp and you can pick a set of 3 up for around £30. Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark. :)
Thanks
Many thanks for watching Celia 👍😀.
nice views! whereabouts was this filmed?
Hi riseofthefallen301, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. It was filmed in a local woods in Staffordshire. Unfortunately they started to do a lot of cutting there now, so a lot of the areas have been felled. Thanks again, all the best, Mark 👍😀.
Hi Mark...That is a nice tarp mate, I looked at them myself but in the end I went for the cheap option. Lots of sound advice from you as usual in the video mate. I noticed you seem to have a few Foxglove in your wood. I'm always struck by the contradiction of the Digitalis, only takes a little to kill you but has saved thousands of lives. Thanks for sharing Mark. Be safe and be lucky man. Wol.
Hi Wol, thanks for watching and for the comment brother. The tarp has served me well over the past 5 years, it has certainly earned its money. I took your advice and I bought a DD Tarp from the bushcraft show. I haven't used it yet. It is bigger than the aqua quest (its a 3x3), so looking forward to a few nights out with it soon. Yeah I noticed when I walked through the woods that there is a healthy number of Fox Gloves. Your right about the contradiction with them. I was once told if you wear a heart rate monitor and rub the flowers in between thumb and finger your pulse rate can more that double!!! Hope you have been enjoying the sun where you are........ have a great weekend Wol, all the best Mark.
These are a great and versatile piece of kit and made here in Canada. Aqua Quest should approach DND and see if they can convince them to order them for the Canadian Army. I mean the British have the Basha, the Aussie's have their hoochies and even the USMC has a reversible camo tarp they issue to their troops. Seems a no brainer.
Aqua quest are my first choice when it comes to keeping things dry. Great kit, well made and it always seem to be on offer. For the 3x2 aqua quest is around £50.00, where most Aussie military hoochies (genuine) I see are around £120.00. They may be more durable and a bit thicker material, but for what I encounter here in Britain, the aqua quest is perfect. I'm surprised that the Canadian Armed forces don't use something like a Basha. But if its anything like our MOD, they would have our boys sitting it out under a tree if they could get away with it!
They have a bunch of their camo gear on sale at the moment so I am thinking of buying a tarp, small pack and a few dry bags. Shame it is not CADPAT but old Yankie woodland works. Wish the Bivvy came in camo too. The green will work. Heck our army did not even have camo till DND came out with CADPAT in the early 2000s. Most of the reserves still use the old OD kit and they have not had a decent rucksack since 1964 which is why believe it or not a company still makes a modern version of the 64 pattern rucksack. As for a shelter the army has a groundsheet that does technically have tie off points where you could use it like a basha but it is very heavy (material is about the same weight as the material of the rucksacks) and has an awful rubber coating on one side that eventually peels away and stinks something fierce. What was often used as a tarp was a poncho which has tie off points much like what was issued to American soldiers. Funny you should mention the treatment of British soldiers by the MOD since the acronym BASHA seems to be a commentary on exactly that.
Get it whilst it's cheap that my motto lol. Yeah, I think the Canadian and British army get a similar kind of deal. For years and years I can only remember OD and the woodland pattern camo. I can remember when I was working in an outdoors shop during the first gulf war and the amount of squaddies who used to come in and buy their own kit, boots, sleeping bags, down jackets, goggles etc was crazy. I remember them saying that their issued kit just wasn't up to the job. I think they are better kitted out nowadays, but no where like the US. Yeah, its a shame they didn't make the bivvy in camo. They obviously have the fabric and I'm sure it would be as popular as the green or orange that they make. We tend to get a lot of Snupak gear here. I'm not sure if you get it over in Canada. Some of the gear is worth a look.
The reserves tend to be a mixed bag since they seem to get the newer kit last so their stuff tends to be a mix of old and new. For example new BDUs in CADPAT but the 82 pattern rucksack that entered service when I was born. Even then up until the 2000s the paras used the old 1964 pack because the wire frame of the 82 pack would shatter on impact and your kit would end up scattered everywhere. I am given to understand the Americans had the same problem with their new Molle rucksack with the original plastic frame. One thing our military got right though is the sleeping bag. There is probably no better cold weather sleep system on earth. It is designed to withstand -40 C. The old snow shoes were brilliant too. They were magnesium so if you had to make a fire in an emergency you just scrapped some off the edge and instant fire starter. We definitely had similar problems with kit in Afghanistan to start because at the time we only had the woodland version of the CADPAT camo. Green kind of sticks out over there. Now we have a desert version. Could be worse. That gray UCP the Americans were using was pretty much useless everywhere but in Afghanistan. :) If you dye it green though it is passable. On the civilian market though it is next to impossible to get any legit kit in CADPAT. Not sure about kit but the uniforms are considered to have classified tech (an infrared suppressing coating) so surplus uniforms are either held in storage and old uniforms are destroyed. The Swiss do the same with their new camo unforms. Mostly I am curious what the new rucksack is like. I suppose if I wanted a CADPAT rucksack though I could get the current version of the 64 pattern rucksack.
I have looked at the Canadian winter sleep system. And like you rightly say, its a great bit of kit. A bit too warm for the milder climate here, but if you need it, I'm sure it can't be beat. Even used it was around £150.00. I like the idea of the magnesium snow shoes, that's very clever. Yeah, we don't see much Anti Infrared clothing here either. I'm sure the British army use it....... well I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't, but I'm sure I have read something about it. You can buy most ex issue kit, even old vehicles, but as you say, the anti infrared clothing you don't really come across. From time to time I use ex issue clothing. Mostly when out shooting or working. It is cheap and the woodland camo pattern still works for those pesky squirrels. I was even daft enough to buy one of the old chemical warfare suits. I didn't realise that it would turn everything black from the carbon liner. For months I had a black face and hands every time I put it on.
Saw a video where the individual did not recommend using bungees. He was ex-military, and he said if you had to make an adjustment to the bungees in the middle of the night, you didn't want it to come loose and spring back under tension and hit you in the eye which he's experienced. In fact, I think we've all experienced that at one time or another. It's your decision.
Cheers Mate!
Hi Refai, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) have a great weekend mate, all the best, Mark :)
Was down your way today boating on the Tryweryn. Was gonna nip in n see if you were at the fishery but ran out of time. Have you got some good stuff lined up film wise for the future ? You get out on many overnighters Mark
Hi Rick , I hope you are well mate and had a good time. Bet it was cold wasn't it! Isn't Tryweryn that place where they flooded the villages and farms to build the res back in the 50's. I think I've been there when I was a kid. Its mad how they could get away with that kind of thing. I'm off work for a bit now mate. So good job you didn't make a special journey down. My gaffa laid me off last week. I go back in March ready for another season. Yeah, I've just done a new video. Its processing at the moment, then I've got to upload it. It can ages sometimes. I'm not sure if you have the same trouble. Maybe I ought invest in a better computer! Yeah I get out on overnighters. I used to be out most weeks, either on my own or a group of us used to get together down in Devon, fishing and wild camping on the moors or on the coast somewhere. I move back home to help a ill relative a few years ago, so now its mainly a quick overnighter here and there when I can get out. Cheers mate, all the best Mark :)
Mark Bailey Plenty of time for a bit of bushcrafting for a bit then eh. Aye it was bloody freezing lol. Aye ridiculous really and it was to supply Liverpool an English city with water. Just to make matters worse they never even used the water. Not surprisingly the locals are still bitter and rightly so. I'm out most days and get at least one overnighter a month. Love it. Have a great weekend Mark. Look forward to your next film
Yeah, I think lake Vyrnwy is the one that does. I used to do a load of fly fishing for pike on Chew res in Somerset,. Another water with farms and houses underneath. The government only do it so that they can charge us drinking water. It rains enough in this country for us to collect it for free. Yeah I bet it cold. It has been snowing on and off here. Cheers Rick, all the best :)
The carabiners at the end of the prusik knot loops are not a bad idea... I might use that myself, save me from trying to go looking for toggles when it's raining, plus they only weigh about 5 grams each.
Hope you are well, cheers.
Hi Edy, hope you are well brother. Thanks for watching........ Yeah you can pick the small carabiners up for a few pence each and they weigh very little. In fact I think mine came with a couple of flash lights that I bought and I took them off them. The sticks work just fine, but the clips make it that bit quicker, like you say especially if it is raining. Have a great weekend, all the best Mark.
Could you please tell me what pack you're using in this video?
? awesome kudos to you for a great job!
Many thanks for watching Maria :) Have a great day, all the best, Mark :)
Hi Mark there's a Mollie dump pouch on Amazon might be good for your ridge line instead of your pocket p.s merry christmas and happy new year
Hi Shaun, I hope you are keeping well mate. Using a dump pouch is a great idea :) I have recently purchased a canvas dump pouch off eBay , so I can see me using that for job in future. Thanks for the suggestion. I hope you have a great Christmas and New Year too Shaun. Have a good one mate, all the best, Mark :)
Interested in your pack... What brand is it?
Hi Rey, the pack is a 5:11 Rush 72. Thanks for watching, all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 Thanks for letting me know. Keep up the good work!
I have a 3 by 3 meter AQ I used it the first time and never once went back to any of my other traps the best by a long shot
Hi Blake, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Your right about the AQ tarps, they are a great piece of kit. I was recently looking at a 3x3 version, I like that size. Out of the few tarps that I own and use, the AQ is the most well made. Regardless of the weather, you know it won't let you down :) Thanks again Blake, have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Have a 3x3 auqa Quist Sahara tarp best tarp ever made better then a DD trap or a snugpak all-weather tarp or a kelty tarp or any other tarps from any other company
Hi Gerald, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
very very good video enjoyed the review. What kind of camera and audio do you have The quality of your videos are great. Be blessed Chase
Hi Chase, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) I use a small Nikon 1 J5 camera. It is compact and light, plus you can change the lenses like an SLR. The audio is just the mic that is built in to the camera. Unfortunately it has no external port for a mic. So on windy days you are at the mercy of the weather. Thanks again for watching, all the best, Mark :)
Thanks for the information. God Bless
Thanks for the fast response.
Your very welcome Chase :) Have a blessed day brother, all the best, Mark.
Good vid. Subtitles might help.
Hi Kirk, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
are you from stoke fella
I am mate Stoke born and bred. :) Many thanks for stopping by, all the best, Mark.
@@markbailey2981 thought you were by your accent duck,same here stoke born and bread ,video shot down hanchurch by any chance ?
@@Wildernessoutside Yes mate, this was filmed at hanchurch. Unfortunately they have cut this part of the wood down. I had a walk there recently and they had started to fell the trees so I have had to find a new wood. It was a shame, as it is a stunning place in the summer. Have a great weekend mate.... all the best, Mark :)
@@markbailey2981 yeah it was/is I had a little spot down there but been a few years since I've been to it, yeah when the woods got sold off the owners started the process of cuuting big swaths of the pines down ,spolit it in my opinion ,still get down there walking the dogs and mountain biking as im a blurton lad , so its not too far
👍
Thank you Diane :) Have a great weekend, all the best, Mark :)
that ground slopewill get water under you...
Pity the most recent video was from 1 year ago..
What language is he speaking?
Sounds a bit like the Swedish Chef from Sesame Street. I have to really concentrate to understand most of what he’s saying.
Hi ! Lady
nice vid are you reading from a script as you sound like an actor ,
Hi Michael, many thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :) No, there is no script.... I'm not the best of readers at the best of times lol. Have a great day, all the best, Mark.
Soob titles please.
is that english?
Speak a little slower mate
Gear
The demonstrator talks too fast. Makes it hard to follow
Slow down
What?
Just kidding... but you are a fast talker. Maybe not so many pots of coffee.
Hard to understand, talking too fast plus not used to that accent. But I love the nature and the camping part of it.
Hi Braz Nart'n, many thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment :) Yeah the Stoke accent can be a bit difficult to get past, but I thank you for trying :) All the best, Mark.