What dimensions have you used for the pole and tripods?
Alan
The tripod's I made were from 'Sawn Treated Softwood'. I bought a pack of 8 x 1.8m length pieces (47mm x 22mm). Cost less than £10. I cut mine to 1m 70cm so as to fit easily in my van.
The crossbar was made from two Tree Stakes from a local Garden Centre. I bought 2. Each was 1.8m x 40mm. I cut each one to 1m 74cm to get rid of the pointed ends and then put 3 grooves all the way round the stakes (near the pointed end) to take the Dynema loop and whipping (stops slippage). Each stake cost about £3.50.
I connected the rods with an old army aluminium tent pole. I cut the ends of the pole and it easily slips over the tree stakes. Cost on e-bay about £6.
To connect the tripods I used a 'T' Hinge. It is about 45cm in length and each one cost about £2.50.
Various nuts, bolts and washers to fit (at least 4 cm in length). About £3.
Amsteel/Dynema rope - About 4 or 5 metres required (approx. £5.)
I made the tarp caps out of some old Hessian sacking (used the corners) and covered in Duck tape.
Approx cost if buying all the parts = £36
I am looking to replace the crossbar with a Galvanised Fencing top rail. You can get sleeve connectors and so cut it into 2 or 3 parts and use Rail End cups to connect to the hammock. Examples here (1st and 3rd items)
http://www.discountfence.com/chainlink2/fittings5.htm
Any ideas where to get these in the UK would be appreciated. Recycled pieces would be preffered.
I am getting most of my ideas from the Hammock Forumns website at
http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php?t=27777&highlight=crossbar
I know these do not look simple but they are when you get down to it.
I now have a hammock stand that:
1. does not need land anchors
2. is very easy to set up
3. is designed to take a tarp
4. can be set up on very rocky ground
5. is easily transportable by vehicle
6. and is ideal for when you have only one tree available.
My wife is extremely happy as she no longer trips over guy lines and can set it up herself in the garden.
Cheers
George