Very industrious, mate! I put a long zipper on one of my DPM sleep sack bivvy covers but I wouldn't get away with that full on up here. Id make myself a bear burrito, if I did. Great idea you have there.. Greeting from Alaska..
Love the mods, worth adding a mosi net adapt to the storm flap and an additional anchor point in the hood centre. I love the zip mod, genius. Bivi bag is all about a packed backup for me, use walking poles rather than bivi poles.
Hi matey, yes I did thst to start with to get the position of the pegging out points correct, tarp clips are a great addition to have in the peg bag regardless, always good to have extra tie out points when needed. 👊👍
Hi Steve thanks for the comment, they are great bits of kit aren’t they, I just always struggled getting in and out quick particularly with boots on. 👍👊
Great idea with a zip. I usually use bivi to protect my down sleeping bag when sleeping close to the campfire in a hammock.Getting inside is really pain in the a*& Now I can even upgrade it with the poles.Many many thanks for sharing!🤠👍🏻
That’s awesome, and I always enjoy making my gear work more efficiently or simply better for my personal needs. I just wonder why on that sort of set up you wouldn’t simply use a tarp? Do you need to be completely zipped in or could you feel protected enough with a staked out tarp that could be pushed in and out when you either want to breathe more or enclose yourself again. I saw that set up on a channel called GruntProof. It was a very similar shape and design from the military perspective. Head resting on pack and front of tarp flipped over the pack to keep the pack fully dry if it isn’t a waterproof one. You may get some ideas or you may not. Never know. The tarp had all the stakes connected by rope to the tarp for super fast pack up during an ambush type of event. You don’t loose any stakes or any other part of your shelter system. I am going to try it myself with a basha. Thank you for the video and ideas. Keep up the good work and thank you for your service.
Hello buddy, Thanks for the comments and advice it’s very much appreciated. I just want to make it very clear I’ve never served in the armed forces, allthough have the upmost respect and a huge interest in the history and equipment and kit they use. But unfortunately I’ve never served. I will be sure to check out the channel you mentioned as well. All the best bud. 👍👊❤️
Thanks for the nice comment buddy, hope the video helps, I’ve found this option of shelter really versatile, not always needed buts it’s great to use just as a zipped bivi bag as well as a single person tent if you like. 👍👍
I bet that zip makes a massive difference, if you make a cover to fit on with Velcro I would make a net to fit on in the summer when the bugs are around.
Nice set of modifications. Quick question; great idea adding the side zip but does that compromise the water resistance of the bag if use without a tarp ? (Ie will the rain get in through the zip). And an idea if people want to just got for the two (or even one) pole mod etc would be to use tarp-clips in the first instance to see how they get on with using the bag in that way, before having to get the sewing kit out to add tabs or loops etc.
Hi Rob thank you mate, unfortunately I’m guessing here but I would say by adding a zip you have compromised the bags water tightness slightly that being said adding a rain baffle over the zip will be an easy enough mod something else I’m planning on doing once some more material comes in. And with the tarp clips that’s exactly what I did before proceeding with the mods buddy, great minds and all that! 👌👊
Thank you Anthony I’m glad it worked out well I was quite worried it wasn’t going to at one point. When you make that first cut there is no going Back 😂👌👊
@@ThePunishedOne, I'm far too nervous to make that cut. I did see an interesting idea from Neil at Greencraft. He flipped the bag upside down and used the hood as an awning. Neil had sewn on attachment points like you, but I was thinking of tying onto pebles.
@@ThePunishedOne all good marra, I've had my twintarp up during these interesting winds and the caps doing its job well. Handy (free) backup in a pinch then. 🤘
Hi Last Spud, yes totally get that, I may add one but I do have a very light weight mosquito hood that I use that you can barely feel over you head etc. I am considering a mozzi net inner cover though. 👌👊
Hi matey, I’m not sure if you would as the pole points I fitted are stitched over the section the cord runs through. I’ve never sinched the bivvi bag in either so. 😂👊👍
Hi mate, yes to a degree, I’ve still got some bits to add to it yet, the storm shield and a baffle for the zip so hopefully thst will help prevent water ingress as much as possible. Lots of things to do with little time in the schedule to do them. 😂👍👊
if getting or out seemed to be a problem, what you do is stand up while in the bivi, then just stride out of it. same for getting in?. having said that I put a center zip in mine. and cut the hood off as well.
Perhaps get one matey and see how you go with it before modding the bag itself? if you decide not to mod it then You’ll still have a great bivi bag to keep your Doss bag waterproof. 👍👍
Hey Jerry I just took a look at the green craft bivi video, love the concept of it but I wanted mine to be able to be set up anywhere and not reliant on trees to support it. Brilliantly done though regardless. 👌👊
I was going to mention the greencraft video as well. You could still use the poles but he turns the bivvy upside down and uses the hood as a storm shield. Great little video. Subscribed.
Thanks buddy appreciate that , sadly with work and busy family life the extension is yet to be done, but it’s on the list to do and I’ll be sure to do a follow up video. 👍👍👍
Nice adaptation! Why did you not put the loops for the bivvy poles on the opposite sides and you could have used the extra material of the bivvy bag as the storm flap?
Hi Matty, basically I still want to have the bivi bag as a bivi bag so wanted to add my mods with that in mind and keeping the bivi bag in its natural state if you like lol. Also I like the oversized hood as an admin area for keeping stuff out of the dirt etc. 👌👊
Yep considered that buddy, and I have seen it done upside down. Wanted to keep the over size head hit for kit storage though, and add the “storm hood” as and when required” which I’m still yet to build! I need to find spare time from somewhere if you see any spare time let me know! 😝😝👍
@@ThePunishedOne sounds like a good idea. I did try it with tarp clips one time without much success. Might have to have a play with it again. I guess the zip itself isn't waterproof?
@RambloManiacs hey bud, the zip isn’t water tight no, though I’m considering adding an off cut of material that hangs down over the zip and is stitched above it with some press stud tabs or perhaps magnets to keep it closed in wet/windy weather also protecting the zip, I don’t really want to use Velcro due the sound and also the potential of debris getting stuck in it. 👍👍
Hello, great video. I used my Bivvy bag on the weekend and like many others I had a problem getting in. I'm getting older and wider. I have just ordered my zip from amazon to make to the Mod. I recognise the square peg tabs but for the life of me I cannot remember their correct name. Can you please remind me and if possible where you got them from?
Hi Martin, Great to here your giving the Mod a go it’s really helped me a lot. With regard to the pegging out points these are simply strap/buckle attachments I’ve Salvaged from old British army PLCE webbing pouches and yokes. I’m sure you can find something very similar on eBay perhaps if you don’t have any old damaged kit laying about.
Yeah totally get that mate, I just wanted to try this is it’s bugged me for years the bivvy bag shuffle! 😂😂 and I do like the set up it works great for my needs. 👍👊
Hi matey, yeah I did consider that but as I’m adding a (storm shield I’ve dubbed it ), over the front I wanted to keep the oversized floor space for keeping kit in etc. 👊👍
A friend of mine was sighting a rifle scope in on the far side of the valley behind a large hill long way from me thought I’d add some comical sounds after each shot! 😂👌👊
Yep could absolutely do that bud. And I have several tents to use, I have always wanted to try this though and also wanted to introduce another method of use for an item of kit, I love stuff that’s dual purpose. 👍
I never understood the appeal of a bivy. They make 3.5 pound tents now that are infinitely more comfortable and useful. These do look cool but idk why anyone wouldn't just use tarps if they weren't going to use a tent. Cool video though.
Totally get that matey, for me it’s a good addition to my sleep system adding a few degrees of insulation. And I’ve always used a basha/tarp and bivi bag as a shelter set up, I created this as an additional option for a shelter set up as I’d always have this on me so to make it more dual purpose was my goal so not only is it a sleeping bag cover but also a stand alone shelter as well when needed. I’ve also done a recent Milsim event that required being static and observing for some considerable time from a hide. this set up would of been perfect. For me I’d always choose a tarp over a tent purely because they are more versatile but again it depends on the situation and location. 👌👊
I can’t see why a tarp is more versatile. Yes, there are far more options to pitch it. But they are all more open, compared to a tent. So all less useful in bad weather and winter and therefore less versatile in my opinion. The only advantage of a tarp in my opinion is probably, that a tarp is indeed more open,which could become an advantage, if you want to be closer to nature (for a short time), with all the disadvantages of real nature: insects, condensation, wind etc. I am privileged and do long trips in remote areas, so I get enough nature for my taste even in a tent. Also i am personally not a fan of milsim. Probably due to the fact that I witnessed four wars as a civilian from closer distance and hence can’t see the fun factor of wars any more.
Agreed mate, don’t get me wrong tarps have there draw backs but for me with a tarp it can be used in multiple locations in varying orientations for example as a hammock cover, A frame, wrap around tent, lean to etc. with a tent I totally get the security and keeping the elements out and all that, but its only function is a tent and it can’t be used in any other method other than a tent, that’s what I mean by a tarp being more versatile. With regard to Milsim it’s each to there own on that subject buddy, and I feel for you that you have experienced conflict up close. 👊👌❤️
The advantage with a bivvi is that you can kip in places your 3.5 pound tent won’t fit. With a small or medium tarp gives you extra protection if you should need it.
@@markburrell I dont agree: I mean, technically its right: you can sleep in a bivvi bag on a mountain in a sitting position. While you cant pitch a tent at 50x50 cm. But if you use your bivvi in such extrem conditions you cant have a tarp as an extra protection. A good one person tent needs much less space than a tarp.
Hey mate, all my kit is in dry bags inside my Bergen but I am adding a storm shield to the bivi to contain my Bergen and boots etc. I also have a waterproof cover to go over my bag as well for added protection. One other thing I do once a year is treat a few items with fabsil for added protection also. 👌👊
Great video and great work on the modifications 👌🏻
Thank you mark, I’ve really enjoyed doing these mods. 👌👊
Very industrious, mate! I put a long zipper on one of my DPM sleep sack bivvy covers but I wouldn't get away with that full on up here. Id make myself a bear burrito, if I did. Great idea you have there.. Greeting from Alaska..
Hi Longbow!
Thanks for the kind words, yes I can imagine you would be packaging yourself up quite nicely for a bear take out!
👍👊😝
Good video, great add ons, have you thought of putting a mosquito net with the storm sheet ?
Great info! Looking forward to more
Thank you mate! 👌👊
Love the mods, worth adding a mosi net adapt to the storm flap and an additional anchor point in the hood centre. I love the zip mod, genius. Bivi bag is all about a packed backup for me, use walking poles rather than bivi poles.
Hi steve, great minds thinking alike buddy! What you’ve mentioned already being planned bud just gathering the materials. 👊👌
I was buying a PLCE DPM Webbing Set so I watch your video on yours, and now my one is on it's way so i'm quite happy about it, Thanks for the video's.
That great to here Lachlan, hope the video helped?
As a heads up I’ll be doing an updated video in the next few weeks of my current webbing set. 👌👊
Good Job, Looks Pretty cozy!
Best regards from Germany,
GR 🤙🏼
Hi buddy many thanks!
And yes it’s very cozy I’ve tried it a couple of times now and it’s been really good. 👍
You should try tarp clips ,might be easiest fo add ons to all .God bless you and your family and happy camping 🏕. Lee
Hi matey, yes I did thst to start with to get the position of the pegging out points correct, tarp clips are a great addition to have in the peg bag regardless, always good to have extra tie out points when needed. 👊👍
Ive had my army DPM bivvy for years now your mods are a good idea. good video thanks.
Hi Steve thanks for the comment, they are great bits of kit aren’t they, I just always struggled getting in and out quick particularly with boots on. 👍👊
Great idea with a zip. I usually use bivi to protect my down sleeping bag when sleeping close to the campfire in a hammock.Getting inside is really pain in the a*& Now I can even upgrade it with the poles.Many many thanks for sharing!🤠👍🏻
this is great to see kit in the wood liking it a lot
Cracking little video fella. not seen your content before. New Sub
That’s awesome, and I always enjoy making my gear work more efficiently or simply better for my personal needs.
I just wonder why on that sort of set up you wouldn’t simply use a tarp? Do you need to be completely zipped in or could you feel protected enough with a staked out tarp that could be pushed in and out when you either want to breathe more or enclose yourself again.
I saw that set up on a channel called GruntProof. It was a very similar shape and design from the military perspective. Head resting on pack and front of tarp flipped over the pack to keep the pack fully dry if it isn’t a waterproof one. You may get some ideas or you may not. Never know.
The tarp had all the stakes connected by rope to the tarp for super fast pack up during an ambush type of event. You don’t loose any stakes or any other part of your shelter system. I am going to try it myself with a basha.
Thank you for the video and ideas. Keep up the good work and thank you for your service.
Hello buddy,
Thanks for the comments and advice it’s very much appreciated.
I just want to make it very clear I’ve never served in the armed forces, allthough have the upmost respect and a huge interest in the history and equipment and kit they use.
But unfortunately I’ve never served.
I will be sure to check out the channel you mentioned as well.
All the best bud. 👍👊❤️
nice little modification ! !
They should have made like this in the first place. I know carinthia do one but its hundreds of pounds. Thanks for sharing great ideas.
Thanks for the nice comment buddy, hope the video helps, I’ve found this option of shelter really versatile, not always needed buts it’s great to use just as a zipped bivi bag as well as a single person tent if you like. 👍👍
I bet that zip makes a massive difference, if you make a cover to fit on with Velcro I would make a net to fit on in the summer when the bugs are around.
Hi Brad, absolutely buddy I’m considering it at the moment, just gathering some more materials to continue the work. 👌👊
I like what you have done. I too have added a side zip to my bivvy, but i think i will add the peg out points like you have done. Thanks
Hi J D, it certainly makes getting in and out of the bivvy bag that much easier! 👊👌
Couple of Tarp clips will do the job.
Love this idea. Thanks for sharing 👊
Thanks buddy and you most welcome. 👍👍
Add a mosquito net with the storm shield. DIY Carinthia XP 2 plus.
That’s a good idea to consider buddy thanks.
Nice one mate
That certainly came out ok
Like the zip down the side 👍
Thanks for the shout
Thank you Dez, yes it turned out rather well I think! 👊👌
Congratulations on 500 subs👍
Thanks bud much appreciated. 👍👍👊
i love it, it gives me the urge to mod mine and do something similar
Thanks buddy, let me know how you get on would love to see the results! 👍👊
Ooohh like this, and may need to give it a proper go when I'm out and about. Good original thinking here mate. Subbed.😉
Great idea. U S Marines Corps 1964-86
Thanks Troy appreciate the kind words. 👌👊
Nice set of modifications. Quick question; great idea adding the side zip but does that compromise the water resistance of the bag if use without a tarp ? (Ie will the rain get in through the zip). And an idea if people want to just got for the two (or even one) pole mod etc would be to use tarp-clips in the first instance to see how they get on with using the bag in that way, before having to get the sewing kit out to add tabs or loops etc.
Hi Rob
thank you mate, unfortunately I’m guessing here but I would say by adding a zip you have compromised the bags water tightness slightly that being said adding a rain baffle over the zip will be an easy enough mod something else I’m planning on doing once some more material comes in.
And with the tarp clips that’s exactly what I did before proceeding with the mods buddy, great minds and all that! 👌👊
Actually a amazing Idea. I might have a go at this as j have a spare one 👍
Thanks matey, not everyone’s cup of tea but it works great for my needs 👍👊
Great idea to add a zip thanks for an interesting video.
Thank you Anthony I’m glad it worked out well I was quite worried it wasn’t going to at one point.
When you make that first cut there is no going Back 😂👌👊
@@ThePunishedOne, I'm far too nervous to make that cut. I did see an interesting idea from Neil at Greencraft. He flipped the bag upside down and used the hood as an awning. Neil had sewn on attachment points like you, but I was thinking of tying onto pebles.
Really cool mods on that bivi bag
Depending on your height, you can reverse it instead of adding a storm flap. Great video anyway!
Liberate some bamboo cane caps from a garden centre for the ends of your bashpoles marra :-)
I use them for tarps and barrel protection. ;-)
Great idea bud, I’ve actually got some specific tarp pole covers now and a tanned colour that do the job nicely.
@@ThePunishedOne all good marra, I've had my twintarp up during these interesting winds and the caps doing its job well.
Handy (free) backup in a pinch then. 🤘
The zip is a great idea. A mosquito net might be an idea.
Hi Last Spud, yes totally get that, I may add one but I do have a very light weight mosquito hood that I use that you can barely feel over you head etc.
I am considering a mozzi net inner cover though. 👌👊
i am going to copy your mod the zip is the way forward. if you dont use the poles are you still able to cinch the open end down ?
Hi matey, I’m not sure if you would as the pole points I fitted are stitched over the section the cord runs through.
I’ve never sinched the bivvi bag in either so. 😂👊👍
Hi.
Good idea with the zip, but won’t it compromise it water proofing abilities?
All the best.👍🏾🇬🇧⛺️
Hi mate, yes to a degree, I’ve still got some bits to add to it yet, the storm shield and a baffle for the zip so hopefully thst will help prevent water ingress as much as possible.
Lots of things to do with little time in the schedule to do them. 😂👍👊
if getting or out seemed to be a problem, what you do is stand up while in the bivi, then just stride out of it.
same for getting in?.
having said that I put a center zip in mine. and cut the hood off as well.
Yep totally agree mate, thats a perfectly reasonable method.
I guess trying to maintain a low profile etc in this situation.
👍👊
Really enjoyed this video on the bivvy bag, but it’s put me off getting one because I am not convinced it’s comfortable at my age.
Perhaps get one matey and see how you go with it before modding the bag itself?
if you decide not to mod it then You’ll still have a great bivi bag to keep your Doss bag waterproof. 👍👍
Like the zip idea. I tend to use a poncho with mine. It integrates well and I'm carrying one anyway.
Have you seen Neil's bivvybag mods at Greencraft?
I haven’t but I’ll take a look Jerry thanks.
Hey Jerry I just took a look at the green craft bivi video, love the concept of it but I wanted mine to be able to be set up anywhere and not reliant on trees to support it.
Brilliantly done though regardless. 👌👊
I was going to mention the greencraft video as well. You could still use the poles but he turns the bivvy upside down and uses the hood as a storm shield. Great little video. Subscribed.
That's really smart thinking, right there. How did it go with the velcro extension?
Thanks buddy appreciate that , sadly with work and busy family life the extension is yet to be done, but it’s on the list to do and I’ll be sure to do a follow up video. 👍👍👍
@@ThePunishedOne 👍
@@ThePunishedOne understood mate. Have you considered a civy bivy?
Nice adaptation! Why did you not put the loops for the bivvy poles on the opposite sides and you could have used the extra material of the bivvy bag as the storm flap?
Hi Matty, basically I still want to have the bivi bag as a bivi bag so wanted to add my mods with that in mind and keeping the bivi bag in its natural state if you like lol.
Also I like the oversized hood as an admin area for keeping stuff out of the dirt etc. 👌👊
If u did it upside down you'd have the flap at the top over you. I use mine upside down for that reason, use the "hood" bit as a flap over me head
Yep considered that buddy, and I have seen it done upside down.
Wanted to keep the over size head hit for kit storage though, and add the “storm hood” as and when required” which I’m still yet to build!
I need to find spare time from somewhere if you see any spare time let me know! 😝😝👍
@@ThePunishedOne sounds like a good idea. I did try it with tarp clips one time without much success. Might have to have a play with it again. I guess the zip itself isn't waterproof?
@RambloManiacs hey bud, the zip isn’t water tight no, though I’m considering adding an off cut of material that hangs down over the zip and is stitched above it with some press stud tabs or perhaps magnets to keep it closed in wet/windy weather also protecting the zip, I don’t really want to use Velcro due the sound and also the potential of debris getting stuck in it. 👍👍
Hello, great video. I used my Bivvy bag on the weekend and like many others I had a problem getting in. I'm getting older and wider. I have just ordered my zip from amazon to make to the Mod. I recognise the square peg tabs but for the life of me I cannot remember their correct name. Can you please remind me and if possible where you got them from?
Hi Martin,
Great to here your giving the Mod a go it’s really helped me a lot.
With regard to the pegging out points these are simply strap/buckle attachments I’ve Salvaged from old British army PLCE webbing pouches and yokes.
I’m sure you can find something very similar on eBay perhaps if you don’t have any old damaged kit laying about.
Leave it alone. Zips can fail and jetwashing is not good. Spent years in uk army using a bivvy and they work best when used in the intended way
Yeah totally get that mate, I just wanted to try this is it’s bugged me for years the bivvy bag shuffle! 😂😂 and I do like the set up it works great for my needs. 👍👊
Which poles are those please mate?
Hi buddy, they are standard British army Basha poles readily available on eBay Amazon and surplus stores. 👍👍
You can get either twist lock or ones that are secured with a thumb screw in the side to secure.
I have both and they work well. 👍👍
Do you have the nsn for the bivi only cuz it looks likw youve got the large version but i cant find any online
Hi I will see what mine says and reply here, sorry only just seen this comment. 👍👊
Why not have the bag upside down and use the “hood” as a roof over the entrance?
Hi matey, yeah I did consider that but as I’m adding a (storm shield I’ve dubbed it ), over the front I wanted to keep the oversized floor space for keeping kit in etc. 👊👍
@@ThePunishedOne that makes sense.
What model jacket is that?
Hi Swojal so it’s a
BRITISH ARMY ISSUE woodland dpm soldier 95 CS95 combat windproof SMOCK 170/104L
you are guilting me into getting mine bag sorted...not happy ;-)
😂😂 you won’t regret it mate 👊👌
Sorry no zips
at 6:10 sounds like you are getting shot at wtf?
A friend of mine was sighting a rifle scope in on the far side of the valley behind a large hill long way from me thought I’d add some comical sounds after each shot! 😂👌👊
Just get a tent
Yep could absolutely do that bud.
And I have several tents to use, I have always wanted to try this though and also wanted to introduce another method of use for an item of kit, I love stuff that’s dual purpose.
👍
I like my Bivi, but I just sometimes find it hard to protect my gear as well.
I never understood the appeal of a bivy. They make 3.5 pound tents now that are infinitely more comfortable and useful. These do look cool but idk why anyone wouldn't just use tarps if they weren't going to use a tent. Cool video though.
Totally get that matey, for me it’s a good addition to my sleep system adding a few degrees of insulation.
And I’ve always used a basha/tarp and bivi bag as a shelter set up, I created this as an additional option for a shelter set up as I’d always have this on me so to make it more dual purpose was my goal so not only is it a sleeping bag cover but also a stand alone shelter as well when needed.
I’ve also done a recent Milsim event that required being static and observing for some considerable time from a hide.
this set up would of been perfect.
For me I’d always choose a tarp over a tent purely because they are more versatile but again it depends on the situation and location.
👌👊
I can’t see why a tarp is more versatile. Yes, there are far more options to pitch it. But they are all more open, compared to a tent. So all less useful in bad weather and winter and therefore less versatile in my opinion. The only advantage of a tarp in my opinion is probably, that a tarp is indeed more open,which could become an advantage, if you want to be closer to nature (for a short time), with all the disadvantages of real nature: insects, condensation, wind etc. I am privileged and do long trips in remote areas, so I get enough nature for my taste even in a tent.
Also i am personally not a fan of milsim. Probably due to the fact that I witnessed four wars as a civilian from closer distance and hence can’t see the fun factor of wars any more.
Agreed mate, don’t get me wrong tarps have there draw backs but for me with a tarp it can be used in multiple locations in varying orientations for example as a hammock cover, A frame, wrap around tent, lean to etc.
with a tent I totally get the security and keeping the elements out and all that, but its only function is a tent and it can’t be used in any other method other than a tent, that’s what I mean by a tarp being more versatile.
With regard to Milsim it’s each to there own on that subject buddy, and I feel for you that you have experienced conflict up close.
👊👌❤️
The advantage with a bivvi is that you can kip in places your 3.5 pound tent won’t fit. With a small or medium tarp gives you extra protection if you should need it.
@@markburrell I dont agree: I mean, technically its right: you can sleep in a bivvi bag on a mountain in a sitting position. While you cant pitch a tent at 50x50 cm.
But if you use your bivvi in such extrem conditions you cant have a tarp as an extra protection. A good one person tent needs much less space than a tarp.
How do you protect your gear from rain...
Hey mate, all my kit is in dry bags inside my Bergen but I am adding a storm shield to the bivi to contain my Bergen and boots etc.
I also have a waterproof cover to go over my bag as well for added protection.
One other thing I do once a year is treat a few items with fabsil for added protection also. 👌👊
@ThePunishedOne appreciate the tips, man. I've been spending some time in the bush trying to fine-tune my kit for the coming hard times.