I also own Aqua Quest defender tarps and as far as I'm concerned these are one of the best quality tarps money can buy. I can't say enough about how good these things are. My defender tarps have seen snow, ice, freezing rain, torrential down pours, high winds and searing sun. All that and after six years they are still as good as the day I bought them, they have never failed me.
I used my 15x15 for t the first time this week. At first I thought it was going to be too large but after setting it up, I saw all the possibilities. Great video. Thank you.
Honestly I think there is more of a chance of damaging the tarp and seams by cramming it into the bag rather than laying it out and folding it up neatly
No...definitely not. With a proper sized stuff sack and leaving it attached to the ridgeline there's virtually no way to damage it and it is fast and effective to store it. I've used tarps on probably 100 outings now with no issue stuffing them every single time.
I had the same thought. This tarp has heavy silicon coating on so best if rolled nicely. Eventually the silicone might be broken down but anyway this will happen with his method.
@@outerlimitless what did I just watch? You do know you don't have to post videos that are not good, right? What do you mean, " with the right sized stuff sack"? The sack it came in IS the right size. I hope you've got some REAL WORLD experience since the filming of this.
@@outerlimitless dude, based on your logic using a "stuff and crush" method, you're asking for a stuff sack as big or bigger than your backpack based on the difficulty you had stuffing it. You can clearly see at the end of the video you're struggling to stuff the tarp into the backpack alone without the stuff sack and it practically takes up the entire space within the backpack once you are done! Try rolling the damn thing. That was so painful to watch. It's the same approach when packing a suitcase full of clothes and stuffing everything randomly vs. rolling each individual item and see the difference in the amount of space you use.
I just upgraded to this tarp from the 10x10 guide series. All the extra tie outs and reinforced ridge lines more than compensate for the extra weight. Looking forward to using it and trying out some new configurations in the boundary waters.
That's the problem. Next time you're caught in a pouring rain storm, take the time to fold and roll your tarp. Impractical and unnecessary. And folding a tarp creates creased and memory in your tarp... not good for long term use.
I have several of their tarps myself... love them all. The quality is second to none! Getting them back into the stuff sack should really be an Olympic sport. 🤣👍
I just ordered one and plan to modify the stuff sack if it's not large enough. I have done this before and it's not too difficult with a seam ripper and sewing machine. I think this would be great for hunting in open terrain because it can handle the high winds.
Loved your video clip on the 15 x 15. That settled my choice on the size I wanted to consider. Being 6'4", I prefer having room to move inside than having to crouch, especially if you make a Pyramid tarp shelter with an open front tarp tent style. Placed my order to Aqua Quest.
15’x15’ Defender tarp arrived. Set it up as a tipi style. Lots of room. No problem for me placing it back in its storage bag, mind you I had it on my home lawn and easier to fold back and forth and roll to desired bag size. But would be more difficult out in the woods with all the leaves. I agree with you about possible problems in the wild.
I have the 10x10 Safari camo tarp and when I fold it up and put it in the stuff sack, I have a ton of extra space. I can fit a 50ft paracord ridgeline, 6 bankline guylines, and 6 MSR groundhog stakes. The stuff sack I have has plenty of room. Aqua Quest has some really nice dry bags as well. Maybe get their 30 liter dry bag for your defender tarp.
Yeah, it's the folding part that has me bummed out...I don't generally want to rely on folding...it either requires dragging your tarp on the ground or having 2 people to fold it...neither are acceptable for my needs. I definitely need to utilize another bag to store mine.
Hey, I bought an AquaQuest tarp because of two videos, one of them being yours. It will receive its inaugural test in a week but on initial inspection I have no doubt it'll live up to it's reputation. I've pre-attached my ridge line for faster set up but as you've shown, it ain't going back into the stuff sac with the same ease it came out - I had to stretch shower and make a physio appointment after that wrestling match! I'll be buying a new sac for it this week. Good video. Thanks
Haha! I'm glad you're happy with the quality. Obviously that's the biggest importance. Which tarp did you get? But yeah...what's with the stuff sack. It could just be a little bigger and it would be perfect! It's just un-necessary in my opinion. I don't want to struggle with my gear. I also don't want to sit there and fold it up all nice...and what, lay it out on sticks and branches and sap to do that??? No way!! You gotta be able to stuff and crush a tarp for the longevity of the tarp with no damage. I make a rule not to allow my tarp onto the ground. That is for a specific reason. I can't find that when I need the safety and security of my tarp that I punctured a hole in it while I was folding the damn thing on the ground! STUFF AND CRUSH!! BIGGER STUFF SACK!! Haha...thanks for watching!
@@outerlimitless I bought the large defender and it was awesome on the trip but on day 2 I noticed a small right angle tear in the friggin thing!! The tear is about 2cm each way. I have no idea how it got there except to think that it caught on something when part of it was briefly on the ground. There's no way I can claim with confidence that it came damaged either. I hadn't obviously become proficient at setting up without allowing that to happen. It's an easy fix however and the tarp now has "character marks". One of the nights was really windy coming off the lake and stuff was blowing around a lot but I had no issues with any loops letting go. There was easily enough room for our 3 x 6 folding table that held the cook stove and kitchen kit and the two of with folding chairs to sit out of the rain and get up and move around easily. I'd post a photo of the set up if it were possible. One feature mine didn't have that I saw in another video - perhaps yours, I'd have to look gain - were some loops on the inside of the ridge line that I thought would be useful for hanging things, a clothesline etc. No biggy really on that. I bought the 10 x10 also which I'll keep for solo outings. It's bag seems more reasonable for a stuff sack. All in all - great piece of kit!
I stuff my defender 15x15 into the stuff sack no problem. I found you just have to stuff a single "layer" of fabric in at a time, rather than have it all bunched up and trying to stuff huge portions of the tarp in at once.
22:09 does anyone else see that sunlight-shaped hole poking through along the main reinforced seam? You probably should've cleared your site before laying it down. Also, it might not be a good thing to insert the Guy line tensioner into the tarp loop as a toggle. Those tensioners are usually made from cheap plastic and may break on ya.
For anyone that wants to know. For the stuff method, you will need a 24L stuff sack. I use the large MTAC and it is perfect. Edit: I will add tho. It's a big boy. Best way to settle the stuff and crush vs the fold method. What is more importantly to you. Longevity of your tarp? Or it being smaller and more packable? The 15x15 is literally the size of a medium backpack when stuffed into my compression sack.
What if you folded it while on the ridge line. I have a cord line going across a space that I have a large sheet draped over. Whenever I don't need to use the sheet I just flip it over the top once and then flip it over twice. If I wanted to I could take down the line and it only needs to be rolled after that. I have a 10x10 defender and a 7x10 guide. I use their Boa compression straps. The new tarps are made in Taiwan and I think they are a bit of an upgrade. you can't even see the seam seal tape because they are clear. The boa straps make setups faster for me and the bags are bigger because I can put extra stuff inside with the tarp. Thanks for this review. I am new to tarps and I really wanted to see the last setup that you did when you close the end.
I love this brand ! The quality is amazing! But... I have the Defender Heavy-Duty 13X10 and it's too big for me! So, since I've only used it 1 time, and I don't need it (not too much rain in France), I'm thinking of reselling it at half price...
Great vid! Made me a new subscriber... you helped me decide on the defender... thank you. But they call it a stuff sack so you can, not only KEEP your "stuff" in it but it's also, so you can stuff it in there without taking the time and space needed to fold it neatly on a clear sunny day. Like you said, it would often be the circumstance of foul, rainy, windy conditions or worse... Thanks again, keep up the great vids mang...
Thanks for joining, and glad to have you aboard! Yes, the stuff sack should be simply that...a way to stuff your tarp in there. Actually, folding a tarp isn't the best becaue it can gain memory and deteriorate on the fold lines. I would be surprised if it really happened, but people do claim that. And I always prefer to stuff my tarps in the sack for ease of packing. It's too bad I don't have 4 more inches of fabric to work with on these stuff sacks...they are all too tight from AquaQuest. But the tarps are totally amazing!
@@outerlimitless I ordered the 15x15 due to all the reviews like your own. I do believe I have a stuff sack that may work better, I'll just trade them out. Yes aqua quest needs to remedy this issue. They probably will from your vid... thanks again. Looking forward to more ... be safe and healthy.. :)
Great vid. I think I’d have run the ridge line under the tarp and put some alpine butterfly loops in it along the way. That way you wouldn’t need a separate line to hang things from.
Thanks for watching. Only problem with running the ridgeline beneath is that you can't drop down the sides...it is stuck in an A Frame configuration...so yes, you are right about the hanging line, but I would rather have the walls if needed with a tarp this large.
So the stuff sack does not work for stuffing, I think thats been established. I note the stuff sack is not same material as tarp and not as waterproof. It also has holes in bottom for draining. Why would you try and stuff in a wet tarp that will result in water draining into your back pack? Use a suitable sized dry sack to make life easier and keep kit dry. Use supplied sack for storing paracord, trussocks, pegs, clips, carabinas, s clips, lines, straps, shockcord or whatever elase you use to put up shelter and store bag on top of tarp in dry bag. Would recommend doing this if a stuffer or a folder 😉
Thanks for the video. But why try to stuff it like you would a down sleeping bag? If you tried folding it you’d probably be able to get it in it’s sack.
The reason for the crush and stuff method is the reality of working in the woods alone...and the reality of what packing up is really like in the wilderness. There's no really way to carefully fold a tarp alone...or in the wilderness...especially in inclement weather. And, also, as I mentioned, I really try to avoid dragging my tarp on the ground. 99.99% of the time my tarp will NEVER touch the ground...or branches, or anything that could damage it. Therefor the crush and stuff method is a critical method for my breakdown. If I can't break down that way I'll find a tarp that can.
I love my aquaquest tarps. I’ve always heard nylon degrades in the sun though, so I’m curious how long it would actually hold up as a long term shelter
I have been using my defender for four years never been a problem, not even faded from the sun. My tarp has seen relentless sun, torrential down pours and lots of snow. The tarp also comes with a two year no hassle warranty. Aqua quest by far makes the best tarps on the planet.
Just curious as to why you don't use prussic knots and toggles to attach your tarp to your ridgeline instead of running your ridge line through the loops? Toggles are quicker to setup and take down without losing substantial strength.
I usually leave my ridgeline essentially permanently attached to my tarp. Of course it depends on the configuration, but generally, I am set it and forget it...it just depends. Sometimes I do use toggles.
You have to get new stuffsacks for most of the sleepingbags or tarps. Those designers from the research and development should take their gear out and stuff the gear into those too small bags by temperatures around 5F or in brutal wind and rain. Nice review though! I just ordered my AQ Defender in 10x13 and I'm really looking forward to using it with a hammock.
Thank you...finally someone who gets it! I think you're the first one to really stick up for this point. Seriously...if you really intend on using these for true excursions or mountain use and a stuff sack matters...which is probably does...then being undersized will suck to deal with in adverse conditions. I'll be curious to hear how you like your 10x13...enjoy and thanks for watching!
@@outerlimitless I have a down Sleepingbag that is really expensive and they spare on a couple of inches of cloth for the stuffsacks. You get out off the Sleepingbag in the morning tired, cold, hungry and then you fiddle around with a stuffsack for an hour to pack everything up. I replace all my stuffsacks with the eVent compression bags from sea to summit. Good tough and durable quality and alot more relaxed in the morning while packing my gear up.
What are your thoughts on using this tarp with aluminum poles and guy lines (car camping applications)? Do you think the weight of this tarp in this size might be too much for aluminum in wind and rain vs. steel? Thanks in advance for any input.
I often use the Green Elephant aluminum poles on the four corners and made two poles using 1/2 inch black iron pipe to support the front and rear ridge line straps. Sturdy set up using large Beefoor heavy duty steel stakes.
Probably every manufacturers make too small stuff sacks because in that way there is a big chance that the tarp, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping pad, rain coat will be ruined couple of years later.
Great video. I would get another stuff sack then deal with struggling . I don't know why these companies can't make a slightly larger stuff sack, I guess it must be the ol mighty dollar.
I almost wonder sometimes if the people who make these actually use them. It seems like it would be a no brainer to increase the stuff sack size. If I worked there it would be the first thing that I would fix.
Great size plus all the additional loops and tie-outs are super important. But definitely a two-person or more tarp option. Thanks for all the details!
LOADED with tie outs...I can see 4 or 5 different shelters that would be a great choice for prolonged use with gear and more than one person. This tarp is sweet!
Looks tough enough a little big for little old me to pack though I have a sleeping bag that sucks to pack in it’s pouch so I don’t either roll it up and use a couple bungee cords.
I think you missed that part of the discussion. I'm not interested in laying my 15 x 15 tarp in the ground while I try to neatly fold it into the bag. I want to stuff my tarp... every time.
@@outerlimitless I seen that part. I didn't miss it. I sure the bag wasn't intended for the way your using it. If the tarp is haft as good as you say it should survive being roll up and put in the bag. I've got a 40 dollar tarp that survives the final roll up. To each his own. Good luck and have fun camping.
Good catch. 23:42 exactly. It might be under the seam tape, but many tarps have minor manufacturing defects. You make a great point and that is precisely why it's good to set your gear up before you get deep into the wilderness. I'll use that example in the future. Great observation!
I'm on the fence about getting it but for the price I would have been calling customer service. It looks like the best 100% waterproof tarp on the market shouldn't see daylight taped or not. Just my opinion.
@@charlesdillon6155 your not wrong, I agree with you. I didn't notice while I was filming as i was distracted... but I do agree it shouldn't have that hole. That was my first time looking at that tarp too...
You could have folded that tarp by hanging it over your ridgeline , folding it and then rolling it. I have exact same Tarp and find it easy to fit back into the sack. That said yeah its an epic tarp I have used mine a few times in winds over 65mph and it has been faultless.
You're more likely to damage the tarp with that stuff and crush method than you would by taking the time to properly fold it and roll it up before stuffing it into the bag.
You make a claim that you’re going to test the product and then try to stuff it in a bag that was designed for the turf to be folded correctly but you didn’t fold it you just tried to stuff it in the bag it’s never going to fit do you stuff your clothes in your drawer or do you fold them correctly Right so why do you think It didn’t fit because you didn’t fold it do you park your car sideways in your garage no because it won’t fit there’s a right way and a wrong way to do something do it right or don’t do it. Think brother logically 3 strikes your out.
You clearly don't spend time in the bush... and certainly not in adverse conditions. If you did, you would understand that taking the time to fold your tarp isn't practical. And if you're willing to lay your tarp across the sticks and twigs your asking for damage. It appears as though I'm more logical than your thought process and apparently more experienced? One strike you're out.
And for the record, even though you edited your comment I still retain the original one. Why not stick to your guns? You afraid I'd report you for offensive comments?
@@outerlimitless no I’m not afraid of anyone’s thinking you clearly aren’t sain your crazy to think that you can just jam your tarp into a bag that clearly is designed to fit it if you take the time to fold it correctly. You are an idiot to spend the time to jam it into the designed bag and it not fit fighting it all the way and never getting it to work. Spend the time to fold it and it will fit with room to spare. Like I said before just because you think it means stuff it in is not what the manufacturer clearly designed. You weren’t in the rain it was clear weather and you are just too lazy and ignorant to do the job right. You are an idiot to think you can gust Willy Billy jam it all in there without folding it properly. You wasted the time to fight it into the bag and didn’t take advantage of the weather and fold it correctly #1 idiot failed 3 out of 3 times. And I spend Months in the field at a time you don’t know me I have the tarp you clearly trashed and I always fold it up Again just cause it’s called a stuffs that doesn’t mean you just stuff the shit in there that’s your stupid interpretation of the idea no one else’s. I’ll always fold the tarp and always get it to fit 10 out of 10 times. You are just lazy or stupid or just understand that stupid sack is just a nick name not the actual design in other words fold the fucking tarps like it was designed and it will fit 100 out of 100 times use your head man. Come on admit you just want to bitch about a perfect product and a perfectly good STUFF SACK
Tarp choice is an interesting topic. It's a fairly complicated answer in my opinion. What is the intended use? Do you need light weight or heavy duty? Are you carrying it on your back, or using it out of a vehicle? Does it need to be set up for a long term or short term scenario? I have about 8 different tarps. 4 of which are my go-to for difference scenarios...and this Defender being one of them.
It's such a shame with such a simple way to address the issue...literally like 2 extra inches of material in length and maybe one inch in diameter would make all the difference.
You had beautiful soft oak leaves on the ground to lay your tarp and fold it. Here in Aus we have nothing like that. Your stubbornness makes this a terrible watching experience.
Haha, ok...I've damaged tarps, torn tarps. There are sticks, twigs, thorns. not to mention, just make the stuff sack a little bigger. Those thoughts make this a "terrible watching experience"? No helpful information provided I guess...
Typical aussie.They got snakes green ants red dust no water for miles upon miles .It is so hot the tar melts and in Coober peddy they all live in caves.The typical Aussie eats roots shoots and leaves.WTF do they know about tarps?
Good review. I would think folding is the only way to go with a tarp that heavy duty. I know lighter weight tarps are actually better off stuffed but this beast aint' going in that bag. That being said, how much would it cost to increase the size a bit, $3.00...nothing when you consider you are paying $199 for the tarp. But, that would send it over that psychological $200 wall. Even folding the tarp it wouldn't hurt to have a bit bigger bag.
Fold the dam thing to size to roll up and place it back in the bag. I’ve got every size they make and have no problem. Your square pegging a round hole the way your doing it 😂
If it were raining on you, you wouldn’t be doing it. Quit being lazy and fold it and roll it so you could use the stuff sack. You would need a 40 gal garbage bag to have enough room to use the brush and stuff method. Which is dumb to me.
Awesome video my friend love it keep up the hard inspiring I might have to purchase one of these tarps i’ve liked & subscribed also please check us out when you get chance stay safe Rucksack Adventures
Jesus Christ how many commercials can you put into a TH-cam video? It feels like watching network TV. Sorry but it doesn’t matter what you have to say because the interruptions are just not worth it 👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾
It's ok if you don't like it. Hit the quick skip button and move on. But I am glad to hear that you were compelled to stay long enough to follow the information...that's a good sign!
Apologies for not being more clear but the whole point was that I had to terminate the video before actually getting to the meat and potatoes of the information.
Attention the quality of these tarps are getting worser and worser until today. Look at the bad expierences what Amazon users report. I would never recommand this tarp, also due to massiv delivery problems in Germany
Doesn't bother me. But do you own one of these? Once you do I want you take your tarp out into the mountains when it's next to freezing and sleeting hard and you need to pack up your camp and get outta there while you can barely feel your hands. And then I want you to tell me who's the ignorant one and tell me I'm right. You won't need to apologize for calling me ignorant. Your frozen hands and frustration over the undersized stuffsack from the 10 cents of material they saved will be enough apology for me.
I appreciate anything to be more familiar with the tarp before I purchase to establish it's consistency , the thickness is what I'm wondering compared to usual tarp mil thickness
The DD will certainly be lighter...not quite as tough. I have both. I use my DD tarps much more frequently as they are typically used for my backpacking adventures.
I also own Aqua Quest defender tarps and as far as I'm concerned these are one of the best quality tarps money can buy. I can't say enough about how good these things are. My defender tarps have seen snow, ice, freezing rain, torrential down pours, high winds and searing sun. All that and after six years they are still as good as the day I bought them, they have never failed me.
I used my 15x15 for t the first time this week. At first I thought it was going to be too large but after setting it up, I saw all the possibilities. Great video. Thank you.
It's pretty awesome how many different styles of shelter can be made. I like having the walls and still a roomy interior!
Honestly I think there is more of a chance of damaging the tarp and seams by cramming it into the bag rather than laying it out and folding it up neatly
No...definitely not. With a proper sized stuff sack and leaving it attached to the ridgeline there's virtually no way to damage it and it is fast and effective to store it. I've used tarps on probably 100 outings now with no issue stuffing them every single time.
I had the same thought.
This tarp has heavy silicon coating on so best if rolled nicely.
Eventually the silicone might be broken down but anyway this will happen with his method.
The trouble with folding is that you typically fold it the same over and over. This creates creases and is more likely to damage it.
@@outerlimitless what did I just watch? You do know you don't have to post videos that are not good, right? What do you mean, " with the right sized stuff sack"? The sack it came in IS the right size. I hope you've got some REAL WORLD experience since the filming of this.
@@outerlimitless dude, based on your logic using a "stuff and crush" method, you're asking for a stuff sack as big or bigger than your backpack based on the difficulty you had stuffing it.
You can clearly see at the end of the video you're struggling to stuff the tarp into the backpack alone without the stuff sack and it practically takes up the entire space within the backpack once you are done! Try rolling the damn thing. That was so painful to watch.
It's the same approach when packing a suitcase full of clothes and stuffing everything randomly vs. rolling each individual item and see the difference in the amount of space you use.
I just upgraded to this tarp from the 10x10 guide series. All the extra tie outs and reinforced ridge lines more than compensate for the extra weight. Looking forward to using it and trying out some new configurations in the boundary waters.
I fold and roll my 10x10 AQ Safari tarp and it fits in the provided stuff sack no problem.
That's the problem. Next time you're caught in a pouring rain storm, take the time to fold and roll your tarp. Impractical and unnecessary. And folding a tarp creates creased and memory in your tarp... not good for long term use.
@@outerlimitless
I was thinking the same about your method. Plenty of creases no matter what.
I have several of their tarps myself... love them all. The quality is second to none! Getting them back into the stuff sack should really be an Olympic sport. 🤣👍
Thanks man...you got me into AquaQuest with that Safari tarp...they are great! But yeah, the stuff sack is brutal!!
instablaster.
I just ordered one and plan to modify the stuff sack if it's not large enough. I have done this before and it's not too difficult with a seam ripper and sewing machine. I think this would be great for hunting in open terrain because it can handle the high winds.
Loved your video clip on the 15 x 15. That settled my choice on the size I wanted to consider. Being 6'4", I prefer having room to move inside than having to crouch, especially if you make a Pyramid tarp shelter with an open front tarp tent style. Placed my order to Aqua Quest.
Sweet! Yes, pyramid will be nice with that. I think you'll be very happy with that tarp...it's super nice!
15’x15’ Defender tarp arrived. Set it up as a tipi style. Lots of room. No problem for me placing it back in its storage bag, mind you I had it on my home lawn and easier to fold back and forth and roll to desired bag size. But would be more difficult out in the woods with all the leaves. I agree with you about possible problems in the wild.
I have the 10x10 Safari camo tarp and when I fold it up and put it in the stuff sack, I have a ton of extra space. I can fit a 50ft paracord ridgeline, 6 bankline guylines, and 6 MSR groundhog stakes. The stuff sack I have has plenty of room. Aqua Quest has some really nice dry bags as well. Maybe get their 30 liter dry bag for your defender tarp.
Yeah, it's the folding part that has me bummed out...I don't generally want to rely on folding...it either requires dragging your tarp on the ground or having 2 people to fold it...neither are acceptable for my needs. I definitely need to utilize another bag to store mine.
Great review. And thanks for the tips! I am excited to use my 15x15 defender this camping season for the first time.
It's a tough and well featured tarp for sure...I really like mine...I need more excuses to use it!
Hey, I bought an AquaQuest tarp because of two videos, one of them being yours. It will receive its inaugural test in a week but on initial inspection I have no doubt it'll live up to it's reputation. I've pre-attached my ridge line for faster set up but as you've shown, it ain't going back into the stuff sac with the same ease it came out - I had to stretch shower and make a physio appointment after that wrestling match! I'll be buying a new sac for it this week. Good video. Thanks
Haha! I'm glad you're happy with the quality. Obviously that's the biggest importance. Which tarp did you get? But yeah...what's with the stuff sack. It could just be a little bigger and it would be perfect! It's just un-necessary in my opinion. I don't want to struggle with my gear. I also don't want to sit there and fold it up all nice...and what, lay it out on sticks and branches and sap to do that??? No way!! You gotta be able to stuff and crush a tarp for the longevity of the tarp with no damage. I make a rule not to allow my tarp onto the ground. That is for a specific reason. I can't find that when I need the safety and security of my tarp that I punctured a hole in it while I was folding the damn thing on the ground! STUFF AND CRUSH!! BIGGER STUFF SACK!! Haha...thanks for watching!
@@outerlimitless I bought the large defender and it was awesome on the trip but on day 2 I noticed a small right angle tear in the friggin thing!! The tear is about 2cm each way. I have no idea how it got there except to think that it caught on something when part of it was briefly on the ground. There's no way I can claim with confidence that it came damaged either. I hadn't obviously become proficient at setting up without allowing that to happen. It's an easy fix however and the tarp now has "character marks". One of the nights was really windy coming off the lake and stuff was blowing around a lot but I had no issues with any loops letting go.
There was easily enough room for our 3 x 6 folding table that held the cook stove and kitchen kit and the two of with folding chairs to sit out of the rain and get up and move around easily. I'd post a photo of the set up if it were possible.
One feature mine didn't have that I saw in another video - perhaps yours, I'd have to look gain - were some loops on the inside of the ridge line that I thought would be useful for hanging things, a clothesline etc. No biggy really on that.
I bought the 10 x10 also which I'll keep for solo outings. It's bag seems more reasonable for a stuff sack.
All in all - great piece of kit!
Hey man ik its two years to late but its got a warranty you could probs send it back get a new one
Thanks. The patch I used at the time is still holding fast - I'd forgotten about the tear altogether actually@@benrusnak2077
Geezus!! What a BEAST!!! Grail tarp for sure!!
I stuff my defender 15x15 into the stuff sack no problem. I found you just have to stuff a single "layer" of fabric in at a time, rather than have it all bunched up and trying to stuff huge portions of the tarp in at once.
22:09 does anyone else see that sunlight-shaped hole poking through along the main reinforced seam? You probably should've cleared your site before laying it down. Also, it might not be a good thing to insert the Guy line tensioner into the tarp loop as a toggle. Those tensioners are usually made from cheap plastic and may break on ya.
good eyes. i missed that small hole.
How the hell did you noticed that? :)
I’d start that exercise with some cheap ground mat, that’s solve so many problems :)
For anyone that wants to know. For the stuff method, you will need a 24L stuff sack. I use the large MTAC and it is perfect.
Edit: I will add tho. It's a big boy. Best way to settle the stuff and crush vs the fold method. What is more importantly to you. Longevity of your tarp? Or it being smaller and more packable? The 15x15 is literally the size of a medium backpack when stuffed into my compression sack.
What if you folded it while on the ridge line. I have a cord line going across a space that I have a large sheet draped over. Whenever I don't need to use the sheet I just flip it over the top once and then flip it over twice. If I wanted to I could take down the line and it only needs to be rolled after that. I have a 10x10 defender and a 7x10 guide. I use their Boa compression straps. The new tarps are made in Taiwan and I think they are a bit of an upgrade. you can't even see the seam seal tape because they are clear. The boa straps make setups faster for me and the bags are bigger because I can put extra stuff inside with the tarp. Thanks for this review. I am new to tarps and I really wanted to see the last setup that you did when you close the end.
I love this brand ! The quality is amazing! But... I have the Defender Heavy-Duty 13X10 and it's too big for me! So, since I've only used it 1 time, and I don't need it (not too much rain in France), I'm thinking of reselling it at half price...
I subbed just because that is an awesome channel name.
Center tie out is your water catch, thats why its not reinforced
Exactly!
What do you mean by this?
Yep, their stuff sag could be made little larger to easier pack it back. Be pain as mentioned if need to pack away quick.
Curious about what size , diameter ridge line you used ? Any stretch etc. Thanks in advance
Me too! I'd love to be able to purchase an Amsteel ridgeline that's ready to go.
Great vid! Made me a new subscriber... you helped me decide on the defender... thank you. But they call it a stuff sack so you can, not only KEEP your "stuff" in it but it's also, so you can stuff it in there without taking the time and space needed to fold it neatly on a clear sunny day. Like you said, it would often be the circumstance of foul, rainy, windy conditions or worse... Thanks again, keep up the great vids mang...
Thanks for joining, and glad to have you aboard! Yes, the stuff sack should be simply that...a way to stuff your tarp in there. Actually, folding a tarp isn't the best becaue it can gain memory and deteriorate on the fold lines. I would be surprised if it really happened, but people do claim that. And I always prefer to stuff my tarps in the sack for ease of packing. It's too bad I don't have 4 more inches of fabric to work with on these stuff sacks...they are all too tight from AquaQuest. But the tarps are totally amazing!
@@outerlimitless I ordered the 15x15 due to all the reviews like your own. I do believe I have a stuff sack that may work better, I'll just trade them out. Yes aqua quest needs to remedy this issue. They probably will from your vid... thanks again. Looking forward to more ... be safe and healthy.. :)
Great vid. I think I’d have run the ridge line under the tarp and put some alpine butterfly loops in it along the way. That way you wouldn’t need a separate line to hang things from.
Thanks for watching. Only problem with running the ridgeline beneath is that you can't drop down the sides...it is stuck in an A Frame configuration...so yes, you are right about the hanging line, but I would rather have the walls if needed with a tarp this large.
@@outerlimitless makes sense. 🤘🏼
So the stuff sack does not work for stuffing, I think thats been established.
I note the stuff sack is not same material as tarp and not as waterproof. It also has holes in bottom for draining. Why would you try and stuff in a wet tarp that will result in water draining into your back pack? Use a suitable sized dry sack to make life easier and keep kit dry.
Use supplied sack for storing paracord, trussocks, pegs, clips, carabinas, s clips, lines, straps, shockcord or whatever elase you use to put up shelter and store bag on top of tarp in dry bag.
Would recommend doing this if a stuffer or a folder 😉
Hi, loved your video.
How is it in the sun? Is it also good for shade?
Seems solid to me. I haven't used it much...it's a bit oversized for my typical needs.
Thanks for the video. But why try to stuff it like you would a down sleeping bag? If you tried folding it you’d probably be able to get it in it’s sack.
The reason for the crush and stuff method is the reality of working in the woods alone...and the reality of what packing up is really like in the wilderness. There's no really way to carefully fold a tarp alone...or in the wilderness...especially in inclement weather. And, also, as I mentioned, I really try to avoid dragging my tarp on the ground. 99.99% of the time my tarp will NEVER touch the ground...or branches, or anything that could damage it. Therefor the crush and stuff method is a critical method for my breakdown. If I can't break down that way I'll find a tarp that can.
I love my aquaquest tarps. I’ve always heard nylon degrades in the sun though, so I’m curious how long it would actually hold up as a long term shelter
Interesting...I wonder that myself. Good comment and I will monitor that for sure!
I have been using my defender for four years never been a problem, not even faded from the sun. My tarp has seen relentless sun, torrential down pours and lots of snow. The tarp also comes with a two year no hassle warranty. Aqua quest by far makes the best tarps on the planet.
@@kosys5338 Yeah its polyester that degrades.
Great comprehensive review. These tarps are made in Canada, correct?
Yes
I uae a cammo net over the tarp, then throw leaves over that, so that it has similar reflective properties of the surrounding foliage
It's entirely possible to fold/roll a large tarp off the ground by yourself using the intact ridge line as a third hand.
22:14 is that a hole in the tarp? Other wise, very informative. I just purchased one.
i saw that too!
Great video, thanks!
What is the weight difference between the guide and safari. The graphic they provide has them both weighing the same
Just curious as to why you don't use prussic knots and toggles to attach your tarp to your ridgeline instead of running your ridge line through the loops? Toggles are quicker to setup and take down without losing substantial strength.
I usually leave my ridgeline essentially permanently attached to my tarp. Of course it depends on the configuration, but generally, I am set it and forget it...it just depends. Sometimes I do use toggles.
Is it fire resistance to embers?
Is anything?
no
You have to get new stuffsacks for most of the sleepingbags or tarps. Those designers from the research and development should take their gear out and stuff the gear into those too small bags by temperatures around 5F or in brutal wind and rain.
Nice review though! I just ordered my AQ Defender in 10x13 and I'm really looking forward to using it with a hammock.
Thank you...finally someone who gets it! I think you're the first one to really stick up for this point. Seriously...if you really intend on using these for true excursions or mountain use and a stuff sack matters...which is probably does...then being undersized will suck to deal with in adverse conditions. I'll be curious to hear how you like your 10x13...enjoy and thanks for watching!
@@outerlimitless I have a down Sleepingbag that is really expensive and they spare on a couple of inches of cloth for the stuffsacks. You get out off the Sleepingbag in the morning tired, cold, hungry and then you fiddle around with a stuffsack for an hour to pack everything up. I replace all my stuffsacks with the eVent compression bags from sea to summit. Good tough and durable quality and alot more relaxed in the morning while packing my gear up.
i always buy a bigger seal line stuff sack 4 my gear,,, never had much luck getting anything back into the original stuff sack
Yeah, it can be tough...I definitely need a good solution for this one. I still haven't dealt with it. Thanks for watching!
I have the 15x15 always fold it then roll it laziness is not in my vocabulary
What are your thoughts on using this tarp with aluminum poles and guy lines (car camping applications)? Do you think the weight of this tarp in this size might be too much for aluminum in wind and rain vs. steel? Thanks in advance for any input.
I often use the Green Elephant aluminum poles on the four corners and made two poles using 1/2 inch black iron pipe to support the front and rear ridge line straps. Sturdy set up using large Beefoor heavy duty steel stakes.
Thanks @@utubetjc, sounds pretty strong. I thought about doing something similar for the ridge line poles using 3/4 metal conduit.
@@sjwilbanks Good idea. I always use the A Frame configuration with poles and it works well.
at 26:00 min. in you wanted to build a wall. What if you already had a hammock in place? Wouldn't that screw up your wall plan?
I wouldn't do that with a hammock setup...At that point you need to bring the bottom corners in and leave a gap at the top for the hammock straps.
Has anyone added a stove jack into one of these tarps? Looking for a tent fly over my tent but need a Stove jack
I was thinking about the big one 13×20 fer the family.. Its 219.00 how would u recommend packing it back up?
I definitely want to get this tarp but the stuff sack is a major problem, I would have to change it. What size stuff sack do you recommend using?
Probably every manufacturers make too small stuff sacks because in that way there is a big chance that the tarp, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping pad, rain coat will be ruined couple of years later.
Great video. I would get another stuff sack then deal with struggling . I don't know why these companies can't make a slightly larger stuff sack, I guess it must be the ol mighty dollar.
I almost wonder sometimes if the people who make these actually use them. It seems like it would be a no brainer to increase the stuff sack size. If I worked there it would be the first thing that I would fix.
Folding very easy!
Great size plus all the additional loops and tie-outs are super important.
But definitely a two-person or more tarp option.
Thanks for all the details!
LOADED with tie outs...I can see 4 or 5 different shelters that would be a great choice for prolonged use with gear and more than one person. This tarp is sweet!
Thank goodness Thanksgiving is coming. You could use some stuffing.😁
At 24:03,, is that a hole?
Looks tough enough a little big for little old me to pack though I have a sleeping bag that sucks to pack in it’s pouch so I don’t either roll it up and use a couple bungee cords.
Putting back in the bag roll your tarp first then put in into the bag. Petty eazy as you see its not a stuff bag
I think you missed that part of the discussion. I'm not interested in laying my 15 x 15 tarp in the ground while I try to neatly fold it into the bag. I want to stuff my tarp... every time.
@@outerlimitless I seen that part. I didn't miss it. I sure the bag wasn't intended for the way your using it. If the tarp is haft as good as you say it should survive being roll up and put in the bag.
I've got a 40 dollar tarp that survives the final roll up. To each his own. Good luck and have fun camping.
Anyone see the hole in the top around 23:30?
Good catch. 23:42 exactly. It might be under the seam tape, but many tarps have minor manufacturing defects. You make a great point and that is precisely why it's good to set your gear up before you get deep into the wilderness. I'll use that example in the future. Great observation!
I'm on the fence about getting it but for the price I would have been calling customer service. It looks like the best 100% waterproof tarp on the market shouldn't see daylight taped or not. Just my opinion.
@@charlesdillon6155 your not wrong, I agree with you. I didn't notice while I was filming as i was distracted... but I do agree it shouldn't have that hole. That was my first time looking at that tarp too...
@@outerlimitless that was a great review of it. Thank you very much
You could have folded that tarp by hanging it over your ridgeline , folding it and then rolling it. I have exact same Tarp and find it easy to fit back into the sack. That said yeah its an epic tarp I have used mine a few times in winds over 65mph and it has been faultless.
You're more likely to damage the tarp with that stuff and crush method than you would by taking the time to properly fold it and roll it up before stuffing it into the bag.
You had 2 holes near the ridgeline. unexpected from aquaquest
Sorry but you need to learn how to pack a tarp back up. Fold it and roll it. Don’t stuff it. It’s not a down bag
That's just not gonna happen. The only tarps I fold are the ones in my truck. No need for bushcraft, camping, or survival tarps to be folded.
Fold the tarp to pack it away. It's a lot faster and costs a LOT less energy.
You make a claim that you’re going to test the product and then try to stuff it in a bag that was designed for the turf to be folded correctly but you didn’t fold it you just tried to stuff it in the bag it’s never going to fit do you stuff your clothes in your drawer or do you fold them correctly Right so why do you think It didn’t fit because you didn’t fold it do you park your car sideways in your garage no because it won’t fit there’s a right way and a wrong way to do something do it right or don’t do it. Think brother logically 3 strikes your out.
You clearly don't spend time in the bush... and certainly not in adverse conditions. If you did, you would understand that taking the time to fold your tarp isn't practical. And if you're willing to lay your tarp across the sticks and twigs your asking for damage. It appears as though I'm more logical than your thought process and apparently more experienced? One strike you're out.
And for the record, even though you edited your comment I still retain the original one. Why not stick to your guns? You afraid I'd report you for offensive comments?
@@outerlimitless no I’m not afraid of anyone’s thinking you clearly aren’t sain your crazy to think that you can just jam your tarp into a bag that clearly is designed to fit it if you take the time to fold it correctly. You are an idiot to spend the time to jam it into the designed bag and it not fit fighting it all the way and never getting it to work. Spend the time to fold it and it will fit with room to spare. Like I said before just because you think it means stuff it in is not what the manufacturer clearly designed. You weren’t in the rain it was clear weather and you are just too lazy and ignorant to do the job right. You are an idiot to think you can gust Willy Billy jam it all in there without folding it properly. You wasted the time to fight it into the bag and didn’t take advantage of the weather and fold it correctly #1 idiot failed 3 out of 3 times. And I spend Months in the field at a time you don’t know me I have the tarp you clearly trashed and I always fold it up Again just cause it’s called a stuffs that doesn’t mean you just stuff the shit in there that’s your stupid interpretation of the idea no one else’s. I’ll always fold the tarp and always get it to fit 10 out of 10 times. You are just lazy or stupid or just understand that stupid sack is just a nick name not the actual design in other words fold the fucking tarps like it was designed and it will fit 100 out of 100 times use your head man. Come on admit you just want to bitch about a perfect product and a perfectly good STUFF SACK
What tarp do u recommend
Tarp choice is an interesting topic. It's a fairly complicated answer in my opinion. What is the intended use? Do you need light weight or heavy duty? Are you carrying it on your back, or using it out of a vehicle? Does it need to be set up for a long term or short term scenario? I have about 8 different tarps. 4 of which are my go-to for difference scenarios...and this Defender being one of them.
Do you think AQUA QUEST IS TAKING THE HINT? This is the reason I will not buy one. THANKS FOR THE INFO.
It's such a shame with such a simple way to address the issue...literally like 2 extra inches of material in length and maybe one inch in diameter would make all the difference.
You had beautiful soft oak leaves on the ground to lay your tarp and fold it. Here in Aus we have nothing like that. Your stubbornness makes this a terrible watching experience.
Haha, ok...I've damaged tarps, torn tarps. There are sticks, twigs, thorns. not to mention, just make the stuff sack a little bigger. Those thoughts make this a "terrible watching experience"? No helpful information provided I guess...
Typical aussie.They got snakes green ants red dust no water for miles upon miles .It is so hot the tar melts and in Coober peddy they all live in caves.The typical Aussie eats roots shoots and leaves.WTF do they know about tarps?
Good review. I would think folding is the only way to go with a tarp that heavy duty. I know lighter weight tarps are actually better off stuffed but this beast aint' going in that bag. That being said, how much would it cost to increase the size a bit, $3.00...nothing when you consider you are paying $199 for the tarp. But, that would send it over that psychological $200 wall. Even folding the tarp it wouldn't hurt to have a bit bigger bag.
Really don't like the fact that you can't get the tarp back into the stuff sack. In a pressure situation it would be really annoying.
It is really frustrating, and in bad weather I would not have been happy! The tarp itself is really nicely made and helps make up for the stuff sack.
next tome fold it while still on the ridge line
one man job
and tarp never touches the ground
Cool video, but I had to watch 8 ads in the first 17 minutes and that is no bueno.
I just wonder if that's a buck scrape you are laying that over. May come out smelling like 🦌 deer piss
Another great reason why I don't drag my tarps on the ground
@@outerlimitless would have been a great place to set up a our 75 yards from if you have enough visibility.
At 23.42 looks like you have a hole in your tarp
A little one yes...from the factory that way
He-he… you really don’t know how to pack… 😁 31:03
That is not how you put a tarp in a stuff sack!
You fold it and roll it.
Doing it right, does not take as long as what you are doing in the video.
Screw that crap. Go pick up a separate compression bag for that thing.
Already did... got the MSS compression sack in foliage for it. Works perfectly!
Fold the dam thing to size to roll up and place it back in the bag. I’ve got every size they make and have no problem. Your square pegging a round hole the way your doing it 😂
36 minutes of talking about one Tarp, now I will just go for a DD Tarp.
If it were raining on you, you wouldn’t be doing it. Quit being lazy and fold it and roll it so you could use the stuff sack. You would need a 40 gal garbage bag to have enough room to use the brush and stuff method. Which is dumb to me.
That tarp has to be rolled to store it
Tarp cant be used as a long term shelter. Especially if you live in tornado country.
Awesome video my friend love it keep up the hard inspiring I might have to purchase one of these tarps i’ve liked & subscribed also please check us out when you get chance stay safe Rucksack Adventures
Video is at least 2x too long for the info provided
Asleep... to match waste
Good night!
Jesus Christ how many commercials can you put into a TH-cam video? It feels like watching network TV. Sorry but it doesn’t matter what you have to say because the interruptions are just not worth it 👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾
It's ok if you don't like it. Hit the quick skip button and move on. But I am glad to hear that you were compelled to stay long enough to follow the information...that's a good sign!
Apologies for not being more clear but the whole point was that I had to terminate the video before actually getting to the meat and potatoes of the information.
You do know the guy making the free video doesn't have ANY CONTROL over what ads TH-cam puts in?
@@asmith7876
That's why I use add block, I never see any commercials.
Attention the quality of these tarps are getting worser and worser until today. Look at the bad expierences what Amazon users report. I would never recommand this tarp, also due to massiv delivery problems in Germany
Blah, blah, blah… all this video could be put in 5 minutes…
lol you tough enough?
I enjoyed your video until you showed your complete ignorance over the stuff sack. That means I won’t be watching any more
Doesn't bother me. But do you own one of these? Once you do I want you take your tarp out into the mountains when it's next to freezing and sleeting hard and you need to pack up your camp and get outta there while you can barely feel your hands. And then I want you to tell me who's the ignorant one and tell me I'm right. You won't need to apologize for calling me ignorant. Your frozen hands and frustration over the undersized stuffsack from the 10 cents of material they saved will be enough apology for me.
no rain, no wind, no temperature, no uv analysis... what was the point of this video...
I appreciate anything to be more familiar with the tarp before I purchase to establish it's consistency , the thickness is what I'm wondering compared to usual tarp mil thickness
36 minutes of talking about one Tarp, now I will just go for a DD Tarp.
The DD will certainly be lighter...not quite as tough. I have both. I use my DD tarps much more frequently as they are typically used for my backpacking adventures.