10 Warbonnet Blackbird XLC Modifications

Here are ten modifications I made to my Warbonnet Blackbird XLC backpacking hammock. This has got to be my favorite backpacking hammock and I made it a little bit better to suit my needs and help with a quicker set up.
Hammock Underquilt Modification: • Hammock Underquilt Mod...
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[@timwarneka5681]

No laziness, sir. I added the zipper pull. After a year of using it, I noticed every time I used this mod in the dark of night in the woods, I would have a grateful thought for your genius. Thanks for posting these ideas!

[@kayakbandits9894]

Love my warbonnet blackbird! I like the string on the zipper idea. It is a stretch at 2 in the morning and you have to get out to piss. It always sucks when its cold out there LOL. For shoes I use a cheap 5x7 "Outdoor" tarp (I believe its called) and stake it off as a porch under my hammock for shoes and whatever else you want clean. Cheers! Happy camping!

[@TragoudistrosMPH]

I love these tips! They aren't lazy, they are very clever. I'm buying my first hammock, and these are good inspiration!

[@backyardkayakingcamping8778]

That pillow mod is absolutely genius.

[@rickanderson1516]

Not lazy at all. I love my WBBB XLC, and these mods are perfect! Well done, Good Sir!

[@Detman101]

Absolute GENIUS!! Instituting all of these changes this week when my XLC arrives!! Thank you!

[@Foui555]

That shoe mesh bag is genius ! Thanks for sharing these tips :)

[@jonhoffm]

Cord in the foot zipper. Definitely worth the price of admission!

[@jongrall]

The shoe bag idea is genius. I'll be using that idea on my next outing!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks, it's worked out great for me.

[@danielball1]

Cool mods. I've been tweaking my BB XLC quite a bit lately, love it. My favorite is the long distance zipper pull. It was bothering me the last few nights out in the Sierras so I'm stealing this idea!

[@CoolBreeze0432]

I currently own and XLC and like it very much thanks for the tips mist one.

[@threeleggedcatdogwithtwosa6469]

Sir you are a genius. Thank you. Hay I have a really bad back and these tips are really gonna help me out!!! Not lazy at all ☺️

[@michaelgillogly3551]

Seriously excellent recommendations

[@graymann]

Well done a lot of good information you get right to the point and there's not a lot of fluff it's almost all real content I wish more creators would take their cues from you

[@davidphipps8490]

You are the first KZbinr I have ever put a comment up on as frankly you are the first person with some really sensible ideas. I'll steal a couple. Thank you.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Wow, thank you. I'm glad you like the tips.

[@lostnewyorkina1640]

Omg that shoe thing is a game changer I used to put my socks fitted over my shoe opening so no spiders or scorpions could crawl in. but this system would be great to dry shoes even if it rains cuz they will be under the tarp and the mesh keeps out buggies wow

[@thefucrew9865]

Great job !!! Those were some awesome ideas !!! Keep up the great work !

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@toha1057]

The shoe bag idea is my favorite! Nice.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@williammcdaniel2446]

Shoe thing...most excellent!

[@jessejgay1]

Excellent video will be using a few on my next trip

[@Kwisten050]

Nice, I will definitely use the cord trick with my Seat to Summit pillow after I get my hammock!

[@joeykerr5517]

Cool hacks! I especially like the underquilt hooks! I'm actually thinking about getting this same hammock. It's a little pricey still in 2022 but people still love it.

[@stampede963]

Great hammock but the quilt hooks concern me since they create a semi-sharp protrusion and when the hammock is put up in the sack it could cause a perforation, just a thought

[@wedgwoodtom]

Brilliant - just brilliant! :). So many great tips. For sure, WB should incorporate a few of them into the product.

[@eparadigm94]

I too swapped out the zipper pulls. Mine are glow in the dark so I can find them quickly if needed. Great video. SMART (not lazy) mods. I will be using the pillow, zipper pull and shoe ideas. Kudos.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@TheMooseman316]

nice vid, I'm using that cord zipper idea on mine!!! ps nothing is lazy if it works and its practical. good work sir👍👍👍

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@stewartperry7797]

Thanks for sharing. Some good stuff!

[@umiyama-asobi]

really helpful tips!thank you for sharing the great mods.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@arkieoutdoors]

Great video I also have a war bonnet black xlc its been awesome love the tips and ideal's.

[@mattcero1]

Dude! Great mods and the last two are totally not lazy at all but make total sense. You should mention that the netted shoe bag keeps critters out of your shoes.

[@chrislrob]

I used the pillow hack, but didn't realize where I got the tip! Thanks!

[@MeetMeOutside]

Nice mods ! I owned the Warbonnet Blackbird for about four years. And really enjoyed it. But never really liked trying to lay on a diagonal. I am a side sleeper and other than getting in a fetal position,could not really get comfortable. I ended up giving it to a friend. I then got a Warbonnet Ridge runner bridge hammock . And will never look back ! I can truly side sleep and my underquilts don’t move around. Brandon makes some super quality gear ! Best of luck to you man ! Peace

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Yeah I move around in my sleep a lot, sometimes finding myself in that fetal position. I never tried a bridge hammock but I'm sure they're very comfortable.

[@bluesideup007]

Nice mods! I too love my 2 WB Blackbirds.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@larrydykes7643]

Nice ideas, thanks!

[@stampede963]

Thank you sir! Just tried your idea for the zipper pull cord on my warbonnet blackbird. Problem solved! I used the extra shock cord from my mosquito net since I’m using the winter top right now. Hooked the snap hook into zipper pull and other end to ridgeline with a prussic knot to keep it up and out of the way.

[@Perkolady4]

Helpful video. Well done!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@seryojaphenin6977]

Sir, you are not lazy - its pretty clever ideas!) Best regards from Kyiv!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@samsmith8870]

Cool idea about the shoes! I've heard wrapping them in a head bugnet on the ground works well for bugs also. I've been looking for a way to keep my pack off the ground. Was thinking of going with a 12 foot tarp and hanging it at the foot end with an s-biner.

[@WillN2Go1]

I got the sewing machine because I had some hammock ideas that I figured would shake the world.... well I sort of learned how to sew, and very rapidly learned that some of my ideas were actually good ones. How do I know? Because so many people had them too, long before I did and made some great hammocks. I wound up buying a Warbonnet Blackbird XLC. Again, smart mods. Well done. The pillow string is great. And even the ultra light through hikers seem to all swear by inflatable pillows. The shoe bag dangler, terrific. I always have a small piece of cheap yoga pad to stand on, sit on, put my gear on. The 1/2" mats are real cushy, the 1/4" good enough. They seem to hold up pretty good outside in sunlight. I've got them on my kayak seat, bottom of the hull, footrest. the 1/2" I think is better than gel pads, they're a lot cheaper and you can cut them any size you want.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Yeah, I've made a few things but I'm not that good. It's fun to experiment though.

[@billyjoedenny]

i like the mods , well put together vid.. ..bill

[@2ndchancegeorge]

Having got the xl I am off to camp. Great tips.....👌👌🏕

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@2ndchancegeorge]

The underquilt hooks ...best tip

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Absolutely love the quilt hooks, keeps everything in place.

[@georgerosado5194]

Yo bro...super helpful excellent ideas

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@sethackerman9859]

Nicely done👍

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@jbeebe2]

Great ideas

[@xCodeView]

Some really good ideas, particularly like the noisy zip mod. Atvb Mike

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@bushman4124]

Nice! i did the same for my hammocks too, problem with the under-quilt is a pain, especially when it is minus 20 C out side, for the zippers i used a fluorescent 3 mm jump cord and i attached them on the inside from zipper til zipper but i didn't remove the clip though because on that is the break attached that keeps the zipper where it should be, and some parts of the summer we have a lot of mygg and those small flies so you don't want to open your zipper in the night! on the DD on both sides and on all the others just one side so much less hassle , i didn't had those fancy hooks you used so i made loops from webbing and wooden toggles with a loop of the same elastic cord works as a charm. the shoe solution i going to copy from you that is a good idea and maybe i going to invest in some of the dutch hardware i see them used now a couple of times and i think even for my customers it will be a good solution. Thanks for the nice video, and if you ever in the scandic parts of the world , drop by and we take a nice trip.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks for watching.

[@LIVEFORONCE]

Helpful tips...

[@nathansharp3193]

I shortened the ridgeline on my Warbonnet Eldorado. They are hand-tied knots and settle in as the hammock gets used, so I'm guessing it's fairly common for people to shorten them. I actually replaced my ridgeline with 1.75mm Zing-it because I don't see the need for such heavy-duty line on a component that should never have much tension on it. I made four soft-shackles with my stock ridgeline! They're all bracelet size - two stay on my hammock and two stay on my wrist. I swap them out every now and then so they wear evenly.

[@bulwurth1]

Well done!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@otway00]

I changed out the drawstring on the stuff sack with red Zing It for the head end. On the hammock I changed the continuous loops that came with the hammock to a red one for the head end ( red head ) and blue for the foot end. I find pack hooks work better than the quilt hooks I sewed them onto the hammock about a foot from each end.. I use also use color coded DIY zipper pulls that are long enough to grab with out much effort. I do like your shoe mod. I stopped staking out my BB's ( I own and use 4 of them ) as I find I do not need to. If you are hanging from pine trees with sap then place some small sticks between the straps and tree to keep the straps away from the sap.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Good idea.

[@MstrRo]

I am no expert, but you do a really good job with how you have organized your information and delivered the details. Well done. A quick thought on the mesh bag with shoes idea, why not get a mesh bag with a loop on the bottom or sew a loop on the bottom of the one displayed in the video. This would make getting your shoes out of the mesh bag, even easier. You might also benefit from a mini squeeze hook on a Zing-it Ridge-line or use a Prusik knot to keep your shoes from sliding on the ridge line. Get a mini-biner while you are at it and change out your mesh bag rope. It will secure better to the Mini-Squeeze-it. Enjoy!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@fergusrb]

I put a small loop of zingit on the zipper because I have a hard time reaching it also. Put a small carabiner on the zinit with the thought of clipping on the ridge line but it is too short, I like your idea. I think I have the same pillow, I will have to check if it has that same loop to attach some cordage. Maybe a small s biner or mitten hook so I don't have to tie knots. Thanks for the ideas. Bruce from the City of Orange in Orange county

[@martintierney1687]

Great ideas. I did laugh at the shoe bag, it looks like either way, shelf or bag, your still in the funk zone. 🥴🤭🤭🤭Thanks for sharing

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks for watching.

[@dailydriven]

Lol. "I don't like to smell my shoes." But hands it right were your head is again. Lol

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Hahah, I know it seems funny but just having them a few feet away and not in the hammock is a whole lot better.

[@whoopiesslingspies4072]

I have a new Tensa4 stand and with my XLC, you don't want to lean way over to the foot end or it will taco! My wife just suggested a tether to zip it shut. You already did it! I just swapped out the whoopie slings for continuous loops and am going to use straps and Dutch Beetle Buckles so I can shorten up the suspension on the stand if needed.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Nice, I built a hammock stand for the back yard and I've also gone over a couple of times. I'm thinking I should make another one that's wider.

[@billmcginnis5939]

Brilliance! Have you talked to Shug about these ideas? Maybe he should talk to you.

[@siredc4182]

I like you zipper tip. Ill have to use that too

[@KevboNice]

Great tips!, could I ask what size your mesh shoe bag is? Looking to replicate that!

[@sturleh]

Great suggestions here, but for your shoes, why not use a gear sling or connect it to the spreaders by the shelf? BTW, I´ll adapt the zipper mod

[@tommuhlemanjr.3871]

Could you provide some links or info on where you got the pillow and zipper pulls please. Nice mods, I want to try and do some of them on my XLC.

[@steveysimmons13579]

Brilliant

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@shermanjenne3154]

Not lazy but brilliant

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thank you.

[@Ryker2608]

No such thing as being "lazy" out in the woods. Were out there to smooth it, not rough it. Anything we can do to make things as simple and hassle free as possible is fair game.

[@thevideostump46239]

Diggin the ideas/mods...I added I piece of cordage to my zipper to close it too! But I'm a fat guy so, lol...

[@Halcyen]

The zip modification and the closing hook . It's not lazy, its smart. Although with the shoe bag - a little concerned about how close the shoes are to your head... the aroma can be uncomfortable ^_^ but I gues you can move them closer to your legs.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Just a few feet away surprisingly makes difference. Better than in the hammock.

[@treywilly431]

When you hook the string to the zipper, what is the other end hooked to??? That’s a great idea.

[@Hangs4Fun]

I've always installed a piece of zing it from one zipper to the other and leave it attached. Open both zippers all the way and cut and connect a string to both. Then when you are inside and the zippers are in closed position I just hang the loop over the ridge line (if needed a simple slippery half hitch). This also means you can use your toe to unzip before getting out, having the zipper/s all the way open if you want to relieve any stress on the zipper. To close just grab string and pull. You always know where it is, since it is connected between the two zippers

[@quickplaya]

@EasternMountainHiker I have my mind set on this hammock and an under quilt. I need your help deciding between single/double layer. My main concern is mosquitos here in Michigan. I have heard that a double layer will stop them from biting you underside. My underquilt will not fully protect me at the feet and head section. I am not concerned about the measly .5lbs of a double/single. What do you think I should do or recommend?

[@EasternMountainHiker]

When I purchased this hammock I wanted the double layer mainly for use with a thin pad which works better in a double layer. I'm not sure if mosquitos will be able to bite through the single layer or not. The fabric is of higher quality the say a ENO hammock which a friend of mine did have them bite through. If weight is not a concern then get the double layer. But I think the double gives you more options when it come the pads and under quilts and I use both.

[@ricker76er]

How much did those knots shorten the ridge line? Doesn’t seem like it would do much other than weaken the ridge line. A lot of good ideas you have.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Shortened by about an inch and a half. The cordage is rated for 1600 lbs. Been a few years now and it's still good.

[@mikeewoody]

Great video. Thanks but one question. I noticed when you laid in the hammok it seemed your feet were higher than your head. Is that normal

[@EasternMountainHiker]

I usually have my feet about six inches higher than my head. I just find the most comfortable spot in the hammock. When setting up this particular hammock it's recommended that the foot end be slightly higher the the head end.

[@youztuber5000]

Do you sell the shoe bags? I want one but I'm even lazier than you are so I don't want to make it.

[@quickplaya]

Where did you get that mesh sack for your shoes? I can't find one big enough for my shoes. Also... what does shortening the ridgeline do for you as far as your lay? Thanks in advanced!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

I made the mesh bag out of some extra camo netting. The ridge line was not taught and it keeps the hammock at a specific length that is optimal for a flat lay.

[@mittudomain1641]

You changed the hammocks zipper to coil style from molded? The other Blackbird XLC videos is show the molded style zipper.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Yes, I clipped off the metal zipper pulls and replaced them with the soft pulls.

[@thomasanderson9296]

Wow, its Dan Akroyd!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Now that's funny. I did actually laugh out load at this one. Never heard that before.

[@samsmith8870]

Shug just did a vid on the XLC where he used a binier to shorten up the ridge line for sitting which was adjustable. Just FYI

[@EasternMountainHiker]

I'll have to check that one out, thanks.

[@SquidandCatAdventures]

I think adding a piece of cordage to the inside zipper would make it easier to pull my hammock closed, but I don't know why yours needs to be detachable and stored in the shelf? I'm thinking that I may just tie it on and leave it there (but just keep an eye on it when closing it to make sure it doesn't tangle).

[@dailydriven]

Mine is permanently attached. But its not that long though. I use my feet to pull it until my hands can reach it. Lol

[@TikkerLoS]

absolutely stealing the shoe bag idea. great idea. glad to see you demonstrate it too, cause just the description didn't make sense/sounded dumb.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

Thanks.

[@mactek6033]

I don't bother hanging up my shoes. I just knock the spiders and scorpions out when I get up to go pee.

[@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem]

id be worried about that hole from the pillow holder ripping all the way down the hammock, 4 years since posting is that hammock still in good condition?

[@EasternMountainHiker]

No issues, still working great.

[@spidennis]

I sleep in my xlc hammock every night!

[@EasternMountainHiker]

A testament to its quality.

[@alexjohnson6463]

Don't tie knots in ridgelines, it weakens the working load of the amsteel! Avoid knots, make a whoopie sling or just redo the locked brummels on the end.

[@cellardoor2197]

A simple overhand knot like that will create a weak spot where the wind pinches on itself in different directions that's about 50% as strong as the total strength of the line

[@nates386]

No one says 83% is a fixed percentage. Some people leave it at 83% but most people start there then adjust to their liking.

[@EasternMountainHiker]

It's a good starting point, it depends on the total length of the hammock as well. I've noticed that the longer the hammock the shorter I make the ridgeline.

[@TheUlfhedinn]

not lazy at all...

[@joemcneil9845]

The shoes hack was stupid... You said you don't want them on the shelf cause you don't wanna smell them all night. But your shoe bag was right under your nose...

[@EasternMountainHiker]

I tend to sleep more on my right side which faces the shelf. The shelf is also at head level in the hammock. With the shoes on the outside of the hammock I don't smell them really at all.