Excellent Bushcraft Tarp! - British DPM Basha Tarp - Review

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Today we are reviewing the British DPM Basha Tarp. It's a bit heavy but it has all of the bells and whistles that you could want in a tarp.
$40 on ebay a few years ago.
This British DPM Basha/Tarp is superb piece of kit as it lightweight, highly packable and strong.
woodland DPM and latest MTP multicam versions
A lightweight, robust shelter sheet featuring a fully tape-seamed hem and reinforced suspension points and attachment loops. It also has press studs attached so you can attach more than one together making a supremely versatile shelter sheet.
Compact & lightweight
PU Coated Ripstop Polyester
British DPM
16 x suspension points
2 x mosquito net suspension points
Weight: 2lbs 5oz
Measurements:8’3” x 6’11”
 Issued to Troops Serving in Iraq and Afghanistan
 Lightweight Strong Nylon
 Silicone Waterproofing Along Centre Seam
A basha is a really simple but extremely effective shelter and can be put up practically anywhere. Lightweight and easy to pack and carry it is a really handy shelter. I've used one for years and it really does beat a stuffy tent and really will keep you dry in even the hardest of downpours (believe me!!).
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[@Maryland_Kulak]

I’m a retired US Army infantry officer. We used to tie off the hood of our ponchos as use them as tarps. I have collected all three British Army bashas (DPM, MTP and Desert). They’re definitely more spacious than our ponchos.

[@canadianoutdoorsurvival]

BASHA = British Army Standard Hotel Accommodation

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Hahahaha That is awesome! - Luke

[@xfatsx1991]

The British army make their bashas so they can also be used as a stretcher, hence the handles

[@110Griff]

+xfatsx1991 was going to say the same thing lol

[@xfatsx1991]

+Tom Griffin Haha, I do love the British bashas though. They do know how to make long lasting kit

[@DARKRESCURED]

+xfatsx1991 Sorry for being stupid but what is stretcher?

[@xfatsx1991]

DARKRESCURED When a soldier is injured or killed and you have to take them away from the battle, you use a stretcher

[@FloppaAppreciator]

+DARKRESCURED If you've ever seen two poles connected by a piece of fabric that they lay wounded people on and pick them up by the ends, that's a stretcher.

[@coolair67]

Yes I was in the British Military ie army for 21 years and now retired. The basha is an emergency casualty stretcher hence all the handles as well as a bivi shelter. It is classed as a stuff sack for rapid dismantling as storage as in real time you don't get time to role things up neatly when bugging out. Good bit of kit but could do with being a bit longer. I am only 5ft 8 inches and I still felt exposed to the elements or at least my feet and head was unless in the festal position. Normally you would use it as part of a sleep system. Sleeping Bag, Gortex Outer Liner ( Bivi Bag), Roll mat which were rubbish . All in all a good strong bit if kit and also comes in green. Happy camping and cheers for the vid.

[@Dutcharmytent]

I just brought a British Army Basha after watching your video. I got mine back into a smaller bag, and filmed it on my channel so it can be done. It’s all about putting the thicker parts together last minute.

[@The-Yorkshire-Man]

Hi Mate, great review!. The good old British Army ‘basha’ was originally (yes I am that old) a poncho much like the old US poncho. The hood was tied off to make it waterproof and was the central fixing point if needed. It was olive green and heavier than the newer (non poncho) versions without the hood and did not have the stretcher handles. It’s waterproof qualities were also dubious, well the ones I used were. Many troops bought their own DPM versions along with para cord and bungees which weren’t issued. The one thing you have to know about the British Army is that anything that needs packing away is always issued with a cover or roll that is way too small and difficult almost impossible to pack. The boffins that design the kit do this on purpose to piss off the troops and make life as difficult as possible in the field. This is British Army tradition and its nice to see that it is being carried on in the 21st century. In my day TARPS was something fastened to an F14. Nec Asperra Terrent (My old Regt motto (Let Difficulties Not Deter) All the best mate C.

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

As far as tarps go you can't go wrong with the British Basha.

[@kentitchmarsh756]

It doubles as a Stretcher for casualties

[@guyk2260]

Been using mine 4-5 times a year for 11 years now, still waterproof still undamaged still best £20 spent on outdoor kit .Heavy but yup lasts a long time !

[@lawrencegt2229]

I have one of these and I absolutely love it. I also struggled with the stuff sack for a year (it lived half in and half out) until I saw a video that showed that the tarp should be folded in half and then pleat folded with pleats as wide as the bag is long, then rolled. That way it fits easily - an unusual bit of tarp origami but it works to give the small pack size.

[@chrishopper33]

Just want to point out - stuff the basha in to the stuff sack. It’s in the name. Also once issued it lived in the front pouch of my bergan nicely. No one in my unit used the stuff sack. Big webbing loops mean once folded over it becomes a stretcher. I’m a new subscriber to your channel and I’m enjoying it!

[@Maryland_Kulak]

Lol you’re right! The operative word in stuff sack is stuff!

[@collin8334]

Luke, after watching many reviews on the Basha, I watched your video and I was sold! Got the same desert camo pattern, I LOVE my Basha! Keep up the great videos! More surplus, the better.

[@seanbeast939]

Great review as usual. One of my favourite bits of kit is my basha, tried & tested on many a wet UK weekend. Stay safe

[@keithshwalbe6981]

Super honest review as always. Thank you.

[@gashosimon2678]

Congratulations Luke on 50k subscribers!

[@fredsullivan9008]

Great video. I have one of these British Basha's and love it. Keep up the good work.

[@dad44w]

Many a British soldier has tried to pass off excuses why missions came in well after time desired. oddly enough, the one bomber proof excuse has been used as such "Sir, factoring in 45 minutes per soldier for packing up their Basha Tarp, we returned late!" I agree different stuff sack! Can't go wrong with those tarps otherwise. Thanks for review Luke, Bob

[@acoupleofpreppers]

I like all the accessories, been looking for something lighter and more packable then a standard tarp without spending a ton of money. Looks like a good option thanks for the review.

[@opalprestonshirley1700]

Great review. I purchased the woodland Basha heavy but great tarp. Thanks luke

[@GoonieBushcraft]

Awesome review mate, I have the British army DPM basha and also the newer MTP basha, both incredibly well made and perfect for an overnighter in the woods. But i agree with you on the stuff sack, the only way i found is to litteraly "stuff" it into it, don't fold it at all.. the downside to that is it can come out a little bit creased. All the best mate, Jay

[@treksntarps]

Good review mate. Love my basha. Great bit of kit . Atb 👍

[@DonnyB]

Excellent review Luke. Thank you and take care

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

+Donny B Thanks Donny! Hope you are well. - Luke

[@Surefiresecurity]

Great piece of kit. I have the older Woodland DPM pattern one but they are much the same. I'm in the UK so the colours are very much suited to our climate. For the money they are an excellent buy. For a little bit of weight saving I removed the grab handles down each side. This also allowed the tarp to be bundled up much tighter. This mod bring it down to 970g with stuff sack so its not much heavier than the DD Hammocks tarp.

[@ClockCutter]

Thanks. Love your vids on mil surplus.

[@tampetrie2858]

Been using one for about 2 year and never had a problem with packing it away. Take the time to pack it right and no problem at all. Great video though.

[@JD-hp8qn]

Hi Luke. Great channel with really useful reviews on new and surplus kit. You pursuaded me to purchase the British Army basha in DPM and another in desert camo. Did, I need the second one? No. Just love army surplus stuff. Thanks again.

[@patrickrandolph6345]

LUKE!!! we are running out of time do a trip where you fish PLEASE!!! You are the thumping man! Thank you sir.

[@stevenwhitesell3675]

40 bucks is a good price for a high quality tarp! And the DPM camo is cool looking, too.

[@jimabbott453]

Great review. The Aussie Hutchie or Hootchie is very similar and while it doesn't have the handles and additional tie off points (internal) as the basha it's still a great piece of kit. I picked one up on eBay for $40 AUD free shipping in Australia - no idea on international costs, came with a 50 metre roll, that's about 150 ft, of 2.5mm woven nylon, dark green, 100kg (220 lbs) breaking strain cordage. We call it, funnily enough, hootchie cord.

[@jasonpetty3786]

Good vid. Thanks

[@swalker157]

It’s called a stuff sack, stuff it in. Folding/rolling puts stress on the same area every time, causing degradation faster. Stuffing randomizes it and spreads it over the entire tarp. Fabrics are consumable.

[@cindyneely6087]

job well done again

[@vikingmitch4049]

hi luke ,great review of the desert dpm basha. some more information for you. the webbing loop handles on the basha are so when it's folded in half it becomes an emergency stretcher.as for the stuff sack we used it for our metal mugs and rations.hope that helps. Russ/UK.

[@jakeboss2653]

Hi Luke, I hardly use stuff sacks, but i do use them though, but i usually fold my tarp and roll them and tie cords around it tight, its easier sometimes. -Jake

[@todddinezza3921]

Hi Luke, Great gear review. I guess you could always use the ditty bag that came with that British Basha Tarp to store some stakes and paracord or bank line. Then, per your recommendation get a much bigger bag for the Basha Tarp. At least the Basha Bag can serve that purpose plus the fact that it looks the same can be a reminder that it goes together with the Basha as a two part kit. Can't hurt to recycle it that way.

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Love the basha have a couple myself. Addressing the stuff sack issue, bashas are designed to be folded into to stow bag, hence the flat seam on the base. A circular base stow sack denotes, the ability to roll the tarp, or even better stuff it loose. Been subbed for years now, love the reviews mate....Happy trails.

[@Maryland_Kulak]

You have a great channel too!

[@davidparry7006]

Always rolled my trap and kept in my side pouch of my bergan. Used the stuff sack for pegs, bungees and cordage.

[@David-rg8iy]

A very good review! I like your thoughts on what the handles could be used for! I know what they were designed for...but thinking outside the box I'm going to experiment with your suggestions! Bigger shelters & bug defence! (My injured mate can walk home!) I've got a project to work on!

[@OutdoormitBillyVB]

Hello, great Video and so good Informations about my new (I Buy it 5 Mins ago ) Tarp. You have one more sub! Greetings Dieter und Billy

[@ivanatora]

Finally I have something you are reviewing :D It is a fantastic tarp, I've been using for 2 years now. You got yours a bit expensive, they are usually about $20 in Ebay... There is a reason for the central spine handles and reinforcement. It is meant to double as a hammock or a carryweight to carry your injured friend when you fold the whole thing in half. Haven't used it in that way, but the material strength definitely inspire some trust :) I have the feeling you are rolling this thing with an extra fold you don't have to do. I stuff this thing in a bit more smaller bag and it feels just nice, even leaving some air to get a ridgeline inside. Note on use with hammocks: the basha is short. But it can be pitched diagonally and then it is okay. Used it in rain - it is perfect.

[@blackboardbloke]

+ivanatora Me too, I got mine from British Military Surplus for £15 ($20) 3 years ago, and I think the price hasn't gone up yet. Grade 1 that I couldn't distinguish from new when it arrived. It didn't come with a bag, so I used a stuff sack that is about 4" shorter than the one in the video and, I can stuff it in with cordage, even bungee cords and screw fence chain connectors so I can attach prussic loop end tensioners to the centre end loops. Used many times, it's never lost it's waterproofness, the only thing I get is condensation when it's a ground pitch more like a tent, but i just keep well away and sleep down the centre, no problem.

[@martinwild8424]

Dry bag is a good idea 👍 good video

[@danny88xxx]

Hi bud, nice review. Just fyi we stuff the basha into the front pouch of the standard bergan, (which was still a nightmare) but I don't know anyone who used that stuff bag. I actually kept my boot cleaning kit in it.

[@nobbybravoalpha1870]

Great review Luke,you dont fold them you stuff them in..Also doubles as a stretcher it will easily carry an 18stone man also people use them to drag or carry deer..

[@clivenewton7609]

Luke sorry for being so late to the party but just had to stick my beak in😂 those tarps are supposed to be FOLDED not rolled into their bags. To be fair most of the time we used to just loose stuff them into our Bergman’s😂 Great video as always. Regards from across the pond, Clive from deepest Dorset 👍

[@whisthpo]

'And that, my dear Watson, is why it's called a 'Stuff Sack'!

[@NM-wd7kx]

I tied 2' guy lines to all the tie offs & used to roll the tarp (with the cord wrapped around) & never failed to get it in the bag, it was tricky & sometimes took two of us but I always got it in, maybe I got lucky mind

[@fishtales2597]

I cut the handles off my UK army basha which reduces the weight, meaning you can get it in the stuff sack. Good video

[@chrisodonnell7851]

The stuff sack works well if you stuff the basha in. Fits well with space to spare.

[@shaunwild8797]

One of the best tarps I have ever owned. It's bomb proof. lol.

[@backpackingonline]

It looks like my SERE multicam, plus shelter half. The handles are to fold it in half lengthwise and use it as a casualty evacuation sheet/stretcher.

[@sauceymistersausages]

You can use them as a stretcher and a hammock 👍😉happy days mate

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Can also be made into a semi enclosed ground shelter tent. ⛺️ but needs practice. Used with a Bivi bag awesome

[@garrydoubleday876]

the handles is to use the basha as a stretcher. the basha makes a good hammock as well.

[@paulsoutdooradventures1790]

I have two of these and I have no trouble stall getting them back in there stuff sacks

[@friendofcoal]

The large hand loops are for utilizing the basha as a litter for an injured/casualty victim.

[@CPeter0912]

The handles are not really for attaching big nets. It’s primary military purpose is as a stretcher. Hence it’s made so strong. The British military has a simple folding system donut fits easily into the bag.

[@Surv1ve_Thrive]

Tarp goes into the stuff sack OK. By ....stuffing. Can twist and roll it lengthwise first then stuff it in hard. Does work. This has benefit of keeping size right down. Can keep stuff sack tied to tarp to keep it handy. It does all work OK.

[@jazzmc5322]

the basha is meant to be rolled up - with this issue one, you roll it in 3 parts, lay it flat, then folw each half, into half again, this leave the banding in the middle of the sheet on each side, then folw the outer edge in again, to the middle, this is fine to get into the stuff sack then. I never have any issue with mine (for British Royal Marines Commando), and still have one

[@jonathanm877]

Mine fits perfectly every time into the sack

[@8thsinner]

I have used this for months in a row when I was homeless in a woodland camo pattern, The last time I was out with it though I noticed one of the grommets has started pulling through the material so I am looking for a replacement. Can you recommend anything in a smaller packed footprint or lighter weight but with the same features. I use the middle points a lot for multiple types of shelters.

[@davidcooper6704]

The handles are for using the tarp (when folded in half) as a stretcher.

[@leehargreaves2289]

we never rolled our tarps, we used the stuff sack as it's name sake and just stuffed it straight in. mine outlasted my service and came to no harm.

[@festeringtomato]

Hi Luke how do u get the mesh for this , or is it custom , much need for Scottish highland to keep out the midges

[@trytheoutdoors]

Thankyou

[@MilenBourilkov]

Just the shipping on these is at least $30 right now, so the price that you mentioned doesn't seem to be around anymore.

[@uncatila]

when you must go to ground stake out flat above a foxhole on a wooded slope. cover with camo netting then hoist with chord to create modified teepee. add leaves and brush to camo net for further concealnent. in danger of discovery. collapse shelter and bug out and evade until danger subsides.

[@greatscottoutdoors1406]

The basha doubles up as a stretcher and you can use it as a hammock to, but don't use the eyelets when using as a hammock, you can also lie in between the layers to keep the rain off you when it drizzle rains, REMEMBER DO NOT USE THE EYELETS TO SUPPORT YOU IN HAMMOCK MODE. Good review though

[@dannystockdale5228]

Hey Luke! Do you have any WWII army surplus? I'm a huge WWII buff. I'd love to see what you have if you do.

[@kennethwalker4701]

Luke,have you ever tested the Free Soldier tarp? Hope you likedit...because I've had one for over a year now.Price was right...special 34:99 $ ....

[@TeoMaragakis]

Hey, quick question. On tarps with a reinforced ridge like this one, is a continuous cordage ridge line necessary for rigging between two trees or you can just tie two pieces of cordage at the tie-out points?

[@blackboardbloke]

+Teo Maragakis No problem, I often use elastic bungee cords to hook through the loops and around trees to sling and guy mine out when it's raining for speed, but it does move about more. Normally I suspend the basha from a ridge line by threading the line through its centre and end loops. and then put paracord tied togeter prussic loop knots on the line and attach those to the end grommets with two small fence screw chain connectors or mini carabiners so I can tension the basha taut on the ridge, then guy out with paracord to maintain the tautness of the basha. However when it's pouring with heavy rain, there's nothing more speedier to set up and and whilst the basha will move and flex more, it's a minor detail.. You'd get very wet setting up a tent.

[@paraphilosopher3561]

Those handles on the outside and centre seams: if you fold in half along centre seam and get 8 guys, one on each handle, you have a stretcher.

[@gw4k]

+Paraphilosopher some said the same but that doesn't make any sense to me. the tag would be on the outside and the straps would break up the pattern and absorb water. there would't be a center tie point either if don't that way.

[@jonapple2325]

I know I'm very late to this but all British army kit is meant to be stuffed not rolled, the stuff sack works great if you just Jan it in there rather than rolling it first

[@ovrlxnd]

lmao Luke has a t-rex on Lone Wolf Mountain!

[@Jason-iz6ob]

That’s what she said. (Go ahead and pick which part of the video you want to apply that to. There are many.)

[@paulsoutdooradventures1790]

Lol stuff sack is fine I roll mine up it fits in perfect every time

[@jonathanm877]

Same here

[@RandomButtonPusher]

Well, they are called "stuff" sacks for a reason. Usually the argument goes that stuffing is preferable because you do not crease the item in the same place each time you pack, which reduces repetitive damage to the material. Never seen any definitive study of the two methods, which is also debated by sailors when it comes to packing sails in sail bags. One consideration may be the particular fabric and design in question -- my stiffer mainsail with batten pockets was easier to handle with folding and my lighter genoa was easier to stuff. So the more reinforcements on a tarp might push it toward folding and rolling. In the field, I would think stuffing is preferable for speed -- then take it out at home and air it out before more careful repacking.

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

+Random Button Pusher I'm like you brother, I haven't seen any studies on this but I have seen very detailed surveys done in regards to stuffing vs rolling and according to the majority of those who voted, more damage was caused by stuffing. For me personally this makes sense namely for the reasons stated in the video. If you are in a hurry, stuff it. If you have the time, roll it. Or you can do what you feel is best. :D Cheers. - Luke

[@40belowful]

+TheOutdoorGearReview totally agree and you got to remember everything has a life span:) no matter what you do:) including your roof that just sits there:) enjoy it and use it:)

[@paulshlact7513]

+Random Button Pusher Another commenter said it best when you roll a tarp it's difficult to get sharp creases and just as hard to get the same crease twice. if you stuff it you're getting hundreds maybe thousands of really sharp creases in many of the same places. Luke it right stuff if you're in a hurry, roll it if yo u have time

[@40belowful]

enjoy it ..it will never last forever..just sayin:)

[@branni6538]

Was the Basha you bought new or grade 1 used/issued?

[@garrydoubleday876]

did you know that the handles is to use the basha as a stretcher. the basha makes a good hammock as well

[@Elwood79x]

do you prefer this or the US Marine marpat field tarp?

[@3bears]

iirc if you fold it in half the handles are for using it as an improv stretcher

[@HikingFeral]

The people saying that this isn't a basha have no idea what they are talking about.

[@karalynsparkes7152]

How do you think the British Military deal with the size ? They just crack on and get the job done. I’ve never had a problem getting the Basha back into the sack, you really do not need a bigger stuff sack. Bigger stuff sack mean’s more bulk. One of the primary points of this Basha, that the Guy forgot to mention is in theatre, this doubles up as a stretcher for carrying the wounded, hence the hand holds along the sides and up the center of the unit, just fold it in half Et Voila !! A stretcher. Hope you find this helpful. Rick

[@HARDYSFISHINGADVENTURES]

stuff it dont fold it will last longer never the same crease twice

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

+Bushcraft Adventures France Different strokes for different folks but most will tell you that stuffing will wear it out quicker. All the best for the reasons stated in the video. Cheers. - Luke

[@s.bh.6839]

+Bushcraft Adventures France when you roll a tarp it's difficult to get sharp creases and just as hard to get the same crease twice. if you stuff it you're getting hundreds maybe thousands of really sharp creases in many of the same places.

[@paulshlact7513]

+Sarah Burnhill you'ree rright

[@gw4k]

+Bushcraft Adventures France If you stuff it you have a much higher likelyhood of creasing the same spot over and over again but all over the place. Fold and roll wouldn't do that because the fold isn't tight or precise. i dunno do what you like but i'm staying with my method

[@HARDYSFISHINGADVENTURES]

ok il be rolling it from now on ty

[@ThomasRomoTheScot]

I was wondering how that size of a tarp could be THAT heavy... then you explained it for me. And I hate all stuff sacks when in the field. I refuse to take them.

[@garrydoubleday876]

did you know that the handles is to use the basha as a stretcher. the basha makes a good hammock as well.

[@BigEddie1970]

I believe the handles are to improvise a stretcher.

[@deanoboland]

👍👍👍

[@G1NZOU]

Not the lightest (due to those handles and plenty of grommets), but definitely one of the more durable and dependable tarps out there. I have mine in MTP camo.

[@G1NZOU]

Speaking of lightweight, I like to treat it as a balancing act. I use a titanium canteen kit which saves weight, which gives me the option of using that saved weight to carry a heavier, but more substantial tarp, sure you can make everything lightweight and be happy but if everything is heavy you start hitting the limits of what you can carry comfortably, I like to consider the tarp choice as something that justifies extra weight for that extra durability. Always worth considering that weight to value ratio and for this tarp it's definitely favourable.

[@chrisberry3048]

Mate, the handles are so you can use it as a stretcher. If its folded right it always goes back in the bag

[@muhasaso41]

Why are two diferent measures of basha... 2,5m×2,20 and 2,5m×1,80 Whitch one is correct Tnx

[@kiteboy690]

Just out of interest would you recommend getting a new stuff sack?

[@marshallhankey4008]

If you really want to be stealthy and proper and not get shouted at by ur sergeant major you should set it up so the handles are facing out because the shiny rubber waterproof stuff shines so therefore gives away ur position

[@milosk.3590]

i am here just to hear hey there folks i hope you all doing well :D

[@drcsep]

👍🏼

[@freddierowe-crowder7178]

The handles are so you can use it as a stretcher

[@shcmoly]

If you had to choose Luke; Basha or USMC field tarp?

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

+shcmoly Now that is a really good question. I might have to do a video on that one. Thanks Shcmoly! - Luke

[@glasgowsoutlander7423]

the handles are so it can be made into a makeshift stretcher

[@robertkirk4387]

you do not fold the tarp up to fit, you just stuff it in, hence the name, they fit fine when you do this

[@andystephenson5858]

Stuff it grey bush. It's a stuff sack! think about folding a bit of paper the same way many times. You'll create stress points and frayed edges.. Top tarp though, good size.

[@pechacekcp]

Great review, but I'm a tall guy and need BIG tarps, much bigger than that tarp.

[@stillnocouch]

Fold them slightly diagonally and none of the seams will overlap.