Warbonnet Blackbird XLC + Extras Review

[@DirtyBetaPsi70]

I agree 100% with William. Best Warbonnet video I've seen--and there are tons out there. Also, this may have been your best video yet overall. You nailed every important point succinctly and left out unimportant stuff. This is an excellent, educational video for novice hammock campers. You are definitely getting better at this, Ben! Keep up the great work.

[@livingsurvival]

thank you.

[@ericholladay5280]

Great video. I'm still in a grand trunk, but would like to upgrade some day. One other really important thing is, when you are picking your trees and checking the ground under your hammock, always look for limbs above you that could possibly fall on you if it gets windy.

[@livingsurvival]

Yes!!! Something I forgot to mention.

[@Oldsparkey]

It's nice to see a video showing folks how to use a hammock correctly. I switched from the strap and buckle over to the Whoopie slings and straps to save a little weight. I also have the tarp on a continues ridge line and in some snake skins. I get in camp and attach one end of the ridge line to a tree and back to the tarp , then the other end the same way. Adjust the tarp to the center between the trees and secure it. If the weather is nice I leave it in the skins and hang my Blackbird. If it is raining then pull the skins back and stake out the tarp and follow up hanging the hammock. Taking everything down , hammock 1st if the tarp if it is wet. Then the skins slide over the tarp and it gets rolled up and stuffed in the outside mesh pocket of my pack. Everything else is nice and dry in the pack. Plus I like to set mine at about chair height so getting in or out is like sitting down on a chair , It makes it a lot easier on these old bones of mine. Heck at times it does double as a chair when it is up and there is nothing else to sit on.

[@padude131]

Ditto on what William Collins said. I just received my xlc this week and I learned a lot from this video. I also ordered an EE inigma top quilt and I'm waiting for it to ship. Thanks for taking the time to put this video out!

[@kidjetrecon7153]

Great video I’ve owned Warbonnet for 8 years looks like the day I bought it . Great set up BlackBird XL..Can sleep like a baby. Tried making my own under coat trying to save some money. Material is cheap.

[@sameold77]

Good video, enjoyed it. I will be ordering the Black Bird XLC with a Superfly tarp soon. Did you get the Incubator from HG? I'm very interested in the new full size Wooki UQ from Warbonnet. Appreciate the time you took to show this to us. - Mark

[@janedeskis6516]

A lot of great info. I’m trying to find a set up ultralight weight but comfortable for a thru hike. My AT hike is on hold and I want to get off the ground. I like the fact the bug net is off the face and the shelf looks fantastic. Thanks for showing the buckle system. Will check your affordable options. If you have any suggestions for ultra light weight carry, I’d appreciate the help in my search. I’m a 6’1” string bean. High Jumper on the AT.

[@wcknives]

Best video I have seen on the warbonnet and some great tips. Very well done. Think I will have to look into the Warbonnet. Love hammocks. Thanks bud!

[@livingsurvival]

thanks my friend.

[@mikefaass9204]

Hey man, great video, I have the exact setup and plan on using it for the first time next month. Being new to hammock camping your set up tricks will definitely help me get started and not look like a goober. One question I have is how low should the tarp be in relation to the hammock. My concern is condensation. I don't want my own breath coming down on me. I am hoping being open on both ends that wont happen. It will be cold at night where we will be going so don't want to place the tarp too high either. Thanks for any advice and for all the tips. Hike on my friend...

[@andrewczuba498]

excellent video. I'm shopping for hammock and tarp currently and you answered a lot of my questions both about products and how to . thank you so much!!!

[@CovertOutdoors]

Wonderful video. Going to share with our boy scout troop. We had a lot of interest lately in hammock camping.

[@livingsurvival]

awesome.

[@fbmbikerider16]

good video im 6'2'' about 285lbs and i have found that i get shoulder squeeze right now i have a sierra madre research pares its a just under 11feet long and 6 1/2' wide i cant lay on a angle at all and have been looking to get a new one do you think the warbonnet would work for a guy my size id hate to spend that much money and it not work thanks for you time

[@fbmbikerider16]

I have bought a hammock gear 11ft net less hammock since this and I'm really liking it I can lay on a angle I didn't get the wide

[@carlkrebs1]

Yes , the xlc will work VERY good for you . I have a good friend that's 6'4" , he really likes his a lot .

[@JonathanDupreeVideos]

I’m 6’5” and have the warbonnet and it’s perfect for me.

[@WeirdyBeardy]

What do you do as far as a drip line when using the webbing with buckles? Does the excess webbing work as a drip line or should you tie a piece of cord on for that?

[@eelvey1]

Thanks for the video, 1 question what's it like sleeping on your side? All the videos seem to only show people laying on their back.

[@eelvey1]

And are you still happy with it three years later?

[@jsmitty2047]

good vid and great info as always. I have heard nothing but superb things about the war bonnet. I am saving to get one, the price does bug me a little bit that with a hammock and tarp I will be spending $350, but I am a USA made guy and really appreciate that, plus the material, gear shelf, etc and again everyone thing I read and vid I watch recommends this hammock over all others. Can't wait for the underquilt video because I just can't spend $200 on a WB UQ, making my hammock setup $500+......dam, Definitely going Warbonnet Blackbird XLC (double layer) and MambaJamaba tho. Thanks

[@bernielamont825]

Remember the saying, "buy once, cry once" at least this is high quality.

[@chrishurlbut1478]

Great video on the basic essentials of hammock camping, you covered everything well, pertaining to a Warbonnet set-up or any other, always love your videos Ben, keep up great work!!

[@livingsurvival]

thanks Chris.

[@carlkrebs1]

nice alternative to all those under and inner quilts is a wiggys sleeping bag , decent wool blanket and a foam sleeping pad between hammock layers....yes I'm a 255lb 56 yr old man.....I sleep like a baby in my hammock , with a real bad back , neck and rt knee . I also use a bca outfitters tarp . a 10 x 12 . ive slept on hunting trips from -17 below zero to , mid 50s.....never cold....at all .and yes , the way I do it is a bit bulkier....bag only.....but by far worth it .

[@tompawlowski2511]

Wow, Ben! Most excellent and very informative video! I've been putting off watching this one due to length but am very glad I found the 30 minutes! I'll definitely have to look at trying a hammock overnight! Thanks!

[@bst2664]

Nice video. One suggestion. Before you ever pick your spot or trees.....LOOK UP. Widow makers are no good.

[@livingsurvival]

yep for sure.

[@rafecolii]

What are Widow Makers?

[@santiagodraco]

Was just going to post the same tip :) Good catch.

[@santiagodraco]

Widow Makers are dead branches up in trees that have not YET fallen... and you don't want to be under one when it does fall... otherwise if you are married your wife would likely become a widow ;)

[@lukejohnson6661]

thanks Ben. any idea how these go with down sleeping bags? condensation coming through and wetting bags? great video

[@livingsurvival]

go sweet. i dont get condensation anywhere bout my mouth area. i leave the bugnet on year round. just got back from a trip where it got down to 29F.

[@jarednelson1865]

Great video! What color is your tarp? I am going to purchase soon but can’t get a good feel for the colors on Warbonnet’s website.

[@rjstasio]

Can you explain why you didn't get the whoopee slings and why you choose the tarp you got instead of the superfly?

[@livingsurvival]

i'm not a fan of whoopees and I got this tarp because it is better for me in the summer months. I got a winter dream tarp for winter from underground quilts which is very similar to the superfly.

[@jwhited10]

Awesome Video Ben......I am looking at getting into hammock camping........So I love watching videos on the different styles and types. I also like hearing the different opinions on hammocks

[@jarednelson1865]

What color is your tarp? I am ordering from Warbonnet and it’s hard to tell on their website they actual colors. Thanks man!

[@MultiGunner65]

Great vid. Pulled the trigger on an XLC this week. Ready for a higher quality hammock.

[@searchmanager9372]

One of the best and detailed video I have seen. Great job explaining each item.

[@patricelacroix8049]

Hey says the Canadian ! The only issue is ...in a storm the electric type do you fry or cook

[@JonZDisability]

Well done Ben sir! Always informative and fun to watch.

[@livingsurvival]

thx

[@RichardBuckerCodes]

I'm almost regretting my ENO purchase. This looks pretty cool. I wish I had another $200. What about shock cord and the extra two tieouts?

[@DannyWalker1949]

HI, After 3 months now are you still using this hammock and setup and are you still recommending it? I'm looking for one for my dear wife. She is in bad health and stay's pretty much in bed all the time with her health issues. She think a hammock would be more comfortable for her....I don't know as I have never used one either. We want one for in case the "Hits the Fan" type of deal. It may just sit in the foot locker and never get used??????

[@mikecurtis1111]

This is a pretty expensive hammock setup to purchase merely as a "SHTF situation, may never use it" item.

[@HaussMcGosa]

Would like to point out that nylon is stretchy. That webbing is polyester. Good review. Will help out some people with interest in hammocks.

[@MrBalas3]

In depth overview of the hammock. I’m 6’4” and thinking I might need a 12 ft to get a better lay even though it says up to 6’6”. I saw your Simply Light Designs review on their hammock too. I know your not my height, but based on your experience do think I’d be better off with one from in 12 from SLD, Dutchware, and other vendors. or 11 is fine? I noticed to that the XLC is a bit narrow to. I like how the XLC really does a good job keeping the bugnet away.

[@sheilahenry7279]

Following for my husband. 6’4” & thick. 270 pounds

[@MrBalas3]

@@sheilahenry7279 I have actually both the XLC and Dutchware 12’. I think I like the 12’ better with the Summer sock although having the XLC netting away from one’s face is nice too. I wonder what it would cost to have Simply Light Designs to make me a 15’ lol.

[@shadomane]

Nice system. Thanks for the video, I recently subscribed to your channel and have been enjoying the information, keep up the good work. I have two hammock systems which are basically the same, one I have in my Bushcraft/camping kit, the other is in my BOB. One is an ENO Double nest, ENO Guardian bug net, Malome tree straps and Amsteel woopies and adjustable ridgeline. The other is a Fox double hammock with the same suspension system and bug net. I use modified military poncho liners for my under quilts and add a Grabber space/emergency blanket if needed, this works down to about 40* F. For a top quilt I'll use either the black or green bag from my MSS or a poncho liner depending on the season. I'll most likely be purchasing heavier under and top quilts this fall for colder weather camping. For tarps I use the Aquaquest King Kamo 13'X10' tarps they're a bit heavy but are absolutely awesome tarps. I recently added(but haven't tested) the Aquaquest Safari 13'X10' Sil-nylon tarps to these systems. The weight difference between the King Kamo and the Safari is almost 3 lbs. but the Safari's are not nearly built as well as the King Kamo's, as far as materials that is, the quality seems to be the same.......we'll see going to test this weekend. These systems work well for me, but I have always been curious about the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC, the only thing I see that I may not like is the attached bug net. the reason being is that a removable bug net such as my ENO's are more versatile. Clark is another hammock system I've been interested in, but haven't tried.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks for the comment.

[@MrRay645]

great video... looking for my first hammock and wasn't looking to go crazy $ but your review pushed me over the top (Im 6'3)... going with the blackbird XLC, maybe I will go with a cheap tarp as the first trip is on bikes with the wife and I know its going to be a fair weather camping or hotels in the rain. Anyone know how low the temps can drop before you need a bottom quilt? August bike trips, 50 at night would be about the lowest I see happening and we can always bail if need be. adding a quilt makes the size just a bit much for the light bikes

[@livingsurvival]

You need a quilt or pad in any weather. Mosquitos can bite through the bottom and even in warm weather your back side can get cold.

[@roboedar]

Best review of the Warbonnet XLC by far.

[@84greenbear]

How many variations or options are you aware of to hang a hammock w/out trees?

[@livingsurvival]

one. on the ground.

[@philinthephilippines]

I can recommend the Blackbird xlc I've practically lived in mine for a year!

[@livingsurvival]

Great hammock.

[@tangocharlie9291]

Everything I wanted to know about hammocks, specifically this one. Thanks!

[@GearReviewDepot]

Great video Ben! Tons of info. Thanks for taking the time to share.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks my friend.

[@deeceestewart]

I agree. I really enjoyed your presentation, format and information. Thanks for taking the time ~

[@garymorris216]

You used paracord to hang a hammock and had it stretch? Lucky you! I used paracord to hang a hammock. It broke, I busted my ass! ROFL! Dude you are 100% right, NEVER use paracord to hang a hammock. I'm a paracord junkie too, but not for that use. And I don't understand it. Paracord is some badass rope. That 550 breaking strength is no joke. I weigh nowhere near 550, so what the hell?! I think it has something to do with the angle the hammock puts pressure on the cord and that 550 break strength is rated for downward force on the cord only. But yeah, that cord is rated to hold 550 lbs and your ass is only 200 but you will go to the ground. And great video!

[@live4wild968]

I am a big fan of hammock camping.

[@Hootyhoo-jq9vq]

Stumbled across this. Very good job on this video. Presentation is great, information is great.

[@tedpeterson8842]

Hey Ben great video. Been thinking about hammock sleep system for a while now. I tend to sleep on my side though. Is that possible in a hammock set up?

[@livingsurvival]

yes, side sleeping is possible. i sleep on my back and both sides throughout the night. the extra length in this hammock makes that much easier.

[@tedpeterson8842]

+Living Survival Thanks! My wife and I are looking into different hammock systems and your video has been the most helpful so far. Our biggest question now is weather to go with something more affordable or high quality. We have never slept in a hammock and not even sure if we will like it so really looking forward to the next video you mentioned. Right now I'm leaning more towards the warbonnet. Thanks a million!

[@Bikepacking]

yeah there yeti is great been using for my bike packing and hammock camping across Vietnam

[@livingsurvival]

nice.

[@bernielamont825]

Nice video, noob here, so it didn't sound like chinese when you explained it. Plus I liked the "why", very understandable.

[@kathyjenner8272]

What is the weight of the whole sleep system set up?

[@jonvivant5009]

Ben, those Suunto Traverse watches like the one you're wearing are on a Black Friday sale this weekend. They are 50% off. You might have gotten that one for free, but your subs might be interested. It also comes with the heart rate monitor. Keep up the good work.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks for the heads up.

[@montrovant4]

Great video! I’m saving for my WarBonnet set up right now. Do you still use your set up?

[@livingsurvival]

I use a different hammock now but Warbonnet still one of my favorites.

[@montrovant4]

Living Survival thank you sir!

[@tiborseilern5018]

@@livingsurvival What hammock do You use now - and why?

[@HUZ9k3s5w]

Great presentation, answering most of the questions I had about this hammock! Btw how tall are you? I am 6" exactly. Still wondering a bit if the XLC would be to long for me, although you make a good point about preferring the longer version.

[@snaponjohn100]

Great video my friend. Very informative. I just ordered the full length under-quilt for my reg. Blackbird. God bless. John

[@seanb1081]

Thanks for the excellent detailed review, mate! After 6 years now, (since you first posted the review), are you still a Warbonnet fan?

[@internetuser1324]

At 2:15 in the video it sounds like you said that Amsteel is made out of nylon. Is that true? I’ve heard that Amsteel is made from dyneema.

[@roybinson6460]

Very informative, filled in all my blanks regarding hammocking. Thanks, friend, a great video! Greetings from Sweden.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks Roy.

[@cospernc]

Well done in every aspect. Informative, conversational, easy to watch and listen to. Thanks!

[@luispablolee77]

any experience with Clark Hammocks?

[@Oldsparkey]

Besides the Blackbird I have I have a Clark Tropical and like the Blackbird it is mosquito proof all the way around it , they can not bite threw the material and the netting keeps them away from you. It weighs more then the Blackbird and packs up a little larger since the rain fly stays attached to it but you can use it separately if you wanted to. It does have double zippers , one on each side and has 4 pockets , on the outside , attached to it for storage while using it. The rain fly is also has tension with a elastic strap on one end to keep the fly tight and up out of the way. Clark makes some really nice hammocks.

[@MrDangles66]

Love the vid man. Warbonnet is pricey. but love that its American Made. Something to save up for.

[@gregorydavis3799]

great video! thank you for the thorough review. I have an ENO double nester and a diamond shaped tarp. definitely need an under quilt for the colder months. Warbonnet will definitely get my attention as an additional choice now.

[@05generic]

It sounds like a hammock system can be nice and comfortable but it also sounds like it cost quite a bit more than a comparably comfortable tent system, and might even be as or more bulky when you add up all the various parts. I'm still undecided. Great video though. Your suspension setup makes a lot of sense.

[@livingsurvival]

just like tents you can go light or heavy. and it all depends on price.

[@richardmorrall7531]

Hello from the UK... Great video. Wish we could get these hammocks over here, the market is saturated with DD or Hennessy :-(

[@carlkrebs1]

I pack up in a mystery ranch Kodiak , or an eberlestock f4mm pack , for a week at a time .for a cheaper big pack you can get a marine corps pack that are big and really cheap in price in marpat green .

[@at2step]

Great talk, my xlc is on order.

[@keithhutchison5198]

Nice video. You have not put in the links for the line and accessories

[@livingsurvival]

sorry, dutchwaregear dot com

[@sportnatude2386]

Wow, Love these Long Videos, really gets you in the mood.

[@livingsurvival]

long one for sure for me.

[@SingleMaltSmash]

I really appreciated this video, really like the details with real world experience data points. gonna look into hammock camping after this, thanks.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks.

[@enterprise8979]

What material is your bottom? 40d or 70d? Thx

[@livingsurvival]

70 I believe

[@busyboy7635]

Man, great video. Very good explanations of everything and you are a very good speaker.

[@livingsurvival]

thank you.

[@geeber101]

Does rain ever run down the suspension webbing and get into the hammock?

[@livingsurvival]

i can, I always leave my webbing hanging so it acts like a drip loop

[@ewireuk1]

great video ben. i love hammock campping. i use the DD frontline hammock .

[@slvrlightning00]

Dude. Fan-tastic video! I've watched a few of yours in the past on random things. I'm subbed now. Great vids!

[@kevinobrien6714]

Go video. I've been looking for a new hammock. I also have a Hennessy and like it a lot but I'm looking for something a little longer and and a bit wider. At 6'4 and 250 i'm going to look into this one.

[@THExLAWxMAN]

hi Ben, if you ever feel the need to sell a old, maby gently used sil nylon tarp....maby like the mamba or around the same size. please let me know. I'm on a tight budget and could use for sure. thanks for any info.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks stacy. the buy sell on the forums would be the place i do that. worldwidesurvival.com

[@ExecutiveEDC]

Great video. I just ordered the blackbird xlc and the superfly Thanks again for making this video.

[@livingsurvival]

you won't be unhappy.

[@drtns]

Thank You I have been looking into getting into hammock camping and this is a great starting point

[@livingsurvival]

for sure, thanks chris.

[@ilikeitmuchly]

Hi from England, great informative video, can't wait to get out there!

[@livingsurvival]

thanks for watching.

[@x3w032j293]

I just wanted to say thank you for making this. Thumbs way up!

[@livingsurvival]

thanks!

[@BearHartOutdoorsChannel]

awesome video Ben! thank you for laying it all out like that. I'm just getting into hanging and this was full of extremely useful information!

[@RazZelDaZzel16]

I own a hennessey hammock. its great, but now your really selling me on this warbonnet. now, if only I had some money to spend great video

[@livingsurvival]

nothing wrong with a hennessy.

[@neilduclos9391]

I have an ENO junglenest and I and currently looking to make some mods for better sleep. Any ideas from people would be very welcome. This was very informative.

[@mikecurtis1111]

Best thing you can do is make and add a structural ridgeline to your ENO. This allows you to get a consistent, repeatable hammock sag regardless of how tight you set uour suspension. This allows you to sleep at an angle. Much more comfortable than lying straight.

[@elmardox3146]

Good intro video. Very thorough.

[@calebsmith3264]

who won the giveaway?

[@livingsurvival]

check the video.

[@antonnordin3477]

Hey Ben this is Anton from Sweden! Like your videos! Do you have Any experience from "DD Hammocks" ? How is the weight compared to a one man tent?

[@Oldsparkey]

I'm not Anton Nordin but I can answer your question about the weight but only from what my Blackbird weighs. The Blackbird I have with the whoopie slings weighs 16.8 oz. A 11 x 11 cuben fiber tarp with all the stake out lines , stakes , stuff sack , snake skins and the ridge line weighs an additional 10.3 oz........... 37.1 oz total outfit weight.

[@rogue109]

You could treat the outside of your hammock with Permethrin to deal with the mosquitos.

[@livingsurvival]

yep you sure could. i plan on it.

[@bharley57west38]

I almost did not watch this video.I thought i would find you sleeping at your testing facility. LOL. Well done .This was a great review. glad i watched.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks for watching.

[@dwtlax]

What is your pack?

[@kevinjones2088]

Great vid bro glad you liked the hammock. I can't wait for mine.

[@haakon7001]

Excellent presentation. You've got a real gift. Thanks!

[@livingsurvival]

thanks.

[@FogDog68]

Have the XLC and love it.. Still great advise/info. Thanks!

[@vsrorrer]

Awesome video...just ordered the Warbonnet!

[@livingsurvival]

you will LOVE it.

[@timwaddell7499]

Great video with lots of good information. Thanks for your hard work!!!

[@drewlucero3916]

Perfect timing I am looking to buy one thanks for the links and information 👀🎯👍

[@livingsurvival]

awesome.

[@4boysplus880]

Really great review. Very informative. Thanks so much.

[@nickk948]

Wicked review man! Very in depth! Thumbs up

[@livingsurvival]

thanks nick, have a great weekend.

[@patrickmoore2031]

Great job. Thinking of going this route.

[@livingsurvival]

DO IT!

[@barkriverbravo1]

Lots of helpful info here. Great job

[@santiagodraco]

Very helpful video. Great job.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks.

[@fixin2b1]

Great video! Very well presented!

[@christopherneelyakagoattmo6078]

William Collins sent me here. Good info. Sold.

[@livingsurvival]

thanks for stopping by.

[@kpw528]

Awesome video as always Ben! That hammock setup looks amazing. I'm saving up for it now lol. Like the old saying goes, "Buy once, cry once." It's worth the money for something that you'll be using a lot. Side note/question: What pack is that, and have you/will you be doing a review? Just curious.

[@livingsurvival]

the pack is a kifaru urban zippy. search for it on my channel ;)

[@kpw528]

Living Survival Thanks! Will do.

[@lilbiggie422]

Are you from Colorado

[@livingsurvival]

no, Michigan.

[@REV0_01]

Great review that's my next hammock