Ultra TNT tarp. First pitch. Initial opinion.

I see photos but no opinion… care to shed some light as to what we’re looking at?

Apologies

The seam is ripping out with tearing along the reinforcement. I didn’t mention the manufacturer, though it can be figured out. I see the fault as being with the fabric rather than the execution.

The manufacturer did agree to a return. Very quick to reply and on a holiday even.

Ah – thanks for the clarification. Glad you’re working with such a reputable maker.

I used an UltraTNT flat tarp on the PCT last year (although only pitched twice) and have some ‘limited’ experience with the material. Apologies if I am misunderstanding the point of failure: is the hem stitched beyond the reinforcement?

IMO, the fabric (mylar really) should not ever be sewn though unless using reinforcements. And with that, very small thread needle combo. tex24 or so or less. This material is best meant to use bonding and adhesive methods only.

Please see the following link for more photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/RpQshAwQxYeW5nDq6

I have not looked into the manuf. of your tarp but I am almost positive it is not TarpTent. ;)

Keep us updated if you decide for a replacement UltraTNT tarp from them. The material certainly has its advantages if the design is properly considered.

“I didn’t mention the manufacturer, though it can be figured out.”

I can’t figure out why you’re being so coy. Also, it would help to fully understand the nature of the product execution AWA the fabric. I think Mr. Blanche’s comment about “execution” is entirely accurate and apt, though I’m certainly no expert in this matter. However, Challenge Sailcloth – at least as I understand it – is a laminated/layered product that is NOT (again, IMU) intended to be sewn.

An Ultra tarp?  Like the same material used on packs?

It was an Etawah 12′ x 10′ Ultra TNT tarp. I didn’t see a problem with the workmanship. I wish I had better pictures. I sent the tarp back.  It was the fabric that failed where it was stitched along the hem and a long the edge of the reinforcement.</p>
I had it set up in a modified A frame and took it down when the wind picked up. I’ve used my DCF tarp in windy conditions and it’s held up. I thought TNT was better tarp material. Or just better in general. If they repair it and send it back, I don’t know if I’d trust it

Found it. Nevermind.  Is it bulky like DCF?  I just love Silpoly for my tarps.  Been there done that with DCF..  I do remember reading about the Ultra tarps some time ago, now that I searched it.  So this happened before you ever used it?

First time I set it up in the yard.

It isn’t like the Challenge pack material. It is a dyneema product by the same manufacturer . It’s nosier than DCF.

I hear ya about trusting it. Thats what happened to me with DCF tarp in a winter storm..  brand new tarp,  second night out with it,  shredded like tissue paper. Swapped all other dcf tarps for silpoly and never winced again.

The weight doesn’t bother me. My pack weight is usually around 10 lbs or so.. give  or take the weather and area Im hiking, so 1 lb does not have any affect on my abilities or distance traveled.

I don’t think the silpoly is much heavier than the Ultra TNT.

Its not. And it looks to be cheaper too.

I bought one of TarpTent’s ArcDome 2 tents in Ultra TNT and took it for 5 days on the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland in mid-July.  It was also out for 2 practice weekends here in Michigan before the trip.  I haven’t seen any failures like this with my ArcDome 2, probably because TarpTent uses a different process (bonding).

So far I’m happy with it, with my only complaint being how the doors on the inner are pretty low.  Looking at photos of the ArcDome 2 in polyester, it appears the partial-solid inner has a better door design.

Now that TarpTent also has a 30D High Tenacity Polyester version of the ArcDome 2, It would be difficult deciding between the Ultra TNT version and the 30D high tenacity polyester version if I were in the market to buy one NOW.

Since someone asked – yes, the UltraTNT fabric tends to be more “bulky” when packed, similar to DCF.  My SilNylon and SilPoly tents are much more compact when stuffed or folded & rolled.

I think the wind creates more tension on a tarp due to surface area. I haven’t heard of any TNT tents failing. Other than punctures, it appears to be a decent product. For a 10 x 12 tarp, perhaps it needs more reinforcement.

I’ll give credit to Etowah Gear. My money was refunded with no hassle. I don’t think the Ultra TNT is strong enough on its own. Not for a large tarp anyway. The reinforcements might have been larger, but then how large? It gets closer and closer to the weight of polyester. As for workmanship, I was pleased. I’d recommend the company, but not necessarily the tarp.