How many of you guys use a poncho with liner on a regular basis? I used to carry one all the time when younger in service, but I was reminded this early morning that 50 degrees is colder than I remember it to be 30 some years ago. Browsing Wiggys, I came across his poncho liner with head cut out, and pondered how useful that set up could be for me in various situations.
I've gone away from the poncho and liner to a breathable Smock (British or Canadian style), with a wool commando sweater underneath. Breaths very well, dries relatively quickly with exertion, and doesn't trip you in deep brush/forest.
Yeah ... A Boreal shirt has been on my mind. Believe it or not, I can sew. But I was thinking about a poncho/liner for multiple uses. Shelter, warmth, dryness, etc. Years ago I had a wool blanket made into a poncho liner. Guess I could do that again if I found a decent wool blanket that wasn't too expensive. Wouldn't have to be too heavy.
I worked in a book bindery for a while that specialized in hand sewing antique Bible's. Plus we did custom leather work and bags out of various material. Unfortunately, while I could probably build my own bag, the cost of materials for a one off would be prohibitive.
So true. Bags and all the small parts do cost more. But the level of customization that could be had is the true goal. No worries about will it fir or work for your purpose. Ive found tarps and hammocks are stupid easy to build and very cheap even with decent materials. Tree straps etc no problem. Like you i started down the bag route and stopped. Cheaper to buy existing and mod it.
