Tarp Shelter Mastery: Six Fast Pitches

Objective

Pitch the right tarp for wind, rain, and terrain in under 5–8 minutes.

Six Pitches

1. Flat roof: Calm weather shade; high and airy.
2. A‑frame: General purpose; ridge line between trees.
3. Lean‑to: Wind from one direction; reflect fire heat.
4. Plow point: One corner high, three staked; fast storm option.
5. Flying V: Two corners high; good for cooking in light rain.
6. Storm pyramid: Center pole; edges to ground; excellent for heavy weather.

Hardware

• 8–10 stakes, 2 poles or sticks, 15–20 m of cord, two prusiks for ridgeline tension.

Real Example

Team switched from A‑frame to plow point as wind shifted; setup time dropped to 4 minutes with practice.

Checklist

• Pre‑tied guy lines
• Ridgeline with quick‑attach prusiks
• Groundsheet

Contingencies

• No trees → center‑pole pyramid using trekking poles.
• Rocky soil → deadman anchors with buried sticks/rocks.

After‑Action

Practice each pitch twice in good weather; time yourself.

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