[pct-l] Bivy sacs

[jjonz@gte.net (Jeff Jones)]

Howdy listers,
I'm a bivy convert.  I carried a 2 hoop bivy for a month of my '79 thru
hike attempt and loved it.  It was first generation gortex from Early
Winters.  No flapping in the wind and enough (BARELY) room to change
inside.  I could snake an arm out to regulate my stove and lay on my
belly to eat dinner when bugs kept me confined.  I have a no-hoop bivy
now which weighs 1 lb which I've used enough that I've worn a hole in
the bottom.  I carry a 6' X 8' plastic tarp which I can rig for
additional protection for inclement weather dining (I'm a devotee of the
Colin Flethcher in-the-sleeping-bag culinary system).  I use the no-hoop
bivy for condtions where bugs and rain aren't a prolonged problem - I'm
a desert rat.  As a caveat, I've never weathered a prolonged storm in
one which would no doubt lower my enthusiasm.  Also, for group hiking,
the weight advantage lessens and bivy sacs don't encourage socializing. 
I'm still looking for a half sac synthetic bag to use with a polarguard
coat if anyone has any suggestions (non custom so as not to bust the
bank).
        Jeff Jones