voltage 0 #1 November 23, 2006 Question from a beginner packer: I have heard from alot of people that new ZP canopies are not very easy to pack As I intend to get such a beast, does it make any difference in packing methods? I still do side-packing (where you lay the canopy on the ground and use lots of space), but want to learn pro-packing in near future. My expierence to date is limited to F-111 and that works just fine once you get the hang of it. Andi Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
xlh883 0 #3 November 23, 2006 IT sucks to pack a new one. I have 25 jumps on my relatively new Pilot 210. Sucks to pack. Gets the best of em sometimes, but I keep going. I have found that since thsi is my first winter season, it is even harder to pack. More bulky in colder weather. David Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DougH 270 #4 November 23, 2006 I have been practicing psychopacking, and it seems much easier as far as bagging goes. I have yet to jump it though. "The restraining order says you're only allowed to touch me in freefall" =P Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
za_skydiver 0 #5 November 24, 2006 No matter which way you pack it, whether it be flat, pro or psycho. It just takes practise to learn how to handle the material. Personally, i do a combo between psycho and pro, If you want to know how, ask Packing Kathy, she will tell you, she has packed enough of them. I used to HAVE TO get a new 190 main into a 170 bag into a 150 container, all new, cause the owner didnt want to have a "big" rig. Pain in the ass, but you learn how.Some dream of flying, i live the dream... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tdog 0 #6 November 24, 2006 Buy the canopy you want. Buy the container you want (perhaps even one that is designed to be a little tight for your first canopy so you can downsize in a year or two)... Then learn how to pack... I had a canopy that was explosive. So much so, I put it in a card board box and overnight it "hatched" by pushing off the strapping tape and came out of the box and covered my coffee table. But after a few pack jobs I learned a few techniques. Now I can pack anything and I am not afraid of a brand new canopy... The point... DON'T WORRY... You will be a-ok packing with whatever canopy you choose. And learning on a brand new slippery canopy is perhaps a good thing. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
damion75 0 #7 November 24, 2006 Quote As I intend to get such a beast, does it make any difference in packing methods? I still do side-packing (where you lay the canopy on the ground and use lots of space), but want to learn pro-packing in near future. Perhaps consider getting a second hand main to start with? It will still be trickier than F1-11 but not as bad as something brand new... It'll also be cheaper, which will help when you get bored of it and want to downsize. You might not get your perfect colours but I reckon that it is a small price to pay. *************** Not one shred of evidence supports the theory that life is serious - look at the platypus. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
voltage 0 #8 November 24, 2006 No, thats not possible! What if I look up under canopy and faint because the colors are so ugly or I am so ashamed to land it that I just have to cut it away. That would be dangerous so I want to stay on the safe side and get myself a nicely coloured canopy. Thanks for all the information. I will see if I can get my hands on the "Zero P packing video". Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wildfan75 1 #9 November 24, 2006 QuoteQuote As I intend to get such a beast, does it make any difference in packing methods? I still do side-packing (where you lay the canopy on the ground and use lots of space), but want to learn pro-packing in near future. Perhaps consider getting a second hand main to start with? It will still be trickier than F1-11 but not as bad as something brand new... It'll also be cheaper, which will help when you get bored of it and want to downsize. You might not get your perfect colours but I reckon that it is a small price to pay. This is really, really, REALLY good advice. I'm sitting at Skydive Chicago right now (unable to jump due to ear issues but that's a whole 'nother thread) and there is a newbie absoulely struggling to pack because he just had to have a new canopy. I keep hearing him mutter under his breathe, "I should have listened. I should have gotten a used canopy". Another reason to go used...you'll likely out grow your new canopy about the time when it will start to be manageable. So you just spend a shit load of money on a brand new canopy only to want to downsize. I'm sure the next guy who buys your canopy will be very greatful to you for breaking in his new canopy! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
