Fedex is definitely the worst for me. I have had many packages delivered days late, and sometimes they drop packages at the end of my 500ft driveway next to the mailbox!
USPS is usually good, but at the moment they are definitely struggling.
UPS has been the best for a while now.
I second www.hammockforums.net as a good place to look for directions. Also, below is two places I found with directions on how to make camping quilts.
http://www.tothewoods.net/RedRiverGorgeQuilt/RedRiverGorgeQuilt.php
https://ripstopbytheroll.com/pages/customer-projects
Very nice! I saw something similar online several years back and made one out of wood. Mine just has holes and no adjustment screws, but it has worked well.
Straight stitch will definitely do 90% of the projects you will ever do. However, be aware not all industrial machines can sew light material well. The simple answer is buy both😁
Either of those looks usable from the picture. Make sure you check the motor belt, bobbin winder tire, and power cord for wear and rot on any machine you look at. Most can easily be replaced, but it will cost a few dollars.
I have older Singers (home and industrial) as well as a older Necchi...
Interesting to see how widely differing everyone's opinions are. I am in the camp of carry a few extra ounces, but can understand why others might make the decision not to.
There is a interesting raincoat called a packa designed to cover you and your backpack with better weather protection than a poncho if that is what you are looking for. I purchased one a while back, but I have only used it a few times.
Interesting that he hinted at making a Hawken kit after the Fowler kit they are working on. I was considering getting one of their Colonial rifle kits.
On another note, I hope to buy or make a swivel breech flintlock similar to what David Price used to sell as kits eventually as I find their...
muzzleloading forum and american longrifles can give a good idea of the types of kits available. I personally have been considering a kit from kibler's longrifles because they do not require as much assembly, but they do not sell a Hawken style rifle if that is what you are looking for.
I started in on one of the "kits" several years back, but haven't gotten it finished since it is more a pile of parts than anything. I have been considering buying a Kibler's longrifles kit since they are made using CNC machines and require much less work for a first time build.