Thread: -8 or -11 sleeping bag for winter hunting CNI

Hi all

I realise there's a heap of sleeping bag threads, but I still haven't really come across one that deals with my specific situation.

I hunt in central north island, and use a tent in winter (often in clearings, but always below the bushline in Kaimanawas and Pureoras). My sleeping mat has an R value of 3.2. No idea what the temperature rating of my current sleeping bag is, but I've had a few uncomfortable nights curled up in a ball trying to get warm.

I have decided on the One Planet Cocoon, but my question is: shall I get the -8 or -11 degree bag (limit ratings for men)? I run fairly warm, so my gut feeling is the -11 bag would be overkill? Keen to hear from any hunters who tent in winter in similar conditions and what temperature rating bag you're using.

Any input would be most appreciated, cheers!

Hey mate i have the -8 and find it well warm enough but i also have a xthurm pad to sleep on think its a R 7 value

edit to add i use a silk liner too not need a thermal liner

If in doubt, I'd get the -11. You can always unzip it, but you can't make the -8 warmer when the mercury drops. (Or, like @199p says, carry a liner to boost the -8 bag when needed. The silk ones weigh bugger all.)

Too warm? Open the zip

I have the -8 cocoon.
I had it up in the snow at 1750m Southisland tops in late March this year. It was plenty warm. If you need more warmth then put your down jacket on in the bag.
If your a real cold sleeper get the -11.

Thanks heaps for your input everyone. I have a silk liner and a down jacket for if it gets real cold, so will probably go with the -8 cocoon. Cheers

I think One Planet are good with after market? So if the -8 isn't up to it could always get some more down added to it or Twin Needle down south? So not like going with the -8 will be a dead end.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

Have you considered a new mate as well? I have a thermarest mat R3 and a exped mat R5.5 and the difference in warmth is huge.

Originally Posted by Bobba

Have you considered a new mate as well?.

I find it's too hard to fit two of us in a sleeping bag, and I'd personally prefer someone I know a bit better.

Should have added that I was using an older Exped Synmat UL R3.3.
I put my clothes and bushshirt (if not too wet) between my sleeping mat and my sleeping bag. This adds to the R value and also makes my clothes warm in the morning when i put them on