Have you ever needed to blend into nature during a hunting trip or set up a quick shelter in the rain? That’s where tarnplanen come in. These special camouflage tarps, known as tarnplanen, help you stay hidden and protected outdoors. They started as military tools but now serve everyday folks like campers and hunters. Made from tough materials, tarnplanen offer a smart way to tackle the wild. Let’s explore what makes them so useful.
What Are Tarnplanen?
Tarnplanen are sturdy covers designed to hide things in natural settings. People use them to conceal gear or create shelters that blend with trees and grass. These tarps come from Germany, where “tarn” means camouflage and “planen” means tarps. They feature patterns that mimic leaves, branches, or rocks, making them hard to spot from afar.
Most tarnplanen use heavy-duty canvas or rubberized fabric for strength. This material resists water and wind, keeping you dry during storms. Grommets or loops along the edges let you tie them down easily. Whether you’re a soldier or a weekend adventurer, these features make tarnplanen reliable for tough conditions.
Unlike regular tarps, tarnplanen focus on stealth. Their colors and designs break up shapes, fooling eyes and cameras. Hunters love this for staying unseen by animals. Even photographers use them to get close to wildlife without scaring it away.
The Fascinating History of Tarnplanen
Tarnplanen trace their roots back to World War I in Europe. Soldiers needed ways to hide from enemies, so they developed these camouflage tarps. German forces led the way, using them to cover vehicles and build hidden camps. This innovation saved lives by making positions invisible from the air.
During World War II, tarnplanen became standard gear. The German military created patterns like Splittertarn for the air force. These tarps doubled as ponchos or stretchers, showing their versatility. East and West Germany continued improving them after the war, with designs like Strichtarn for rainy weather.
Today, tarnplanen have moved beyond battlefields. Collectors seek vintage pieces from the Cold War era. These old tarps tell stories of past conflicts and clever engineering. Their history inspires modern uses in sports and hobbies.
Interesting fact: Some WWII tarnplanen still show unit stamps and serial numbers. These marks add value for history buffs who restore them.
Types of Tarnplanen You Should Know
Flecktarn is a popular type of tarnplanen with dot-like patterns. West Germany introduced it after WWII for forest environments. The mix of green, brown, and black spots helps blend into wooded areas. Hunters often pick this for its effective concealment in thick brush.
Strichtarn, or rain pattern, comes from East Germany. It features thin lines that look like falling rain. This design works well in wet, open fields. Military units used it for its lightweight feel and quick-drying ability. Now, campers grab it for rainy hikes.
Splittertarn mimics splintered wood with sharp edges. The Luftwaffe air force favored it during WWII. Its bold shapes hide large objects like planes or tents. Enthusiasts in airsoft games choose this for authentic looks.
Other types include custom patterns for deserts or snow. Materials vary from cotton canvas to synthetic blends. Each type suits different needs, like heavy-duty for long-term use or light ones for backpacking.
Practical Uses for Tarnplanen Today
Hunters rely on tarnplanen to build blinds. Imagine sitting quietly in the woods, covered by a tarp that matches the leaves. Deer walk right by without noticing. This setup lets you wait patiently for the perfect shot. One hunter shared how his tarnplanen helped him bag a big buck after hours of hiding.
Campers turn tarnplanen into shelters. Tie one between trees for a lean-to that keeps rain out. It’s lighter than a tent and packs small in your bag. A family on a weekend trip used theirs to create a cozy spot during a sudden storm, staying dry and warm.
Wildlife photographers use them for observation. Set up a hide near a bird nest, and the birds ignore you. The camouflage lets you capture amazing photos up close. A pro photographer once spent days under a tarnplanen to snap rare owl pictures.
Survivalists pack tarnplanen in bug-out bags. In emergencies, they provide quick cover from weather or prying eyes. Preppers practice building shelters with them for disasters. Even gardeners use smaller ones to protect plants from frost while blending into the yard.
Airsoft players build bases with tarnplanen. The military patterns add realism to games. Teams hide strategies behind these tarps, surprising opponents.
Why Choose Tarnplanen? The Benefits
Tarnplanen last longer than plastic tarps. Their canvas material withstands tears and rough handling. You can repair small holes easily, extending their life for years. This durability saves money over time, as you won’t replace them often.
The camouflage gives a big edge in outdoor activities. It hides you from animals or people, making hunts or games more successful. Non-reflective surfaces avoid glares that give away positions. Birdwatchers appreciate this for undisturbed views.
They’re eco-friendly too. Cotton versions biodegrade better than synthetics. You can repurpose old ones into bags or jackets, reducing waste. Fashion designers turn vintage tarnplanen into trendy items, blending style with sustainability.
Windproof and water-resistant, they handle bad weather well. Soldiers trusted them in harsh conditions, and now civilians do too. This reliability brings peace of mind on adventures.
Tips for Picking the Perfect Tarnplanen
Look for authentic patterns like Flecktarn or Strichtarn. These proven designs offer the best camouflage. Check for military markings to ensure quality. Replicas might look similar but lack the tough build.
Consider the material based on your needs. Cotton canvas suits heavy use, while rubberized versions repel water better. Think about size too – larger for group shelters, smaller for personal gear.
Inspect for features like grommets and loops. These make setup fast and secure. Read reviews from users in similar activities to find the right fit. Avoid cheap fakes that fade quickly.
Keeping Your Tarnplanen in Top Shape
Clean tarnplanen with mild soap and cold water. Scrub gently to remove dirt without damaging the fabric. Avoid hot water or machines, as they can fade colors or shrink material. Air dry in shade to prevent sun damage.
Store them in a cool, dry spot. Fold neatly to avoid creases that weaken fibers. Check for mildew before packing away. A quick shake-out keeps them fresh.
Repair tears promptly with canvas kits. Sew patches over holes for strong fixes. This maintenance keeps your tarnplanen ready for the next outing. Regular care makes them last decades.
Fun Facts and Real-Life Stories About Tarnplanen
Did you know tarnplanen influenced fashion? Designers in Berlin use old military tarps for jackets and bags. This trend mixes history with modern style. One artist turned a WWII piece into a sculpture about hidden identities.
Collectors hunt for rare patterns. A Splittertarn from the 1940s sold for hundreds at auction. These pieces carry stories of soldiers who used them. History fans restore them to preserve the past.
In a real-life tale, a hiker survived a blizzard thanks to his tarnplanen. He built a shelter that blended with snow, staying warm until rescue came. This shows their life-saving potential.
Artists feature tarnplanen in exhibits. One installation explored war themes using draped tarps. Visitors walked through, feeling the concealment effect. These creative uses highlight their versatility beyond outdoors.
