I'm thinking of updating my tent for a muley hunt this year. Any recommendations? Anyone have the Easton Kilo 2P? It is less than 3lbs and is on sell right now...?
I use a Mountain Hardware 2 man. It is 2 lb. 14 oz. with the footprint and rain fly. A tad bit on the heavy side for super light backpack hunts... but extremely roomy for one person... and comfortable with 2.
It has 2 vestibules.. both large enought for bows and packs and separate doors for two hunters. I love mine.
No experience with the Easton Kilo though.
Hope you find something you are pleased with!
Good luck.
I use an old northface rock 22. Don't know that it's the best. Just what I have.
How many people? I really like, Tarptent. I have a contrail and a rainshadow, have owned a double rainbow. Excellent quality, lightweight and made in the U.S.A.
Hennessy Tent Hammocks!
Never really was a "backpacker" but...
I've camped a bunch with the boys over the years, and I have found that a simple Dome tent is about the most practical tent you can get! They are relatively cheap (on sale) come in differant sizes, are free-standing, weather the wind very well, and shed rain & even SNOW very well!!!!!
I usualy use 2, one 8' X 8' for sleeping and a smaller 6' X 6' to stow our gear in. Once you get all of the "crap" out of your tent, you'll find it very roomy & comfortable!!!!!
I think you would find a good, small dome tent, would serve you well!!!
Good Luck on your hunt!!!!!
You might take a look at the Go Lite Shangri La series. There's a Go Lite store up at the Woodburn Outlets and they usually have some in store.
Thanks for the input. I'll check these out.
I bought a Mountain Hardwear Lightpath 2 from a guy in the TG classifieds. Great little tent!
http://www.mountainhardwear.com/LightPath%E2%84%A2-2/OU9606,default,pd.html
I use a Tarptent Double Rainbow. It weighs in at a little over 2# and it's held up to some pretty nasty high country storms.
Ron, I like the looks of the Mountain Hardware too. I want one that is not only lightweight but will keep the critters out, like snakes, and will be hold out the weather with a full coverage fly. This one is on my short list.
I have a fly creek UL3, its a 3 man tent but still weighs just a tad over 3 pounds. I love it! tons of extra room for gear and a vestibule big enough that you can actually use it for things like cooking.
QuoteOriginally posted by snag:
Ron, I like the looks of the Mountain Hardware too. I want one that is not only lightweight but will keep the critters out, like snakes, and will be hold out the weather with a full coverage fly. This one is on my short list.
I didn't mention it but my Mountain Hardwear tent is the Drifter 3 model... actually considered a 3 person tent. I used it last year with my son (who is 6'1" and we had plenty of room with our gear). Have never had a problem during inclement weather (spent a whole day in it due to an intense electrical/rain storm at 10,500').
Good luck!
I have used a Eureka Solitare solo tent , not real roomy but does the job and is very lite. The I used a Kelty or that style Tarp for my gear and to cook under if the weather turns foul. Both units together are just about under 5 pounds.
So sorry... the 2 lb. 14 oz. numbers are for the Drifter 3 RAIN FLY and FOOTPRINT only... called the "pitch light" option. That won't keep your critters out, but works well otherwise.
Just wanting to be up-front here!!
big agnes fly creek is 2 lbs 3 oz but it is a front entrty rather than side entry. I plan to use it in Utah this fall.
Ron: I also have used the Eureka Solitaire and it is my "backup" and I sometimes use it when going on overnight "scouting" trips.
I used it for 10 days of elk hunting in 2010... we were blessed with dry weather on that trip. It would have been real tough in bad weather. (JMO)
I have the hubba hubba 2 man tent. Great tent. I little heavier at about 4#s but worth the pack IMO if you are on an extended trip.
Can also be set up with just rainfly and is self standing, but don't listen to the weatherman when you are in high country, rain/snow/sleet can come anytime
+ on the Golite Shangri-la 5. Lots of room and plenty dry in bad weather.
QuoteOriginally posted by snag:
Ron, I like the looks of the Mountain Hardware too. I want one that is not only lightweight but will keep the critters out, like snakes, and will be hold out the weather with a full coverage fly. This one is on my short list.
I think the Lightpath 2 is 3lbs and rated for 2 people...but more like 1 person and his personal gear.
I use a Kifaru paratarp and annex I also took the parastove on last years elk hunt and was very comfortable
Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2 - just over 3.5 lbs, solid tent, bang for buck.
The easton kilo has some not so nice reviews on rei's website. I'd stay away from it unless you've actually seen it in person.
I have used a Marmot EOS 1 man tent, its under 3#, weather-proof, easy to setup, side entry with large vestibule. Fits me fine at 6' and 210#.
I would rather pack in a few more pounds of tent and figure out where to cut weight somewhere else. If I'm going to be out in the bush for 10+ days I want to be able to set up camp with a tent I can actually move around in and weather a storm if needed. I always add +1 to the tent for the number of people. I've been in what was called a two man tent with a hunting partner and it was a stretch to say it was for two unless you really liked each other. Plus no room for any gear at all. I'll go for the 3-4 man version and have some elbow room, gear room and be able to sit inside and play cards if its storming.
My go lite shangri la 3 is 1.5lbs and lots of room. Floor less and head room is nice.
Edit: I missed that you wanted something to keep the snakes out... So this one is no good for that. I'm actually going to get a second one for just that reason! Thinking of getting the dw moment from tarp tents. Stuck hunting the west side this year though so no to worried bout snakes
QuoteOriginally posted by wigeon:
I use a Kifaru paratarp and annex I also took the parastove on last years elk hunt and was very comfortable
X2 Check out Kifaru. Their gear will revolutionize the way you camp.
If I were in the market for a tent the two I'd look at would be the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 1 and the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2. The Copper Spur weights 2lbs 12oz all in and has side entry which is really nice. The Fly Creek UL2 weighs 2lbs 10 oz and will give you more room inside but has a front entry and less usable space in the vestibule.
Like bows, everybody is going to have a different opinion on tents. If you have an REI or other mountaineering store near you it would be wise to stop by and set several up and see which one fits your needs the best. Good luck on your hunt!!
QuoteOriginally posted by DarkTimber:
If I were in the market for a tent the two I'd look at would be the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 1 and the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2. The Copper Spur weights 2lbs 12oz all in and has side entry which is really nice. The Fly Creek UL2 weighs 2lbs 10 oz and will give you more room inside but has a front entry and less usable space in the vestibule.
Like bows, everybody is going to have a different opinion on tents. If you have an REI or other mountaineering store near you it would be wise to stop by and set several up and see which one fits your needs the best. Good luck on your hunt!!
X2 there really isn't any way to tell what's going to work unless you can actually get inside the thing
QuoteOriginally posted by DarkTimber:
If I were in the market for a tent the two I'd look at would be the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 1 and the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2. The Copper Spur weights 2lbs 12oz all in and has side entry which is really nice. The Fly Creek UL2 weighs 2lbs 10 oz and will give you more room inside but has a front entry and less usable space in the vestibule.
Like bows, everybody is going to have a different opinion on tents. If you have an REI or other mountaineering store near you it would be wise to stop by and set several up and see which one fits your needs the best. Good luck on your hunt!!
X2 there really isn't any way to tell what's going to work unless you can actually get inside the thing
I just went through this process. I ended up getting a Sierra Designs Vapor Light 2. Next to an REI Half Dome seems smaller but it's just for me ant the gear. I looked hard at the Agnes Fly Creek 2. Vapor Light 2 weighs a little more (I think around 3.5lbs is weight) compared to the sub 3 of the Fly Creek but I read some reviews that noted it was a little more sturdy in bad weather. I considered the SD Clip Flashlight but decided to pay a little more for a freestanding tent. In the end I think the prime factors to consider are 1) weight vs cost, 2) front entry vs side entry; every manufacture seems to make pretty good tents. I think in retrospect I should have considered the side entry higher in my requirements because it does provide some added convenience when wx is poor. Good luck with your choice.
Shoot South Cox AKA(Bivy Hunter)a PM he hunts that country may he could give you some in site on what type of tent you might need.
I recently picked up an REI passage 2. Packs down nice, plenty big, double doors, double vestibules, and free standing. A bit heavier (low 4's I think) but can be setup with just the footprint and rain fly when weight is a concern. Best part is it can be found on sale for around $100.
(http://i1225.photobucket.com/albums/ee391/rjwalton8/20130524_182815.jpg) (http://s1225.photobucket.com/user/rjwalton8/media/20130524_182815.jpg.html)
(http://i1225.photobucket.com/albums/ee391/rjwalton8/20130524_184950_20130524190507192.jpg) (http://s1225.photobucket.com/user/rjwalton8/media/20130524_184950_20130524190507192.jpg.html)
MSR makes some neat designs. I have an MSR and a Mountain Hardware tent. Also just purchased a Big Agnes family sized tent and have been happy with it. Happy hunting!
I think I have it narrowed down to these:
Big Agnes
Easton
Mountain Hardware
Tarp tent Rainbow. Best backpacking tent that I have owned.
I've used quite a few tents and have been sold on the side entry vs the front entry. Typically, you'll get a larger more functional vestibule with a side entry. Also, they are much easier for a single person to get out. If you are camping with a buddy, make sure the tent has double doors so you don't have to climb over each other. Front entry, single door tents might be a better choice for two people, but rain is more likely to fall into the tent when you open the rain fly. If you're doing most of your hunting in later September, you may want to look for a used MSR Hubba Hubba HP (2 person). The HP has solid fabric running up the walls higher than the original Hubba or Carbon Reflex models. I LOVE the Hubba series tents and feel they're really hard tj beat for the money. Tarptent also makes a killer tent. If you're looking at Easton, I'd look at the Rimrock over the Kilo.
Thanks South. More looking needed.
Ok, the MSR Hubba Hubba HP is the winner! Comes in at just about 3lbs, side door, good size vestibule, good protection from the elements. Backcountry is here in town. Heading that way today. It's been raining here pretty good. I think I'll pitch it in the yard for a test run.
Let us know what you think about it once it's up.
I like my side entry Mountain Hardwear, but...
there is always a "next" tent.
Thanks.
I'm in the market for a new one too, but I have a nasty medical issue that makes the choice difficult: i get extremely bad cramps in my left calf & adductor muscle in my thigh, usually during rest. they're not true cramps but muscle spasms, requiring that I stand up and try to straighten the leg NOW!! Rapid exit from the bag/tent becomes an issue. These side-entry models, can you exit quickly-and I mean REALLY quick!!
They don't have an eject button, but you can get out of them faster than wriggling out of a front entry. Unzip tent door on body of tent, second zipper on vestibule and swing your legs out first. Don't forget to exit your sleeping bag too.
QuoteOriginally posted by snag:
Ok, the MSR Hubba Hubba HP is the winner! Comes in at just about 3lbs, side door, good size vestibule, good protection from the elements. Backcountry is here in town. Heading that way today. It's been raining here pretty good. I think I'll pitch it in the yard for a test run.
You won't regret it and get the footprint
:thumbsup:
Let me know how you like it David. We are looking for a new backpacking tent too. What was that one you and I were in the Blues? Is it heavy? I'm gonna bring three kids by for a "shop tour" sometime next week or the week after...
Russ, that one we used was an REI model that isn't available any longer. It is about 5lbs. The MSR is 3lbs for the one man. The two man is 4lb 8oz.
http://www.rei.com/product/810183/msr-hubba-hubba-2p-tent
The two man has the two side doors. I like the full coverage rain fly on these. The waterproof bottom has a taller lip also.
Can't believe no one mentioned Exped or Hilleberg which most agree are hands down the best available, and yes, they are more money for very good reasons . Check them out if you want the best.
QuoteOriginally posted by snag:
I think I have it narrowed down to these:
Big Agnes
Easton
Mountain Hardware
David, I have used a BA Seedhouse 2 for many years. No complaints and it has never let me down. I don't even know if the still make it and know they do have lighter. All my BA stuff has been excellent.
I have been doing all the research for the past week or so and everything leads me to the Tarptent Double Rainbow. Anyone have any negative or positive feedback?
The best thing about the tarptent DOUBLE RAINBOW is the name. Never seen the tent but that name makes me laugh. Hit youtube if you don't know why.
I just used a black diamond mega light shelter for a 6 day pack rafting trip. I was pleased with it. easy to set up. But it is what it is says it is a shelter. It is a light light weight floor less shelter advertised a a four man that slept 2 people with plenty of room. Advertised weight is 2 lbs 13 oz. This is with the center pole which I left home and just used the boat paddle for a center pole.
I own a Shangri-La 5 and a Mountain Laurel Designs Super Mid. I'd recommend them both.
Pyramids have some nice features, lots of room for the weight, you can stand up in them, easy to set up, no floor (Super Mid) or removable floor (Shangri-La) so you don't have to worry about tracking in dirt.
One down side is they are not freestanding but I haven't found that to be an issue in most places.
For $300 the Shangri-La gives you a lot of options. At 5.67 lbs you get a "fly" , fully enclosed inner mesh "nest" with floor, includes lines, pole and 8 stakes with a lot of room. In non-buggy conditions, leave the nest at home and have a dry shelter comfortable for 4 adults and a little gear for 2.88 lbs. You can even leave the pole at home and use a branch to save another 13 oz.
David,
I think you'll be very happy with the MSR. Here is my Hubba Hubba HP on a mule deer hunt in Colorado. It took some brutal wind and never flinched. Like others have said above, the side entry and double doors / vestibule is realy nice when hunting with a partner (almost manditory for me)
(http://i.imgur.com/ETsJ9Np.jpg)
When I'm hunting alone I use a Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1 which has the front entry. It's definately not as convinent as side entry but when I can't split weight with a partner I'm willing to sacrafice a little for the weight savings. Good Luck
I had a double rainbow for a bit. Nice shelter but a little tight for two grown ups. Just sold it so I could pick up a rainshadow. Tarptent just released a new three person tent that looks killer. Would be my first choice if I were shopping for a new tent.
Great pic DarkTimber! That looks like home!
The MSR hubba hubba 1 man tent arrived today. So after lunch I pulled it out and set it up in the living room. I got inside to check out the size....and my dog walks in and lays down next to me! haha Too funny. He gave his approval I guess.
This tent is so well made. Everything is reinforced where the tie downs are. The vestibule is plenty large enough for my boots and pack. AND it is pretty lightweight at just over 3lbs.
So I'm in the tent with the dog thinking about the tent and the hunt coming up when my phone rings! Had to persuade the dog to move out of the way...only one door and he was in it! haha It was a guy who has ordered arrows from me before. I told him that he would never guess what I had to do to get to the phone! We both had a good laugh at that one.
Glad you like it David