Freestanding Tarptent Moment DW

[Just Tom]

Does anyone know if you could, in a pinch, setup a Tarptent Moment DW directly into "freestanding mode" (obviously using the optional crossing pole) such that it would not need to be staked out first? Anyone with this tent willing to give it a try and let us know if it is doable?

[theoilman]

I have an older single wall Moment. It should be the same setup.

I don't see why you would need to stake it first. Put in the normal (shorter) pole through its sleeve side to side. It will be "floppy." Assemble the long pole. If it goes through a short sleeve put it through (I don't recall if it does or not), then hook the ends on the short "A" loops, then tie off the extra ties.

I haven't looked, but the Tarptent side probably has a video of doing it.

[Venchka]

Option B:
A member of this forum modified his Moment DW to run the optional pole INSIDE the rainfly. He shortened the crossing pole several inches and put velcro tabs on the inside of the fly to secure the pole. The pole ends went to the same connection location as the original pole when mounted outside. He claimed increased stability for the whole tent. I don't recall if also said that it made the Moment DW freestanding. Search around, it's here somewhere.
Keep us posted. The Moment DW is still on my radar for my next tent purchase.

WHEN IN DOUBT, READ THE BOOK. From the TarpTent Moment DW web page:

• Double wall, dual entry, and dual vestibules
• Fast setup — Under 1 minute from sack to pitched
• Interior never gets wet during entry, exit, setup or takedown in storms
• Free-standing and snow-load capable with optional 7-ounce pole
• Very stable and taut pitch with PitchLoc foldable end supports that never need to be removed from fly.
• Separate bug-proof living compartment sets up independently.
• Generous, adjustable vestibules for excellent gear storage space on either side.
• Adjustable venting at ends, apex, and sides
• Reflective spectra cord guylines with integrated line tighteners

Wayne

[Just Tom]

Yes I've read that, but every video shows going from staked into free-standing mode. Hence the question. Not sure I'd calling it free-standing if you had to stake it first.

[Franco]

Just Tom
Short answer it can be done but it easier if you stake it down.
Maybe not obvious but many freestanding tents work like that.
Most of the fly first/integral pitch types (like the Tarptent) do.
For example if you ever have seen someone setting up a Bibler or Black Diamond (single wall ,poles inside) you will know that that it is much easier to do if you first stake the corners down.
In fact a few years ago I shot a video clip setting up a BD Lighthouse in less than 5 minutes because folk were talking about taking at least 15 minutes to do.
The trick was to stake it down first.
(they are mountaineering tents, sometime an extra 10 min makes the difference ...)
franco@tarptent

[cutter]

Set up with cross pole = no stakes required.
Set up without cross pole = 2 stakes required.
Simple as that.

[tarantolk]

I've been camping in Alaska all summer and have not used the stakes at all. Just freestanding with cross pole. I've been using the inner sold liner because of the low temps but I leave it attached to the outer and just pitch it in under a minute.
https://instagram.com/p/61CDWhB4Mb/
https://instagram.com/p/5s9JtaB4Hk/

[PAHiker]

Here are photos of my Moment DW in freestanding mode right side up and upside down with no stakes either way. Set up was as fast and easy as non-freestanding mode.

010_1.jpg013_1.jpg

[Just Tom]

Thanks for the feedback, glad to hear it is reasonably doable.

Just so everyone doesn't think I'm crazy, here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWG0XNbn1Fg#t=2m43s) is the instruction video from Tarptent that shows how to setup the optional crosspole and the tent is clearly staked out first.

If anyone is willing to video setup directly into free-standing mode I'd buy you a beer

[Franco]

Just Tom
If it stops raining here I'll do that for you today.

[Franco]

OK , here it is.
Not sure if the embedding will work but i'll try :


if not here is the link :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGDANbMurOc
sorry about the dull delivery and slow pace, I have the sniffles and given that I am almost never sick I make a lousy patient.
As I point out in the video clip, the one I am using is my own original Moment but the new one sets up the same.

[Just Tom]

Thanks so much! I think it adds extra versatility to be able to set it up like that if needed and then secure it down afterward.