I have an MSR Hubba tent and recently switched to a Tarptent Rainbow for the extra space. I really like the small, lightweight "J-style" stake that came with the Hubba. After searching online and REI, I ended up having to settle for the MSR Groundhog stakes. These stakes really do an amazing job at holding down my shelter in some unforgiving winds. The only catch is, they are nearly 8 inches long and nearly an ounce a piece (0.71oz), while the "J-style" is about 5 inches long and weigh in under a half ounce (0.4oz).
I sent an email to Cascade Designs inquiring if I was able to purchase the shorter/lighter stakes individually. Within an hour, a very helpful representative by the name of Chuck had replied to me saying that unfortunately the new style of stakes were not available for individual sale yet. He mentioned that they did not even have them at the warehouse yet and they came straight from the manufacturer with the tent. He offered up an alternative, the Needle stake set, coming in at 0.35oz and just a hair over 6 inches. I had previously looked at those and decided against them because they are more for hardpacked ground. I was worried about the holding power in high wind. He offered to ship me a set of the needle stakes for free to try out.
In this day, I find it rare for a company to go above and beyond for the customer. It is situations like this that make me happy to be a backpacker.I thought I would share my good experience with Chuck of Cascade Designs