more tent questions

[squirrely]

I apologize in advance for the never-ending questions.


So, I started a new job and after a few months of saving I think I may be able to afford a better tent than I was previously looking at. So, I'm going to post some links of the ones I'm looking at now and if anyone has any experience with any of these I'd love to hear some opinions.

I'm looking for something reasonably light. The smaller it packs down the better. I'd like a 3 season. I'd really like a 2 man that could logistically fit three people (even if it's tight) but that's not really a necessity and I'm willing to forego that in favor of something that meets all the other criteria.

So, in your opinions are any of these reasonable options? They seem good to me. Also does anyone know of anything else that would work?




http://www.rei.com/product/810199/msr-fast-stash-shelter

http://www.rei.com/product/810183/msr-hubba-hubba-2p-tent

http://www.rei.com/product/827785/rei-quarter-dome-t2-tent

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___27956#


(http://www.rei.com/product/810199/msr-fast-stash-shelter)I like the first one a lot, but I've heard many good things about the Hubba from reading around on here. Basically I'm completely lost. (http://www.rei.com/product/810199/msr-fast-stash-shelter)

[RWheeler]

I have the Half Dome 2, which has a little more surface area on the floor. From experience, I can tell you that you won't fit 3 people in that. I've used it on occasion for just me and my girlfriend, and we had enough room for packs, barely, without having to be pressed up against the tent wall.

For a two-person tent that's not insanely expensive (I got it for $115 I think, when I happened to catch it on a sick sale), I do enjoy it, though.

MSR makes wonderful tents from what I hear from others that have used them. I've only used a large 6P tent during a winter camping scenario. It was quick set-up, and split between three people was incredibly manageable. We fit 6 adults + packs in it easily.

Not exactly answering what you're looking for, but it's input nonetheless.

[4eyedbuzzard]

I think a lot depends upon how light you want to go. The ones you listed are all medium weight IMO. If you don't need/want freestanding I'd be looking at something more like a Lightheart Duo Wedge (http://www.lightheartgear.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=&products_id=25) at almost half the weight although maybe $25 more. Just a thought as I don not own one but reviews here have been positive and the owner is a WB member. There are others out there in that same category though. Other thoughts: A lot of 2 person tents are pretty tight for two people, and usually you won't have room for gear. Larger vestibules / overhangs come in handy for storing gear / shoes / cooking when it's raining. Most 3 person tents are in my experience more realistically 2 person tents with elbow room.

[leaftye]

In addition to the Lightheart, also take a look at the TarpTent Stratospire 2.

[TOMP]

If I had the money this is what id get.

http://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/product_MSR-Carbon-Reflex-2-Person-Tent_10117591_10208_10000001_-1_?cm_mmc=CSE-_-GoogleBase-_-na-_-MSR-Carbon-Reflex-2-Person-Tent&ad_id=GoogleBase

[skinewmexico]

The REI Quarterdome T3 is a great 2 person tent, less than 5#, if you like conventional tents. It will do 3 in a pinch. My next new tent will be the Stratospire though.

[Franco]

Squirrely
I always advise folk that cannot physically get into a tent first (and when they do that to put mats inside and sleeping bags) to make a "floor plan"
That is to trace floor the footprint and then lay down the mats inside and lay on top and try to visualise the walls around you.
If at this point it feels too small, it will be.
Once you pass that test see if with the help of some string and furniture /poles you can create a 3D version.
At this point shoulder and head room comes into play.
So think 3D not 2D.
In other words, think usable space not just floor area.
This is one I did a few months ago when "testing" certain measurements.
14851
oddly enough I set up that particular tent for the first time about 1 hour ago.
It matches my "size test"
Another thing to consider is that with two people it may be better to have two entry points or one at the narrow end so that one does not have to crawl over the other.
Franco

[squirrely]

Franco, that is genius! I'd of never thought of that, I'm definitely going to give it a try. Thanks!

[DeerPath]

I have a MSR Fast Stash for sale. I purchased it October 2011, used it two nights and decided I want a one person tent. No stains, damage, etc,. just like new. Will sell for $250. and pay freight. If interested PM me.

[kevperro]

Squirrely
I always advise folk that cannot physically get into a tent first (and when they do that to put mats inside and sleeping bags) to make a "floor plan"
That is to trace floor the footprint and then lay down the mats inside and lay on top and try to visualise the walls around you.
If at this point it feels too small, it will be.
Once you pass that test see if with the help of some string and furniture /poles you can create a 3D version.
At this point shoulder and head room comes into play.
So think 3D not 2D.
In other words, think usable space not just floor area.
This is one I did a few months ago when "testing" certain measurements.
14851
oddly enough I set up that particular tent for the first time about 1 hour ago.
It matches my "size test"
Another thing to consider is that with two people it may be better to have two entry points or one at the narrow end so that one does not have to crawl over the other.
Franco

I think you will need to seam seal that Franco.

[Wise Old Owl]

Squirrely everyone assumes that you are talking the AT and I look at this different. What do you want to do with it and why three people? How about a little more information so I can give you basic advice and best answer your qestion?

[squirrely]

Squirrely everyone assumes that you are talking the AT and I look at this different. What do you want to do with it and why three people? How about a little more information so I can give you basic advice and best answer your qestion?


I never thought to give that kind of info.

It will be for spring, summer and maybe some early fall trips. I would like to use it on the AT definitely. A friend and I are planning a section hike for next summer. Three people because we have a third that sometimes comes with us and may come on the section hike, but again, I'm not really worried about that too much. I wish I could edit that bit out actually. If nothing else it'd be space to store packs at night.

Let me know if you need to know anything else?

Thanks!

[Tinker]

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/mountain-hardwear-light-wedge-2-tent-2-person-3-season~p~4481c/?filterString=tents~d~228%2F&colorFamily=01

Keep checking out Sierra Trading Post. Sometimes they have fantastic deals. This one is only ok, but it's close to matching your criteria (especially since you seem to be backing away from the need to have room for three).

[squirrely]

Thank you guys so much! I really can't tell you enough how much I appreciate all the help. You guys are awesome!

[Alpha Wolf]

I dontt think you can go wrong with the Marmot for $189. I might order one myself.

[Alpha Wolf]

I dontt think you can go wrong with the Marmot for $189. I might order one myself.

And in fact i just did. Found it for $149 at Rock Creek. Purchased! :D
it's a 5 lb tent, but at half the price of those others on the list, ...and Marmot quality...it's a no brainer for my money.