Classic Tent/Top Quality
O.K., first lets get one thing out of the way. It's not light. I weighed the tent and all of it's contents just out of the box in the large bag and it was 11 lbs 8 oz. I have since gotten rid of some of the bags and extra's I don't need along with some of the weight. I usually use sturdy dead wood and make my own stakes, It cuts down on carry weight. Still it's heavy and impractical for single hikers. This is a tent for at least two people. Divide the tent and distribute it with other...s and you won't carry much more than a standard (not ultralight) two man tent. Now to the good stuff. This tent is so impressive! The quality is fantastic. The stitching is extremely strong. I found absolutely no weak spots. I am a larger than average man (6-03 and 230lbs). I have more than enough room for myself, my wife, our gear, and our dog. The fly is much better than the standard version of this tent as it is longer. I've seen reviews where some complained about the spreader bar being difficult. Honestly, I don't think some would be satisfied unless their tent set itself up, carried them inside and tucked them warmly in their $800.00 sleeping bags. Quality and confidence sometimes take a few extra (but worthy) steps. I can set this tent up in 5 to 10 minutes every time, less if I am not being too particular. I was looking for a no nonsense honest to goodness storm-proof shelter. One that would last for many many years if taken care of. One that gave me, my wife and our dog a "no worries" place to shelter when we hike and camp deep in the woods. I tried a two man tent and it just wasn't working, no room to breath for me. The three man tents still were a little lacking in either width or length. Most of the time my head and feet pressed firmly into the sides of the tent in the night unless I stayed in one cramped position all night long. Don't get me wrong, I don't want to carry anymore weight than I have to, but I also want to sleep comfortably, with room to stretch, room for gear, and no worries that I'll get wet. I use this tent to hike and camp, car camp, and camp while hunting. The quality of the Timberline series is legendary not only in hype, but for real! This tent will withstand what nature throws at you short of a hurricane or tornado. The frame is extremely strong and when the fly is guyed out, the tent is there to stay! It's not an ultralight sil-nylon fits in the palm of your hand kind of preppy shelter. This tent is made in old fashioned better than needed quality that would probably outperform and outlast most others in it's class. I've brought up the weight of this tent several times in this review. That said, don't be afraid to purchase this tent as a pack tent. If you regularly carry a 50 lb plus pack on your adventures this won't add anything extra except peace of mind to you and your party. If you are a single hiker, or everyone in your party is small to medium. There are probably much more choices for you out there. But if you are a large man and need a shelter large enough to house you, a friend or two and your gear...you may find a tent as good, but I would challenge you to find one better!
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