Showing posts with label msr. Show all posts
Showing posts with label msr. Show all posts

Globe Skimmer Ultrlt Trp 10X12 Review

Globe Skimmer Ultrlt Trp 10X12It's a mixed blessing. I bought it instead of a one man tent, b/c I wanted:
to save weight
to save $
and I heard tarps are all the rage in ultralight backpacking nowadays.
I spent loads of time online researching various ways to set it up. Using 2 trekpoles, rigging as a tarp tent w/ one trekpole, rigging it between 2 trees using a paracord roofline. Foul weather rigging etc...

I've taken it out overnighting now 4 - 6 times. 1/2 of the time it withstood rain very well b/c I was able to rig it well. The other 1/2 of the time...I would not have wanted to be there if it was raining. I've also yet to encounter serious winds....this scares me, especially if you can't stake it well.

Sometimes it has taken me 1/2 hour ,or more ,to get it rigged well enough to feel confident in it. Sometimes I was able to do it in 5 -10 minutes. It all depends on how much room you have, are there boulders that prevent you from staking where you need to? Are the trees close enough? etc...if the soil is rocky, you better hope you have some trees...that's an argument for something w/ poles instead. At least you can set up a tent without stakes if you must...

So, it can be both fun/creative to set up, and be frustrating. Better hope it isn't raining and windy when it is time to set it up! And by the time I added some $15 mosquito netting and a $15 cheapo survival bivy bag/ground cloth, I was inching towards the weight and cost of a quality ultralight $$$ one man tent , quality bivy bag, or quality one man poncho tent. Had I had another $100 or more to spend, I would've gone w/ an ultralight $$$ one man tent, $$$ bivy or $$ poncho tent.

But , for the $ I saved at the time, and the brainpower I've used rigging it, it has been worth it.

Plus I've learned all kinds of new knots! Go to [...] for rigging and knot videos. Also youtube etowah8x10 tarp set up for the easiest fair weather tarptent . see adventure alan for more on ultralight backpacking.

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Product Description:
Manufactured from rugged, 1.9oz ripstop nylon with 3/4 urethane coating for water-proofness. Includes reinforced brass grommets, spread approximately every three feet and double stitched key seams. 10 by 12 feet.

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MSR Mutha Hubba Footprint Review

MSR Mutha Hubba FootprintAs I said in my review for the Mutha Hubba HP tent, "Buy the optional footprint but don't try to stretch it tight -- it is slightly undersized and *will* tear if you do so.This tent floor is quite waterproof and does not need edge-to-edge protection from the footprint, which is mostly to keep it from grinding on the dirt and becoming no longer watertight."

I suspect this footprint was designed for the older non-HP Mutha Hubba model and that that tent perhaps has a slightly smaller footprint.This one ends up slightly undersized on the Mutha Hubba HP, but it still works fine -- just don't try to stretch it to fit perfectly, the edge stitching will tear out.

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Product Description:
The MSR Mutha Hubba Footprint provides protection from below-giving your favorite MSR tent a long life. Made of water-resistant polyester-taffeta, the MSR Mutha Hubba Footprint protects your Hubba tent floor from sharp objects, such as rocks and pine needles, as well as from mud and ground water. It also increases the versatility of most MSR tents by acting as a ground cloth in lightweight tarp-style setups. Put your foot down and get the protection you deserve with the MSR Mutha Hubba Footprint.

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Sierra Designs Reflective Guyline Kit (Spring 2010) Review

Sierra Designs Reflective Guyline Kitwe bought these for camping and they are great. very durable and useful for many things! a great buy!

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Product Description:
The Reflective Guyline Kit by Sierra Designs is the Reflective Guy Kit includes 36 feet (6 precut 6-foot-long sections) of high tenacity 3mm reflective guy line, and is now even faster and easier to use with the six new Nite Ize Figure 9 Rope Tighteners (included).

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MSR Reflective Cord Kit Review

MSR Reflective Cord KitRead the contents listed below.The item you will receive is not the item pictured.There are no stakes.the cord is yellow and the fasteners are larger and made of plastic.otherwise MSR is a great company and i am sure that it is a great product.it just a surprise to receive something so different then i expected.

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Product Description:
215242 Features:Specifications: Length: 50 feet

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MSR Mo Room 2 Footprint Review

MSR Mo Room 2 FootprintYou can't beat Amazon. I bought the MSR Mo Room 2 from sunny sports for 225.00 shipped. Great deal and now they are out of this tent. Amazon had the footprint for 39.95 SHIPPED., I LOVE AMAZON

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Product Description:
This waterproof MSR Footprint is custom fit to protect your MSR Mo Room 2 tent from abrasion, punctures, and ground hazards. Made of water-resistant polyester taffeta, MSR footprints protect your tent floor from sharp objects such as rocks and pine needles, as well as from mud and ground water. They also increase the versatility of most MSR tents by acting as a ground cloth in lightweight tarp-style setups.
It's easy to use: just lay it under your tent before staking the tent down. Pull the tent's stake loops through the footprint's webbing loops and stake down the tent to secure. It comes with a lightweight, breathable MicroMesh storage bag.
About MSR
Mountain Safety Research (MSR) designs, manufactures, and markets innovative adventure gear for outdoor enthusiasts. The ever-growing MSR product line is most popular with mountaineers, backpackers, and campers. MSR is the industry leader in reliability and quality with every product it focuses on--tents, stoves, water filters, snowshoes, cookware, climbing gear, fuel, and related accessories. All of MSR's products set the benchmark in performance throughout the specialty outdoor industry. MSR is also one of the most widely distributed brands in the outdoor industry and provides products to more than 1,200 specialty retailers in North America and export to more than 30 countries.


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Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarps Review

Grand Trunk Funky Forest TarpsHave used several time easy to set up in diamond shape gives more than enough coverage very waterproof.

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Product Description:
The perfect stay-dry solution for those soggy nights in the wilderness, the Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarp can be used in conjunction with your Grand Trunk Hammock. Use it independently for staying dry, or as a shelter from the sun. Use in the forest, at the beach, or in the backyard. Stuffs away for easy transport..

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Vargo Titanium Ultralight Small "Ascent" Tent Stake Review

Vargo Titanium Ultralight Small 'Ascent' Tent StakeJust got my stakes and they are awesome. Extremely light and strong, I'll be ordering more since the six in my pack are lighter then the extra two stakes that I keep in my pack.

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Product Description:
The "Ascent" stake is a multi-season tent stake that has excellent hold in both soil or snow. Designed for versatility, the Ascent is lightweight yet remarkably strong. Size: 6.25" long. Weight: 10g

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Coleman Tent Pegs Review

Coleman Tent PegsUse these to hold down a chain link fence in a dog park to prevent dogs from going under.Cost about 1/3 of the price of "fence anchors" sold by the fence company. Easy install. first set still working after 5 years. Need to place 18" or closer on outside of fence

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Product Description:
Features:Perfect for stony or hard-packed ground Heavy-duty plated steel High-impact polypropylene tops Easy thread-thru tops 4 per package Features:Perfect for stony or hard-packed ground Heavy-duty plated steel High-impact polypropylene tops Easy thread-thru tops 4 per package Features:Perfect for stony or hard-packed ground Heavy-duty plated steel High-impact polypropylene tops Easy thread-thru tops 4 per package Features:Perfect for stony or hard-packed ground Heavy-duty plated steel High-impact polypropylene tops Easy thread-thru tops 4 per package

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Sierra Designs Origami 2 Person Ultralight Shelter Review

Sierra Designs Origami 2 Person Ultralight ShelterI have only used this shelter in the field for a two day trip, so that is all I have to go on...

My main attractions to this style of shelter were the weight to space ratio, and to the Origami specifically, the price (I paid $111). I looked at a similar shelter called the Trailstar made by a company called Mountain Laurel Designs, which is lighter (by nearly a pound) but those weight savings are accomplished through a compromise on the ease of entry; the Trailstar must be propped up on one side to get in, versus easy zipper entry. The Trailstar also would have cost me ~$35 dollars more.

I'm too cheap to buy adjustable trekking poles so I was stuck carrying the included adjustable pole, the lightweight ski poles I use are only 45" tall and that just wasn't quite enough to set up the tent properly and have an adequately comfortable space for two people and two dogs (medium sized dogs: Sheltie/Australian Shepherd mix). One thing I have not figured out is whether the listed weight includes the pole; with most tents it usually does, but I'm not sure with this one (I'm too cheap to buy a scale). Setup does take some practice; I have done it 5 times and still have not mastered it. One of those times was out in the backcountry trying to suspend it between two trees. Though it can be done and probably with some practice it can be done well, I did not find this to be a very practical method. If you can master it, it would save some weight and open up that space in the middle (possibly for another person, or just to allow you and your hiking partner to cuddle, if you so desire).

I was somewhat worried about bugs with the open design, but camping at about 8500 feet in central Colorado mid-August, I had no problems. The only other issue I had with the open design was with my dogs. I attached their leashes to the center pole and that was enough to keep them in the tent through the night, but it did not prevent them from a seemingly endless curiosity about what was going on outside the tent, and with just enough space for them to stick their heads out, this was a problem that interfered with sleep. The solution I'm working on is a curtain of no-see-um mesh to hang around the perimeter which will act as a visual deterrent and a little extra bug protection, while maintaining crucial ventilation, and only adding a few ounces of weight.

We did experience some light rain while we had the tent set up between the two trees and though there was no problem with water getting in, there was one point where water managed to gather on the bottom edge of the tent (I could not get the cord I was using (a couple of the included guy lines) taught enough to hold the tent up properly once I staked it out (it will take some practice and perhaps a different type of cord with less elasticity). As far as moisture in the tent, I had no problem with that, leaving about a 2-3 inch gap between the edge and the ground seemed to allow plenty of ventilation and it breathed much better than my last tent (single wall Eureka Zeus 2).

Well, I hope I have covered the important issues. Overall I think this is a good shelter but it really comes down to individual needs/preferences. If you like the security of at least one layer of mesh or sil-nylon between you and nature than this is not the tent for you. It is a good choice if you are trying to transition from heavier fully enclosed tent style to lightweight open floor tarps though. I would not pay the MSRP of $175 or whatever it is, you ought to be able to find it cheaper than that on here or Google shopping, I was not willing to pay more than $125, and I think that is about the most it is worth, otherwise I would pay a little more for something like a Golite Shangri-la 3 or Black Diamond Megalight or something like that. Well, I'm not sure how these reviews work, but if possible feel free to ask me any other questions about the Sierra Designs Origami 2 and hopefully I can help you. I hope this helps you make your decision!

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Product Description:
Origami tarps are everything from a full-coverage backpacking shelter to an airy sunshade for a day on the beach. Multiple guy-out and stake-out points allow you to pitch in a variety of configurations to withstand gusty winds and adapt to changing climatic conditions. Designed from five equilateral triangles with a full-length zipper down one seam, any side can be staked at ground level for more coverage, or tied up for easy access or for lots of ventilation.

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ShelterLogic 8 Piece Anchor Kit Review

ShelterLogic 8 Piece Anchor KitThe person responsible for the design of these augers clearly doesn't understand the principle behind a screw. The plane of the auger is not constant and the fins are not perpendicular to the axis of the rod. The result? Instead of digging down into the ground and holding tightly, this thing either just spins and won't dig in because the changing plane gives too much resistance or if you push REALLY hard and get it to go into the ground, it just creates a huge void where the hold-down will move up and down nearly two inches.
My advise...don't make the same mistake I did and pay your hard-earned money for these pieces of garbage. Buy a few "candy-cane" tent stakes at your favorite camping supplied dealer...they're much cheaper and will actually work.

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Product Description:
8 Pcs 15" Auger Anchor 80' Rope

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MSR Zing Tarp Review

MSR Zing TarpI recently purchased the Zing and also own an MSR Outfitter Wing tarp. The design for both is essentially identical. The Zing is made of lighter weight ripstop material, and that makes it both lighter but also much more compact when stored. The Outfitter Wing is very heavy duty, and the fabric is opaque. That's bound to last longer for commercial users. But the MSR Zing is an excellent compromise between strength and portability. The Zing cloth is translucent, with a pleasant amber color. It's opaque enough to provide useful shade, but transmits enough light to be more cheery on overcast days.

The shape is versatile, relatively easy to pitch, and can be very wind-resistant depending on how you orient it and set up the guylines. Consider getting two additional poles. This tarp sets up really well with four poles providing excellent stand-up head clearance. The concatenary curves allow for smooth tensioning without wrinkles or sags that hold rainwater or flap noisly in the wind.

I was disappointed that the cord guylines provided are not reflectorized. Our Oufitter Wing has reflective cords that are essential to safe navigation around camp after dark. I've had to order reflective cording, and that's a signficant expense to incur on an already expensive product. I'm tempted to downgrade my rating to four stars, but I bought this at a discount from the Amazon warehouse, so I'll be generous.

For accessory poles, I recommend Kelty's Noah's Staff or Noah's poles. The "staff" is not adjustable but these poles are slimmer and lighter in keeping with the Zing's lighter weight. The MSR wing tarps and vastly superior to Kelty's Noah's tarps, so just go for the Kelty poles.

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Product Description:
Bust out the MSR Zing Tarp for epic river trips, mountaineering basecamps, or group backpacking. This ultralight tarp provides 200 square feet of coverage for up to ten paddlers, climbers, or campers. Two tapered poles and the tarp?s inverted wing design give you a tight pitch in high winds, and the lightweight tent fabric protects your group from the scorching sun or pounding rain.

Product Features

    Material: Nylon
    Dimensions: 200sq ft (18.6sq m)
    Packed Size:
    Tie Points: 8
    Pole Included: Yes, 2
    Weight: 6lb 1oz (2.75kg)
    Recommended Use: River trips, basecamp, group backpacking
    Manufacturer Warranty: Lifetime


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MSR Hubba Hubba HP Tent Review

MSR Hubba Hubba HP TentThe HP version of the Hubba Hubba tent offers increased protection for cooler, windy nights, yet weighs less than the original.The freestanding structure is a snap to set up, and offers a very comfortable haven for 2 adults. The features include 2 doors and 2 vestibules which is great for gear storage and late night exits when nature calls.The handy gear loft helps keep the interior clutter free.Overall this is a very comfortable,lightweight, liveable backpacking tent suitable for all but the worst winter conditions.

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Product Description:
The MSR Hubba Hubba HP Tent is the ultimate, freestanding two person tent refined for increased performance in foul weather. To create the Hubba Hubba HP MSR took the ultimate free-standing two person, added greater coverage to the tent canopy and updated with lighter fabrics all-around. The result is a tent that not only performs better in more challenging conditions, but actually weighs less too. MSR's ultimate freestanding shelter, this two person Hubba Hubba HP Tent weighs less than the Hubba Hubba, yet offers increased protection. Maximum space, minimum weight, the MRS's Fast & Light tents take livability to the extreme, offering ultralight options without compromising elbow room. Plus, they're durable enough for late-summer cloudbursts, March winds, and the unexpected early-season snowfall. The MSR Hubba Hubba Hp tent will bring comfort and security to your next outdoor adventure.

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Vargo Titanium Nail Peg w/Cord - 160mm Review

Vargo Titanium Nail Peg w/Cord - 160mmi have several of these pegs and use them for ground pot supports with my alcohol camp stove - but you should be warned that the MSRP listed here for this Vargo titanium nail peg is six times its actual MSRP - why does Amazon allow this?

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Product Description:
The Titanium Nail stake is the strongest tent stake you will need in most any condition. The stakes flat head and sturdy construction allow you to drive it into areas that would normally destroy other stakes. Weight: 14 grams, Length: 6.25"

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Sierra Designs Grip Clips Review

Sierra Designs Grip ClipsYou have to figure out how to use this productyourself.There are no instructions and the photo is misleading.The photo is what it would look like from the inside of the tent.And, there is no loop as the picture shows.There are two pieces: a)a ring andb) a base for the ring that has a strap attached for the rope guides. Here's how to put them on your tent:

1) Place the ring piece inside the tent at the spot you want it.

2) place the oval-with-strap piece on the OUTSIDE of the tent and push the oval piece through the tent fabric into ring piece on the inside.The ring piece locks it in place.

It's hard to understand with words, you just have to fiddle with it until you get it.It is very clever.Enjoy.

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Product Description:
These handy clips allow you to attach a guy-out point anywhere on the tent's rainfly, improving stability and minimizing flapping in a windstorm. Comes in a package of four.

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Crazy Creek B.A. Tarp Lite (Forest Green) Review

Crazy Creek B.A. Tarp LiteI've camped under my tarp in massive downpours and in temps down to the lows 30's F. it has held up well, hasn't leaked, and survived howling winds. I camp out every month of the year in New England, and have used the tarp for 13 months.
Basically, it works as advertised. I'd like to see more tie down spots on the center line, there are only two, one at each end, while there are multiple tie downs along the edges and at the quarter fold.
It's well made and sturdy, and I recommend it without reservation.

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Product Description:
Crazy Tarps are some of the most useful and versatile pieces of gear ever made.Crazy Creek tarps provide excellent coverage anywhere, anytime that you need to shelter your cook area, gear storage, virtually anything you want to protect from the elements.Lighter than the B.A. Tarp.Waterproof taped seams.Comes complete with guy lines, stakes, seam sealer and stuff sack.20 anchor points.70D coated ripstop nylon.

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Kelty Nobendium II Tent Stakes Review

Kelty Nobendium II Tent StakesYour tent will most likely include a set of "skewer" stakes. Eventually you may lose some, bend them, break them or tire of always searching for just the right location to put your stake in the ground. The only justifiable reason for Kelty to sell these is because they are better than the cheap ones that come with the tent.

The material will take more pounding, the shaft is thicker and it has sides like a pencil; this makes the stake hold in the ground better and makes it sturdier yet they don't weigh a lot.

Of course, you don't need to rush right out and replace your originals, unless you broke, bent or lost yours. Before any of those bad things happens, you should consider these if you want the best shot at securing your tent to ground under less than ideal conditions.

Best of outdoor life to you.

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Product Description:
Ultralight and super-strong No Bendium stakes help to secure your tent on almost any terrain

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MSR Ground Hog Stake Kit Review

MSR Ground Hog Stake KitSimply the best tent stake on the market today.I've been a Scoutmaster for 23 years and have gone through dozens of different designs of tent stakes looking for the most perfect one out there: this is it.They can be bought for about $2 ea.If you look around you can find cheaper copies sold in different colors but unless you're buying them by the hundred as I am, it's not worth the search. The three sided design grabs the soil, placed sideways it hold in sand and snow. The anodized aluminum is very lightweight but drives into the hardest ground....and the lifetime warranty means you'll never have to pay for a tent stake ever again!

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Product Description:
The MSR 312053 GroundHog Tent Stake Kit features eight lightweight, impossible-to-bend tent stakes. These 7.5-inch, anodized aluminum stakes are versatile enough to work well with just about any tent and durable enough to last for years.
About MSR
Mountain Safety Research (MSR) designs, manufactures, and markets innovative adventure gear for outdoor enthusiasts. The ever-growing MSR product line is most popular with mountaineers, backpackers, and campers. MSR is the industry leader in reliability and quality with every product it focuses on--tents, stoves, water filters, snowshoes, cookware, climbing gear, fuel, and related accessories. All of MSR's products set the benchmark in performance throughout the specialty outdoor industry. MSR is also one of the most widely distributed brands in the outdoor industry and provides products to more than 1,200 specialty retailers in North America and export to more than 30 countries.


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