The third advantage of buying the Big Agnes groundsheet is that enables you to set up your tent in the rain while keeping the main part of the tent dry. The poles attach to the groundsheet and then you attach the rain fly and finally you attach the tent itself while under shelter.
Hmmm. Perhaps I will try this... I mean I totally get the point, my issue is more that they don't include the groundsheet when you already have to shell out $450 for the tent. I know it's on sale now that they're coming out with a new version next year but principally speaking, do you think the groundsheet is really worth the extra $70?
@@FinerBub I got both the tent and the ground sheet at roughly 30-35% off from REI in December. That makes the price for the ground sheet - and the price for the overall package - much more reasonable. I'm looking forward to using my tent as the weather turns. I'm planning on hiking from Front Royal VA to Springer Mtn GA this spring and looking forward to using this tent for that trip.
I bought this version and have only used it once so far but loved it. Then I saw the 2020 version and wish I would have waited. The 2020 version looks so much more awesome.
I hear you but as Qui-Gon Jinn says "there is always a bigger fish." I'm sure you won't worry about it as much once you've used it more. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Most large outdoor retailers do 20-40% discounts in BA stuff a couple of times a year (in addition to REI). You can also find the footprint on this discount. It’s awesome to have, especially for a pitch in the rain. You can pitch the fly/footprint then sit inside and put up the inner tent with you and all your gear in a drier environment. Worth the 40-60 bucks after about the second huge storm you need to pitch in. Just an alternate perspective on footprints. I love my copper spur hv ul2 bikepacker edition with super shorty poles.
I've been trying to figure out how to set up just the rainfly first, for rain setup. Finally it makes sense now. I've asked Google in different ways and did not provide any helpful links. Thanks bub!
Hi there. Great review...thank you. I’ve been debating for days over the MSR hubba hubba or Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. I have seen the REI tent, but unfortunately being in Australia the tent is not easily available.I’m looking to upgrade. The above mentioned two tents in my opinion are excellent. The tent will used just by me...for one man multi day hiking trips (thru hikes etc). All of my (other) gear is super light (my other 3 of my big 4 weigh right on 2kgs (4.4 lbs) so weight Is no issue in deciding between the tents...but in saying that welcome any weight saving options) and I don’t mind carrying the extra weight of a two person tent as I prefer the added room and comfort after a day of hiking.I’m leaning towards the Big Agnes, but did see one review where the reviewer measured the internal dimensions of the Big Agnes and they were significantly smaller (48 inches at the top opposed to advertised 52 inches and 38 inches at the bottom as opposed to the advertised 42 inches). Not a super huge problem for me, as I will predominantly using the tent for solo trips...but would like the tent to be the advertised dimensions in case I do want to ever use it for two people purposes. The reviewer said that they couldn’t fit two 20 inch thermarest mattresses in the tent. Was just wondering if you have this issue or if the tent that the reviewer was reviewing was a lemon? You mentioned that you and your wife use the tent together...so was wondering how as a duo you find the internal space? Thanks for your time. Stay safe.
Not only have me and my wife and I slept in this tent together, I have had the distinct pleasure of sleeping in this tent with not one but at least four fully grown men on separate occasions and I can assure you that it is most definitely large enough for two👍 I have no experience with the MSR however I can assure you that the Big Agnes will not disappoint! Thanks for commenting bud! Let me know what you end up with
FinerBub thanks legend. I’m definitely leaning towards the BA big time. Plus I can get it for $215 less than the MSR....which is always attractive. I was actually going to flip a coin, but I’m pretty sure the BA will win outright...price, weight savings, other reviews, “professional” reviews, plus the 2020 features. Thanks again, I think it’s your video that will push the BA over the line for me...cheers.
The best thing about having the matching groundsheet IS being able to set up just the footprint and the rainfly - and then go inside and set up the inner tent! That way you don't get any rain in your tent during setup. Of course, an easy hack is to just grab a normal tarp, measure out the appropriate locations, do some minor sewing to create the straps, and set in four grommets yourself. Either way, I want the function of being able to set up the rainfly first. It's a deal-breaker for me - I don't want to be limited by a bit of rain, and I don't want the stress of setting up a tent during a downpour.
The one thing I was a little disappointed with on mine was that it did not come with enough stakes to pin down the tent and guide lines. I had to go buy a few extras in order to tie it down properly in the wind. Its a small thing, but I would think that a tent at this price point would have everything it needs.
@@garyturner4683 REI. About $350 for the tent and $50 for the footprint. That doesn't include the 10% back that REI gives members. I advise the footprint, the tent floor feels very thin. Plus if you have the footprint you can set up the fly without the tent, a kind beach sun shade mode. You can also set up the tent in the rain but seeing up the fly first. It took a little longer to set up than my previous tents but worth it with the options the tent gives.
I've used it three times now. Very happy. The new "porch" mode is OK. It's not that big so probably won't help much with a proper rain or sun. It is much better than working in a vestibule.
I use a chunk of Tyvek with adhesive strips that have grommets on the ends that you can attach to the Tyvek sheet. It's cheap light weight and durable....
Nice! Yeah, a lot of people seem to really like the Tyvek option. Great idea with the grommet strips though, I've got to try that out at some point! Thanks
Great review bud. I live BB in Scotland and hike in the highlands. I was watching to see if BB the tent could be set up in the rain using a groundsheet and setting up the poles first. I think from your review this is possible. And with a little work with a sewing machine and some eyelets no reason why you couldn’t replicate the groundsheet from the cheaper contractors tarps 👍🏻. Thanks for the review
Thanks man! And yeah, setting the tent up in the rain seems to be the main reason ppl get the matching groundsheet, at least based on other feedback I’ve received on this video. But good call on the eyelets, might be a good project to test out for another video. Appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thanks again!
the only reason I might buy the 'footprint" is that it would allow me to set up the tent in a steady rain by setting up the fly onto the footprint first - and then setting up the actual tent inside the fly (out of the rain)....
I hear ya. I've set it up in the rain a few times. In those cases I usually just try to set everything up as fast as I can and hope for the best lol. Hasn't failed me yet! Thanks for commenting!
Honestly, I've always just gone to the dollar store and bought a cheap shower curtain, cut it to size, and used it as a footprint. Never had any problems.
Thanks for the info.. I've used 3mil plastic for years as a "ground cloth", even now as I use a hammock system.. However, looking at a tents for time to time use.....
I've been watching tent review videos all night, and this was by far the best & most informative. My fiance and I have our eye on this one for some two person backpacking. I'm worried about being 6'3" 220lbs with two adults. Think it would still work? I will definitely check out your car camping with the Half Dome; I've contemplated getting the 3+. Keep up the good work!
Wow thanks for saying that! In terms of the rent, I definitely have a bit of headroom but I’m 5’10” so it’s hard to say. It’s made to be as small as it can be while still fitting two people. So I’m sure you could pull it off but yeah, before spending all that money I’d go to a store (when they’re open again) and have them set one up so you can lie down in it to be sure
really appreciate all the insight in your video, also the light humor of it all. all this research for gear can be mind numbingly exhausting! I think I'm gonna get this tent now! also, would you have any thoughts on a cooking system for international travel. i was thinking about getting the MSR Dragonfly but am not sure about the availability of inexpensive fuel through the world. I plan to go wild camping around the world so I'll need something very versatile. Any thoughts on this would be awesome :) Thanks!
For sure! I’ve had the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 for a couple years and have had no issues so far in the US. Haven’t really used it outside the US other than in Iceland where the fuel was insanely expensive. I have heard that white gas and alcohol based stove fuel are less expensive than the pressurized canisters that I use, so it might be worth looking into a whisperlite or alcohol stove however in certain areas I’ve heard it can be harder to find. To be sure, I’d check with someone who has been to the place you are planning on traveling to. Thanks for leaving such a thoughtful comment! I’m glad you got so much out of the video and I’m sorry I didn’t have more info for you about the stoves. Once summer comes around I’m hoping to do a full review of my camping cook set, until then I’d love to hear what you find out. Just out of curiosity, what countries are you planning on traveling to?
Great review it was very informative! I was just wondering if you could compress the tent into a smaller volume if you remove the poles bag and carry them separately, similarly to the Nemo line of tents
Absolutely! I often strap the poles to the outside of my pack so that they sit in one of the water bottle pockets on the side. Thanks so much for your nice comment! Much appreciated!
Glad to see Johnny Manziel got a job reviewing tents after his career in the NFL didn't pan out. Good review, but the bit about the groundsheet isn't completely accurate. It is worth setting up the ground sheet and rain fly in order to get your tent set up during a rain without getting the actual tent body itself wet. Also, the footprint is going to be a lot lighter than the tarp, and finally it isn't used to keep moisture out, but more importantly it is used for an extra barrier between the ground and your tent to prevent punctures in rough terrain bc UL tents are made with thinner fabric (although the blue tarp would do the same thing). After my constructive criticism, hope you don't take it to heart, I would like to ask you how you and your significant other like the space the UL2? I'm trying to decide between that or the UL3 for my wife and myself.
Ha you should see me with a buzz cut. Last time I had one I got asked to be in mad ppls photos😂. And I def appreciate the comment as well as the humor! Thanks for taking the time! As for the space in the UL2 tent, when two people are lying down it's as cramped as any other 2-person backpacking tent (though there is a lot of vertical space for sitting / kneeling hence the HV in HV UL2). I’m 5’10” and def have several inches to spare both above my head and below my feet when I'm lying down. Width wise, two sleeping pads will pretty much cover the entire floor side-to-side. So to answer your question, I think it really depends on why you think you might want extra room. If it is just for gear like backpacks, boots and whatnot, I'd say that the UL2's two vestibules are more than enough. I'd only go for the UL3 if you want more space to move around inside the tent and don't mind carrying the extra eight or so ounces between the two of you. Hope that helps!
As an experienced yet not expert backpacker. I do agree that the footprint does offer protection to the floor of the tent. A well as keeping dirt and debris off the bottom side of the tent. But it also gives you a little more protection against moisture. We had our footprint under our mutha hubba just recently. The temps at night dipped down to 2 degrees celsius. When we were packing the tent down we noticed moisture had collected on the footprint but not the tent floor. In rainy conditions the result should be the same. Taking into consideration that the ground sheet is properly placed under the tent.
Nope, you’re correct! It is bank line! It’s a kind of tarred twine that’s used for trot line fishing but I’ve found it to be useful for all sorts of things. I believe I used size/thickness #36 for the clothes line
Yikes! Thanks for the feedback, Sebastian. I appreciate your honesty. Would you be willing to check out some of my more recent videos to let me know if I’m improving? Either way, thanks for commenting!
The third advantage of buying the Big Agnes groundsheet is that enables you to set up your tent in the rain while keeping the main part of the tent dry. The poles attach to the groundsheet and then you attach the rain fly and finally you attach the tent itself while under shelter.
Hmmm. Perhaps I will try this... I mean I totally get the point, my issue is more that they don't include the groundsheet when you already have to shell out $450 for the tent. I know it's on sale now that they're coming out with a new version next year but principally speaking, do you think the groundsheet is really worth the extra $70?
@@FinerBub I got both the tent and the ground sheet at roughly 30-35% off from REI in December. That makes the price for the ground sheet - and the price for the overall package - much more reasonable. I'm looking forward to using my tent as the weather turns. I'm planning on hiking from Front Royal VA to Springer Mtn GA this spring and looking forward to using this tent for that trip.
@@tortoisetrek8318 That's awesome! You're gonna have a great time. Shenandoah is beautiful. I've gotta get back there at some point
Just got one at a REI garage sale today. $200 and was only used twice! Still smells new. Well worth it. Very lightweight. 👍🏽
Hell yeah!
I bought this version and have only used it once so far but loved it. Then I saw the 2020 version and wish I would have waited. The 2020 version looks so much more awesome.
I hear you but as Qui-Gon Jinn says "there is always a bigger fish." I'm sure you won't worry about it as much once you've used it more. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Most large outdoor retailers do 20-40% discounts in BA stuff a couple of times a year (in addition to REI). You can also find the footprint on this discount. It’s awesome to have, especially for a pitch in the rain. You can pitch the fly/footprint then sit inside and put up the inner tent with you and all your gear in a drier environment. Worth the 40-60 bucks after about the second huge storm you need to pitch in. Just an alternate perspective on footprints. I love my copper spur hv ul2 bikepacker edition with super shorty poles.
Great tip! Thanks for commenting!
I've been trying to figure out how to set up just the rainfly first, for rain setup. Finally it makes sense now. I've asked Google in different ways and did not provide any helpful links. Thanks bub!
For sure! Glad I could help
Hi there.
Great review...thank you.
I’ve been debating for days over the MSR hubba hubba or Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. I have seen the REI tent, but unfortunately being in Australia the tent is not easily available.I’m looking to upgrade. The above mentioned two tents in my opinion are excellent. The tent will used just by me...for one man multi day hiking trips (thru hikes etc). All of my (other) gear is super light (my other 3 of my big 4 weigh right on 2kgs (4.4 lbs) so weight Is no issue in deciding between the tents...but in saying that welcome any weight saving options) and I don’t mind carrying the extra weight of a two person tent as I prefer the added room and comfort after a day of hiking.I’m leaning towards the Big Agnes, but did see one review where the reviewer measured the internal dimensions of the Big Agnes and they were significantly smaller (48 inches at the top opposed to advertised 52 inches and 38 inches at the bottom as opposed to the advertised 42 inches). Not a super huge problem for me, as I will predominantly using the tent for solo trips...but would like the tent to be the advertised dimensions in case I do want to ever use it for two people purposes. The reviewer said that they couldn’t fit two 20 inch thermarest mattresses in the tent. Was just wondering if you have this issue or if the tent that the reviewer was reviewing was a lemon? You mentioned that you and your wife use the tent together...so was wondering how as a duo you find the internal space?
Thanks for your time. Stay safe.
Not only have me and my wife and I slept in this tent together, I have had the distinct pleasure of sleeping in this tent with not one but at least four fully grown men on separate occasions and I can assure you that it is most definitely large enough for two👍 I have no experience with the MSR however I can assure you that the Big Agnes will not disappoint! Thanks for commenting bud! Let me know what you end up with
FinerBub thanks legend. I’m definitely leaning towards the BA big time. Plus I can get it for $215 less than the MSR....which is always attractive. I was actually going to flip a coin, but I’m pretty sure the BA will win outright...price, weight savings, other reviews, “professional” reviews, plus the 2020 features. Thanks again, I think it’s your video that will push the BA over the line for me...cheers.
Awesome dude!
The best thing about having the matching groundsheet IS being able to set up just the footprint and the rainfly - and then go inside and set up the inner tent! That way you don't get any rain in your tent during setup.
Of course, an easy hack is to just grab a normal tarp, measure out the appropriate locations, do some minor sewing to create the straps, and set in four grommets yourself.
Either way, I want the function of being able to set up the rainfly first. It's a deal-breaker for me - I don't want to be limited by a bit of rain, and I don't want the stress of setting up a tent during a downpour.
Yeah good point! I’d be curious to know what you end up getting. Thanks for commenting! Really appreciate the input!
The one thing I was a little disappointed with on mine was that it did not come with enough stakes to pin down the tent and guide lines. I had to go buy a few extras in order to tie it down properly in the wind. Its a small thing, but I would think that a tent at this price point would have everything it needs.
Yeah I hear that. I feel the same way about the groundsheet
I just bought the same tent, 2020 model on sale. Should arrive next week in time to hit the mountains on the weekend.
Sweet! That extra zipper feature on the vestibule looks dope
Hi Garry, may I ask where you purchased yours from & price? Thanks, Gary T.
@@garyturner4683 REI. About $350 for the tent and $50 for the footprint. That doesn't include the 10% back that REI gives members. I advise the footprint, the tent floor feels very thin. Plus if you have the footprint you can set up the fly without the tent, a kind beach sun shade mode. You can also set up the tent in the rain but seeing up the fly first. It took a little longer to set up than my previous tents but worth it with the options the tent gives.
I've used it three times now. Very happy. The new "porch" mode is OK. It's not that big so probably won't help much with a proper rain or sun. It is much better than working in a vestibule.
You still rockin this tent?? I wonder if you swapped to tiger wall ul2
Just bought this tent, due to your review. Thank you.
Wow that’s awesome! Glad you found it helpful!
FinerBub plus it’s on sale at REI for $291.
Nice! That is a sick deal!
That’s dope
@@jessecarlton2021 That's honestly amazing. Such a good deal
Love the music. Great editing. Good choice in a tent. I have owned a Copper Spur UL 2 for a few years. Keep rocking. TX Jack
Thanks, man! That's great to hear. Glad you enjoyed it! And will do! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment
I use a chunk of Tyvek with adhesive strips that have grommets on the ends that you can attach to the Tyvek sheet. It's cheap light weight and durable....
Nice! Yeah, a lot of people seem to really like the Tyvek option. Great idea with the grommet strips though, I've got to try that out at some point! Thanks
Great review bud. I live BB in Scotland and hike in the highlands. I was watching to see if BB the tent could be set up in the rain using a groundsheet and setting up the poles first. I think from your review this is possible. And with a little work with a sewing machine and some eyelets no reason why you couldn’t replicate the groundsheet from the cheaper contractors tarps 👍🏻. Thanks for the review
Thanks man! And yeah, setting the tent up in the rain seems to be the main reason ppl get the matching groundsheet, at least based on other feedback I’ve received on this video. But good call on the eyelets, might be a good project to test out for another video. Appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thanks again!
FinerBub no probs. If you do make a groundsheet let me know how it works out. Or maybe just straps with eyelets to be less bulky and weighted. 👍🏻
@@summittaedae2323 Will do, man. Thanks again!
@@summittaedae2323 Word. Will do!
"Don't do drugs kids, you'll live out here." was hilarious, I loved it! "Geez what are you a flight attendant or something?" Won a subscriber!
Lol Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it! Welcome to the Fellowship!
the only reason I might buy the 'footprint" is that it would allow me to set up the tent in a steady rain by setting up the fly onto the footprint first - and then setting up the actual tent inside the fly (out of the rain)....
I hear ya. I've set it up in the rain a few times. In those cases I usually just try to set everything up as fast as I can and hope for the best lol. Hasn't failed me yet! Thanks for commenting!
Thanks for the video! Love the tip on making a clothesline... brilliant!
Hey thanks so much!
Honestly, I've always just gone to the dollar store and bought a cheap shower curtain, cut it to size, and used it as a footprint. Never had any problems.
Great idea!
Great Job. You're a pretty funny guy. I have the 3 person and it's by far the best tent I've ever owned.
Hey, thanks!
Thanks for the info.. I've used 3mil plastic for years as a "ground cloth", even now as I use a hammock system.. However, looking at a tents for time to time use.....
Nice!
Me too. polycro is an amazing way to go and super light weight.
I'm sold. Thanks for the excellent review!
Awesome! I appreciate you taking the time to say so!
So this tent did well with high winds
Yes
I love mine. I found it on sale for under $300. Ground sheet on eBay for $35 !!
Niiice!
Good comments and considerations here.
Thanks!
Very informative and thorough review!
Thanks!
great video, thanks for the info!
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for commenting!
I've been watching tent review videos all night, and this was by far the best & most informative. My fiance and I have our eye on this one for some two person backpacking. I'm worried about being 6'3" 220lbs with two adults. Think it would still work? I will definitely check out your car camping with the Half Dome; I've contemplated getting the 3+. Keep up the good work!
Wow thanks for saying that! In terms of the rent, I definitely have a bit of headroom but I’m 5’10” so it’s hard to say. It’s made to be as small as it can be while still fitting two people. So I’m sure you could pull it off but yeah, before spending all that money I’d go to a store (when they’re open again) and have them set one up so you can lie down in it to be sure
really appreciate all the insight in your video, also the light humor of it all. all this research for gear can be mind numbingly exhausting! I think I'm gonna get this tent now!
also, would you have any thoughts on a cooking system for international travel. i was thinking about getting the MSR Dragonfly but am not sure about the availability of inexpensive fuel through the world. I plan to go wild camping around the world so I'll need something very versatile. Any thoughts on this would be awesome :) Thanks!
For sure! I’ve had the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 for a couple years and have had no issues so far in the US. Haven’t really used it outside the US other than in Iceland where the fuel was insanely expensive. I have heard that white gas and alcohol based stove fuel are less expensive than the pressurized canisters that I use, so it might be worth looking into a whisperlite or alcohol stove however in certain areas I’ve heard it can be harder to find. To be sure, I’d check with someone who has been to the place you are planning on traveling to.
Thanks for leaving such a thoughtful comment! I’m glad you got so much out of the video and I’m sorry I didn’t have more info for you about the stoves. Once summer comes around I’m hoping to do a full review of my camping cook set, until then I’d love to hear what you find out.
Just out of curiosity, what countries are you planning on traveling to?
Great review it was very informative!
I was just wondering if you could compress the tent into a smaller volume if you remove the poles bag and carry them separately, similarly to the Nemo line of tents
Absolutely! I often strap the poles to the outside of my pack so that they sit in one of the water bottle pockets on the side. Thanks so much for your nice comment! Much appreciated!
Glad to see Johnny Manziel got a job reviewing tents after his career in the NFL didn't pan out. Good review, but the bit about the groundsheet isn't completely accurate. It is worth setting up the ground sheet and rain fly in order to get your tent set up during a rain without getting the actual tent body itself wet. Also, the footprint is going to be a lot lighter than the tarp, and finally it isn't used to keep moisture out, but more importantly it is used for an extra barrier between the ground and your tent to prevent punctures in rough terrain bc UL tents are made with thinner fabric (although the blue tarp would do the same thing). After my constructive criticism, hope you don't take it to heart, I would like to ask you how you and your significant other like the space the UL2? I'm trying to decide between that or the UL3 for my wife and myself.
Ha you should see me with a buzz cut. Last time I had one I got asked to be in mad ppls photos😂. And I def appreciate the comment as well as the humor! Thanks for taking the time! As for the space in the UL2 tent, when two people are lying down it's as cramped as any other 2-person backpacking tent (though there is a lot of vertical space for sitting / kneeling hence the HV in HV UL2). I’m 5’10” and def have several inches to spare both above my head and below my feet when I'm lying down. Width wise, two sleeping pads will pretty much cover the entire floor side-to-side. So to answer your question, I think it really depends on why you think you might want extra room. If it is just for gear like backpacks, boots and whatnot, I'd say that the UL2's two vestibules are more than enough. I'd only go for the UL3 if you want more space to move around inside the tent and don't mind carrying the extra eight or so ounces between the two of you. Hope that helps!
@@FinerBub Sounds good. I think I'm going to go with the UL2 then since I may use it on solo trips as well.
As an experienced yet not expert backpacker. I do agree that the footprint does offer protection to the floor of the tent. A well as keeping dirt and debris off the bottom side of the tent. But it also gives you a little more protection against moisture. We had our footprint under our mutha hubba just recently. The temps at night dipped down to 2 degrees celsius. When we were packing the tent down we noticed moisture had collected on the footprint but not the tent floor. In rainy conditions the result should be the same. Taking into consideration that the ground sheet is properly placed under the tent.
this is the perfect tent.
Yeah it's pretty great. Thanks for commenting!
I don’t think you mentioned he 1 year warranty for anything bought from REI
Great point! Thanks man!
What's that line you use for clothes line? I hear you saying "bankline" xD I think my english vocabulary failed me.
Nope, you’re correct! It is bank line! It’s a kind of tarred twine that’s used for trot line fishing but I’ve found it to be useful for all sorts of things. I believe I used size/thickness #36 for the clothes line
$12 Tyvek > blue tarp
I’ll take your word for it
I have Hilleberg..
What’s that?
Wow.. I hope you're being paid for this. What a job..
Ha! I wish
Not a review at all. He just tells us that it’s the one he bought, and shows us that he’s a bad frustrated comedian. Nothing helpful.
Yikes! Thanks for the feedback, Sebastian. I appreciate your honesty. Would you be willing to check out some of my more recent videos to let me know if I’m improving? Either way, thanks for commenting!