Blacktail 2 Hotel Tent
Just purchased a new Blacktail 2 Hotel tent by Big Agnes (purchased it from the Moto Camp Nerd store). I had the Tiger Ultralight but found that it just did not have enough room and I was not happy with the overall design. It may be since I am tall and had trouble getting in and out of the tent or the lack of being free standing...honestly, I am not sure. I just was not happy with it.
I have used quite a number of tents backpacking from single to double to triples. The last time we took our bikes out, I was not happy with the space so I decided to get a tent with a HUGE vestibule. The tent does weight a bit more and it is bit bulkier but I am hoping it will be worth it. Room to store gear and also a way to get in and out of the tent without bringing in the weather (try getting into a tent while it is raining and keep the inside of the tent dry).
I have not used the tent yet (will update this once I have) but have taken it out of the bag and set it all up at home. Since it was raining, I did the setup in my basement (no tent stakes). I do like the freestanding part of the tent. I crawled inside and the tent is quite roomy. I am not too concerned about having a lot of gear IN the tent since there is such a large vestibule but I will have my clothes and helmet (boots, etc will stay outside).
The tent is a bit heavier and you can tell the difference in the materials when setting up the tent and the fly. The lighter weight tents are made from nylon whereas the Blacktail is polyester. You can feel the difference. I am not sure one is any stronger than the other but the polyester does weigh a bit more.
As with all the Big Agnes tents, plenty of storage pockets inside and a loop in the center for hanging a light. The doors use the double zipper design and the fly openings should allow plenty of air flow.
Overall I am happy with the tent. Using it camping will be the true test and am looking forward to it.
Update 9/26
Was able to use the tent again on a real camping trip this past weekend (more than one night). I love it. The amount of room in the vestibule allows you to store just about anything you want. The tent itself is very roomy as well. I only got the two man tent but am glad I did not get the three man as it would have been a waste of room. I stored my clothes in the tent but everything else stayed in the vestibule.
Setup is not difficult. The footprint can be a bit confusing. You need to lay it down the correct way or the colored tabs will not be correct. Not hard but just pay attention (yes I got it correct...lol). The pole for the vestibule can be a bit sticky getting it through (and taking it out). I am hoping it will get better with age. Other than those two things, it is a great tent and am very happy I upgraded.