What I’ve noticed with American versus European 4 season tents is that the American tents focus on warmth and snow loading rather than high winds. As someone who camps in the UK, my primary focus when buying a 4 season tent is wind resistance. I don’t think this is the case with American tents. I can’t believe the price of this though. It’s ridiculously over priced and just not suited to UK winters. Great review Tom 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Jamie, I hope you are well and thank you for your input here as I know that you have great experience with decent tents... I totally agree about American tents and the snow loading wind resistance thing. I greater mountain ranges snow loading resistance is more important and I can understand that... I have had 3 North Face VE25 S and despite all the great reviews and expedition testing they are not great wind tents. Above 50mph they really struggle. This one here is really poor. I think I measured 26mph and it was flattened by a stronger gusts. Last night I had the Abisko out again and measured 43mph and the higher gusts used bounced off it. Even taking the tent down in the constant 40mph was seriously easy and I think this shows how much more the tent can take.... GREAT to hear your thoughts on this one.... ATB Tom

@jamiecrutchley3550

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 It’s great to hear your experience of the VE25 as I always assumed they would be bomb proof in the wind. Obviously not then. I honestly think a well pitched tunnel is the strongest tent design as they flex with the wind rather than try to resist it. It might be a bad analogy, but I always think of geodesics vs tunnels like helicopters vs aeroplanes…..one pummels physics into submission whereas the other just goes with it. Anyway, glad your enjoying the Abisko. Atb.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

@@jamiecrutchley3550 Yeah many many bent poles on the Ve25s. You wanna try pitching one of those on your own with big wind gusts... Even pitching with two people is tricky...Yes I think tunnels are the way forward for sure.... ATB mate. Tom

Excellent review as always Tom.I think the search for a perfect tent continues for us all.would be great to see you team up with a tent manufacturer and see what your perfect tent design would look like .look forward to your next video.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Joe, I hope that you are well. Thank you for watching and commenting once again on my videos. One of my perfect 4 season 2 person tent thoughts would be the Terra Nova Super Quasar with Hilleberg fabrics, poles and fly first pitching - beat that.... ATB Tom

Thanks Tom for bring us an honest review. Great job capturing that moment of collapse, a huge eye opener!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Fred, I hope that you are well. Yes it happened twice so the second time I had the camera ready. Couldn't get it from the outside of the tent though which would have been good to see too. Its definitely about collecting the evidence and measuring the wind speed too to give an honest account of what happened... ATB Tom

@kayasper6081

2 жыл бұрын

Another great review! I totally agree with the suggested alternatives, especially the first you mention, haha. The next six months that will be the shelter I rely on every night. However, I love to see you reviews and learn from them.

Brilliant Tom! I place a lot of value on reviews like this where the reviewer has not received the product free from a supplier or even paid their own cash for it - so easy for bias to slip in. I know fair reviews can still be made when products are reviewed as supplied by a supplier…however my suspicious radar is usually on high alert! So you won’t be buying the tent from me then? 😂 I totally agree with your assessment wholeheartedly - I’ve used it in one storm and that flexing of the pole highlighted its vulnerability to me for sure! As you know I’ve used the 3 season MSR Hubba Hubba for years and I wanted something to cater for my 4 season needs. I watched your Hilleberg reviews with interest but always felt they were too high spec for my actual needs so I settled on the Access 2. The extra guylines and the lest mesh of the Access 2 are definitely an upgrade on the Hubba Hubba and mostly have met my 4 season camping needs, although I appreciate that calling it 4 season is a stretch! For very strong winds on an exposed mountain top - I’ll be looking elsewhere or staying at home to wash my hair 🤔 I would definitely love a Hilleberg for the bottom drawer for those occasional times I’d like to camp in conditions that my Access 2 wouldn’t handle…maybe this year! As an aside - I fell for the Lanshan propaganda on KZread last year that so many are using - many seem very happy with them but it didn’t meet my needs on exposed mountain tops and worrying about condensation (with the pro version). All part of the learning - to see what works for us and hopefully not waste too much money along the way!! A great, honest and thorough review as ever Tom 👍 Thanks for the channel shout-out too - you’re very good! 😎

@joebeatty4405

2 жыл бұрын

You are welcome to give my soulo a try anytime Miriam.

@MiriamKennedy

2 жыл бұрын

@@joebeatty4405 cheers Joe! I may take you up on that offer at some stage, thanks for that! Tom has offered a lend of his Hillebergs to me too…I’ll quite likely take the plunge and bring one out for a test camp. Thanks for the offer and I’ll get in touch if I decide to take the plunge!! Cheers Joe 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Miriam, thank you for this very thoughtful and detailed comment supporting my content here as the owner of this MSR Access 2. I do make a big effort to be fair on all my reviews ( the age of the footprint here was very relevant ha ha) and any thoughts or opinions that I have are based on my experience over the years. There is a lot of choice out there regarding outdoor clothing or equipment and its very hard to pick a winner as users needs can vary greatly. I love testing tents in harsh weather for example and this throws up many challenges and stresses on equipment that other users may never come across. I do see many pitfalls with gear and want to help other users avoid them if possible as even the big brands can be guilty of cost cutting and quality control. I also try to see gear performance and needs from other peoples point of view when possible. I really appreciate the lending of this tent to make this review possible... ATVB Tom

@MiriamKennedy

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 a pleasure Tom - I have my next tent ready for you to take out soon 😂 My new 3 season lightweight 1 person tent - Sea to Summit Alto TR1 (I’m going to put a Hilleberg logo somewhere on it for you). Ah no - if you fancy reviewing 3 season tents, this lightweight option is possibly one that some people are considering. I’ve only used it on one camp so far but I’ll do a few more outings with it and throw it your direction if you’d like to try it out and tell the world what you think of it 😎

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@MiriamKennedy Hi Miriam, thank you for the offer. Yes I have never really reviewed a 3 season tent so I would love and appreciate the opportunity to do this. I can remember not too long ago when I worked for Cotswold Outdoor I was a massive fan of Haglofs (still am). At Christmas we had a secret Santa and one of the staff got a 10 litre £10 ruck sack and very skilfully placed a Haglofs logo over the Regatta one.. I tell you there was some laughing when the staff saw my delighted face followed by the disappointment when I discovered it was a fake... What a nasty trick ha ha

Your hardest review but one of your best. Plus bit of a shocker! Cheers Tom.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, thank you for your support as ever and commenting on this video... Hope you are well and working on some content yourself... ATB Tom

As always, Tom, a very thorough and honest review. It’s amazing how top manufacturers make their false claims about its components and it’s suitability for 4-season use! It’s good to see you called them out. It’s funny as I mention the MSR Hubba on my next video as one that’s very small, but still comes with a big price. Not value for money in my opinion. Well done Tom. Really enjoyed this video. 😁

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Barry, thank you for commenting as a fellow content creator and and another tent fanatic like myself on KZread. My gut feelings regarding weather resistance for this tent were not great and this was proven from just one camp.... I have never been a fan of ultralight fabrics either from past experience. Really look forward to your next video and hope its up for viewing soon..ATB Tom

@wildmountainman1

2 жыл бұрын

Totally agree, Tom. It’s amazing how they can make bonus claims about its ;-season strength when in fact it’s more a 3-seasonish tent. Yes, my video should be out in the next day or two. Great views on your vid too - well done!

Thanks for the Honest review Tom :) You've confirmed my expectations of it. I would not trust this in the Swedish mountains even in the summer. Sticking wil Hillebergs :) BTW - You've really stepped up your cinematography skills with this one Tom!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Rob thank you I know you love the honest reviews .... Its definitely not a tent for me either as the first thing I look for is strength and durability. It falls very short of my expectations here... Had good fun with the drone showcasing this one too... Tom

Nice job Tom 👏 I wouldn't fancy taking this shape of tent up on the summits in the winter

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Adam, I am glad its not mine... Its light but you pay the price... ATB Tom

thanks buddy for the good unbiased review of this msr tent model. your testing helped me today to avoid an expensive failure/ purchase... wind/ weather protection a key for me as well (especially for a 4 season tent). best greetings from Germany

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey thank you for the comment...I nearly bought this tent but thankfully I read some reviews and decided not to... Definitely not for me and my type of camping in windy environments... All the very best wishes.. Tom

Tom, a really good and honest review, thanks. I have very high regard for MSR due to their philosophy and my experience and the reputation of their stoves and cook gear. I've viewed their tents and wondered and considered buying, but never have. Following your review, I never will. I've always played safe with tents and over-specked to have shelters that protect in a gale/storm. Under no circumstances do I want to have soaking sleeping bag and pools on the floor. Once had to abandon camp with a Hilleberg Nammatj with a broken pole/torn flysheet and many times a wet interior with it. So, when I see Miriam's tent collapsing, I just write-it-off. Well done with this review.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Gary its great to hear from you again. Must be partly because I recommended the Unna.. Bet that put a smile on your face ha ha.. MSR stoves are top quality in all the experience that I have had with them. Their tents are popular too, probably riding on the stove reputation. I never thought this tent could be particularly strong and it took one camp to confirm it. It's the marketing for this tent that is all wrong and misleading. Tell me its a 3 season shelter an that changes everything almost... ATB Tom

@Super.Quasar

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Tom, I don’t see how it can be even a 3 season tent when the end bows in like that. With rain, the fly and inside touching will lead to water ingress and wet sleeping bag, in my experience with the Nammatj. Winds that bend poles exist in the other three seasons, so with this tent one could never be secure. 4 season tents are about snow loading and continual high speed winds over an extended period. This tent being a 4 is a joke, not even a 3, imo. In fact, for secure wild camping I’m not sure it can be rated for the UK. . MSR need to take note of your review and redesign it, or withdraw it from the range.

@Super.Quasar

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 BTW, the Una with 10mm poles is a true 4 season tent. The 10mm poles, or double poling will never break and wind and rain will not cause the fabric to fail under any conditions I can imagine. It isn’t as tough as the Soulo BL, but it’s a much better place to be locked down in. For £50 more than the MSR, one get a hell of a lot more security. Try one. Ha.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@Super.Quasar Hi Gary, I think the BL Soulo will go and be replaced soon.. I know only £50 more that the MSR makes it very attractive. I might be tempted on a Nammatj 2 due to the extra space and replacing a BL with a BL. I do love the simplicity of the Unna and that wide door opening.. ATB Tom

I've owned and sold this tent for what you call Tom. Definitely not a 4 season tent. A beautiful tent, especially inside. Replaced it with the Hilleberg Tarra. That is quite something different. Thank you Tom for this nice review, everything you say is correct.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Raymond, great to have your support on this one especially someone from who has owned and used it.. Its always risky going against the grain of other reviews but I am highly disappointed at MSR for their claims regarding this tent. How many people will have purchased it on the strength of what the manufacturer says?? ATB Tom

Terra Nova Southern x 2 . I’m in the market and I think the Southern x 2 ticks a lot of boxes . MSR 4 seasons 🤦‍♂️ Thems soft winters I think , some of my summer trips need a tank 😂😂🇮🇪Great review as usual Tom 👌👌

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey have a look at Outdoor Intrigues review if you havnt already.. Thank you for watching so many of my vids... ATB Tom

@thomasomoore9252

Жыл бұрын

SC2... good tent, gimme a dm if you like 👍

Great review Tom. I’ve often seen this tent and never been tempted…

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Shamus, thank you for your comments. Yes I looked at it too many times but never pulled the trigger due to gut feelings. It was great to have opportunity to test it but just not for me... ATB Tom

Best review on KZread. Saved me a lot of money. Thanks

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey Marko, thank you for your feedback... Really great to hear that this video has helped you regarding buying a tent...I like to properly test tents presenting video evidence of good or bad performance... All the very best wishes Tom

Thanks Tom for another honest and fair review. My MSR hubba hubba has leaking floor issues so I'm looking for a new tent. Might just have to be a hilleberg!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Jill, thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. Yeah it doesn't get great reviews even on the MSR Website... The hydrostatic head is also very low on some MSR tents. If you need any advice on a Hilleberg I will try to help.... ATB Tom

Good review, I a free to many points. Almost all. The strength of the tent you are right also, but there is a way to make it far far more stable. I pushed the tent up to 130km/h gusts and it didn't fold together on me. The trick is to feed the storm lines on the head and food end over your tracking pole or a wooden stick in a way that the stick is just about 15 or 20 cm higher then the connection point on the tent and them down to the ground. That way the line actually holds the tent up and the wind can't push it down. You can even make it mor stronger if you do the same alo to the guidelines on the big door surfaces. Try it out, works wonders and really let's you sleep in much stronger winds.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Soeren thank you for your detailed advice here from your experience with this tent. This is definitely an option as it improves the effectiveness of the guy lines. Two trekking poles adds 300g to the weight though if you dont already use them... It will make a difference I am sure and is a modification option for sure... ATB Tom

@thomasomoore9252

Жыл бұрын

Do we really need to be doin that though. After MSRs description? I dont trust the groundsheet either and suspect 'strongly' it would wet through under pressure (knees etc) on extended wet trips. Imho.

@soerenuhlmann7078

Жыл бұрын

@@thomasomoore9252 mhh you are correct with the going so hard on the tent. I would also not recommend doing that all the time. But I think it's good to know that it can go there in an emergency. About the floor of the tent, I never had issues with that

Great review Tom, most thought-provoking, and thanks for recommending I watch it. I think the problem with this tent is that it's trying to be too many things to too many users and thus becoming a Jack-of-all-trades but master of none. My Luxe Hexpeak V4A undoubtably handles windy conditions better at 1kg less, and my Scarp 1 is 750g less and would appear to measure up at least as well across a wider range of criteria. My old Terra Nova Voyager comes in at similar weight and, as a semi-geodesic DAC-poled tent, is I guess more stable. If I was going to spend that much money on a 4-season tent weighing that much I'd be going to Hilleberg! To be honest I've never been tempted by MSR's tents - their structure just doesn't look suited to UK mountain weather. Odd that it's an acronym for Mountain Safety Research?

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi David, I thought that you would enjoy this one and thank you for commenting. MSR used to do a nice little tent called the Fury but that's about it. I really didn't like this tent mainly due to the false season and weight claims. The carbon poles too are seriously fragile and just not suited for any 4 season tent... The Voyagers are a great little design and decently light too.... Tom

I'm happy that I have choosen the Unna, based on your review of it. I have so many nighrs where the wind speed is up to 30 or 35 mp/h. So a quite safer choice in my opinion. I think the MSR tents are made for USA "summer" camping only. The Outdoor KZreadr Fritz Meinecke with his MSR Hubba had a failure in a thunderstorm, too. One tent stake came loose, a pole bent and the whole tent lost it's integrity. So for the northern winds better choose durability.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Daniel great to hear that you have chosen the Unna, its one of my favourite tents so glad that my review helped you to buy one... It comes down to the basics and that is that the tent should provide safe effective shelter in conditions suitable for the season rating. Durability is also an issue even for a 3 season tent. Who wants to buy something that wont last.. Thank you for pointing me in the direction of Fritz. Had a bit of a look at his channel but couldn't find the video.. Always interested in other peoples experiences too... ATB and keep having fun in that awesome Unna... Tom

@Daniel_S.

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Yeah, the Unna is a great tent, perfect for what I need on my trips. Always feel safe in it. Im very thankful that you brought me to this. The FM Video is this one: kzread.info/dash/bejne/pWhrqqaEpbGbk5s.html Around the time stamp 13:10 min. he had a failure of one tent stake, then 2 other tent stakes came loose. You can see how the wind is pushing the side wall of the tent before. I didn't see the bending of the pole in this video, maybe he told that in amother live stream or so. But you can clearly see how this tent is not made to withstand higher wind speeds.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@Daniel_S. Hey thank you for the link and time code... Just watched it but need to brush up on my German.. Always good to see others experiences.. ATB Tom

Great review and totally agree! I had an MSR elixir 2 and got caught out in a storm with gusts of 30-35mph and the tent unfortunately kept flexing to the point a pole snapped which led to the outer then tearing. I loved the MSR but lost confidence in case I caught out again. Now use the Terra Nova Quaser and it feels much more robust in harsher conditions.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for watching and commenting. Its not just this tent but as you say other MSR tents as well. Sorry that your experience resulted in further damage as that's no fun.. Many users get away with weaker tents on many camping trips but if you are using your tent in mountain conditions and the wind rips up its only a matter of time before you get caught out... I have had two Quasars and they never failed regarding strength. Very stable and with the double porch and no matter how windy it is the inner tent holds its position and does not deform like what we have here. Its just a pity there is such a weight penalty with the 4 pole geodesic tents.... ATB and I hope that you get many more years out of the Quasar.... Tom

@richardparker4427

Жыл бұрын

Yes and I'm afraid the access is actually worse in windy conditions than the elixir 2. I assumed the geodetic extra hoops would improve the situation but it's incredibly noisy in wind and keeps collapsing at the ends.

@carlgreene538

Жыл бұрын

I have an elixir 2 and agree with you the poles are rubbish!

Another great review very thorough tbh I've got my eye on a new 3 season tent I did look at the msr but being inner 1st is a deal breaker for me the tent I'm thinking of getting is very similar tho but the poles are on the outside the problem is at the moment they are only selling it with carbon poles and there's very little reviews of carbon poles so I'm so glad I saw this review it's made my mind up to wait till the DAC Featherlight poles are back in stock with tent.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Craig, thank you for watching and glad that you enjoyed the video. I would not go for the carbon poles at all. they even feel very flimsy and the pole walls are also very thin. The DAC S are much more right but will take the bending too if it comes down to it. Very hard to break them... Hope you don't have to wait too long. ATB Tom

Great review as per tom👍.I agree its a 3 season tent defo.I think you could well be building snowmen in the inside with the spindrift.Hope you are keeping well.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Stuart, thank you for watching once again and taking the time to comment. Yeah I thought I had found enough negatives about the tent without going into any more detail but it would suck in the spindrift too I am sure as there are significant gaps to the ground from the fly. Really good bath tub though would help a bit regarding inner tent protection but not from your kit in the vestibule getting buried in it... ATB Tom

An open and honest review 👍as always

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Trevor thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. I usually do very positive reviews on tents and equipment so at least here this one is a bit different.... ATB Tom

A stern but honest assessment . So far for all the fancy clips- it really doesn't stand any strong winds. Well done.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey thank you for your comments and watching the video... I appreciate your summary.. All the very best wishes Tom

@yep9710

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 👍👍👍I've been watching your other clips. Finally some serious screening. Well done.

Hi Tom I have the orange MSR access 3 it’s the older version that has no side vents , I found it to be a warm tent but in gusts it does collapse inwards which is strange at first but it does spring back it’s not 4 season it’s a 3.5 season tent I think and it is pricey but it’s also well made it’s that search for the perfect tent we all look for I suppose I’m looking at the falraven dome 3 to purchase soon as I’ve read great comments about it .the one thing is with the access it’s light weight for a 3 person tent great review as always 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey, I love the orange, it would almost make me buy one... The 3 person however could be even more unstable due to the tent size with the same support but obviously super lightweight... Fjalraven make great tents so I am sure that you will be really pleased with the dome 3.. A bit like the Hilleberg Allak.. ATB Tom

Hello Tom, Great review and many points spot-on. This tent (design, materials, provided accessories and features) is just NOT a 4-season go mild to wild tent. It is unsuitable in terms of: The more demanding and unfavorable conditions may get... the higher probabilities of having compromising shelter failures!!! I agree for 'fitting applications' - pricing is way too high on a tent like this.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Alaska Raft Connection, thank you for your comments and support. There are many compromises here to get the weight down. The groundsheet has a HH of 3000mm. Thats one of the lowest in the industry. Even if its not punctured I wonder how long it will keep the water out... ATB Tom

I think I’ll stick to my MSR Elixir 2 as it seems to be a better tent. Great review. Always reliable, knowledgeable and honest.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Donnie, thank you for watching and commenting on this review especially as a MSR owner.. Great to hear that you are happy with the Elixir 2... ATB Tom

@reggie9402

Жыл бұрын

I own both the Elixir 2 and the Access 2. The Elixir is leagues behind the Access. The only advantages it offers are more liveable space, bigger vestibules and more mesh for better ventilation - it's a better fair weather option but that's about it.

Fantastic review Tom. I have always been interested in this tent but no way would I be willing to pay the price that it is now. Keep up up the good work. By far the best gear reviews on KZread.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Jamie, how is your Nammatj?? I am close to buying one I think... Thank you for watching and your positive comments as always. It good to look at other tents and give them a chance. Yes the claimed season rating, volume, and weight make this tent very attractive. It has a number of reasonable reviews too but just not for me for 4 season use in windy Northern Ireland... ATVB Tom

@jamiecrutchley3550

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Hi Tom. I really like my Nammatj. I’ve used it quite a lot and for me it’s a keeper. As you know, it’s can be flappy in the wind but I genuinely think it’s one of the best 4 season tents around when taking into account the strength, weight and internal volume. I can also be quite rough with gear so like the fact the materials are so durable. Obviously it has its drawbacks but so do all tents. I’d be really interested in seeing your thoughts on one in a review 👍

@sveinottoaar2543

2 жыл бұрын

@@jamiecrutchley3550 May I ask which Nammatj you have, and how tall you are ? Do you have any issues with your sleeping bag touching the inner tent at the foot end ?

@jamiecrutchley3550

2 жыл бұрын

@@sveinottoaar2543 Hi Svein. I have the Nammatj 2 and am just over 5 foot 10. I have heard that some people have had issues with the sleeping bag touching the end of the tent, but it’s not a big issue in my opinion. As long as you pitch with the vestibule into the wind then the foot end will not get pushed onto your feet. Tom is probably better qualified to answer than me as I believe he owned a Nammatj as well and is taller than me. But for somebody my height I have had no real issues. Ideally the tent could probably do with being an inch or two longer but then your add weight and bulk so is a compromise.

@sveinottoaar2543

2 жыл бұрын

@@jamiecrutchley3550 Thanks for your response. I am taller , about 187 cm , and have opted for the Keron and Kaitum as my winter tents. I have looked at the Nammatj 2 to save some weight and keep the benefits following the BL, but so far I have put in on hold since I believe it will be too short for me. Would be nice to hear Tom’s experience though.

Good review as always Tom. Interesting to see the poles collapsing in not especially high winds. I think people have different subjective opinions as what constitutes “coping” with wind. I’m like you, when the panel is massively deflecting and poles bending I wouldn’t consider it coping. This tent has come on my radar a few times over the years but I’ve always opted for something else mainly due to the inner pitch first. Be great if you could get hold of a Kuiu storm star and a slingfin crossbow 2 and put through their paces.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Richard, thank you for this comment and discussion.... Yeah once the tent fails to sustain its internal volume its starting to fail IMO... If these conditions continue the tent becomes un liveable... Yes this tent came under my radar too but saw a few negative reviews so didn't pull the trigger on it.. The Storm star looks good and so does the Crossbow 2 . Neither are very popular in the UK so a little hard to come by for review but I would love the chance to review either and will keep your comment in mind.... ATB Tom

@richardwaudby7338

Жыл бұрын

I’ve got a feeling the storm stars popularity will grow quite quickly over the next few years if production can keep up. Especially if some more uk KZreadrs get hold of it and it gets favourable reviews. Look at the scarp even the last 2 years.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

@@richardwaudby7338 Absolutely that's why Rob invited KZreadrs to their factory as they are aware of the impact KZread reviews have on gear sales.. Yeah the Scarp has got very popular and I am sure its down to the reviews it gets... ATB Tom

Excellent review as usual - ive never been a fan of these style of tents. Theres quite a but of hype with these but in my opinion I feel they are very weak in strong winds..coupled with an inner pitch first seems crazy for 4 season.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey thank you. I am afraid there are still some who defend this tent but that's their opinion.... The carbon poles here are a joke for a 4 season tent and I am not too happy with the fabric durability too if actually used in proper 4 season conditions.. There are also many who defend the inner first pitch too. I just wish they would post some videos of putting the tent up in challenging conditions....Havnt seen any yet.... ATB Tom

Hello Tom. Fantastic review. Thanks for this! I’m a huge fan of my MSR Elixir 2, but I do worry this particular pole set up and style, as you outlined, might struggle! If you ever fancy doing a review of the elixir 2 let me know. I’m based in NI. Would be happy to provide it for a week or two! Cheers. Graham

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Graham, thank you for watching and commenting and reaching out to lend me your MSR tent.. It woul be good for me to do another MSR so I will give you a shout in the not too distant future as I have another two tent reviews lined up and some more equipment testing too.. Thank you once again and I hope that you are getting out camping yourself.. ATB Tom

Here is a gut honest review. Tents like these drown in heavy rain when pitching them, no good for me but a great summer tent. Thanks Tom

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for watching and commenting... The tent has some good points but just up to harsh winter conditions... ATB

Great review Tom. I have the tent itch again.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Dave great to hear from you... I always have a tent ich.. Even just after I bought one... Tom

I've got an Elixir 1 which has really nice space, but the fabrics and poles (7001 aluminium, not DAC) don't inspire confidence over the long term. Your reviews, plus Hilleberg's advice for my upcoming 2.5 year trip, have encouraged me to get a BL Soulo. Congratulations btw on your triathlon win in Sligo ;)

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Simsydav, thank you for your comments as an MSR tent owner. I can tell you now that you wont be disappointed with the BL Soulo. The groundsheet waterproof rating is 20,000mm compared too the 3,000 of this tent here. Appreciate you watching my many years ago Triathlon video. Hope you are well and your trip planning going well. ATB Tom

Hi Tom, without doubt another fab well thought out and honest review. I have lost faith in my Hubba Hubba due to when we bent the pole putting it up, when putting the fly sheet over the wind caught it and pushed the side right in, also in bad wind it flex’s terrible, I had considered the access 2 as it’s replacement, but went Vango again !! Bomb proof Mirage. Do I need a top range tent ? Or do I camp on the woodland edges on the bad windy nights ? Keep em coming

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Mountain Hopper keep the feedback coming too ha ha I really appreciate it... Yeah I was walking down from my camp and low and behold there were two MSR tents pitched on a campsite (not exposed). Both were taking a fair hammering from moderate wind.... Great to hear of your Hubba Hubba experience as it is a very popular tent... The Vango Sabre that was used beside me in the mountain valley took the wind no problem and one of the poles wasn't even guyed out.... ATB Tom

And in summary (drum roll please)....just get a Hilleberg!!! Another amazing review Tom.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Kevin, thank you for the positive comments.. Not so keen on this tent especially at the price and MSR s false claims... ATB Tom

I've been a fan of MSR gear for decades. I have MSR stoves, water filters, tents, and accessories that have proven to be reliable companions everywhere from Iceland to the Canadian Rockies with stops in the Southwestern deserts of America and our western coastline. I have used the MSR Hubba NX1 as my go to three season lightweight solo backpacking tent and really like it for spring/summer outings.....but I've been doing more winter camping in the mountains in New England and I've been looking really hard at the Access 2. It's light enough to solo pack, roomy enough to pull more gear in with me where winter gear is more bulky and I'm spending more time in the tent, and it's stronger than my NX1 (though admittedly not a bomb proof 4 season tent.) I don't really camp in storm conditions above tree line and so a "tree line" tent that can take more wind and snow load than my NX1 but doesn't break the weight bank seems to sit in the pocket I'm looking for. BUT.........I keep hearing about those darn Syclone poles. For the life of me I cannot fathom how or why MSR would move to a pole that is so seemingly fragile and prone to delamination/fraying at the ends.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey thank you for sharing your experiences with MSR products. I too have had many MSR cooking stoves and always been really happy and never had a failure. This (stoves etc) is where MSR have the experience and reputation, not with tents... But to be fair I know that many users are happy with a number of their 3 season models. MSR use the carbon poles partly to save weight (which sell tents). They also claim that they are pretty much unbreakable, which is not the case. If you are not subjecting your tent to harsh use and are familiar with its limitations on the other hand they you might be happy with a tent like this as if offers other advantages over your NX1... ATB Tom

@neologian1783

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Tom, thanks so much for the reply. The problem rests in what one defines as "harsh use". The Access is marketed as a sheltered 4th season tent which by definition implies harsher use than a typical 3 season tent....though perhaps not as harsh as what one might subject a true 4 season mountaineering tent to. With that in mind, the folks who have reported issues with the pole ends delaminating insist the poles did this despite using the tent within its overall design parameters. So how about yours and your split and delaminated poles? Was this a demo that you received in that condition or is that something that happened due to your own use....and if the latter.....would you say you were at fault and exceeded the conditions specified by MSR? Also, we are looking to hike the Laugavegur trail in Iceland in 2024. I'm given to understand high winds in exposed conditions are common up there in the volcanic highlands. I've seen more than a few clips of the MSR Access inner tent collapsing in strong winds (though admittedly those syclone poles bounced back rather than outright breaking as an aluminum pole likely would have.) But the overall scuttlebut is that the MSR access doesn't actually handle strong wing that well as the syclone poles have more flex and give to them than aluminum AND that the fly and guy out points do not interface with the poles at all and thus the inner tent can collapse despite complete and proper use of the guy out points. Any thoughts in this regard? Would you risk taking the MSR Access up to the Icelandic highlands.....or would you recommend something a little more bomber like a Hilleberg Kaitum......if only for peace of mind?

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

@@neologian1783 Hi you have raised some great points here... I think MSR have changed their suggested use for this tent after I had completed this review...... Not specifically after seing this review if you know what I mean. I had borrowed this tent and the damage it had taken was definitely not from harsh use. Possibly more from accidental damage which occurs quite easily on a tent with thin fabrics and this type of pole. Based on what you are saying I think you already know my answer. For me its abut trying to stack the odds in your favour so personally I would much prefer a RED or Black label Hilleberg... Regarding the inner collapsing.. this did this on me when the highest wind I could measure was 26MPH. I had the tent properly guyed out too. You will always hear of those who have had the tent out in high winds and it did well but I have yet to see reliable video evidence of this here on KZread.. Tom

Hi Tom thorough review as always. The biggest issue here seems maybe not to be the tent, but rather MSR’s misrepresentation of its seasonal capabilities? It’s clearly not a robust 4 season tent, but if it was marketed as a 3 season, then the expectation of its capabilities, and in turn your review, takes a very different slant. Perhaps for 4 season below the tree line use, and without much snow loading, it performs well. However on exposed windy sites it’s going to struggle, which is limiting for 4 season use. Im sure it’s a fine shelter if utilised in the right pitches. Cheers. Gary.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Gary, thank you for watching and commenting as a very experienced summit wild camper... Yes you are totally right its how the tent is marketed that is the main issue. For example the weight and the season rating. This would be an exceptional 3 season tent... ATB Tom

@robch4414

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Thanks for a great review Tom, really helpful answering some of my questions about how this tent would perform in wind. In my book 4-season means handling winter weather; 3-season means all the rest, *including* standing up when needed to the strong winds we can get all year round in the UK. So as configured I'm not sure how well the Access 2 cuts it even as a serious 3-season tent. My own search is for a replacement for the Exped Orion 2 Extreme I've lugged around for some years now - it would be good to find something that offered its genuine 4-season performance but at least a kilo lighter and without having to remortgage the house! Thanks again

Great review Tom. Tbh I have never been convinced by msr 4 season tents. They just don't look like they tick the right boxes and no mater who the manufacturer is, I don't trust hub connections on pole set ups.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Dave, I hope that you are well. Yeah my gut feeling was proven here when I actually got a chance to test this tent. Like you I wouldn't touch any tent (even 3 season) with the hub design.. MSR used to make a tent called the Fury which was interesting and one called the Storm King but not interesting enough for me to think of buying one.... ATB Tom

Great review Tom and an interesting tent. Certainly one im not familiar with but i totally agree with your conclusions. For me its a nice 3 season tent or one that you keep at hime in the wind 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Neil, thank you for your comments. You know this spot pretty well ha ha. The poles are made by Easton believe it or not for this tent. Too bendy for me. Hope to see you soon.. Tom

@neilmckenna236

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 really, thats interesting. Carbon is a strange choice. While being extremely strong for the weight Carbon is brittle. Where an alloy pole reaches a point of failure it will bend first. Carbon will fracture, completely fail and probably damage the tent fabric (sharp fractured Carbon not good). Are the pole joins also Carbon or alloy? Surely alloy!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@neilmckenna236 Hey Neil you are right on the money with that... The joins are alloy 🤪🤪

Best reviews on tents hands down

@TOMHEANEY100

4 ай бұрын

Hey Jason, thank you for the positive comment and feedback.. Yes I really enjoy actually testing them and showing the results... best wishes Tom

Thanks for the honest review. Btw, work on reducing your mic gain.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for your feedback... To be honest there is only so much effort I am prepared to throw at audio... When I edit it, it sounds fine to my ear on my computer but sometimes it then is not the case when I listen on another device. This is impossible to test. Recently I actually changed my camera due to audio problems so I hope that this helps... Thank you for your comments once again... All the very best wishes Tom

Great review, thanks a lot!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Kevin, I appreciate you commenting and watching ... ATVB Tom

Good review but surprised with the results. Have used the Access 1 and the Access 2 for many years over 4-Seasons and on summits and never had any of the issues that you have had.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Ray, good to hear from you and your experience with your Access 1. Different people on many occasions can have a mixture of experiences with the same product. Here is someone else who had a similar experience to me...kzread.info/dash/bejne/gqOFz6p7iLDNYNY.html. A lot of American designed tents go for the lightweight thin fabric option and this works for many I am sure. I personally have always had bad experiences with lightweight tent fabrics when using in harsh conditions and I feel that over the long term durability is compromised and they are prone to accidental damage. I also found evidence of both of these drawbacks on this individual tent that was less than a year old. But I only used the tent once and I am sure you have used yours many times so you have more experience of the tents than I have. ATB and thank you for commenting as a KZread content creator with many more subscribers than me.... Tom

Great honest review once again, you've just clarified what I've always thought that MSR tents aren't up to UK conditions, cookware and stoves 2nd to none though

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Neil, thank you for your comments. I love their stoves too and I bet many of their tents are bought on the basis that people have had a great experience of their cookers.. I hope to test some more of their tents and give them a second chance.... ATB Tom

@neildavidson9908

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 btw I got an MSR Asgard used once and it's brilliant, but leaked something dreadfully sealed the seams now

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@neildavidson9908 Hi Neil, I remember that tent. great to hear that you got the issue sorted.. ATB Tom

@karlb1695

2 жыл бұрын

not really i have windburner and reactor and both could be improved , when you use a trangia for some while you realise how these msr cookers are not that great, there will be new better designs in 10 years you will see ;ad

@neildavidson9908

2 жыл бұрын

@@karlb1695 I'm talking specifically about cold wet and windy Scotland, alcohol stoves are just too inefficient nearly all year round

Thanks for the review Tom. Unfortunately, I bought the model unseen based on my happier experiences with an MSR Hubba Hubba NX that I'd used for several years, often in quite windy conditions. Hadn't seen your video then. In the end due to pole wear my Hubba Hubba failed on me in very strong rotor wind which was acceptable as I'd had it for probably 100+ pitches by then. I bought the Access 2 on the assumption that it would be better in the wind with the geodetic hoops over the side entrances. However, in the short time that I've used it, I've found it to be intolerable in the wind due to the flexion you've highlighted and general wind noise. I now notice that you highlight that it's not supplied with the guylines for windy conditions. Mine arrived with 6 pegs and no corner guylines. In fact, I have found a Robens Colarado to actually perform better in the wind than the Access 2. This appears to be a similar design to the Hubba Hubba. Also, I note that Robens actually provide wind speed test data. Not sure as to how strong and durable the Robens is but it's £150 not £600! Have you tried this one, just as roomy...

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey Richard, thank you for your feedback on your MSR Tents. On this occasion when testing this one my friend was out in a £150 Vango and he didn't even realise it was windy... I actually really like Robens tents so I am sure the Colorado is a good tent. MSR are being very misleading here and that's a pity for a brand that used to have a great reputation. There are a few other videos on KZread that show them struggling in the wind... ATB Tom

@richardparker4427

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Thanks for the reply, Tom. The Robens tent I have is the Boulder, don't know why I called it Colorado. At least MSR are very good with repairs and general support. They are now sending extra pegs and guy lines for the corner support but I don't really think I'll be trusting to pitch it in high, wild exposed conditions!

Great review! Nice tent. Crow✌️

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Crow. Thank you for making the effort to comment. I know many users are very happy with this tent... ATB Tom

I was tempted to buy that tent three years ago but wasn't sure about the wind resistance. While searching for the similar options for testing I found a brand Zajo (Slovakia, EU) and tent Litio 2 which is acctually older design than MSR ACCESS 2 and with the 8.5 mm aluminium poles. Design of Litio 2 is very similar than Access and even beter as there is more side wind protection. It is a very good value tent as the price was 150€ (threee years ago), better than Access 2. I tried it with e.g. GR20 where the winds were very high.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Moja, I too have found the brand Zajo and really liked the look of their tents which have good design features and fab value for money. I have approached them on two occasions to sponsor me a tent as they have no reviews on KZread. First time they said no and second time about a month ago they couldn't even reply. Great to hear that you have had a positive experience of the brand.... All the very best wishes Tom

@mojaslovenija9903

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 I did a review for Litio 2 about two years ago. Also tested it with GR20 throuhike.

The Vango Helium UL1 pole moved less than the Access 2 when the Vango was pitched side on to the wind! (Honestly the TBS on the Vango is nuts)

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Yes that TBS is old but it sure adds side stability.. Thank you for your comments.. All the very best wishes Tom

@neovo903

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 kzread.info/dash/bejne/m4eTlpaLes67cdo.html found it, knew it was somewhere, This was my tent in the wind, large side panels meant the inner and fly kept touching which wouldn't be good if it was raining but the pole was really well supported. I think it was about 20mph gusts or so (forecast)

Hi Tom, great honest review, hope you're keeping the very best. I've a Hilleberg arriving in a few weeks time, perhaps you would like to put it through it's paces? (It's the Kaitum 2 GT). 😎

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Hightower 600 I hope that you are well too and getting that drone out.... Thank you for watching and great to hear that you are getting a lovely new tent. I have looked at the Kaitum many times and it could be in the running as my next tent... So I honestly would be very keen and seriously appreciate the opportunity to review it thank you very much. I hope it comes to your house before you expect and all the very best with it too... Tom

@MattShafter

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Yesssssss do this review!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@MattShafter don't worry I will.. 🤣🤣

thanks really great review!

@TOMHEANEY100

2 ай бұрын

Hey great to hear you liked this review... Best wishes Tom

I can see the rain runoff on Dartmoor running through it

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Well the ground sheet and all the fabrics are very thin for a 4 season tent... ATB Tom

Great job bud

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Stuart thank you, something a bit different here and I am sure you have looked at this tent yourself... ATB and hope to see you out soon. Tom

fantastic ! thumbs up

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey thank you for watching and taking the time to comment... ATB Tom

So I had this tent for 3 weekend trips and the poles splintered. No replacement to Get from MSR . They had none to send to the retailer In Norway 😮 so this was my first and last msr tent. Brand new 2022 tent with the syclone poles - just sutch a bad , bad customer service and total lack of helping the customer . So back to hilleberg , fjellreven og helsport I go

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey Audun, sorry to hear of your experience with MSR...This was one of the most disappointing tents that I have ever tested... The poles are not suitable for 4 season use despite MSR claiming they are almost unbreakable... I am familiar with Hilleberg and Fjallraven and suspect that Helsport are awesome too as I have looked at them many times... ATB and thank you once again for sharing your experience.. Tom

As always, very good and honest review. I have an Elixer 1, it’s very nice and spacious. It’s available for you to do a review if you want?

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Bastiaan, how are you? Thank you for your feedback on this review... Yeah the Elixir has a better pole set up in my opinion so I just might take you up on that offer. It would be great to see what MSR'S other offerings are like. Are you local to Northern Ireland?? ATB Tom

I loved my access 2 but sadly the cyclone poles are so poor after a partial and then full replacement of poles under warranty, i sold the ten, I now use soulo in winter and lanshan 2 in summer. If poles were durable it would have been my long term all season tent, such a shame, (great video btw)

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Cora and the Explorer... Thank you for sharing your experience. Yes the poles are really not up to the task on this tent both from a strength and durability perspective. It gets the weight down which helps MSR sell the tent.. A few other videos on KZread too regarding poor wind and durability issues...Soulo and Lanshan are great choices for summer and winter. My Lanshan 2 Pro will definitely be my summer tent... ATB Tom

@coraandtheexplorer

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 I’ve copied your suggestion for extra guylines on lanshan as will be taking it on cape wrath early spring with Cora my dog, want that extra stability, great channel btw, ur reviews are great, all best for new year Tom 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

@@coraandtheexplorer Say hello to Cora... I love dogs... Also watch out for your trekking poles slipping in the Lanshan in high winds. It's normal for the poles to move relative to the fabric. I solved this by placing a small trekking towel between the pole top and the fabric and have updated this in the description of the video on the Lanshan 2 pro... ATB Tom

I wonder how many people seeing this video have been saved from: 1. Spending £750 expecting four season protection. 2. Finding out these failures at 3am up a mountain. Winter camping is no joke. I nearly bought one , I would have been very unhappy in terms of weather protection and probably with durability, particularly given the price. Just my opinion based on the clear evidence. Great review as usual. 👏

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Richard great to hear your thoughts 💭.. Especially when I agree 💯 percent.. I think recently though MSR have changed their description of what this tent is suited for.. Still it would never be for me as I can find no video evidence on KZread regarding it's 4 season capability here in the UK.. Durability is also an issue as this tent has never seen much use in demanding conditions.. Tom

great review. another proof that american designs may not work in uk conditions.

@TOMHEANEY100

9 ай бұрын

yes many American designs focus too much on light weight and MSR is one of them.. However The North Face and Mountain Hardwear have a few nice tents like the Trango and the Mountain 25.... Beast wishes Tom

Nice review mar tent

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your positive comments.. Tim

Fantastic review Tom, I am enjoying your content here on KZread. I am new to wild camping this year and opted for the MSR Elixir 2. I find it a great tent, but as I start to look in to a potential 4 season tents it appears from all my research and reviews such as this that MSR struggle to make anything that s truly 4 season. This seems a real shame as they can so well up to a 3 season category, something that clearly needs addressing, Excellent review 👍

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Michael, thank you for the positive comment and for watching this review.. Yes its the one of the issues that I have with SOME MSR tents. It's the claimed weight and 4 season rating. If they were honest about this then absolutely great tents, (but still don't like super light fabrics as they lack durability and are so prone to accidental damage and just don't last as long). Not just MSR though but many American brands make super light weight products as this is what the consumer is looking for... If you are struggling to decide on a four season tent and have a few ideas in mind let me know and I will try to help with some of the pros and cons.... ATB Tom

@michaeljames8534

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Thank you Tom, at the moment I have got the Fjallraven Abisko Lite 2 and Hilliberg Nallo 2 in mind. However before I commit I have to get a few confident building autumn camps under my belt. Regards

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

@@michaeljames8534 Both great, Abisko 400g lighter but uses significantly lighter fabrics. ATB Tom

Hi Tom, thanks for this detailed review. Was the weight of 2.2 kgs incl. the footprint?

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Markus, yes your right 2.2 including the footprint... ATB Tom

Hi Tom, anyone tried to Mount velcro attachment in the fly ? I will try 😀👍 attach velcro on the inside on the fly and wrap around the poles . What do you think ?

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Audun, that could help as I have tested a North Face Ve25 with and without velcro attached to the poles. It does definitely offer more support and make the guy system more effective.. However the tent is also very vulnerable from the sides and no pole here to attach... Good luck.. ATB Tom

@audungillerdalen

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Thanks Tom - totaly agree with you on that . I will try and see :-) I also have the VE25 and Trango 3 - great tents but i like the acsess 3 for lower treeline camping

Exactly the same issues I noticed when I had mine. Loved the internal space and taught inner, pockets etc. Assembled, pitched & located poles carefully & correctly literally once, one night. No wind, but decided the flimsyness of materials and poles wouldn't cut it where and when I usually go in the West of Scotland. Sold on. On ebay & the guy got back to me saying he inspected it and one of the carbon poles was cracked near location inserts... 😲 (i didnt notice). Long story short, got him a new set. But defo an issue as I have since seen & read elsewhere. Defo NOT 4 season. Tent.. ⭐️⭐️ Great bag though.. shud be used on other tents ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi, Thomas thank you for watching and taking the time to comment and share your MSR experience.. I am so not a fan of thin fabrics and also the poles of this tent. It's definitely not a durable tent and really lacks wind resistance. There are some things you can do the help the wind stability using walking poles but this also adds more weight and stresses the thin fabrics much more.. What tent are you using now if you dont mind me asking? ATB Tom

@thomasomoore9252

Жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Like yourself Tom, i've been through a fair few. 😁 I'm keeping my Nammatj. But i'm watching how you get on with the FR Abisco lite 2.... I have a black label Soulo, for Winter and/or stealth camping (small footprint etc) I am a 62 yr old Scot & prefer camp in Scotland but am living in England. I also have an Allak for when and If my Mrs ever wants come out and for general camping/ weekends away etc.. I also have a FR abisco 1 in sand used once, but it is going as dont like the ltd headroom at both ends. Also... 😁 have the Southern cross 2 which I also really quite like but may be going... ? Lastly .. for ultralight.. trips by cycle or a wee walk.. I have the latest version of the Notch li, had the old version, sold it but really liked it tbh.. so have the latest updated with the zips etc.. Anyway to wrap up.. The abisco lite 1 is going, probably the SC2 also as with what I have I cant see me using it? And possibly? The Nammatj kinda dependent on your final analysis of the Abisco 2. Mainly because of the weight, and shape. (I dont need loads of headroom anywhere at 5'4.... a 'and a half' ) 😁

How would you qualify the MSR Acces 2 in Hilleberg ranking? Black, red or rather yellow label? The weaker fabrics, the carbon fiber poles.. I don’t know I would trust it.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

It's a yellow label regarding fabrics and they are still not as strong or durable.. Hilleberg yellow label tents now use 70 d ground sheets.. This one is 30d if I remember correctly.. The carbon poles no where near as rigid as DAC.. I know MSR will say flexible is better but it means the tent deforms too much and loses its internal volume. To me this is tent failure when it can't hold its shape... Tom

I’ve been thinking about buying this tent. Wanted the Fjallraven Abisko lite 1 but impossible to get hold of. This is the first really negative review I’ve seen on the Access 2, but good to have watched it. But can I go up a level and justify the Hilleberg price tag 🤔😩

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Edward, thank you for watching and commenting. There are other reviews that I would have a look at for example - kzread.info/dash/bejne/gqOFz6p7iLDNYNY.html. The Abisko Lite 1 is a nice tent but as you state there are problems with supply of many tents... ATB and hope that you can source what ever tent you decide to go for.... ATB Tom

I have the msr Hubba Hubba nx… still to use it yet. Is it worth me buying this access 2 for winter camping, or would it be no different than the Hubba? Also, what’s your 4 season tent of choice? Thankyou

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi Rick, thank you for watching and commenting. I wouldn't recommend this tent. Its just not strong enough or durable enough for 4 season camping. My 4 season tent of choice is the Hilleberg Nammatj 2 but its super expensive.. Have a look at the Fjallraven Abisko Lite 2 if you are not over 6 foot. Its an amazing tent for one but tight for two.. Only 2kg though so super light and strong. I will be reviewing one shortly on this channel... ATB Tom

Nice video Tom. Looks identical to Big Agnes Copper Spur 2. Have you any experience of that one?

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Madcat, I hope you are well... yes it looks very similar. A lot of companies are adopting this pole hub design due to space gains and weight saving. I have no experience yet of the Big Agnes brand but am well aware of them.. ATB Tom

Tom, MSR posted a sale here in the U.S. (not sure if they did the same in the U.K.) but I managed to grab an Access 2 for 40% off MSRP. Don't know if that means MSR is making changes and need to purge old inventory, or if they are just giving up on the Access line but it was too good to pass up so I pulled the trigger. I already have an MSR Hubba NX1 which I love for fair weather summer camps but it's pretty small, so the idea of a slightly stronger & bigger version that does not add a tonne of weight but gives me room for more cold weather gear in the tent and vestibules was appealing. I own a Hilleberg Kaitum 2 which my wife and I are planning to take on a 5 day through hike in Iceland this summer but I'm curious to see how the Access 2 strikes me. It represents a significant reduction in pack space and weight and so if we think we can get away with it we might take it with us instead. I too like fall/winter camping but can't say I have any intention of taking the Access above the treeline. (I live in the Northeast and generally hike in the Presidential range of New Hampshire's White Mountains and the jet streams being what they are here, pitching exposed up high in bad weather is a bad idea. In short, the Whites get winds that can rip any tent to shreds. So I tend to be selective about where and when I go out anyway. In any case I just wanted to say your channel and in depth reviews are tremendously helpful and informative and so a huge "thank you" is due.

@TOMHEANEY100

3 ай бұрын

Hey, thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed comment.. I get it regarding camping above the tree line where you are from.. It's not such a big deal here in Northern Ireland as it's never too far to the car if things go pear shaped.... It would be more of a risk with the MSR in Iceland as its could be windy with not much shelter and the ground potentially very rocky... But I saw a Hilleberg Jannu for sale not too long ago on Ebay and it had holes in the floor from use in Iceland.... So be careful what you pitch on.... Have a great trip and thank you for your feedback and sharing your tent experience... Tom

@neologian1783

3 ай бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 Oh and PS.....my wife if flying home from Shannon as I type. She had a fantastic trip! You are blessed to live in such a beautiful country.

@TOMHEANEY100

3 ай бұрын

@@neologian1783 yeah its not too bad at all apart from the climate....

American tents are good at 3-season while nordic tents are good at 4-season.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hey thank you for your comments. Yes Nordic tents are very functional and mostly more durable too as the American models are so concerned about making the tent weigh less... ATB Tom

My Access 2 was destroyed on day 4 by the wind in Argentina at 5000 meters. A pole has broken in half and the rain fly was torn. Not sure how strong the wind was, maybe up to 70 kmh.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Sergey, thank you for your input here as an owner of an Access 2. I can definitely believe what you say and the constant wind was 20mph when I measured it on testing the tent... Have you replaced the tent and what are you using now? ATB Tom

@SergeyLazutin

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 it was in Cordón del Plata as a preparation for Aconcagua. On Aconcagua we as planned used MH Trango - very different tent: durable and heavy. I didn't have a chance to talk to MSR yet because I'm still traveling and I haven't decided what is going to be my next lighter 4 season tent (but definitely not Access 2 for high altitude).

KZreadr adventurer Justin Barbour had three of MSR's carbon poles fail on him in a Newfoundland backcountry situation. The poles are carbon but have aluminum connection points. The carbon wears at a higher rate than the aluminum. After time and stress, the less worn aluminum will get sucked inside the carbon poles. It's a major head ache and requires an extensive repair kit. I will not go near these tent poles.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Matt how are you? Hey I really appreciate your awesome technical input here. Thats very interesting and great to hear of other peoples experiences. Yeah that makes sense and the aluminium had cracked in one of these pole sections. This caused it to expand slightly and was difficult to get to in the female end of the pole.. The pole walls are also very thin. Some DAC 10MM would help here. Hope your job is going well and look forward to seing you deliver some more KZread content when you get a moment. Cant wait to get my mitts on that Kaitum too. I will hammer out the detail on that one.. ATB Tom

@MattShafter

2 жыл бұрын

@@TOMHEANEY100 I'm thinking of the Kaitum for summer sea kayaking. Sweet!

Thank god it's od green, fucking industry finally putting out what people want. Some don't like a bright ass orange 🍊 tent ⛺. Good on them.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and commenting.. ATB Tom

4:28, and that's enough for me.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Yr right.. surprised you got that far... Tom

@Martycycleman

Жыл бұрын

I just wondered how bad it could get.

MSR are being a little deceptive with thus tent because the say its 4 season HOWEVER if you read the small print they say below the tree line. Below the tree line really means sheltered conditions NOT summit tops so not UK 4 season as we expect.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Mal, definitely deceptive and also with the quoted weights too.... I had this tent out once in the valley and this is my experience.. Below the tree line absolutely. Its interesting that no one who owns this tent has come to its rescue after this review... ATB and thank you for your comments. Tom

This tent would be fantastic if it had 10m DAC poles.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Yes my favourite poles on the market.... Tom

IMHO this review is too fixated on the definition of a 4 season tent. If you call the Access 2 a 3.5 season tent then it would address most of the issues raised here. It offers more protection than an Elixir 2 and other 3 season tents, but offers less protection than full geodesic winter options. But seeing as full geodesic tents weigh 1-2kg more than the Access 2, it would be strange to expect the same level of protection. The amount of protection offered by the Access 2 for such little weight, without compromising headroom, is incredibly impressive. Whether or not it's _enough_ protection depends on your plans but it would be more than sufficient for the vast majority of UK wild campers. It's also possible to pitch the Access 2 outer first if you have the old Elixir 2 footprint or if you use bungees or similar to hold the corner poles in place. But honestly, even in rain the inner pitch first still works really well because it's so quick (if you're organised). If you're agile you don't even need to clip the inner to the poles before putting the outer on - I've done it once the outer is on. Similarly, on wet mornings, I've packed up the inner before taking down the outer. But pitching inner first is much easier in windy conditions as the wind blows straight through the inner, whereas outers catch the wind like a sail. Soulos have been killed from pitching in windy conditions. And finally the drum tight inner is a big advantage when it's windy - no flappy inners with the Access 2. Inner vs outer pitch first has more considerations than discussed in this review.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Hi we are not going to agree here but that's OK.. Great that you have covered this detail in your comments thank you.. My main issue like you so rightly say is the 4 season thing.. But its MSR who make that claim and that's why I focused on it.. As a 3 season tent or 3.5 season s great tent but not 4 season tent and MSR will have sold many on this basis... I have actually pitched my Soulo in 58mph measured winds and driving rain with no worries at all.. So look thank you once again for your opinion and experience on this tent.. ATB Tom

My Experience with MSR is excellent design, but made from cheap materials

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hey, thank you for watching and sharing your experience with the brand... ATB Tom

You’re right. Just buy a Hilleberg. Lol. Bit more weight but waaaaaaaaaay better quality / durability / stability. End of.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, thank you for watching and commenting. Yes my thoughts entirely and not much more money or weight either. I have now had my hands on at least 10 Hilleberg's and every one has been perfect quality. The 100 denier groundsheet on the Black Label Tents is the undoubtably the most durable on the market... ATB Tom

I personally think MSR are crap and poor quality on some models snapping poles and ripping holes in the flysheet. Some models have very questionable stitching. Poor quality floors with water seeping through material on a new first time out tent. From what i have seen Vango tents are better quality. I am not a snob I do have Hilleberg tents now but i stated with a £5 campari tent in 1980.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Alan, thank you for watching and commenting. Yes if the poles here had snapped there would definitely be a hole in the flysheet... This example to be fair had excellent stitching and construction. The Hydrostatic head ratings 3000mm for the floor are on the low side too when compared to Hilleberg's lowest for example 12000mm, and over the years this certainly has the potential for leakage... ATB Tom

For me, the carbon poles are a deal breaker.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for your comments. Yes absolutely the poles are a no go for 4 season use in windy conditions IMO.... Tom

MSR poles are crap they break very easily also inner first pitch is not ideal in the UK.Also MSR use crap zips and have lots of rough bits that need trimming on their tents.

@TOMHEANEY100

Жыл бұрын

Well said.. I really don't like this tent... Tom

I use REI for all my camping needs

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your comments. No REI in the Uk or Europe but good to know for other US viewers.. ATB Tom

Were you sensitive to the charge of elitism Tom as you headed back to Hilleberg? You seemed to be bending over backwards to find things to praise in this tent (the stitching, the Velcro 😂) when - as a shelter - it doesn’t actually do the job. Great review though 👍.

@TOMHEANEY100

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Peter, I hope that you are well. Had to try something different here and this tent looks great on paper for sure but I had to get a mention of the Unna as its really not much more money... I, like many people resisted Hilleberg tents for years due to the price, but once I purchased the first one, also like many people I needed more, many more... ATB Tom

If a tent that weights almost 2 kgs can not withstand 30 knots of wind, it's junk.

@TOMHEANEY100

7 ай бұрын

Hi, thank you for your comments.. I totally agree especially if the manufactures are claiming it's a 4 season tent.... best wishes Tom