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Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 07:54:57 AM


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Title: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 07:54:57 AM
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XXCKTZ6/ref=twister_B01N2BAJSP?_encoding=UTF8&th=1          I am thinking of buying one for back country camp.  Expeditions with the utv to get deep then a tarp on ground and set camp?  Seems clever and plenty functional to me?  Any pros or cons??
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 07:57:44 AM
The strength of those things sucks. I had one in my backyard, sort of forgot about it, roof sagged with rain and eventually collapsed. Had legs pointing every which way...just trashed it.
I'd think you can buy a decent tent for almost the same money and definitely lighter weight.

Unrelated, but where are you going to be able to get deep on a UTV? Out of state?
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: boneaddict on November 30, 2017, 08:00:02 AM
First wind gust.   :tdown:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 08:09:45 AM
Yes, planning on Id next year.  Are ya guys talking about this one or others like Ozark and Harbor freight?  I know they are much cheaper weaker.  This one is commercial, cordura, hex strong legs, staked down etc.  But I dunno if its really that good or not.?  Weight isn't a concern.  Thinking a spike camp type use.  I hate tents and a canvas wall is so expensive.  I have a great older Salmon River tent but its huge, 20"x16'.  Tents just suck though. Might be a poor idea?
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 08:14:33 AM
Why do you think tents suck?

I'd buy this.
http://www.kodiakcanvas.com/10-x-10-ft-flex-bow-canvas-tent-deluxe/
Granted, it's twice as much money, but I think the benefits in a situation like yours would far outweigh the cost.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: boneaddict on November 30, 2017, 08:16:34 AM
I’m just thinking of all the ones I see at all the soccer games.   I mean I’m sure it’s a shelter.  Heck half the time I’m sleeping under a tree, so its better than that right?  I’m just thinking if you want to compare it to a good tent say for late season, not good.  Compared to a tarp in October or a tree in Sept.  sure
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 08:17:02 AM
No door, no ventilation.
I'd be concerned with condensation.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: JDHasty on November 30, 2017, 08:19:46 AM
Other than the fact that they will not withstand wind, or snow... 
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: kselkhunter on November 30, 2017, 08:43:06 AM
I think your biggest challenge is shape of the roof on that thing.  Snow load would be a problem.   

For winds, there are plenty of ways to stake that down both at the legs and at the top corners with tie-outs.  I have just a pop up canopy of similar design but without the zip sides, and properly staked mine survived quite a few storms on some trips.   I never tested heavy snow load on it though, not sure it would survive. 

Personally, I'd just get a four season tent.  That link jackelope included for the Kodiak is pretty cool.   


Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on November 30, 2017, 08:44:37 AM
We used one in 2016 for a cook shack, it didn’t have sides that came with it, we just put tarps on three sides, used a propane heater to heat it. It worked good to be out of the weather, like two feet of snow, we added two 10’ sections of pvc pipe to the roof supports on all four roof sections but we still had to knock the snow off to keep it from collapsing. Wind wasn’t a factor as it was partially protected by the wall tent and lay of the land.

I think early September/ October seasons no problem.  :twocents:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on November 30, 2017, 08:47:46 AM
We used one in 2016 for a cook shack, it didn’t have sides that came with it, we just put tarps on three sides, used a propane heater to heat it. It worked good to be out of the weather, like two feet of snow, we added two 10’ sections of pvc pipe to the roof supports on all four roof sections but we still had to knock the snow off to keep it from collapsing. Wind wasn’t a factor as it was partially protected by the wall tent and lay of the land.

I think early September/ October seasons no problem.  :twocents:

But we have since went to a wall tent with a Costco garage frame cut to fit it.  :tup:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on November 30, 2017, 08:52:26 AM
Doesn't matter the brand, that design is not great at withstanding wind.  You would need to camp down in the bottom to avoid wind gusts.  The Kodiak is a good option, but it will take up some space in your UTV.  Probably not much more than that quick shelter though.  You could also look for a smaller wall tent, 10x10 or so and use that.  There are good deals to be had on those things if you look on Craigslist from time to time.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: quadrafire on November 30, 2017, 09:45:32 AM
I use one of the sports canopies for my Truck camping. I set it up over the back of my truck that has canopy on the bed. ( I sleep in the truck bed).  A make shift campsite I can set up/take down in 5-10 min w/ a propane stove and small collapsible table and chairs. Perfect for me solo camping where I can drive to. I'm usually in a forested area and have never had a wind problem. The legs are flimsy and putting up and down solo creates some extra strain on them but I have mastered that  ;).
On the other hand I have used the same canopy at soccer games and set up on an open field, they catch every breeze and will blow over super easy even if staked. Legs get bent then your are screwed and you can't collapse them back into place.
That price looks high to me for what you get.  :dunno:

They will handle a small amt of snow, but not much

I have also wrapped the sides with tarps and with a propane heater is quite cozy.
I like this set up with the truck better than sleeping on the ground in a tent.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Buckmark on November 30, 2017, 09:54:40 AM
I use one of the sports canopies for my Truck camping. I set it up over the back of my truck that has canopy on the bed. ( I sleep in the truck bed).  A make shift campsite I can set up/take down in 5-10 min w/ a propane stove and small collapsible table and chairs. Perfect for me solo camping where I can drive to. I'm usually in a forested area and have never had a wind problem. The legs are flimsy and putting up and down solo creates some extra strain on them but I have mastered that  ;).
On the other hand I have used the same canopy at soccer games and set up on an open field, they catch every breeze and will blow over super easy even if staked. Legs get bent then your are screwed and you can't collapse them back into place.
That price looks high to me for what you get.  :dunno:

They will handle a small amt of snow, but not much

I have also wrapped the sides with tarps and with a propane heater is quite cozy.
I like this set up with the truck better than sleeping on the ground in a tent.
I have done this  same setup alot and use a tarp around the back of the truck/canopy to enclose it and it is very comfy sleeping in the canopy and having the ezup all setup with propane heater, propane cook stove, water jugg, chairs , lantern etc.
I do use an ezup brand shelter which is well built and sturdy, does need to be staked down so it wont fly in winds and i also have sides for it that fit all around and zip up tight.  :tup:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: WaltAlpine on November 30, 2017, 09:58:09 AM
Ya, What everybody else said.
If it snows you are in a pile. Wind and you are in a pile.
We have a canvas tent and it's well worth the money.
I also use a truck tent for certain situations.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackmaster on November 30, 2017, 10:14:16 AM
If your looking for cheap and light you can make a hell of a shelter with a 12x14 tarp and a couple of 12x12s for the ends and 100' of rope
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jamesfromseattle on November 30, 2017, 11:48:04 AM
I switched from an EZ-up style tent to one of these:  http://www.gazelletents.com/gazelle-6-sided-portable-gazebo

They are lighter, faster, and a little better in bad whether.  Also good bug protections.  Still has the problems everyone else mentioned, but to a lesser degree.

Not right for every situation, but mine gets a lot of use.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 30, 2017, 12:02:46 PM
So when you say back country camp you don't intend to pack this in very far do you? Or are you meaning car camping?
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: lokidog on November 30, 2017, 12:47:29 PM
I switched from an EZ-up style tent to one of these:  http://www.gazelletents.com/gazelle-6-sided-portable-gazebo

They are lighter, faster, and a little better in bad whether.  Also good bug protections.  Still has the problems everyone else mentioned, but to a lesser degree.

Not right for every situation, but mine gets a lot of use.

This looks great.  I've done the shelter over the back of the truck as well and it has worked.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 01:03:50 PM
So when you say back country camp you don't intend to pack this in very far do you? Or are you meaning car camping?

He's riding it in on a UTV.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 03:24:22 PM
The one I linked is a commercial vendor type.  SUPPOSED to be heavy duty cordura, zippered waterproof seems and sturdy hex shaped legs.  I was hoping someone has one to verify.  It does have a window with bug screen and a door.  Sew in a stove flap and wallaalla!  Kodiak is great but costs more.  Weights and size are comparable.  This would be for Sept type hunts NOT winter snow storms!  If that was the case I would do a shed tarp above it.  Good advice guys, thanks.  It was just a spur of moment idea I get al the time.  I like to be creative and cheap DIY inspires me! :chuckle:  Example today I bought a 13hp Predator engine for my 4000psi pressure washer I built.  Wow it really gets after it now!  $299 with elect start!
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Alchase on November 30, 2017, 03:35:35 PM
I have used a 12 x 12 Sunshade popup with a bug screen as a cook shack for over 10 years. It has worked great!
You need to be conscious of wind, I have never had an issue. I just pick good camp spots, LOL
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Zardoz on November 30, 2017, 03:40:15 PM
Looks just like what Costco sells.  Looking at the pictures on the website, it seems like if you buy two of them they provide a bunch of girls to help you set it up.   :tup:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 03:53:22 PM
You might want to talk to @ghosthunter about using a portable carport as a tent. He uses one. I believe it's more used as a cook shack, but might be something you'd want to consider.

Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: ghosthunter on November 30, 2017, 05:10:43 PM
You might want to talk to @ghosthunter about using a portable carport as a tent. He uses one. I believe it's more used as a cook shack, but might be something you'd want to consider.

Yeah we have used a Costco canopy for about 15 years as a cook shack. One of the old ones. We can move the ends in when there only couple guys or full set up for 12.
We cut a stove jack in it and run a three dog stove.
Couple time we have slept in it. We cut 6 inches off the legs to get a better ground seal.
They will fly so you gota stake them down . We were in 50 mile gusts elk hunting a few years ago and did fine.

To the op ,if you want something like you posted. They make one you can add rooms too. You can add up to three separate rooms around the center. You the center to cook in. My buddy showed up in elk camp with it and it held up fine in some wind. I think he got it at  Walmart, Costco ummm I will ask.

Maybe I have pics?
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: ghosthunter on November 30, 2017, 05:16:30 PM
The Costco canopy.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: jackelope on November 30, 2017, 05:17:19 PM

That bottom one looks familiar...

Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 05:43:48 PM
I love it.  Yes Costco sells em.  Ozark Walmart has the one with tent rooms off the sides.  I considered it but wanted more heavy duty thus the commercial search and find.  Obviosly I could use it at work as a cutting station on jobsites or a shade barby for the grill or kids swimming tub etc.  I am leaning towards trying it out! Glad to see others using em for various hunting uses.  If it came with girls to help set up I'm sure I could take advantage of that perk!  Or not.....but then everyone would buy em up.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Pegasus on November 30, 2017, 06:33:37 PM
I think this is what you are looking for, occupant extra with lifetime payout contract:
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: hunterbuilder on November 30, 2017, 06:50:48 PM
I purchased this one this year for work as a cut station/shade area and to take to camp for a cook station shelter. It's an abccanopy commercial canopy off of Amazon. Paid $200 on sale and it came with 4 walls ( one with a zipper door) and an awning for extra shade. It's definitely more heavy duty than the cheaper ones. So far I like it.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171201/6a43bc75421a2a042ef744d81c1df1a6.jpg)

Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 08:42:23 PM
 :yeah: Awesome, exactly what I was thinking!  Cool..
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Bofire on November 30, 2017, 08:55:00 PM
something like that in the tent would make it hard to hunt much!

Carl
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Mudman on November 30, 2017, 10:48:37 PM
Cant bring the wife with that tent.  Bum deal..  Lifetime $  :chuckle: I will stick with the cheaper version.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Skyvalhunter on December 01, 2017, 05:25:25 AM
something like that in the tent would make it hard to hunt much!

Carl

 And exactly what happens to him.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Alchase on December 01, 2017, 11:03:56 AM
:yeah: Awesome, exactly what I was thinking!  Cool..

Mine is easily the best $150 spent on hunting yet.
And they are a snap to setup. On mine, the bud screen is 4 sections of 12 ft. That is 48 ft long.  :yike:
You just hook one end and walk around the frame and tuck.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: NOCK NOCK on December 13, 2017, 09:37:50 PM
Concerning pop up canopies, you get what you pay for.
In my business I have used them a lot, currently own 2 EZ UP commercial grade 10x10's. For a true commercial grade, you will be paying for it (mine cost $900 each, when purchased nearly 20 years ago) and are very strongly built. To stake them down, use a screw in stake that is made for tying a dog lead to, will keep it grounded in very strong winds. I have zero experience with snow load.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: smdave on December 14, 2017, 01:37:12 AM
I use 2 like you show, obviously not for everyone, the sides are not as thick as the roof. I also use the screw in dog stakes in all corners or six if I have both of them up in a 10X20. I use heavy 12ft ratchet straps in the corners and they have held up in the wind. I only have lost one to the wind where I hunt (204) because I set it up went out to hunt for the day and it was not staked down.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Alchase on December 14, 2017, 06:54:50 PM
I have four, three of the cheap ones we used at soccer games and the Sundshade I use for hunting. Night and day difference in durability.
Title: Re: What does ya think about this instead of a tent???
Post by: Kither on December 18, 2017, 10:01:10 AM
I like the one on the last pic
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