I recently sold my FF 30F Syn quilt, and am in the market for a new bag/quilt.

I really don't go out in the winter here in Eastern PA, so it'll definitely be for 3-season use. I already have a 50F summer bag, so I need something colder.

Looking at what's been on sale lately, I am trying to choose between:

JRB No Sniveler
GoLite Ultra 20
WM HighLite 35
BA Horse Thief 35

What is the reasonable estimated range of the JRB No Sniv?

Any input from experience? I know there are some of you out there who have gone through a few of these.

Thanks.

I was comfortable in my Ultra 20 last night @ 24 degrees, with a normal base layer and socks. I really needed a heavier hat was the only problem.

I've used my no sniveller down into the 20s with no problem. I really like how I can wear it around camp with the head hole. I ordered the long size so I can pull it up over my head when the temperature drops below freezing.

The Highlite rating I believe is accurate but it only has half a zip and if temps warm up you can overheat quickly. Without a full zip you can't use it as a quilt - my only problem with it.

Chuck

Phil,

What else did you have on with the No Sniv into the 20s? Just a base layer, like Joe and the GoLite?

Hello Joe G.
i have used the hudson river, a no sniveller minus the hole. the two Jacks are the only commercial enterprise who make one single piece of gear that can be used for:
a closed foot, top quilt on the ground or in a hammock
a hammock underquilt
a flat blanket
a serape/poncho
the versatility of the No Sniveller cannot be beaten.
however, unless you plan on using it for temps from 30-60° you might find it a bit "too" versatile.
I used a Highlite and found the small zipper to be of little use in temps about 45° and above. I sold it in favor of the JrB quilt.
I found that the JrB quilt although a very nice piece of gear, has a width of 48" and that makes for a BIG footbox. It was imho a bit too big for my feet and all that dead space = wasted energy to heat it. Sold it in favor of a DIY quilt.
I would narrow a search for good prices between the Summerlite and the Ultra 20. If all you want is a quilt for ground sleeping and you want the weight savings, the Ultra 20 is terrific.
If you ever plan on using the No Sniveller in humid, warm camps or as a hammock underquilt, it is the BOMB
It would be easier to narrow a specific model for you if we were told exactly what conditions you expect to endure :) mike
* i used the Hudson River quilt down to 30 without any cold spots, wearing only hiking pants and t-shirt. only sold it in favor of a momentum and down quilt project that turned out well.

Edited by mikeinfhaz on 12/06/2008 22:33:03 MST.

I just got an ultra 20 for winter camping in the PNW. have only tested it in the back yard so far, but I was a little too warm with my cocoon parka when temp was around freezing. I'm eager to really put it to the test but it seems like a great quilt for a good price.

FWIW, currently the No Sniveller is $ 70 off.... This sale ends noon tomorrow.

Pan

Thermal bottoms and an R1 hoody. I was also using a bivy over the quilt. Of course, some people are warmer sleepers than others, so YMMV.

Make sure its girth will work for you at the shoulders. When I'm on my side I sometimes wish there was more material for tucking under me. One option here is to consider the Jrb 'quilt wings'. I believe the Ultra is wider.

Edited by GL on 12/07/2008 10:11:21 MST.

As far as the Golite Ultra 20...I had it down to exactly 20 degrees at 5500 feet with significant wind. I was sleeping inside a MLD bivy under a ID silponcho tarp. As far as clothing goes, I was wearing baselayer with a light fleece cap and my montbell UL down inner. Ground insulation was light, 3/8" GG thinlight trimmed to 38" long (3.4 oz).

I slept fine and I tend to get cold. I think if the temp dropped much more I would need a few more extra garments to stay warm. I'd say that is pretty good for 18.65 oz (i dropped the under straps) and <$200 on sale.

Jamie

I went with the JRB No Sniv. Thanks for all the input.