Hi Stuart

I am not sure the current First Arrow is quite that flexible - or maybe the sides have changed. Not sure. But no matter, to each his own. Me, I prefer an end-entrance, which is probably perfectly obvious as that's how I make my tents.

I have to add though that the First Arrow seems a bit bulky when all packed up, compared to some others. That is probably a reflection of the fabric used. But that fabric does make the tent more robust against novice damage than some others.

What can be seen from the First Arrow photos is that the rear end of the tent is *not good* for sitting up in. That matters to me, but might not matter to others.

Cheers

Hi Roger,

The current Second Arrow has no change as far as the flexibility of the vestibule goes. I would be very surprised if the First Arrow had changed in that regard.

It makes a significant difference as far as I'm concerned (especially if you have stuff in the vestibule you're not forced to crawl over it). But as you say, each to his own.

Re sitting up at the far end:

Yeah, that's not something I miss being solo (haven't tried First Arrow, it is a lot larger). Both those tents have a reasonably heavy taper - they are designed for room at the shoulder where it is needed.

Re bulk, I don't find it too bad but you could reduce bulk by leaving bags or replacing with lightweight ones:

They give you 2 pole sleeves where most give one, proper pegs which are MUCH stronger than is usually provided (but bulkier) and the tent and poles bag (fabric is plenty strong enough for poles to be carried outside the pack through thick scrub without damage to the bag)are significantly heavier than for most other manufacturers (as is the ground fabric). At 30D for the fly (siliconised version), the fabric is on par with many others for "weight" but not in the same league (for better or worse -- I would argue that 30D is "better" for most people) as some of the gossamer fabrics available (eg. some manufacturers are now using 15D which obviously requires more care and is not as long wearing - all things being equal - as 30D).

Cheers
Stuart