Reader Reviews

Rating: 5 / 5

All of the positive comments (with the exception of the large side door) given to the Lighthouse apply to this, slightly smaller and lighter version.

For my money, it is the most useful, versatile shelter, for the weight. If you want one shelter that can be relied on if you need total snake/bug protection or heavy precip...this baby does it without condensation.

My only change would be the order of the door and netting on the front, and a larger window in the back.

Rating: 4 / 5

I started the SoCal PCT in earlier April of 2005 with a tarptent. The ice cold wind and storms made me cold and frustrated in both the performance and setting up of the tarptent. I gladly spent $300 for real protection and easy setup. Couldn't have been happier after that. I think you make up a little weight in that you can take a lighter bag since it can be enclosed completely. The main con is the size, I am 6'2" and have to sleep diagonally to be truly comfortable. If I am going to be above the treeline, I won't take anything else.

Edited by danjschmidt@gmail.com on 10/03/2008 18:47:26 MDT.

Rating: 5 / 5

It might be.

I've had my Firstlight since 2004. I pro-dealed one of the very first to hit the market. I seam sealed it thoroughly, and have been using it without fuss ever since.

The design is proven. Quick to pitch in any conditions with minimal practice, and when guyed out well very bomber in all but fully epic mountaineering conditions.

I've found mine to be fully waterproof, even through the edge of an Iowa tornado during RAGBRAI.

It is fragile. While drying it in the back yard years ago I didn't fully stake it, and wind flipped it over and abraded several holes were the poles contacted the deck. Easily fixed, and not a problem since.

I'm a hair under six feet, and have done a trip with a similar sized partner and we fit fine. Any taller and it'd likely be a problem.

An MSR E-wing makes a nice vestibule. I'll be bringing mine for any trips where multiple days of rain is likely.