A Tent Recommendation (Spitfire Vs Microlight)

Hey Guys,

I've been having a hard time choosing between a Eureka Spitfire 2 and an L.L. Bean Microlight 2 for a three season tent. Although weight is definitley a consideration, it is more the size of the packed tent that I'm trying to minimize. Also cost is a major factor, if you have any recommendations other than these two tents in the same price range I'm all ears. Any personal experience with either of these tents is welcome. Thanks

If it were me I would go with the Eureka Spitfire 2 if for nothing other than the warranty from a large reputable company. LL Bean doesn't make tents they just buy them from other company's and have them put there name on them. So repairs or part replacement may be an issue unlike Eureka.

I was just at thier freeport store today... The Microlight 2 looks like a great buy, and don't underestimate the service you will recieve from beans. It's unmatched. And BTW, they have been making that tent for close to a decade, so parts won't be a problem. If it ever is, they'll take good care of you.

Eureka is a solid company that has been around forever, and although I haven't used any of thier spitfires, it's a legendary design and seems to stand up to lots of abuse. I even ordered the Autum Wind 3xd as a cah camping tent. All I hear is great things from reviews and other info out there. Neither tent (spitfire or microlight 2) is freestanding, and both weigh in the same ballpark.

The Beans microlight 2 tent is roomy for that size, I was lying down in the solo about 5 hours ago. I would certainly get a 2 person model for a solo trip but I like a little extra room for my pack, ego, and gear. That model quickly jumped to the top of my non-freestanding ultralight list. I just wish they made it in something other than that "here I am!" silver color. That's really not that important unless you need to hide from somebody, and I doubt your situation calls for that.

You sound like your in a really good place at the end of your tentsearching road. Do I get the really nice tent, or the other really nice tent. Good Luck!