User Review: Bibler Eldorado

Bibler Eldorado
Above: The current Eldorado, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed August 13, 2003 by Jim S

Rating:
Design: Four season two pole modified dome
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: Simple and wonderful in a storm
Weight: 4.57 lbs complete
Price Paid: $625 + $150 vestibule

I collect tents and also have a TNF Mtn 24. The MTN 24 is more rigid but weighs 8.5lbs, has integral vestibule, and is a WET tent. I don't always use the vestibule in the Eldo and it adds 1.5 pounds.

The Eldo is the driest tent I own--I have never had any condensation at all except a few wisps of frost on the poles. When setting it up in a storm you anchor the front tabs with your skis, pull it over you and your pack like a poncho, shake off the snow, then zip the door, then you're inside. Pull out the poles and mostly set it up from the inside, though you have to open the door quickly to seat the poles, and at some time you have to stake the rear and put on the vestibule if two persons are using it.. but I have no problem with the vestibule.

I use it almost exclusively in the winter at altitude. It does flap some in bad winds, but I have been in it in 50 MPH winds and 5 below and was glad that I had it along. I find that the side pull out work well and the velco tabs are a nuisance, but once inside the tent I have plenty of time to fuss with them. In deep snow the roof vents work perfectly and you just push out against the snow now and then to keep the walls from caving in.

I cook in the vestible if I have it, or inside with a hanging stove if I don't. I wish I had bought it first and saved all the rest of the money spent on my other tents.