User Review: MSR StormKing

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March 27, 2012

Stephen Young
13 reviewer rep

Rating:
Source: bought via a "pro deal"
Price Paid: $650

Summary

Excellent 4-season tent that is bomb proof shelter for 3-5 people. Also good summer tent with use of MSR Vista Wing or similar tarp.

Pros

1. Incredibly strong
2. Very resistant to bad weather
3. Very waterproof
4. Roomy 64 sq ft symmetrical shape
5. Nice vestibule
6. Comes with several mesh pockets and gear loft

Cons

1. Vestibule guyout interferes with egress
2. Getting poles into sleeves tough in bad weather
3. Too heavy for backpacking moderate to long distances

Like the other users I give it big kudos for strength. It is also a great summer tent when used with an MSR Vista Wing or similar tarp. The reason is it is really what is known as a convertible 4-season tent due to the windows that zip open to reveal the no-seem mesh for flow through ventilation.

This tent is big enough to hold cots in the summer format I just mentioned as well as in the winter format and makes a great tent for two adults and gear.

I have the pre-2008 (non orange version) and like the incredible strength of the 5 equal poles in the full pole sleeves under tension. The newest version features pole clips vs sleeves so there is a slight reduction in strength for much faster and easier setup. Probably a good idea as it can be a pain to set up the older versions in high wind.

The only reason no 5 stars is the vestibule is a little difficult to be into with the guyout line in place right over the door.

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