Springbar Canvas Tents for Weekend Camping?

Joined
Apr 1, 2022
Messages
34
I’m in the market for a tent but still trying to make up my mind. I had a lot of good feedback from a previous thread and decided to go with some type of springbar type tent (not decided if I’m gonna go with an actual springbar or a kodiak or what not). That being said, my goal was to get a tent that I could use to elk hunt with in September and October but also use it for summer camping trips with the family (mainly just 2 nights, but sometimes more). My question is, is it possible to get a tent that satisfies both? Like, is it worth it to fool with this type tent for just 2 nights? In addition, I am an east coast guy who travels west to elk hunt each year. So the summer camping would be in much higher humidity than in the mountains of the west! Thanks in advance!
 

realunlucky

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I’m in the market for a tent but still trying to make up my mind. I had a lot of good feedback from a previous thread and decided to go with some type of springbar type tent (not decided if I’m gonna go with an actual springbar or a kodiak or what not). That being said, my goal was to get a tent that I could use to elk hunt with in September and October but also use it for summer camping trips with the family (mainly just 2 nights, but sometimes more). My question is, is it possible to get a tent that satisfies both? Like, is it worth it to fool with this type tent for just 2 nights? In addition, I am an east coast guy who travels west to elk hunt each year. So the summer camping would be in much higher humidity than in the mountains of the west! Thanks in advance!
I use my springbar year around. Canvas is pretty amazing that's it's cooler when it's hot and warmer when it's cold

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thegrouse

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Feb 11, 2021
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248
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Texas
They really go up very quick. 2 nights is not a big deal to set up. I have camped site to site with my Kodiak 10x14. I really like the Springbar and I may buy a 10x10 from them.
 

ODB

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Mar 24, 2016
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my 10x10 kodiak is easy to setup solo. One caveat is that the larger size and necessity to have it staked means you’ll need a pretty level spot. I do enjoy the room and ability to stand up.
 

kpk

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Sep 25, 2014
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We got a 10x10 with the portico panels and really like it. It goes up a lot faster than you'd think. Seems to stay warmer at night, and cooler during the day than anything else I've used.
The only cons are that they're huge when packed.

I went with a Springbar due to the reported customer service after researching the hell out of both companies. We also liked the portico panels more than the Kodiak option.
 
Last edited:
Joined
Feb 17, 2018
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831
Location
N. CO
I purchased a Kodiak VX 10'×10' last year and used it on a 2 man elk base camp. Very comfortable and sturdy in high winds. I added a footprint and an after market heavy duty canvas floor liner for added protection and insulation. As eltx mentioned, using 10"-12" lag bolts with washers and a rechargeable impact driver makes setup easy peazy. Make sure you dry it out good before rolling it up for storage.
 
Joined
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As others have stated, very quick up and down. I'd go 10x14. 10x10 is not good for more than 1 person unless you really like them.
 
Joined
Dec 10, 2017
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Pullman, WA
Another vote for the 10x14 VX for the help with condensation and flow during the summer, especially with you being on the east coast and with humidity. As others have said, 10-15 minute set up by myself. Only drawback is the size and weight. But it is rugged. Been in some pretty gnarly stuff that has flattened all the other tents in the area, but ours stood tall.
 
Joined
Jul 20, 2014
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1,264
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Kirtland, NM
I bought a 10x14 Kodiak last September. Fantastic tent and I stayed over 10 days in it. It’s pretty tight family camping with 5 of us and a dog though. I’m going to get bunk bed cots for the kids so that will free up some space. Also looking at getting their covered vestibule tent/awning thing to cook and eat in. It sets up and goes down pretty fast.
 

Fred

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Joined
Sep 24, 2020
Messages
126
I’m in the market for a tent but still trying to make up my mind. I had a lot of good feedback from a previous thread and decided to go with some type of springbar type tent (not decided if I’m gonna go with an actual springbar or a kodiak or what not). That being said, my goal was to get a tent that I could use to elk hunt with in September and October but also use it for summer camping trips with the family (mainly just 2 nights, but sometimes more). My question is, is it possible to get a tent that satisfies both? Like, is it worth it to fool with this type tent for just 2 nights? In addition, I am an east coast guy who travels west to elk hunt each year. So the summer camping would be in much higher humidity than in the mountains of the west! Thanks in advance!
Get the SpringBar! I have the 10x14 and compared to my Brother's Kodiak the quality and design in noted. Just more rugged built to last and withstand Mother Nature. I use a Big MrBuddy heater and also have the Portico panels to add sides to the Awning. Easy to setup by myself and zips up nice to keep bugs and mice out.
 
Joined
Feb 12, 2018
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Grand Junction
I wouldn't go bigger than 10x10 unless I absolutely needed the space. I would run into too many issues finding campsites for a 10x14. The 10x10 has a ton of room, and unless you're expecting hotel room luxury it'll fit a handful of people.
 

Fred

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Sep 24, 2020
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126
I wouldn't go bigger than 10x10 unless I absolutely needed the space. I would run into too many issues finding campsites for a 10x14. The 10x10 has a ton of room, and unless you're expecting hotel room luxury it'll fit a handful of people.
I’m in the market for a tent but still trying to make up my mind. I had a lot of good feedback from a previous thread and decided to go with some type of springbar type tent (not decided if I’m gonna go with an actual springbar or a kodiak or what not). That being said, my goal was to get a tent that I could use to elk hunt with in September and October but also use it for summer camping trips with the family (mainly just 2 nights, but sometimes more). My question is, is it possible to get a tent that satisfies both? Like, is it worth it to fool with this type tent for just 2 nights? In addition, I am an east coast guy who travels west to elk hunt each year. So the summer camping would be in much higher humidity than in the mountains of the west! Thanks
The OP wants a tent for Family multiple night camping and fall elk hunting. The extra space of the 10x14 would be better than the 10x10. Some space for gear, heat source, or small kitchen in bad weather...
I do agree that if solo camping, it's overkill for space:)
 

ELKOHUNTER

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May 4, 2019
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184
I run a springbar skyliner. It has a stove jack for wood stove, or a hose port for cords and gas hose. I've set it up too many times in the dark, by myself, and I never have an issue. I've ran it through some good storms without issue, and summer winds. USA made and much better cs than kodiak.
 

schmalzy

WKR
Joined
Oct 1, 2014
Messages
1,581
I run a springbar skyliner. It has a stove jack for wood stove, or a hose port for cords and gas hose. I've set it up too many times in the dark, by myself, and I never have an issue. I've ran it through some good storms without issue, and summer winds. USA made and much better cs than kodiak.

Have you ran it with a wood stove?

I have a 10x10 Kodiak but have been lusting after the springbar with stove jack.


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