Mountainsmith Morrison II Tent: 2-Person 3-Season

This tent hasn't had the field test yet. So, all I can attest is that setting up the tent is easy and straightforward. I set it up in my backyard and slept in it for 3 nights consecutively. In the 3rd day morning I did see some water droplets collected on the inside. So just a bit skeptical on how it would hold in the snow. Apart from that, the tent looks roomy enough for 2 people. Setting up the rainfly was surprisingly easy. The buckles/clips made it easy. I didn't have to push it under the poles as in other tents. I live in seattle and hence invariably it rained in my 3rd night :) The rainfly held off the rain very well.

Here's a breakdown of the weight of each of the various components of the tent.

Tent Body - 38.05 oz
Poles - 17.90 oz
Rainfly - 23.85 oz
Stakes (10) - 3.90 oz
Stake bag - 0.35 oz
Gear loft - 0.90 oz
Pole bag - 0.55 oz
Stuff sack - 1.00 oz

If you pack up only the poles, rainfly, tent body and 6 stakes (minimum needed for tent and fly) with no sacks or loft, it will come in right at 5.13 lbs. A bit on the heavy side, but not bad for the price and size. For two people that can split the weight, this tent is right on the money. Given the price, two doors and vestibules, pockets in the corners and the way it handles wind, rain, and condensation it's a hell of a choice for a backpacking duo, be it couples or buddies. For a solo tent, it may be a bit too heavy and really it's probably bigger than you need unless you're a towering individual.

Love the tent. The $$$ you would have to spend to get anything that is significantly better than this (read: lighter) is exponentially greater than seems reasonable to me. Sets up easily, packs down small, and at less than five pounds is a great tent for all but the most determined ultralight enthusiasts. Wish the vestibules were a bit bigger, but they work for keeping boots dry and can be used for cooking in the rain. And there are two of them! And have you seen how roomy it is?...

The bottom line for me is that spending another $100+ to save a pound isn't worth it. If I need to go light, I'll go really light and take a bivy or just a tarp. When I want or need a tent, this one works perfectly, seems quite durable, and if one person carries the tent body and the other person carries the poles/ fly/ stakes, it comes out to just over two pounds per... about the same as a 1 litre water bottle. For the price, that's not bad at all!

Here is a review from someone who writes for Backpacker Magazine
Pros: Price, roomy, good ventilation, easy set-up, double doors and vestibules
Cons: A bit heavy
By: Dan Nash
Check out his video on youtube! http://goo.gl/Bs9QY

Haven't had a chance to backpack with it, but the carcamping was incredible. Loved the 2 FULL mesh walls. Most tents only have a lower section, but with this I could see the stars all night! Packs pretty small, and light. Probably the best freestanding tent I've ever bought. If you require a freestanding tent, this isn't for you as you could find a much lighter one. Tons of room for two with "vestibule" room on the outside as well. Perfect for the type of person who can sacrifice a slightly heavier pack for 5-star resort luxury!