Question regarding Springbars?

Rezl · Post by **Rezl** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 12:52 pm

I'm preparing to invest in a Springbar tent. I spend roughly four weeks sraight on the playa each year, so I'd like something solid.

Although, I spoke with Kirkham's on the phone today and learned the model I'm looking at, the Vagabond 7, doesn't come with a full door seal.

The bottom of the door does not zip, but there is a screen behind it that does. In my previous experiences, this is just another way for large amount of dust to blow in during a storm, but he indicated he's never heard a burner callback or comment on this happening. I'm not sure I believe him, and I'm unable to examine one in person without buying it.

I also don't see an option to include a bottom zipper. I understand the zip-on canopy might cover it while I'm outside the tent, but I'm looking for a sealed solution.

Does anyone have experience with these tents, or have any suggestions?

Here's the tent:
http://www.springbar.com/shop/proddetai ... d=41010075

C.f.M. · Post by **C.f.M.** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 12:58 pm

I don't know if I had a Kodiak or Springbar, but I do know I'm pretty sure I never zipped it all the way across the bottom, just up and down, and had no problems. Keeping the doors shut as often as possible is what keeps dust out (and removing your shoes and keeping them in one place).

gyre · Post by **gyre** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:04 pm

Springbar will do that as an option, an advantage of usa manufacture.
There is a lead time, of course.

You might consider any other changes you want.

Rezl · Post by **Rezl** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:11 pm

Gyre, I saw you in lots of the other tent threads I looked at. You're an enthusiast! Thanks so much :)

He didn't "offer" the option on the phone. I'm assuming if I call again next week and ask, I might have better luck, and still have plenty of time until August...

gyre · Post by **gyre** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:29 pm

It isn't on a list.
I was quoted $50 for it.
That may be flexible.

I have ordered highly modified down vests at modest markups.
I think multiple changes all are considered together, once it's a custom job.
Companies are often proud of doing an upgraded product too.

I like to order the largest zippers possible.
Color changes are possible with clothes, I don't know about tents.
I would consider the weight of fabrics, lighter or heavier.
I would think about tie points and anything that would enhance wind endurance.
Possibly any aids to running shade cloth over the top too.

The springbar is far from the best thing available, but may be the best desert tent for the price.
Higher end used tents are an option if you're spending enough.

Good luck.

phil · Post by **phil** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:30 pm

> I also don't see an option to include a bottom zipper. I understand the
> zip-on canopy might cover it while I'm outside the tent, but I'm looking
> for a sealed solution.

There are no solutions to keep out the playa powder.

Louise and I have had our Springbar on the playa for a couple of years, and the lack of a zipper bothered me. I had a problem with the tent, and they paid for me to ship it back for repairs. I asked that they put a zipper on the bottom of the exterior door, and they did it for nothing.

Although the amount of dust in the tent was not excessive, I'm hoping that the zipper at the bottom will help keep it down even more.

gyre · Post by **gyre** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:37 pm

Nice, Phil.

I suspect the zipper doesn't matter until things get really bad, but helps then.

CapSmashy · Post by **CapSmashy** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 7:35 pm

The Kodiaks zip fully shut and are about $100 cheaper than the Springbar.

CapSmashy · Post by **CapSmashy** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 7:36 pm

C.f.M. wrote:I don't know if I had a Kodiak or Springbar, but I do know I'm pretty sure I never zipped it all the way across the bottom, just up and down, and had no problems. Keeping the doors shut as often as possible is what keeps dust out (and removing your shoes and keeping them in one place).

You were in my Kodiak 10x10

Bob · Post by **Bob** » Fri Apr 22, 2011 10:53 pm

I wish there were a third brand people could argue over. Please, somebody make one up.

gyre · Post by **gyre** » Sat Apr 23, 2011 2:03 am

North face and vango make better tents.
There are others.

theCryptofishist · Post by **theCryptofishist** » Sat Apr 23, 2011 9:50 am

There's always the Kang.

phil · Post by **phil** » Sat Apr 23, 2011 10:56 am

I thought our Armadillo tent was the best.