MSR Elixir 2 Tent: A Comprehensive Review

The MSR Elixir 2 is a popular choice for backpackers seeking a reliable and spacious two-person tent. Let’s delve into its pros and cons:

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Elixir 2 offers ample space for two people and their gear, making it comfortable for extended trips.
• Sturdy Construction: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the tent’s durable materials and sturdy frame provide excellent protection.
• Easy Setup: The freestanding design and color-coded poles make setup quick and straightforward, even for beginners.
• Ventilation: The well-placed vents and mesh panels ensure good airflow, preventing condensation and keeping you comfortable.
• Vestibules: The generous vestibules provide ample storage space for gear and offer shelter during rain or snowfall.

Cons:

• Weight: While not overly heavy, the Elixir 2 might be considered on the heavier side for ultralight backpackers.
• Price: It’s a bit pricier compared to some other options in the market.
• Steep Sidewalls: The steep sidewalls can limit headroom, especially for taller individuals.

Overall:

The MSR Elixir 2 is an excellent choice for backpackers who prioritize comfort, durability, and weather protection. Its spacious interior, sturdy construction, and easy setup make it a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures. However, if weight is a major concern, you might want to consider other options.

Additional Considerations:

• Footprint: Consider purchasing a footprint to protect the tent’s floor from wear and tear and to provide additional insulation.
• Weather Conditions: The Elixir 2 is well-suited for a wide range of weather conditions, but it’s essential to pitch it correctly and use appropriate guylines to maximize its performance in windy or stormy weather.

By carefully considering these factors, you can determine if the MSR Elixir 2 is the right tent for

your backpacking needs.

The MSR Piezo Igniter for Canister Stoves is a compact and practical accessory designed to make lighting your canister stove easier and more reliable. Here’s a detailed review of this product:

Performance: The MSR Piezo Igniter is designed to provide a reliable spark to ignite your canister stove, eliminating the need for matches or a separate lighter. It delivers a consistent spark with each use, which is crucial for ensuring a quick and hassle-free ignition, especially in cold or windy conditions where lighting a stove can be challenging. The igniter is generally effective in creating a strong, reliable spark that simplifies the process of starting your stove.

Design: The design of the MSR Piezo Igniter is both functional and user-friendly. It features a compact, lightweight design that attaches directly to your canister stove. The igniter is integrated into a robust housing that is designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Its ergonomic shape makes it easy to handle and operate, and the built-in safety features help reduce the risk of accidental ignitions.

Ease of Use: Using the Piezo Igniter is straightforward. To ignite your stove, you simply press the button to generate a spark, and the igniter does the rest. This ease of use is particularly advantageous in challenging weather conditions or when your hands are cold and wet. The igniter’s design helps to ensure that you can start your stove quickly and with minimal effort.

Durability: The MSR Piezo Igniter is built to be durable and reliable. The materials used in its construction are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including exposure to moisture and rough handling. The igniter is generally robust, but like any small electronic component, it should be handled with care to avoid damage.

Pros:

• Reliable and consistent spark for easy stove ignition
• Compact and lightweight design, easy to carry and store
• Simple operation, ideal for use in various weather conditions
• Integrated into the stove, reducing the need for separate ignition tools

Cons:

• The igniter may eventually wear out or become less effective with heavy use
• The spark can be less effective if not used properly or if the igniter becomes dirty
• May require occasional maintenance or cleaning to ensure optimal performance

Conclusion: The MSR Piezo Igniter for Canister Stoves is a valuable accessory for outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable and convenient way to light their stoves. Its compact size, ease of use, and dependable performance make it a great addition to any camping or backpacking setup. While it may require occasional maintenance and might wear out over time, its overall functionality and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to simplify their stove lighting process.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is a standout choice for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a compact, efficient, and reliable cooking solution. This ultralight stove has garnered positive reviews for its performance and portability, making it a popular choice among hikers and campers.

Performance: The PocketRocket 2 excels in delivering rapid boiling times. It can bring 1 liter of water to a boil in around 3.5 minutes, thanks to its efficient burner design. This quick performance is especially appreciated when you’re in a hurry to prepare meals or need to stay on schedule during a hike.

Design: True to its name, the PocketRocket 2 is incredibly compact and lightweight. Weighing in at just 2.6 ounces (73 grams), it easily fits into a small space in your pack. Its folding pot supports and tiny size make it highly portable, while its stability is commendable for such a small stove. The stove is also designed with a wind-resistant burner, which helps maintain efficiency in breezy conditions.

Ease of Use: Setting up the PocketRocket 2 is straightforward. The stove screws onto a standard fuel canister (sold separately) and ignites quickly with a built-in piezo igniter, which eliminates the need for matches or a separate lighter. This convenience is particularly valuable in challenging weather conditions or when your hands are cold and wet.

Durability: While the PocketRocket 2 is designed for lightweight travel, it doesn’t compromise on durability. The stove is made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use in rugged conditions. However, as with any compact gear, it’s essential to handle it with care to ensure long-term reliability.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and compact
• Fast boil times
• Easy to use with a built-in igniter
• Durable and reliable performance

Cons:

• Lacks a windscreen, which can affect efficiency in very windy conditions
• No included case or storage bag (though it’s compact enough to be carried without one)

Conclusion: The MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is a highly effective and reliable choice for those who prioritize weight and space savings in their outdoor gear. Its impressive boiling speed, ease of use, and compact design make it a worthy investment for backpackers and campers who need a dependable stove without adding significant bulk to their gear. Whether you’re boiling water for a quick meal or preparing a more complex dish, the PocketRocket 2 is sure to meet your needs with efficiency and reliability.

The MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter is a well-regarded water filtration system designed for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor adventurers seeking reliable and efficient water purification on the go. Here’s a comprehensive review of the MiniWorks EX Microfilter:

Performance: The MiniWorks EX Microfilter is known for its robust performance. It utilizes a ceramic filter element that effectively removes bacteria, protozoa, and sediment from water, providing clean and safe drinking water. With a filtration rate of 1 liter per minute, it strikes a good balance between speed and thorough filtration. The ceramic filter can be cleaned and reused multiple times, which helps maintain its efficiency over extended trips.

Design: This filter has a durable and user-friendly design. It features a sturdy, easy-to-use pump mechanism that ensures reliable operation even in challenging conditions. The filter is designed to be field-maintainable, which means you can clean the filter element yourself to extend its lifespan. This is a significant advantage over disposable filters, especially on long trips.

The MiniWorks EX comes with a pre-filter that helps protect the main filter element from larger particles, reducing clogging and extending the life of the ceramic filter. Its compact size and relatively lightweight design make it a practical choice for backpacking and travel, though it is slightly bulkier compared to some other water filters.

Ease of Use: The MiniWorks EX is straightforward to operate. The pump handle is designed for comfortable use, and the filter’s intuitive assembly process ensures you can set it up quickly. It’s also relatively easy to clean and maintain, with a simple process for backflushing and removing debris from the ceramic element.

Durability: This filter is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The ceramic filter element is designed to be robust and long-lasting, and the overall build quality of the MiniWorks EX suggests it can handle the demands of frequent use.

Pros:

• Effective at removing bacteria, protozoa, and sediment
• Field-maintainable with a cleanable ceramic filter
• Durable and reliable construction
• Good filtration rate of 1 liter per minute
• Comes with a pre-filter to protect the main filter element

Cons:

• Slightly bulkier and heavier compared to some other portable water filters
• The pump mechanism may require more effort compared to gravity or squeeze filters
• Higher initial cost compared to some other options

Conclusion: The MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter is an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability and reliability in their water filtration system. Its effective filtration capabilities, ease of maintenance, and rugged design make it a solid investment for outdoor adventures where access to clean water is crucial. While it may be slightly bulkier and pricier than some alternatives, its performance and longevity justify the investment for serious hikers and backpackers who need a dependable water purification solution.

The MSR Dromedary Bags are highly functional and versatile water storage solutions designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable way to carry and store water on their adventures. Here’s an in-depth review of these bags:

Performance: The Dromedary Bags are known for their durability and effectiveness in holding and transporting water. They are constructed from a robust, BPA-free material that is both abrasion-resistant and flexible. This makes them suitable for a variety of conditions, from rugged trails to base camp use. The bags come in various sizes (2L, 4L, 6L, and 10L), accommodating different hydration needs and group sizes.

Design: One of the standout features of the Dromedary Bags is their design. They feature a wide-mouth opening with a screw cap, which allows for easy filling and cleaning. The cap is designed to prevent leaks and is compatible with many water filters, making it convenient for filtering water directly into the bag. Additionally, the bags have a built-in handle and a reinforced webbing strap, which enhance their portability and ease of use.

The bags are collapsible when empty, which is a significant advantage for space-saving. They can be rolled up or folded to fit into your pack when not in use. The material is also designed to be puncture-resistant, adding to the overall durability of the product.

Ease of Use: The Dromedary Bags are user-friendly. The wide opening simplifies the process of filling and cleaning, while the handle and strap make carrying and handling more comfortable. The bags are also compatible with MSR’s hydration accessories, such as their water filters and hoses, adding to their versatility.

Durability: These bags are built to last. The abrasion-resistant material can withstand rough handling and exposure to outdoor elements. The reinforced seams and robust construction contribute to their durability, ensuring they can handle repeated use over time. However, like any water storage bag, it’s important to avoid sharp objects and extreme conditions to maximize their lifespan.

Pros:

• Durable and abrasion-resistant material
• Wide-mouth opening for easy filling and cleaning
• Collapsible design for space-saving
• Compatible with many water filters and accessories
• Available in multiple sizes to suit different needs
• Built-in handle and strap for easy carrying

Cons:

• The wide mouth can sometimes make it challenging to fill in narrow or hard-to-reach water sources
• The flexible material may be prone to punctures if not handled carefully

Conclusion: The MSR Dromedary Bags are a practical and reliable solution for storing and transporting water on outdoor adventures. Their durability, ease of use, and versatility make them a valuable addition to any hiker’s or camper’s gear. While they require some care to avoid punctures and can be a bit tricky to fill in certain conditions, their overall performance and functionality make them well worth considering for anyone needing a dependable water storage option.

The MSR Alpine 1.0 Litre Stainless Steel Kettle is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts for its durability and practical design. Here’s a detailed review of this kettle:

Performance: The Alpine 1.0 Litre Kettle excels in its primary function: boiling water efficiently. Made from stainless steel, it provides good heat conductivity, which helps it bring water to a boil relatively quickly. Its 1-liter capacity is suitable for individuals or small groups, making it ideal for camping, backpacking, or any outdoor activity where you need to prepare hot beverages or meals.

Design: The design of the Alpine Kettle is both functional and durable. The kettle features a hard-anodized stainless steel construction, which enhances its resistance to scratches and dents compared to standard stainless steel. The design includes a wide base that ensures even heat distribution, reducing the likelihood of hot spots and improving boiling efficiency.

A notable feature is the kettle’s foldable handle. This handle is heat-resistant and ergonomically designed for ease of use. When not in use, it folds flat against the body of the kettle, which is great for saving space in your pack. The kettle also has a spout with a built-in strainer, which is particularly handy for pouring hot water and preventing debris from getting into your cup or pot.

Ease of Use: The Alpine Kettle is user-friendly. The folding handle makes it easy to store and transport, and the spout design facilitates controlled pouring, which reduces spills and splashes. The kettle’s sturdy build ensures it sits securely on a stove, and its stainless steel material is easy to clean, either with standard dish soap or a bit of scrubbing if needed.

Durability: Durability is one of the key strengths of the MSR Alpine Kettle. The stainless steel construction is robust and resistant to deformation under high heat or rough handling. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including exposure to elements and frequent packing and unpacking. The hard-anodized finish adds an extra layer of protection, making it resistant to scratches and general wear and tear.

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel construction with hard-anodized finish
• Efficient heat distribution and quick boiling
• Foldable handle for compact storage and easy transport
• Built-in spout strainer for controlled pouring
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• The 1-liter capacity may be small for larger groups or extended trips
• Stainless steel can get very hot, so caution is needed when handling
• No non-stick interior, which may require more effort to clean if used with certain foods

Conclusion: The MSR Alpine 1.0 Litre Stainless Steel Kettle is a robust and well-designed piece of camping cookware. Its efficient boiling performance, durable construction, and practical features make it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection. While its capacity might be limited for larger groups and care must be taken to handle it safely when hot, its overall functionality and durability make it a reliable choice for solo adventurers or small groups.

Review of the MSR Adjustable Poles

When it comes to optimizing your tent setup and enhancing your camping experience, the MSR Adjustable Poles are a game-changer. Designed with versatility and durability in mind, these poles are essential for those who seek to maximize the performance of their tent system. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the MSR Adjustable Poles a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts:

Design and Construction

The MSR Adjustable Poles are crafted from high-quality, lightweight materials that offer both strength and flexibility. Featuring a robust aluminum construction, these poles are designed to endure the rigors of rugged outdoor use while remaining lightweight enough to add minimal bulk to your gear. The adjustable feature allows for customization in height, making them versatile for various tent setups and conditions.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the MSR Adjustable Poles is their user-friendly design. The intuitive adjustment mechanism allows for quick and easy modifications to the pole height, accommodating different tent designs and terrain types. Whether you need a higher pitch for added headroom or a lower profile for better stability in windy conditions, these poles can be adjusted effortlessly to meet your needs.

Versatility

The adjustable nature of these poles makes them incredibly versatile. They are compatible with a wide range of MSR tents and shelters, as well as other brands that use similar pole systems. This adaptability ensures that you can get the most out of your tent regardless of the environment or specific requirements of your camping trip.

Durability and Stability

Durability is a key factor in any camping gear, and the MSR Adjustable Poles do not disappoint. The aluminum construction is designed to withstand significant stress and impacts, ensuring long-term reliability. Additionally, the poles offer excellent stability once set up, providing a sturdy frame that enhances the overall performance and durability of your tent or shelter.

Portability

Given their lightweight design and collapsible nature, the MSR Adjustable Poles are easy to pack and carry. They fit neatly into your backpack or gear bag, ensuring they do not add unnecessary weight or bulk to your load. Their compact size when collapsed means they are easy to transport, making them a convenient addition to your camping gear.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable aluminum construction
• Easy and quick height adjustment
• Versatile and compatible with a range of tents and shelters
• Compact and portable design

Cons:

• Adjustment mechanism may require occasional maintenance to ensure smooth operation
• Not universally compatible with all tent brands or models

Overall Verdict

The MSR Adjustable Poles are a valuable addition to any camper’s gear collection. Their combination of lightweight durability, ease of adjustment, and versatility makes them an excellent choice for enhancing your tent setup. Whether you’re looking to improve stability, increase headroom, or adapt to varying conditions, these poles offer the performance and reliability you need. For outdoor enthusiasts who value flexibility and convenience, the MSR Adjustable Poles are a top-notch investment.

For more information and to purchase, visit MSR Gear.

Review of the MSR Universal Footprint

For those who want to extend the life of their tent and enhance their outdoor experience, the MSR Universal Footprint is an indispensable accessory. Designed to provide added protection and versatility, this footprint is a smart investment for any camper looking to safeguard their gear and improve their camping setup. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the MSR Universal Footprint a must-have:

Design and Functionality

The MSR Universal Footprint is expertly crafted to offer robust protection for your tent’s floor. Made from durable, high-quality materials, this footprint creates a barrier between your tent and the ground, protecting against abrasions, moisture, and dirt. Its design ensures that your tent floor remains clean and intact, extending its lifespan and maintaining its performance over time.

Compatibility

One of the standout features of the Universal Footprint is its versatility. As the name suggests, this footprint is designed to fit a variety of tent models, making it a flexible choice for campers who own multiple tents or switch between different setups. The adjustable and adaptable design allows it to be used with various MSR tents as well as other brands that have similar dimensions.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Universal Footprint is straightforward and hassle-free. It’s lightweight and easy to pack, fitting seamlessly into your camping gear without adding significant bulk. When you’re ready to use it, simply lay it out beneath your tent to create a protective layer. The footprint’s dimensions are designed to match the tent floor, ensuring a snug fit that stays in place during use.

Durability

The durability of the MSR Universal Footprint is impressive. Constructed from tough, water-resistant materials, it stands up well to rugged terrain and harsh conditions. It provides a reliable barrier against rocks, roots, and other ground hazards that could potentially damage your tent. The footprint also helps in managing moisture, keeping the bottom of your tent dry and comfortable.

Portability

Given its lightweight and compact nature, the Universal Footprint is easy to carry and store. It rolls up neatly and fits into your backpack or gear bag without taking up too much space. This portability ensures that you can bring it along on all your outdoor adventures, adding an extra layer of protection to your camping setup.

Pros:

• Durable and water-resistant material
• Protects tent floor from abrasion and moisture
• Versatile and compatible with a range of tents
• Lightweight and easy to pack

Cons:

• May not fit perfectly with all tent models, requiring some adjustment
• Limited to floor protection; does not provide additional shelter or coverage

Overall Verdict

The MSR Universal Footprint is a valuable accessory for any outdoor enthusiast. Its combination of durability, versatility, and ease of use makes it an excellent choice for protecting your tent and enhancing your camping experience. Whether you’re camping on rugged terrain or simply want to preserve your tent’s condition, this footprint offers practical and effective protection. For a smart and simple way to extend the life of your gear, the MSR Universal Footprint is a top recommendation.

For more information and to purchase, visit MSR Gear.

MSR MESH HOUSE 2 by Mountain Safety Research.

Review of the MSR Mesh House 2 Tent

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, breathable, and versatile shelter, the MSR Mesh House 2 tent from Mountain Safety Research (MSR) is definitely worth considering. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes this tent stand out:

Design and Construction

The MSR Mesh House 2 is a beautifully engineered tent that excels in providing maximum ventilation and protection from the elements. With its nearly full-mesh body, the tent offers outstanding airflow, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather camping. The design ensures you stay cool on hot nights while keeping bugs at bay, thanks to the fine mesh netting.

Setup and Portability

Weighing just over 2 pounds and featuring a quick and straightforward setup process, the Mesh House 2 is a favorite among backpackers and lightweight enthusiasts. Its compact pack size makes it easy to fit into your backpack without compromising on comfort or functionality.

The MSR Mesh House 2 offers several options for setup. 1) Trekking Poles, 2) MSR Tarp/Tent Poles, 3) MSR Thru Hiker Tarp, 4) Tree. Depending on the configuration you choose, there are several options to setup the MSR Mesh House 2 tent and MSR Thru Hiker 100 tarp combination.

Interior Space and Comfort

Despite its lightweight design, the Mesh House 2 offers a surprising amount of interior space. It comfortably accommodates two people with ample headroom and space for gear. The tent’s design also includes a floor area that’s spacious enough to stretch out and relax after a long day on the trail.

Weather Performance

While the tent is not designed for extreme weather conditions, it performs admirably in typical summer conditions. The mesh fabric ensures excellent ventilation, but it’s worth noting that the Mesh House 2 doesn’t come with a full rainfly. For those expecting heavy rain or strong winds, consider pairing it with MSR’s optional rainfly for added protection.

Durability and Quality

MSR’s reputation for quality shines through in the Mesh House 2. The tent’s materials are durable and well-constructed, capable of handling the wear and tear of regular use. The lightweight yet strong materials are a testament to MSR’s commitment to creating reliable outdoor gear.

Pros:

• Excellent ventilation and breathability
• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to set up
• Comfortable space for two

Cons:

• Limited protection from heavy rain and strong winds without an additional rainfly
• Mesh design may not offer enough privacy for some users

Overall Verdict

The MSR Mesh House 2 tent is a fantastic option for those who prioritize ventilation and weight savings in their camping gear. It’s perfect for warm weather trips where bugs and breathability are a concern. If you’re looking for a tent that combines ease of use, comfort, and light weight, the Mesh House 2 is a solid choice. Just be prepared to add a rainfly for extra weather protection if needed.

For more information and to purchase, visit MSR Gear.

MSR MESH HOUSE 2 by Mountain Safety Research.

Review of the MSR Thru-Hiker 100 Tent

For those who value ultralight packing and minimalist design, the MSR Thru-Hiker 100 tent is an exceptional choice. Designed with serious backpackers in mind, this tent offers a blend of functionality and minimal weight that’s hard to beat. Here’s a closer look at what makes the Thru-Hiker 100 stand out:

Design and Construction

The MSR Thru-Hiker 100 is a marvel of minimalist design. Constructed with a single-wall design and ultra-lightweight materials, this tent is tailored for those who prioritize weight savings above all else. Its compact, streamlined profile reduces bulk while providing adequate shelter for one person, making it an ideal companion for solo hikers and those on long-distance treks.

Setup and Portability

Weighing just around 1 pound, the Thru-Hiker 100 is incredibly light, which is a significant advantage for long-distance backpacking. The tent features a simple setup that requires trekking poles as the primary support structure, eliminating the need for additional poles and further reducing weight. Its small pack size ensures it fits easily into your backpack, leaving more room for other essentials.

Interior Space and Comfort

While the Thru-Hiker 100 is designed with minimalism in mind, it still offers a respectable amount of space for solo adventurers. The tent’s design maximizes interior space, providing enough room to stretch out and store gear. The tent includes mesh pockets for organization and features a relatively high ceiling for a tent of its size, enhancing comfort and livability.

Weather Performance

The Thru-Hiker 100 is built for three-season use, providing solid protection against light rain and moderate winds. Its single-wall construction helps keep weight down but may not be ideal for heavy storms or extreme conditions without additional protection. For enhanced weather resilience, consider using a separate groundsheet or additional rain gear.

Durability and Quality

MSR’s commitment to quality is evident in the Thru-Hiker 100. The tent’s materials are designed to be lightweight yet durable, able to withstand the rigors of extended backpacking trips. The craftsmanship is top-notch, ensuring that the tent remains reliable and functional throughout its lifespan.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and compact
• Easy setup with trekking poles
• Adequate space and comfort for solo use
• High-quality, durable materials

Cons:

• Limited weather protection compared to multi-wall tents
• Not suited for extreme weather conditions without additional gear

Overall Verdict

The MSR Thru-Hiker 100 tent is a standout option for ultralight backpackers who demand efficiency and performance. Its minimalist design and lightweight construction make it an excellent choice for those who need to minimize their load while still enjoying reliable shelter. While it may not be the best option for severe weather, it excels in providing a lightweight and functional solution for three-season use.

For more information and to purchase, visit MSR Gear.