Veteran Pick
Black Diamond Bibler Ahwahnee
“For me, being outside is all about the view, and this tent—with its gigantic, body-length twin doors—lets me see the landscape even when I have to be inside. What’s more, its mountaineering heritage makes it tough enough for any conditions, and light enough to take anywhere. The 33-square-foot interior squeezes in three when necessary, and an optional vestibule adds a huge front porch. $650; 5 lbs. 10 oz.; blackdiamondequipment.com. —Contributing Editor John Harlin III (and tester since 1987)
I purchased my VE24 in 1982 and used it well for a few years. Then we moved to the beach and mostly cruised a Cal 30. In 1992 we retired to Bend Oregon and I dug out my wonderful family fort. Alas, the floor was sticky. I returned it under the TNF Warranty and soon received a new VE25. I also have a solo favorite, the Black Diamond Firstlight at 2,11.
JAM
Jan 18, 2011
You gotta love SD tents and I'm happy to see at least one model reach the H.O.F. For many years, my first generation Lightning 2 had been my "go to" 3-season tent. Although I've recently gone more lightweight with my Tarptent Rainbow 1, my SD Lightning and SD Stretch Dome 4-season create a pretty good, personal tent inventory.
READERS COMMENTS
Garbage
I purchased my VE24 in 1982 and used it well for a few years. Then we moved to the beach and mostly cruised a Cal 30. In 1992 we retired to Bend Oregon and I dug out my wonderful family fort. Alas, the floor was sticky. I returned it under the TNF Warranty and soon received a new VE25. I also have a solo favorite, the Black Diamond Firstlight at 2,11.
You gotta love SD tents and I'm happy to see at least one model reach the H.O.F. For many years, my first generation Lightning 2 had been my "go to" 3-season tent. Although I've recently gone more lightweight with my Tarptent Rainbow 1, my SD Lightning and SD Stretch Dome 4-season create a pretty good, personal tent inventory.
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