MSR

The 7-point design of a tarp or wing typically includes a "flat" and a "pointed" end. It's important to use the "pointed end" as the highest supported point for all configurations. The opposite "flat edge" consists of three points that can be stretched tightly and attached to a shelter, car rack, or pole-supported vestibule of a tent to form a protected area.

You can experiment with different configurations by placing the poles at different points, using no poles at all, or adding more poles to create new living spaces. You can even use paddles or sticks in the cord storage pockets. Let your creativity flow and have fun trying out different setups!

A footprint is a separate groundsheet that is customized to fit each specific model of MSR tent. We highly recommend using an MSR footprint under your tent as it serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it helps to keep your tent floor clean and dry. Secondly, it provides an extra layer of protection to the floor, preventing excessive abrasion and extending the life of the tent.

In addition, some MSR tents can be set up with just the footprint and fly, creating an incredibly lightweight and minimalist alternative to a full tent. This setup is ideal for those who prefer to travel light and fast. So, investing in a footprint is a wise decision that can benefit you in multiple ways.

It's important to never pack or store your tent if it is wet, damp, or dirty. Although MSR uses the best polyurethane waterproofing available, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause hydrolysis, which can break down the waterproof layer, making it soft, sticky, and no longer waterproof.

Storing a wet tent for as little as 24 hours in warm weather can also lead to the formation of mildew on the fabric. Mildew can cause your tent to stain, smell, and lead to the premature breakdown of the waterproof coating. It's important to note that mildew and moisture damage are not covered under the Limited Warranty.

For long-term storage, it's recommended to keep your tent in a dry and cool area, away from direct sunlight. You should store it outside of its stuff sack, as you would a sleeping bag, in a breathable, oversized cotton or mesh duffel for protection. An old pillowcase is an ideal option if you're on a budget.

To increase stability in windy or extreme conditions and maximize ventilation, it's recommended to guy out your tent. Here's how you can do it using the included tensioners:

1. Run cord from the tent's guy point through the tensioner.
2. Pass the cord around the stake and back through the tensioner, ensuring that the curved side of the tensioner is facing the stake.
3. Tie a knot at the end of the cord.
4. To tighten the cord, pull the tensioner up along the cord and release.

By following these steps, you can easily and effectively guy out your tent using the included tensioners.

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air inside the tent meets a surface, such as the tent's walls or fly, that is colder than the dew point temperature. This can be caused by several factors:

• Weather conditions: High humidity, low temperatures, and rainy conditions create the most condensation.
• People: We produce about 1 - 2 pints of moisture per night through breathing and skin evaporation.
• Wet environment: Wet ground or wet gear stored inside the tent.

While no tent design can eliminate condensation, the key to reducing it is ventilation. Cooler, drier air needs to flow into the tent and warm, moist air must escape. MSR tents are designed to facilitate ventilation in several ways.

The tent body and ceiling are made of breathable and mesh fabrics to allow moisture to escape from the interior of the tent. The waterproof fly has a peak vent that provides protection from the outside while allowing fresh air to flow through the tent. Leaving a door open in good weather or using the double sliders on the doors to vent from the top can also help. It's recommended to leave at least two vents open, allowing for cross-flow ventilation. Finally, guying out the rainfly can increase ventilation in hot or humid conditions.

The lifespan of a tent can vary widely depending on how often and in what conditions it is used. Exposure to UV radiation from the sun is one of the main factors that can cause a tent to degrade and break down over time. A tent that is frequently used in extreme conditions, such as high altitudes or harsh weather, may only last a few months or a year or two. On the other hand, a well-maintained tent that is used occasionally under normal conditions can last for many years.

If your tent is lightly soiled, you can usually clean it by simply wiping it down with a damp cloth. For more stubborn stains or heavy dirt buildup, you can set up the tent and hand wash it using a non-detergent soap, warm water, and a soft sponge or brush. Avoid using dishwashing liquid, bleach, or other harsh cleaners, as these can damage the tent's materials and waterproof coatings.

After washing, rinse the tent thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Hang it up or pitch it to dry in a cool, shaded area, making sure to avoid direct sunlight or high heat. Never machine-wash or dry-clean your tent, as this can damage the fabric and coatings. And remember, the best way to keep your tent clean is to take care of it while you're using it, and avoid setting it up in muddy or dirty areas.

Titanium, aluminum, and stainless steel are all commonly used materials for outdoor cookware.

Titanium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal and is known for its light weight. It is also corrosion-resistant and durable, making it ideal for backpackers and other weight-conscious adventurers. However, it is not a good conductor of heat and can develop hot spots, which makes it less suitable for cooking foods that require even heat distribution.

Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor cookware because it is lightweight, conducts heat evenly, and is easy to clean. Hard-anodized aluminum is even more durable and scratch-resistant. However, it is not as strong as titanium or stainless steel, and can be prone to warping and denting.

Stainless steel is known for its strength and durability, making it a good choice for cookware that may take a lot of abuse. It is also easy to clean and does not react with acidic foods. However, it is not as lightweight as titanium or aluminum and does not conduct heat as well, which can result in uneven cooking.

In terms of cooking efficiency, the color and material of the cookware can make a difference. Darker pots are more fuel efficient than lighter ones because they absorb and retain heat better. Cookware that has been used often and has developed a darkened patina can also be more efficient than brand-new cookware.

MSR cookware is designed to be easy to clean. All components except aluminum cookware are dishwasher safe. We recommend using a mild liquid detergent and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to clean your cookware. For tough stains or stuck-on food, you can use a non-abrasive scrubber or soak the cookware in warm, soapy water before cleaning.

Aluminum cookware should be hand-washed to prevent damage to the cookware's surface. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and mild liquid detergent to clean your aluminum cookware. Do not use steel wool or abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface. Avoid soaking the cookware in water for extended periods, as this can cause discoloration or pitting. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft towel or allow it to air dry.