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Reddit Reviews
Nemo Dagger 2p is absolutely perfect for 2 people. Lightweight(you can split weight), easy to pitch, very spacious(can fit 2 large pads), 2 doors with a lot of room for your gear. Many other features that are absolutely spot on
I have normal Dagger 2 and mate you will be alright.. I camped in it throughout winter and summer. If you are planning to camp in bad conditions MSR is probably better choice as Dagger is more warmer tent with massive vents so wind goes through it like no tomorrow. However it is very sturdy, solid, spacious and completely waterproof. Another pro - it does not sag when wet. I’m lucky enough to have quite a few tents so I can pick whichever suits conditions, but if you want to have 1 tent do it all - go for MSR.
Nemo Dagger is best I have ever owned
Dagger is square floor as to where the dragonfly tapers at the foot. So if you use 2 25in wide pads in the 2p dagger it should fit as the dragonfly won't. Last years model of dragonfly is on sale at REI and you can use there 20% member discount right now until 23rd. If all you need is a 2p the Durston xdome 2p is the King 👑 then zpacks duplex is next for weight
I have a nemo dagger 2p I absolutely love, I would recommend that to anyone, super easy and fast setup https://preview.redd.it/a8g5w3i98bqg1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c718aaf08dd851955bb17925bbc04fbd611515f
I’ve used the Nemo Dagger 2P for a couple seasons in the PNW and it’s honestly been super solid for rain and wind, never felt like it was struggling, even when things got sketchy on the coast. The interior space is really good for two, and the vestibules are roomy enough for gear (I cram boots, pack, and even my wet jacket in there sometimes).
You’re honestly looking at the “correct” tier of first backpacking tents, especially for the PNW. None of these are bad picks — it really comes down to what you prioritize when conditions are wet and you’re spending more time inside. Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 This is probably the most common “first serious backpacking tent” for a reason. It’s light, easy to set up, and very livable for the weight. Good pockets and decent interior space. Downsides are the lighter fabric (you’ll want to be mindful of abrasion) and condensation management in wet weather, which is more about venting and site choice than the tent itself. Durston X-Dome 2 More of a design-forward pick. Typically stronger structure and weather performance than most mainstream ultralight tents, especially in wind and rain. Less flashy, more functional. The tradeoff is availability/support compared to something you can grab off the shelf at REI. If you like thoughtful design and storm worthiness, this is a strong option. Nemo Dagger 2P The comfort king in this list. Noticeably roomier inside, great vestibules, and very forgiving on long rainy nights. It is heavier and bulkier, but for PNW trips where you might be stuck inside due to weather, that comfort can be worth it. MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 A classic, durable, dependable tent. Handles bad weather well and feels solid. Interior space is good but not as roomy as the Dagger. Weight sits between the Dagger and Copper Spur depending on the version. It’s a “buy once and don’t think about it again” option.
* Best balance of weight + comfort: Copper Spur UL2 * Best livability in wet conditions: Nemo Dagger 2P * Most weather-focused, design-driven option: Durston X-Dome 2 * Most traditionally durable and dependable: MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 You’re in a good price range and any of these will work — it’s more about whether you want lighter, roomier, or tougher.
Tbh for the price of a new MSR tent you'd be better off getting a Durston X-Dome, Big Agnes Copper spur UL2 or a Nemo Dragonfly/Aurora/Dagger 2P MSR is one of the only brands that still use a nylon fly which sucks up a lot of water and sags quite a lot when wet. Also like another comment said, you have certain brands with the exact same design and similar build quality for a fourth of the price (Naturehike Mongar 2 UL, Naturehike Star River 2 UL)
dont really know your needs, but i love my nemo dagger 2p. great customer support as well in my experience.
i picked the dagger 2p bc i liked the roominess and the weight doesnt bother me for backpacking.
I actually agree a lot with what you said about going to REI if you can. The hands-on part matters way more than most people think. Seeing the tents set up in person makes the differences a lot more obvious than specs online ever do. From what I’ve used /seen, all the tents you listed are honestly solid, so it really comes down to tradeoffs. The copper spur feels really light and roomy but also a bit delicate if you’re not gentle with your gear. The dagger feels more comfy inside, esp with storage but yeah you def notice the extra weight. Hubba hubba feels more bombproof in bad weather, which is nice for PNW trips even if it’s not the lightest. Haven’t slept in the X-Dome myself, but I’ve seen a few people use durston tents and they seem really well thought out for the weight. If weather resistance and livability matter more than shaving ounces, I’d prob lean dagger or hubba hubba. If weight is higher priority, copper spur makes sense. But yeah, going in person like that comment suggests is prob the best move — once you crawl inside them, your preference gets pretty clear fast.
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