Gear Review: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Details

MSRP: $449.95
Floor Area: 29 square feet
Vestibule Area: 9 square feet
Packed Weight (includes footprint): 3 pounds, 7 ounces

Image: Big Agnes

I loved how spacious the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2 was for a two-person tent. On the Appalachian Trail, I used the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 tent and gave it a five-star review. After the trail, I purchased the UL2 to save weight on backpacking trips. Furthermore, I was impressed with the durability and details in the design. As the picture shows, two sleeping bags can fit side by side and the increased head space maximizes the 29-square-foot floor area.

Circumstances of Review

I’ve used this tent on various backpacking and bike trips in Colorado and Utah. The tent proved to be spacious enough for two people, durable, and even endured a couple of rain showers. In comparison to the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3, the Copper Spur HV UL2 was more compact and lightweight. It was easier to pack and to assemble. If you’re thru-hiking with a partner or going solo but want more space, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is calling your name.

Roses

Cozy but roomy: The Copper Spur HV UL2’s angled head space makes the tent feel roomy enough for two people. When I used it solo, I had plenty of space and could even put my Exos 58 pack in the tent. The fly’s vestibule increases storage space for shoes, backpacks, and other gear items (properly store/hang all consumables). The high-volume hub maximizes the space.

 Storage Design: The gear lofts are clutch for those who like to organize their gear at night. In all, there are three gear lofts, one on each side of the door and a top gear loft.  I keep my headlamp in the top and cell phone and charging device in the side lofts for easy access.

Lightweight

You can kind of get a glimpse into the head space in this image.

The more I use lightweight gear, the more I realize how much I like it. Looking back at my Appalachian Trail thru-hike, I think Hannah and I could have gone with the Copper Spur HV UL2 instead of the Copper Spur UL3. I felt a difference in my pack weight on trips with the two-person tent but didn’t sacrifice my comfort or a good night’s sleep. Plus, the lightweight features were durable and surely could handle a thru-hike.

When you’re setting up camp and take a second to check out the scenery.

Thorns

Zippers: For some reason, I really struggle to not catch/rip the fly on the zippers. This could be user error and I should take my time to ensure the fly is not in the zipper’s path. However, the other zippers for the tent body are great. I like the two-zipper feature of the door “frame.”

Value

I am continually impressed with Big Agnes tents, having owned the Copper Spur HV UL2 and Copper Spur UL3. The price tag of $449.95 is intimidating, but the durability and BA’s customer service is worth it. Furthermore, the lightweight design is ideal for one- or two-person backpacking trips.

Options

For a higher price point but lighter weight and a few more inches, check out the Copper Spur Platinum. Big Agnes also offers this tent in a three-person and a single-person size

Shop the HV UL2 Here

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