Detailed Review Of The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3

Stepping into the great outdoors with the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 feels like carrying a piece of home into the wilderness. This ultralight, three-person tent is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on comfort, space, or durability.

Its high-volume architecture and innovative design make it a shelter and haven for adventurers. From the moment I unrolled it, its vibrant color and sleek design promised a mix of style and functionality.

Review: Backpacking with the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3

The Copper Spur HV UL3 stands out as a top-tier choice for those seeking an exceptional balance of weight and livability. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or planning your first backcountry trip, this tent will elevate your camping experience to new heights!

My Experience with the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3

I’ve taken our three-person Copper Spur to Summit Lake, Rampart Lakes, and on a solo trip to Yellow Aster Butte. (I wanted some photos, ha.) In all cases, it’s been fantastic.

Usually, my girlfriend and I split up the tent weight, but even taking it solo, I hardly even noticed it on the 2,400-foot ascent.

Plus, setting it up solo wasn’t hard at all. Sometimes, a larger tent can be more challenging to do alone, but this was a piece of cake.

How well do two people fit in the Copper Spur UL3?

My girlfriend and I have SO MUCH room. After a couple of years of being cramped in a two-person Big Anges UL tent, having the extra room is incredible. Both of us have wider sleeping pads, so they would overlap when we slept.

This was never fun, so now we can sprawl out and enjoy the spacious quarters.

I guess the only new thing we have to worry about is the extra space the tent takes up on the ground. I imagine this will not be something that really matters, but it can be a factor.

What to be worried about?

The bottom is thin (so too are the sides)

As you know, this tent is very lightweight, so the walls and bottom are not overly durable (still tough but not heavy-duty.) Due to this, be careful with what you bring into the tent. If you bring something with a sharp-ish corner into the tent, it could rip the fabric.

I’ve made a point of being extra careful to preserve the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 for as long as possible!

I would also be semi-worried if you were in a constant downpour. I don’t think this tent (nor any ultralight tent, for that matter) would hold up well in consistently strong rain.

Not tested in a terrible storm/wind

Thankfully, I have not had to spend a night in a torrential downpour or insanely strong winds. So, on that level, I cannot speak to how the tent holds up. However, I did sleep amidst a decently windy night at Yellow Aster Butte in the North Cascades, and the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 held up fine.

The only issue was the tent flaps being noisy – but that’s somewhat a given. (And there was some user error with the stakes… oops.)

Overall, my review of the Copper Spur HV UL3?

I honestly love it. I’ve only had it for one summer and three trips, but it’s been a fantastic companion thus far. I’m excited to keep testing it out and bringing it to stunning locations throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Grab the Copper Spur today if you’re looking for an award-winning, rock-solid tent that won’t break your back!

Technical Specifications: Copper Spur UL3 Review

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 tent is designed to be ultralight and spacious, making it ideal for backpacking and outdoor adventures. Here are its key specifications:

• Packed Weight: The tent has a packed weight of approximately 3 lbs 14 oz.
• Floor Area: It offers a floor area of 41 square feet.
• Packed Size: When packed, the tent measures around 21 x 6 inches.
• Dimensions: The floor dimensions are 90 x 70/62 inches (length x width at head/foot).
• Peak Height: The tent has a peak height of 43 inches.
• Doors and Poles: It features 2 doors and is supported by 2 poles.
• Materials: The poles are made of DAC Featherlite aluminum, with a pole diameter of 9.3 millimeters. The canopy fabric is ripstop nylon/polyester mesh, and both the floor and the rainfly are made of polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon, offering durability and water resistance.

In terms of functionality, this Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 review praises its comfort, ease of setup, and weather resistance. The tent’s design includes large storage pockets and large side doors for easy entry and exit. The pre-bent poles help maximize interior space, making it more comfortable for occupants.

Its design also features a tapered foot area to reduce weight without sacrificing too much space. Additionally, the tent is noted for its excellent weather resistance, with features like a bathtub floor to prevent splashback and a vestibule that can be transformed into an awning using trekking poles.

However, it’s important to note that while this tent is marketed as a three-person tent, the tapered design at the foot area might make it more suitable for two people or two people and a pet, especially if looking for extra comfort.

It’s also advised to use additional protection, like a tarp under the tent, to enhance its durability, especially when setting it up on rough surfaces.

Photos of the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3

FAQ: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Review

Is Copper Spur waterproof?

No tent is waterproof, but it’s undoubtedly very water-resistant. If it’s in a constant downpour that never abides, I’m sure it’ll lose its functionality eventually. My previous Big Agnes tent endured some heavy rains, but I was never swimming, so I’d assume it will be the same for the Copper Spur HV UL3.

Does the Copper Spur need a footprint?

To protect the longevity of the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3, I highly recommend getting a footprint. This will put one more layer of defense in between the ground (which could have rocks, sticks, or roots) and the thin floor of your tent. While it’s a little more money, it’s worth it to protect the tent.

Is a Big Agnes tent worth it?

Yes, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is a pricey tent. At $600, it’s a considerable investment. But it is just that. You’re paying for a proven brand that is known for great work. Plus, you’re buying top-of-the-line gear.

If you want to spend less, you will have a much heavier tent. If you want lightweight material, you’ve got to pay for it.

Is Big Agnes a good brand?

I believe Big Agnes is a fantastic brand. I currently have all of my Big-3 from them. My old 2P tent (Happy Hooligan), sleeping bag, and sleeping pad are all Big Agnes, and these three have done an exceptional job for the past six summers.

I can’t recommend Big Agnes enough.

Final Thoughts: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Review

In conclusion, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 isn’t just a tent; it’s a testament to what modern outdoor gear can be. After multiple trips in varying conditions, it’s evident that this tent strikes a rare and delightful balance between ultralight backpacking efficiency and the spacious comfort we crave in the wild.

Its durability, ease of set-up, and thoughtful features like ample storage and near-vertical walls transform camping into a luxurious outdoor experience. Whether gazing at the stars through its mesh ceiling or sheltering from a mountain storm, the Copper Spur HV UL3 is a reliable companion.

This tent is an undeniable winner for anyone looking to invest in top-quality gear that enhances the joy of exploring the great outdoors.

Until next time, adventurers, stay safe!