Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent MSR Access 2 Person Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Big Agnes
Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent
Best for: Versatile crossover for backpacking or campgrounds.
MSR
MSR Access 2 Person Tent
Best for: Lightweight ski touring and snowshoeing.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent is noticeably taller inside (4'2" peak height versus 3'6"), giving you more headroom to move around.
Floor space is also wider — 60 sq ft versus 29 sq ft for the MSR Access 2 Person Tent.
On scores, the Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent edges ahead — 8.1 overall versus 7.9.
The biggest gap is value for money, where the Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent holds a clear advantage.
The Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent also has a price edge — $450 less at $349 versus $799.
For most buyers, the Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent
- Spacious 60 square foot floor
- Dual vents for excellent airflow
- Value pricing for Big Agnes quality
- Heavy weight hampers long treks
- Small vestibule limits gear storage
MSR Access 2 Person Tent
- Lightweight 4 lb 1 oz design
- Unbreakable Easton Syclone composite poles
- Two doors with dual vestibules
- Fiberglass poles lack long-term durability
- Too short to stand inside
Full Specs
| Spec | Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Person Tent | MSR Access 2 Person Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Backpacking, 4 Season, Ski Touring, Dome |
| Capacity | 3 people | 3 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $350 | $800 |
| Weight | 7.8 Lbs | 4.1 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 60.0 ft² | 29.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 11 + 11 Sq Ft | 17.5 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 50 | 42 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Floor Dimensions | 90 X 96 In | 84 X 50 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Easton Syclone Composite |
| Floor Fabric | Polyester With 1500mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | 30D Ripstop Nylon 3000mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR |
| Rainfly Fabric | Recycled 75D Polyester | 20 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,200 Mm Polyether Urethane And Silicone |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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