Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Tent

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A dependable all-rounder with smart updates and generous space, all at a price that’s hard to ignore.

Big Agnes says: 

Blacktail tents are a tried and true Big Agnes classic – light enough for the backcountry, and strong enough for the front country.

The Blacktail checks every box – lightweight design for backpackers who want a super comfortable tent after a long day on the trail, and excellent value for car campers looking for an easy to set up shelter with a small footprint. Burly recycled fabric means that you won’t have to sacrifice durability for weight savings or sustainability – you get it all! Spacious sleeping areas and easy access through two side-entry doors and vestibules make early morning entry and exit with a tentmate a breeze when nature calls.

No matter where your adventure takes you, camp comfy in a Blacktail!

Our Verdict

I’m genuinely impressed by how much tent Big Agnes delivers here, especially at this price. Built to handle wet weather and breezy pitches, this latest Blacktail 2 refines a classic balance of space, weight and simplicity.

The Blacktail 2 works wonders on mixed-weather trips, and it’s remained a solid, dependable performer. At just over 2.3kg (excluding pegs and bags), it’s not ultralight, but the extra headroom and twin vestibules earn their keep when the forecast turns foul. The new version feels slightly more polished—setup is even more intuitive with the TipLok buckles, and ventilation is improved thanks to both roof and low vents working well together.

Interior space is generous for two, and the symmetrical pole design means no awkward corners or saggy ends. I appreciate the two side pockets and two ceiling pockets—plenty of room to keep essentials out of the way, but in easy reach. The recycled fabric still feels burly, and it’s held up just fine through sustained rain. I wish the inner packed a bit smaller, but that’s a fair trade-off at this price point.

The Blacktail 2 remains a tent I trust to get the job done—nothing flashy, just functional comfort in the hills.
A roomy, no-fuss shelter that won’t weigh you down or empty your wallet.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Two doors and two vestibules
• Durable, lightweight aluminum poleset with prebends and high-volume cross pole makes for spacious interior
• Symmetrical pole structure along with color-coded webbing and buckles make set up quick and easy
• Proprietary TipLok™ Tent Buckle streamlines tent set up by combining three functions: secure pole-tip capture, rainfly attachment and tensioner, and stake-out loop
• Two supported roof vents increase air circulation
• Low Vent feature on the vestibule doors increases air flow while still providing vestibule coverage
• Dual-zipper doors with easy-grip zipper pulls. Use only one zipper for quick, reach-through access
• Quick Stash door keeper on tent body makes stowing unzipped door quick and easy
• Interior storage includes side pockets, ceiling pockets, and media pockets
• Multiple interior loops for attaching accessorie
• Ready to pitch; with pre-cut guylines and tensioners attached to fly
• Reflective guy lines and webbing on tent corners

Specifications

UOG Specs:

• Inner tent weighs: 845g
• Flysheet weighs: 874g
• Poleset weighs: 583g
• Total weight: 2302g (excludes pegs and bags)
• 8 x pegs supplied weigh: 113g 

Big Agnes Specs:

• Trail weight (excludes pegs): 2.27kg
• Packed weight: 2.49kg
• Fast fly weight: 2.13kg
• Packed size: 53 x 18cm
• Floor size: 3.1m²
• Floor length: 229cm
• Floor width: 132cm
• Head height: 107cm
• Vestibule area: .8m² + .8m²
• Pole Set Type: Aluminum Pressfit
• Pole Diameter:9mm 

Material & Construction

• Fabric
  • Rainfly: Recycled 75D polyester taffeta with 1500mm waterproof polyurethane coating and PFAS-free water-repellent finish
  • Tent body: Recycled breathable 75D polyester taffeta and polyester mesh
  • Floor: Recycled 75D polyester taffeta with 1500mm waterproof polyurethane coating and PFAS-free water-repellent finish
  • Footprint: Recycled 75D polyester taffeta with 1500mm water proof polyurethane coating and PFAS-free water-repellent finish
  • All seams taped with waterproof, solvent-free polyurethane tape

• Poles/Buckles
  • Lightweight aluminum poleset with prebends
  • Plastic clips attach tent body to pole frame

• Stakes & Storage
  • 2 side pockets, 2 ceiling pockets & 8 x 6.75” Big Agnes Dirt Dagger™ UL stakes

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Ultralight Tents
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Tent
• When pegs go bad – Everything you need to know about tent pegs
• Are Tent Footprints Worth It?
• Big Agnes Tent Guide
• Bikepacking Advice Page
• About Big Agnes
• Solution-Dyed Fabrics