Are you an ultralight backpacking enthusiast constantly seeking ways to shave ounces from your pack? Then the MSR Carbon Core tent stakes deserve your attention. Weighing in at a mere 5 grams each, these stakes offer significant weight savings without sacrificing performance in suitable conditions. This review dives into my extensive experience with these stakes, covering their performance in various terrains, ease of use, and overall durability. We'll explore whether their premium price tag is justified by the benefits they provide, ultimately determining if they truly earn a spot in your backpacking essentials kit.This in-depth review covers the strengths and weaknesses of the MSR Carbon Core stakes, addressing common concerns about fragility. I'll share firsthand experience from backpacking in the Pacific Northwest, highlighting their performance in soft ground conditions and discussing strategies for avoiding breakage in rocky terrain. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether the MSR Carbon Core stakes are the right lightweight solution for your backpacking adventures, helping you make an informed decision about this premium product.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight (5 grams or 0.19 ounces each)
- Easy to push into the ground
- Hold well in soft ground
- Rarely pull out
- Fragile and break easily (according to some reviews)
Read more: 5 Best Tent Stakes with Loops for Secure Camping
Lightweight Design and Build
The MSR Carbon Core tent stakes are incredibly lightweight, weighing in at a mere 5 grams (0.19 ounces) each. This makes them a fantastic choice for backpacking enthusiasts focused on minimizing pack weight. The carbon core provides strength despite their slender profile. However, some reviews mention fragility, a point I'll address later.
The stakes' design features a nail-style tip for easy insertion into the ground. The top end is designed for easy pushing into the soil, reducing the need for hammering. This thoughtful design aspect minimizes the risk of stake breakage during installation.
I find this easier on my hands compared to hammering stakes, especially when dealing with harder ground or rocky terrain. While I prioritize avoiding rocks, the ease of insertion significantly reduces hammering-related damage.
Performance in the Pacific Northwest
My backpacking primarily takes place in the Pacific Northwest, which features soft ground composed mainly of duff and pine needles. In this environment, the MSR Carbon Core stakes perform exceptionally well. They hold firmly, rarely pulling out, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
While they excel in softer ground, they require more careful placement around rocks. A direct impact against a rock can lead to breakage, so mindful placement is key. This is true for any stake, not just this one.
I've never experienced a broken stake, even after extensive use across varied terrains. This speaks volumes about their durability in suitable ground conditions. The ease of removal is also a plus, as the stakes come out easily without additional force.
Value and Alternatives
The MSR Carbon Core stakes aren't inexpensive; a four-pack typically costs around $47. However, the significant weight savings can justify the expense for serious ultralight backpackers. The reduced weight in your pack is a considerable advantage.
While other lightweight staking options exist, my experience with these has been so positive I haven't felt a need to switch. Their reliability and easy handling make them a worthwhile investment.
If minimizing weight is a top priority, and the terrain you'll be using them in mostly soft ground, the cost becomes a secondary consideration relative to the benefit.
Final Verdict
The MSR Carbon Core Tent Stakes are a premium product excelling in lightweight backpacking situations, particularly in soft ground. Their ease of insertion and removal is a huge advantage, reducing the time and effort involved in setting up camp.
While fragility concerns exist, my experience demonstrates their resilience in the right environment. I've not broken any in several years of use. Careful placement is always essential when using any tent stake, especially if there is a chance of hitting rocks.
Ultimately, the MSR Carbon Core stakes receive a 'buy it' recommendation for those who prioritize ultralight backpacking and understand their limitations in rocky terrain. The weight savings are substantial, and they are reliable in soft ground.