His Canvas Stove Tent was Better Than Mine. Kodiak 6170 vs Cabela's 12x12 Alaknak

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

⛺🔥SO MANY GREAT PRODUCTS ON THE kodiakcanvas.com WEBSITE🔥⛺

[@boog110]

Best review I’ve ever seen on KZbin. No music or 10 minutes of rambling to start the video. Phenomenal camera work. Fair, fact based side by side comparison. I’m going to need you to make a similar video anytime I’m looking to buy something. Thank you!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@boog110 This is one of the best and kindest comments I have received in a long time. This video may be a couple years old but it was one of the most challenging productions I have done to date. I spent a lot of time focused on good audio, good video, and thorough descriptions. I wanted the video to move quickly and cut out all the senseless crap that would devalue the end result. I am sincerely glad this video brought you value. Again thank you for your kind words. It makes the world to me after spending so much time trying to create something of value. Let me know what else I can bring you and share the video with a friend really helps me out. -Will

[@Deej496]

I love my Kodiak! And so easy for one person to set up. Im 67 yrs.old and take my horse camping . I love the windows. Makes it easy to peek out at my horse during the night to check on him. I can set it up by myself, and tear down is even easier. The canvas is tough and rain proof and I feel very secure in it. Can't wait for the fall camp and ride season up here in northern Wisconsin.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Sounds like a beautiful thing my friend. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@catsamazing338]

Excellent review, no music and preamble. Informative and to the point. Well done !

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you for your kind words. -Will

[@sandorkomlos6202]

Thanks for the video and 'straight shooting' commentary. New subscriber here. My son and I have been using the Alaknak for the past 5 hunting seasons and I can say I am happy with it. It took the first hunting season to work out the moisture problem. I have read the comments here and please believe the reviews, there can be a serious moisture problem. We have slept four in the tent and it was roomy enough with four cots. We build a large tarp kitchen/ sitting area outside which allows us to use the tent for sleeping and drying only with a large party. When it is just my son and I the moisture is not a big issue but it is still there. We have found a solution by keeping the vents only open enough for air flow and keep the stove hot. we use a large stove fan and each time we reload the stove we turn it ~45* or towards a wetter area. By the mourning there is very little vapour build up and the heat stays in. when we leave in the morning for the hunt we put a load in the stove and close the vents in the stove. the slow burn dries the tent by our return in the evening. When the big winter storms happen on our moose hunts the tent is resilient to the wind and we stay warm. That's my penny's worth.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Great to hear the tent has served you well. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@DIYoming]

I own several Kodiak canvas tents including both the 12'x9' Lodge tent and the 12'x12' Cabin tent as well as spring bow tents. I haven't owned an Alaknak tent, but I do have experience with tents others have owned. Hands down the better purchase are the Kodiak canvas tents. You touched on several points as to why but there is another that you didn't mention. There is a considerable condensation problem on the inside of the tent with the Alaknak tents. There is no breathability with the nylon fabric. On really cold days you can actually have ice build up inside your tent on the material not immediately adjacent to the wood stove. And if you enjoy the greater ease of using a propane heater inside your tent then you are really asking for moisture problems as those type of heaters give off a substantial amount of moisture during combustion. One of my friends used his brand new Alaknak tent for a one week outing hunting camp. He was so fed up with the Alaknak that he sold it by the next hunting season and bought a Kodiak Canvas tent. There are many reviews on line that attest to this issue. Another great feature of the Kodiak tent is the 8'x8' canvas enclosure that can be added to the front of the tent. They retail for 399 but you can normally get a bundle deal if you buy the enclosure at the same time you buy the tent. The Alaknak has an additional vestibule that you can buy, not sure on the price but I know it's over a couple hundred bucks and not near the functionality of the Kodiak enclosure. That's my two cents. Not to step on any toes but I have several videos on my channel showing my hunting camp setups with both the 12x9 and the 12x12 tents

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Wow!! Thanks for sharing this with me. You are right I had not touched on this. Very good to know. I'll pin this to the top! Thanks again for sharing your experience. -Will

[@DIYoming]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders you're very welcome.

[@tommieboi707]

Agree. I think cotton is just a better material. Breathable and durable.

[@alanosborne1947]

What is a spring bow tent??

[@DIYoming]

@@alanosborne1947 meant to say Flex Bow tents. Guess I made a hybrid tent in my mind between the Flex Bow and Spring Bar tents.

[@TheRealGunGuyTV]

I have the Kodiak 12x12 lodge tent you reviewed along with the optional 8x8 porch awning and enclosure. We also have the Colorado cylinder stove. We've had the tent for a little over two years. I've used it for both camping and hunting. It's been an outstanding home away from home in all kinds of weather. I'm 6'2" and my son is 6'6". We have both found this tent to be very roomy during hunting trips.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Ya its a wonderful set up. Thanks for sharing your experience with the tent. I am looking at other Kodiak options as well. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@howtogetoutofbabylon8978]

My family is so cylinder stoves out of Cedar City Utah during Y2K we sold more than anybody else in the country except for Cabela's and that counted every single Cabela's store and every single Catalog sale and we miss them by one single stove sale. I saw a cylinder stove from Colorado they copied that design which is not cool they didn't pay them for it but they did not use a good solder in the water tanks and they were rusting that's something I'd keep an eye on and if that's a problem you might want to you know get new tanks get tanks from cylinder stove so they should you know the real company cuz they'll hold up far longer

[@jameswalstrom2433]

That's the Very Best review I've ever seen on anything... Almost all review never tell the the most important thing. How much does it cost. Love to say more. Extremely fair review. FANTASTIC JOB. You get 2 big thumbs up. 👍👍😉

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you for your kind words. I tried to share what I would want to know in a review. Comments like this make my work worthwhile. -Will

[@RT-gv6us]

Outstanding review. This may seem like a waste of money, but I actually own both the Alaknak and a canvas wall tent. Which one I use depends on the situation. The canvas is warmer in cold temps, but both tents stay plenty warm with a stove and quality firewood. I prefer the canvas in dry cold camping situations, but I have found that in rainy situations the Alaknak is a little easier to dry out after I get home. Both are great options.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you for sharing and your kind words! I love my Alaknak but would like a thicker canvas wall tent as well. Thanks for stopping by. -Will

[@paule4696]

I bought the 12 x 12 Alaknak for deer season in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. I used it last year(2021). We had some pretty high winds, snow, and temps in the low 20's. I bought the same stove you have along with pretty much every accessory including, floor liner, roof protector, and vestibule. The vestibule was an excellent investment allowing for boots/shoes to be stored in a dry space outside of the actual tent. It was also an excellent space to store firewood. We had three grown men at deer camp on cots and there was plenty of room for a fourth. Could squeeze a 5th but that would be tight. With bunk cots you could get six guys in this thing. It seems that it was a very well-thought-out design. Overall I was very impressed with my purchase. After that first season there is absolutely no damage to the tent. I look forward to years of service out of it. I think I will build a platform to get it off the ground for next season however I had no problems right on the ground.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Wow! Thats awesome. I can’t wait till I get the vestibule for mine! -Will

[@metilhed001]

I love the 8x8 vestibule option with the kodiak. We purchased it with our tent. When the weather is poor, you have somewhere, out of your tent to go hang out. Open the window between rhe tent and vestibule, and your stove will heat it nicely as well. Ita large enough to put a folding picnick table as well as a vouple chairs.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thanks for the tips! We can't wait to get vestibules for ours. -Will

[@scottoquinn4683]

I have this tent with the 8x8 awning and love it. I don't winter camp, I live in Texas and I installed a zip up boot in the side and have a 8,000 btu window unit on a stand that slides right in the side. On a 95 degree day it will be 79 to 82. Once the sun sets 65 degree's. I spend most of the day with other campers asking where to get this tent.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

That sounds like what I need for summer camping here. Send me some pics to my email if you have them. Id love to see it. -Will

[@Ironwind1972]

Love where you guys are camping. I could stay there for weeks.

[@user-pn6mv4wy7w]

What a great video, thank you for sharing it with us. I just got home from a five day hunting trip in northern Alberta where the temps over night were down to -13 F, to say the least out Alaknak was having its trouble but protected us with the little alpine cylinder stove. I will say this much, it may be a great tent for warmer weather but because of this video I feel like the Kodiak is a better fit for us. Thank you.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You’re welcome. I enjoy the elect negative but I look forward to a heavier duty upgrade. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@MrHarryhere69]

I have a 10x20 Alaknak text we slept 13 people inside with a stove and wood. Been using that for about 8 years.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

That just sounds like a good time to me. -Will

[@atmoreguitt5902]

Always a good idea if going into rainy areas to cover the entire tent with.a tarp or two. When there new, for a few rains, the don't leak but if using for extended periods tarps are a necessity. You should never set up a tent without an under mat. Tarps or thick plastic works for this very well. If covering a tent in rainy areas always have a trap or tarps long enough to be placed in a trench dug all around the tent about a foot deep and then covers with the dirt removed. This will seal out all animals and insects from creating holes to get into your living areas and protects you food supplies from corruption. I have lived in tents extend periods of time even up to 8 years and these tips work very well. In rainy areas two tarps over the tent are recommended.

[@ryaniam22]

Are you an outdoors man or homeless? Lol 8 years in a tent is a long time. Did that prison lock you in a tent? Sorry it's just crazy sounding

[@atmoreguitt5902]

@@ryaniam22 ya, I have been homeless since 1985. I know what it takes to survive in very harsh conditions. I was in the US military. At one location I slept in a tent covered in two other tents and 3 layers of construction plastic through 10 to 15 below zero temperatures for about 4 months without any heating system in Virginia through 2007 to 2008. Being homeless is not easy and you have to know how to survive the elements every single night and day. I wasn't locked in the tent or imprisoned in it was set up only for emergency survival purposes, that's it and it worked flawlessly through and up to 5 years ending its use in 2012 and then I used another tent system from 2012 to 2022 using tents and no tent and only tarps and steal tubes. I'm still homeless trying to raise 4 million dollars right now. I know how to create fueless motor technology and I also have found robots abd proof humans once inhabited Mars using images taken by the NASA rovers on Mars. I worked with NASA on the fueless motor system that is now being used to day by the newer rovers sent to Mars. My KZbin channel is "RUINS MARS". That's where you can see the robot that was found near the gale crater on Mars by NASA's Curiosity Rover.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Holy cow! 8 years! That's quite the experience. I bet you have a lot of great tips like this one you could share. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@FeedMeSalt]

I have never needed too dig basically a moat too keep small rodents and insects out of my tent. I'd be willing too bet it would keep earwigs away though, dear lord they swarm like ants after a few days.

[@warren3665]

I have owned my Alaknak tent for several years and agree with several others on here, the condensation you run into using the wood stove in the winter months can be a problem. In fact, I now bring a big towel to wipe away the drops of water forming on the ceiling. I haven’t owned the Kodiak but have used other canvas wall tents and they are much better in this regard. I do like how the Alaknak it easy to setup by yourself, as I mostly hunt alone and have gotten proficient at setting it up. You should do a video on setting up the Kodiak by yourself as a comparison. Great video, thanks

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I do like the idea of a solo setup video. Thanks for the suggestion! -Will

[@christinemorgan2199]

@@DebtfreehomesteadersI would love this type of setup video as well

[@pugs11ful]

Excellent review. We've been using the larger Cabelas Alaknak 12x24 as our deer camp base in KY the last 7 years and have been very pleased with how it's held up. Solid zippers and stitching and it's been through some gales.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thats awesome. It sure is nice, especially if you have a stove. Thank you for your nice comments and thanks for watching as well. -Will

[@kaspar_1982]

as soon as i saw the nylon construction on the cabelas i knew how this would end. i have the 10 by 14 kodiak canvas itent and it stays up for 6 months of my winter desert camp for 3 years running and it is in as new condition, no joke. the canvas is the way to go rain or shine, its quiet and soft movement in the wind if wonderful. the floor would withstand a flood. a mr buddy heater keeps warm and i don't take it down even in 40 mph gusts. It sits in between trailer and truck and becomes the center of activity when the bugs are out. can't speak more highly of this tent.

[@robertgoss4842]

Excellent comparative products video. Really appreciated your attention to detail. Nice work.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Awesome! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am glad you enjoyed.. -Will

[@FodderForFreedom]

The Kodiak bow-style tents are warm in the winter and provide shade in the hot summer days. I originally bought it as a winter camping solution, but found it the coolest tent I've ever been in during the hot desert summer as well. Everything else seems like sleeping in a garbage bag by comparison. The cloth hold up well without all the noise in the wind as well. I have been in 70mph winds reading a book with peace of mind.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Im going to have to look into the flexbow! Awesome! Thanks for watching! -Will

[@MichaelKuczynski-u7o]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders I have the 10x14 flex bow VX , poring rain , sleet ,snow , high winds , easy set up . Great tents .

[@everythingsalright1121]

Ive seen more people in the comments saying they own the Kodiak, but those who own the Alaknak also say that it's great and has had no problems. I think at the end of the day it falls down to personal needs and preference, as you mentioned in the video.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Weight plays the biggest factor. But when it comes down to materials and workmanship, I believe the Kodiak wins. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@hike2fish]

well done review, had all of the details I needed and I appreciate putting this into a 10 minute timeline. cheers, and good luck.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Im glad it helped. Thanks so much for your kind feedback. -Will

[@campingalan]

Hi there! Thank you very much for this comparison of the 2 tents. I'm not currently in the market for an outfitter tent, but these look to be some great ones! I live in southwestern CO at about 8000 feet. I remember watching the guy from Competitive Edge Products doing extensive videos on the Kodiaks; as in he kept his up for months. Oh...the point about being in CO, it isn't like we get days and days of rain and are in the excessive humidity. I think the canvas is the way to go here! Safe travels!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you. I enjoy the canvas too. Safe travels. -Will

[@thisissparta8884]

I thought those cord holes were to open when folding up and allow the air out. Works really well in that aspect as I close all doors and windows when putting away. So it always has air that needs to be taken out.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I never thought of that lol. You may be onto something... Thanks for sharing. -Will

[@shaunhall960]

Thanks for the review. Love the designs Kodiak offers!

[@hamjeepr8881]

I've loved the Alaknak series but, when it came time to pull the trigger, I chose the Kodiak. I already have a a kodiak truck tent and a 12x12 outback lodge and prefer the comfort of heavy canvas particularly in wind and snow. The weight wasn't a concern as we're already hauling bunk bed cots, and a basic kitchen. The windows are amazing as well. The greatest selling point is the 8x8 awning for another $400 giving a secure staging/ kitchen area making this a perfect base camp tent. I can actually see living in this with the family for a long period of time, just like the old GP medium in my Army days Competitive Edge Products has a long- term winter test of this combo here on KZbin. It's worth the watch.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Awesome! How do you like the Kodiak truck tent? I have considered getting one. I hope to hear from you. Thanks! -Will

[@hamjeepr8881]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders I've installed it on a 5.5' F150 and it fit great. You need to buy bigger clamps if you have a tonneau with side mount rails and you'll need to use wood blocks for the best grip and protection of the paint. It provides great protection on the elevated platform. It doesn't completely seal against the body so there is a chance of mosquitoes getting in. Good news is it's easy to run cables in for a heater or solar bank. A full cot will work for a single person only. Otherwise you will need mat/pad for the bed. I did try cam-o-cot bunks but they leave no room and touch the material. I see this as a perfect couple or single tent particularly for that long weekend trout fishing trip. The benefit of this over a 2-man is (1) elevated protection and (2) strong as an ox. It reminds me of a Conestoga wagon of old. I wouldn't hesitate to ride out a violent storm in this!

[@mcaputto]

Do you worry about attracting bears or other animals cooking in your tent?

[@hamjeepr8881]

​@@mcaputto Obviously, you wouldnt want to cook anything but coffee or maybe warming something simple instant oatmeal. I also wouldn't cook anything that could splatter or needs open flames regardless where I am. Always protect the canvas!

[@mcaputto]

@@hamjeepr8881 Thanks. I see so many people cooking in cast iron skillets inside hot tents and I wondered how that works out with animals.

[@patricklambert5810]

Love your air, honest review...great job!!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Your welcome. Glad you likes it! -Will

[@1990westfalia]

I love my Cabela’s Alaknak tent and have used it many times. Your review was a nice comparison of the two. Skillet

[@calhiser8265]

I have the smaller 9.5x9.5 alaknak with all of the options including the vestibule. Being smaller it is easier to heat. And the roof angle is steeper so no pooling at the eaves. It also has seen a wet heavy 10 inch snow fall like nothing. It's the only tent that i have that has an attached floor and that is great for keeping bugs like ants out in summer. I have used it sense 2005 deer hunting and trout fishing with not one negative issue. I did seam seal it once in that time. LOVE This tent .

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Smaller sometimes candy better. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@chimrichalds1422]

Nice review. I have the 10 x 14 flex bow i believe it's called and we love it, highly recommend it. Very water proof, camped with 2 inches of rain fall over night, woke up to standing water all around and under my tent but not a drop inside. I have 3 criticisms, first the ykk door zippers are very loud so you'll probably wake up your spouse if you have go to the bathroom. Second is the white roof. Its keeps it cool and bright inside but gets dirty fast. Bird poop and tree sap will have it looking dingy in one season if you camp under trees requiring it to be cleaned. Lastly is the awning, its attached very low on the tent and the longer tent poles means the awning pitches toward the tent inside of away which causes water to pool in the center until it pours out to one side splashing mud all over. You'd have to about 4 ft tall to keep the awning pitched away and not hit your head going in.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

The Kodiak I reviewed is quit tall in the center. But we didn't get much rain as we did wind out on the desert. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@millwrightdad3753]

I had the kodiak lodge tent with extra room that connects to the front of the tent. Let me tell you this tent held up to massive rain and wind storms. Not a drop of water ever came in. I sold it because I wanted a tent I could use a wood stove in, kodiak didn’t have this tent available yet otherwise I would of purchased it. Kodiak makes great tents that last!! The enclosed awning was great for cooking during the rain, sitting for dinner and visiting with family. My wife, our 1yr old son, his high chair and two black labs had plenty of room. So many people stopped to ask us where we got the tent. The floor is like magic it’s so thick, I didn’t worry one bit from our dogs playing and ripping a hole with there claws. We also had a mr buddy XL propane heater, mainly for our son and my wife and let me tell you on 40 degree F nights I had to sleep out of the sleeping bag it held the heat so well. Also the white canvas roof like tou mentioned is so nice to let in natural light

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I would have to agree. The Kodiak is a very nice build with great amenities. I can't wait to try it out with the vestibules. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with everyone. -Will

[@mycocoaone]

I loved my canvas tipi but they are very HEAVY. At 74, the nylon tents are lughter and work well!

[@coleparker]

Tell me, I am 70 years old, can one person set up your Tipi or the lighter nylon tents you are talking about?

[@radram157]

I'm 62 and can set up my 15 x 8 1/2 tent, tarps, rugs, kitchen, etc, by myself in ohh about 30-45mins, yes, I have arthritis, lol!

[@radram157]

I'm going to search "can one person set up Kodiak" in different sizes...

[@coleparker]

@@radram157 Ah, thank you. As for myself I have a bad back and find it hard to bend down.

[@radram157]

@@coleparker Hi Cole, I have back and knee issues too. I did watch KZbin's last night with one person pitching their tents and you can do it. I did think that with the Kodiak that if you put the four posts up first and then do the middle it would be much easier less bending down. The four corners will hold up the tent so that you're not fighting the tent while it's falling down on the other side am I making sense? I also think that erecting the four corners first would make the tent more truer and square so there's less time tweaking it.

[@videodistro]

An awning at the door (and windows) is priceless. Any door without a dry area is crazy. And, the way you have the blue tarp sticking out from the front of the Kodiak is a great rain collector... that goes right under the tent. Yikes!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

And here all this time I thought I was helping keep my tents from getting torn from the abusive ground. I will have to stay aware of that. I wouldn't want to soup up the under side of the tent. That could be just as bad. Thanks for pointing that out. -Will

[@arthurbrumagem3844]

The inside pockets and electric cord openings of the nylon tent are nice touches .As a retired army guy I am biased towards heavier canvas however. Wish I had reason to camp in the winter again.

[@davidsignor7931]

We went bear hunting for years in a 16x32 military tent 2 wood stoves you never got cold plenty of room for cooking, eating and sleeping but that being said you better have atleast 4 guys to even think about setting that tent up. I do remember one year it was cold, windy and snow on the ground I was talking to another hunter who stated they couldn't keep their cabin warm because of cold air blowing up through the floor he said because we were in a tent I bet you guys are really cold I said no not really most nights at the poker table we have people in shorts and tee shirts a little bit of snow around the skirt of the tent really seals them up and 2 wood stoves will cook you out of them

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Your reasoning is simply cause you wish. Do it! -Will

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You wishing is the only reason you need to go winter camping again. Do it! -Will

[@arthurbrumagem3844]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders sometimes when one gets old the body rebels to such things 😩

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@arthurbrumagem3844 aww man. That sucks, I’m sorry. -Will

[@frankscherping]

I bought the 12'X16'X4' tent, the 12'X12'X4' tent & the 8'X8'X4' vestibule. I have only 2 things that I would do differently would add another (2 doors) on the 12'X12'X4' tent. The only other thing I would change, would be I would add 2' to all the tents & vestibule. Having just 1'extra height makes it feel so much larger. I have owned a number of wall tents in the past, including a tent with 6' high SIDEWALLS!!!.. Sincerely, the old Montana cowboy, Frank Scherping😊

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

6' sidewalls would be a great upgrade! Thanks Frank! -Will

[@leshenderson5746]

I'll stay with my Colorado canvas tent 12x 14 with a stove.Been in several snow storms , wind and rain. No problems yet !

[@michaelbandeko3519]

I have a Kodiak Flexbow tent and spend the winters in it in the southwest.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Good times! -Will

[@richardsailors9762]

I've used a Cabelas Alaknak for over 30 years. Lately for Eastern Sierra fishing, earlier to Inuvik in actic Canada. Resealed, a couple of small holes patched as total of maintenance. Wood stove is a comfort to temps in the teens, so far. Manufactured by Montana canvas and tent back when I bought it for about $500.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I am curious if it was made of better quality and heavier duty materials back then versus now as with anything we buy in the current society. Thank you for sharing. -Will

[@richardsailors9762]

Yes, the 10×10 weighs about 30 lbs. It is synthetic material, not canvas duck.

[@lcdubs7847]

I have a traditional canvas wall tent with no windows. Either of these, but especially the Kodiak, would be sooooo much better in summer. And of course there's a ton more features included with both of them. One thing I'd have liked to have seen is the two tents packed up, to get an idea of the space they take up to pack.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

The kodiak is heavier duty but is much more bulk and weight to pack than the Alaknak. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@robertgoss4842]

An excellent suggestion.

[@DiabloOutdoors]

Very good review. The Cabela's tent will be much better in winter. Why? Because of the conical roof. Less snow accumulating...less weight...less risk of collapsing.

[@hickamzechariah]

The vestibules on these tents make them 100 times better. The real test would be to camp both tents when it's below freezing at night and see which one deals with condensation the best. I feel like that Kodiak gable vents arent enough ventilation if your forced to close windows for weather conditions. Great vid!!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you. I hope to get out and do some more testing. Especially with the vestibules. Thanks for stopping by. -Will

[@vernon6084]

Loved the video, very informative. I was looking at buying the 12x12 alaknak but after watching your vid I ended up buying the 12x12 kodiak due to it being more rugged and durable, the extra weight doesnt bother me as anywhere i would use the tent there is vehicle access. Thank you so much for doing this review i had not heard about the kodiak tents before i watched your vid.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Awesome! Thats what I like to hear. -Will

[@wyomingadventures]

Love that Kodiak tent. Been looking for another canvas tent. So versatile imo.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Its a beautiful thing. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@tomnelson3393]

Great video and thanks for putting the prices in very helpful

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Your welcome. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@BrentNye]

Great comparison, thanks! It’s clear to me that the Kodiak has a ridge pole, but I’m not seeing it in the video.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

The Kodiak has a ridge pole that runs horizontally across the top as shown. There is a center pole very similar to the pole in the Alaknak that you can additionally place for added support in heavy snow load conditions. My apologies I didn’t explain that well enough in the video. I hope this brief explanation helps. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@BrentNye]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders, thanks. It seems the Kodiak ridge pole runs through a sleeve, which is why it was hard to see in the video.

[@desertclimber78]

Thanks for putting this video together!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You are most welcome. Thank you!

[@J.A.Smith2397]

Was bouta comment about it but then you mentioned the weight, great breakdown video there my friend

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You’re most welcome. Thanks Jim for stopping by. -Will

[@JohnathanAulabaugh]

I had an older alaknak and it was a solid tent in cooler weather. my understanding is they changed the fabric after the one I had to make it a touch lighter but at the expense of breathability I don't have the kodiak cabin but I di have the spring bow with the large side vents and it is a very solid tent. I would say my only gripe is the door sippers at the corners can be a pain with one hand. I may try using some graphite to help it around the bend. I have had some slight leaking at the corners. I will say that the benefit of the alaknak is the vestibule option. it is big enough to use as a small cook station as well as boot removal to keep the interior clean. The nice thing about the spring bow is that you can keep some air circulation even in rainy weather.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I love when you can keep air flow in the tent in foul weather. It helps keep it from becoming “stuffy” and “stale”. Springbar is known to make a quality product. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. -Will

[@paulpowell4871]

Not in the market but you do a fine and fair review.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you for your kind words! -Will

[@wyo_garage20]

I can see the similarities between the Kodiak tent and the Kodiak truck tent I have. It’s been great, I’ve had it since about 2014. I’ve been thinking about getting the 12x12 for the lady and I and the truck tent the smaller kids can use. I hadn’t realized it had so many windows!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

All the windows are so nice. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@billy7805]

With the kodiak its easy to throw another tarp over the roof to protect it from sparks Have you burnt the roof of the cabelas tent

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@billy7805 I haven’t burned the Kodiak yet. Yes I did put some small holes from the stove in the roof protector of the Cabelas Alaknak. Having a tall chimney with spark arrestor is paramount. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@77gmcnut]

Will, This is a very good comparison. Both tents seem to have their respective features and benefits. I think the light weight of the Alaknak would sway me a bit more toward it even though the Kodiak is more robust in some ways. I can see how a tent of this type would be handy to have for camping and also for when a SHTF event happens. Thank you for the objective comparison.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You're welcome!. I’m glad you enjoyed. Thanks for stopping by. -Will

[@BARFYADAMS]

What’s shtf

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@BARFYADAMS very similar to saying “ poop hits the fan”.

[@josephgeorgeejr7039]

Yes my dad lives on a farm. That is my destination in case of shtf, I was looking into getting the Kodiak 10x14 flexbow vx as a secondary living area at my bug out location

[@rob3637]

Unsponsored for not too much longer....good job. Help me out

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Awesome! Im glad it helped! -Will

[@shirleymatthews2980]

The canvas tent is the way to go thanks for video.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

It honestly is a real game changer vs the old box store tents. Thank you so much for your kind words. -Will

[@bodhi974]

I have wanted to purchase the alaknaktent for years, just never got around to it. I have just started to notice the Kodiak. For camping and fishing outings I am leaning more towards the Kodiak now. Decisions, decisions….

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I love my Alaknak it’s a good stove tent. But I also look forward to trying out some other Kodiak‘s in the near future. Stay tuned, thanks for watching! -Will

[@redrider86401]

we own the Kodiak Canvas , it is great

[@V.I.Outdoors]

soon as you add the vestibule to the Alaknak it becomes a much better winter tent. especially if you had a better stove, I love my Camp Chef stove.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Do you have the vestibule I assume? How do you like it? Thanks! -Will

[@jedpalmer1500]

I completely agree. I have the Alaknak 12x12 with the vestibule. The added space of the vestibule is a huge plus for me. Covered area for the camp kitchen, firewood, and snowy boots means more space in the tent.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@jedpalmer1500 i cant wait to get mine! -Will

[@tonygust24]

Great video. Very well done. Very helpful.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thank you for your kind words. -Will

[@KillingerUSA]

Fantastic review man!!! Good to see you!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Mr K! Thank you sir! -Will

[@teeheeteeheeish]

I bought the Kodiak because the Alaknak was out of stock and I’m extremely happy for that “bad luck”

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

That is favorable bad luck my friend. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@radram157]

I'm going with the Alaknak....next buy!

[@radram157]

Changed my mind!

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Ha ha! lol. Did you get the Kodiak? Do tell? Thanks for watching. -Will

[@billsexton8073]

Great review. I own the Kodiac 6133 Deluxe and love it.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Awesome! Im real happy with what I have seen with the 6170. I will have to look at the 6133. Thanks for stopping by. -Will

[@DevonWildZillaTeschJr]

And for hot weather it’s nice to use the roof jack to pipe a portable air conditioner through if access to electric.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Ha! Thats a great idea!

[@luke5767]

I can't speak on the Kodiak tent, but I love my Alaknak and have used it for over ten years and never had a hitch with it.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I loved the Alaknak but Kodiak is taking the race for me. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@robbabcock_]

Nice! Honestly both tents look great.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

It can be a hard pick as they both have their promises and downfalls. Thanks for watching. I hope the video gave you good content.

[@nemo6686]

"Comparing two outdoor stove tents..." Is there a follow-up comparison for the indoor versions?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

My apologies if you didn't get enough comparisons of the inside of these tents in this video. What questions can i help further answer for you? -Will

[@nemo6686]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders It was a pun on "outdoor stove tents" - I'm still not sure what an "indoor stove tent" would be.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@nemo6686 ha ha. You dad joked me there! - Will

[@dexterquincy1]

There is a channel here on youtube, the guy in it has been living in his alknak for over 3 yrs, I believe in colorado, I wish I could remember his name, he has great insights about the alaknak, its been through hell.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Are you thinking of Bryan with @coloradobackcountryadventures He is in a Cabelas Bighorn 3. Love that guys channel! -Will

[@radram157]

I'm going with the Kodiak. Was gonna buy the other but after your comparison and the comments, I've changed my mind. Do you think a single woman can pitch the Kodiak on her own? I think I can easily, tips???

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Alaknak is easy for one person to set up. The Kodiak has a cross bar that goes across the top. I'm sure it can be done solo with enough practice but I would have a friend the 1st couple of times. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@jacobhibbeln9833]

I owned both the Alaknak and Kodiak. Hands down Kodiak takes the win. It breathes much better and doesn’t get drippy. Alaknak in heavy rain will have very slight leak through and condensation build up. Side walls get pretty wet on the inside. Sucks when your sleeping bag or pillow touches and gets wet. Finally the center pole ripped through the roof of the Alaknak. (Common problem). Cabelas refunded luckily and I bought the Kodiak. No leaks, holds in heat much better and zero moisture inside at all!! It’s absolutely amazing! Oh and the floor of the Kodiak is 10 times better then that of the Alaknak.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I have to agree. I love my Alaknak, but I greatly desire the Kodiak. -Will

[@Scott_Hauck]

One of these days, I will get me a hot tent for winter camping that Kodiak 6170.Sure looks like a sweet tent. Sadly being out of work for over a year i think a winter camp trip is out of the question.Maybe next year.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Keep at it friend. Day by day. Thats all we can do sometimes. Try and make today better than yesterday’s. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@frankram2303]

Great reviews buddy!!!!

[@helenpittman6589]

Just bought a capella 12x12 tent. Haven't tried to put it up yet. I am 74 yr. Old woman. I prospect for gold . The winds in Stanton, Arizona can gust to 80mph. What speed winds do Kodiak tents sustain. Also how can I stop moisture from building up inside the tent.

[@jackietobie5001]

I have the Alaknak 12x12 and a wood-burning stove, and love it! I spend 2 weeks in the rainy & snowy mountains of North Idaho in October, where it easily gets into the low 20s at night. To answer your question, it’s encouraged to leave your 3 lower windows open (even during inclimate weather) for ventilation & to help prevent condensation.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

At least 50 mph winds. We got hit hard one day on the west deserts of Utah. It came out of nowhere. It blew our entire camp away. The only thing left standing as we gathered what we could and tore down camp, with our tail between our legs, was the Alaknak. My dog was laying down inside wondering if he was going to end up in the next state over. We were grateful yet surprised to find as we tore down the tent quickly and through it in the shell of the pick up that only the 4 corners of the actual tent were staked down. It was all the rope tie downs and the pyramid shape that I feel helped it defend against such high winds. The Kodiak was not with us at the time, so I unfortunately can't bear an honest testimony yet of how it would fair in the high winds. Well good luck with the gold! -Will

[@raireva4689]

Very good video and comparison....subscribed

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Thanks for the sub! I hope to get some more content out soon! Sorry it has been a while. I love tent camping! -Will

[@anastasiae.5338]

I decided to finally take a jump and order the Kodiak tent, and noticed that it was more expensive directly from the company than from a company that reviews and displays their tents on KZbin. I was looking at the Cabela ones, too, but read some reviews that sort of shot that idea down. One of the pluses of the Kodiak is that a single person can set it up. I need a tent with a lot of room, given there will be 3 dogs camping with me, and I want to make sure they don't touch the stove.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Good choice! You will love it! Happy adventuring with the pups. -Will

[@catladycatlady7359]

Having previously owned and Alaknak for 7 years, and just recently purchasing a new one, I can assure you that can be set up by a single person, it just takes longer.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@catladycatlady7359 I agree its not a difficult job solo. Especially after you have done it a couple of times. Question for you? Do you find the quality and workmanship of your new alaknak to be the same as your old one? Thanks for watching. -Will

[@cynthiamgentles6781]

You might consider a portable electric bear fence when predators abound. A compact 2.4 lbs for huge peace of mind.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Funny you mention that. I have a story I will have to share about wild critters walking up on me in the desert. No bears or coyotes but I had a sheep dog walk up on me while drinking coffee. Scared the daylights out of me. Great idea. -Will

[@GST_HENNN]

I OWN THE KODIAK 6170 ALONG WITH THE 8 X 8 VESTIBULE

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

How do you like the vestibule for your Kodiak tent. Do you set it up much? Thanks for watching. -Will

[@shadythereok]

That there Kodiak is nice

[@hellsscoutact5379]

how do they handle wind, rain, snow and freezing winter. JMHO

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Unsure, great, great, and great! I haven’t had the Kodiak in high winds yet. But there are some other good testimonies here in the comment section if you would like to review them. Thanks for watching! - Will

[@TrailToughTrailers]

I'm wondering/questioning which handles snow better? The Alaknak looks like it would shed snow better and especially around the door.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Honestly, that’s a tough call as I have not had a opportunity to use either them in heavy snow yet. However, the Alaknak has a steeper pitch but the Kodiak has a stronger ridgeline and thicker canvas material if I were to make a choice in the snow and honestly would probably be the Kodiak. Thanks for watching ! -Will

[@dgconley]

Did Cabela's fix the recent material issue with the Alaknak? I have 5 older 12 x 12 Alaknak tents that are doing well. Last summer fellow guides bought a new Alaknak and when it poured the first night they had to abandoned the tent and sleep in their trucks. It leaked like a sieve! I asked a sale presentative about at Cabela's when in the camping section an she said DON'T BUY IT, these tents are being returned with the same problem. Just want to make sure folks know this is an issue that as far as I know showed up in 2023. Lucky for my fellow guides they had trucks to jump into. Imagine if this was a back country late season hunt where staying dry was critical to your safety and well being?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

O my! What an unfortunate situation. My Alaknak was an older model too. I feel the material and workmanship on the Kodiak is far superior. But, much heavier. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@dgconley]

@@Debtfreehomesteaders yeah I’ll be replacing mine with Kodiaks as I’ve had my Alaknaks for about 10 years

[@scpc2006]

I have the alaknak tent and a stove. Do you suggest a welding blanket or cover behind the stove to protect the tent wall?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I have not had any problems with hurting the wall. Not a bad idea though. Just make sure you have a really tall chimney so embers don’t burn the roof. -Will

[@briannalecomte3686]

We are trying to do a get together with big family and I wanted one of these tents for the eating area and cooking, which one do you think would have more room for that?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

@@briannalecomte3686 Kodiak w/vestibule. -Will

[@TheFLOMAN76]

I am loving that Kodiak.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Kodiak is a hard bargain to beat! -Will

[@leea5123]

Which one leaks in a heavy rainstorm ?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I have yet to have both these out in a heavy rain storm. However, I have had them both out and wind and the Kodiak surprisingly seem to fair better. Read some of the comments below and you will find helpful answers to your question. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@burkena]

Im sorry to say.. 55*f is ideal..summer weather...since both are winter / cold capable w/ stove jacs the roof pitch on the Kodiac is a collapse waiting to gappen NOT enough pitch or support therefore the other tent with center pole to slide snow build-up off easier.. is the winner..

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Both tents certainly have there pro's on cons. The Kodiak does have a removable center pole. Both tents will require snow maintenance. You will find yourself gently hitting the roof on both to get the snow to slide off. But you are correct maybe a little less on the Alaknak as it does have a steeper slope. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@user-pn6mv4wy7w]

What a great review, thank you.

[@157-40_T]

Does the Kodak have zippered access for a cord to attach to an external generator?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I dont believe it does. -Will

[@hipzwhitetower7413]

Does the kodiak do good in reain light or heavy???

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I have personally not used them in heavy rain. If you look through the comments though there are quite a few reviews on how well they have done in inclement weather and how happy people were with them. -Will

[@georgewbushcenterforintell147]

I would like to be able to play games on a good high speed connection but as you know your signal really drops off in the boondocks. Is there anything you can recommend that would give me a stronger WiFi connection when Im far out camping .

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I like that I don't have to duck down to get into the door. I know it may sound petty, but the entrance on the Kodiak is much more welcoming. -Will

[@christopherphillips6164]

Is the Kodiak better heated (or retain heat) inside because it is canvas?

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Yea it helps hold the heat. -Will

[@mellow2424]

Do they come with stoves im interested in them but I feel stupid no one’s asking this question

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

That is a good question. No, the stoves are sold separately. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@teach1644]

Get an airstream with sat dish and solar panels.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Nah… Im good. Lol -Will

[@pnwhunter8686]

Great video, and review lots of great information.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Your welcome. -Will

[@neelyrichard72]

Thank you for sharing. I am very interested in a 10 x 10 or a 12 x12 stove text with a stove larger then needed to be very warm .

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

You can’t go wrong with either one of these. Thanks for watching. -Will

[@superbeast4287]

Nobody ever metions this problem with the alaknac tent. Ive had three of the 12x12s. Set one up in a flood zone i didnt know i was in, and the damn thing floated during a thunderstorm. Didnt leak through the zip out eather. Was like walking on a waterbed. If you dont set it up perfectly flat and it rains, water will collect in the corners. I corrected this problem with adjustable height poles in the four corners. When it rains, id lower them down to 3feet. The problem i was starting to get at is this: when this tent is set up, there is alot of tention across the front door screen. You have to do alot of adjusting to the side poles and loosen up that tention across the front. The screen and zipper is constructed well and takes alot of abuse when the tent is tight. Trust me, people just grab the zipper and go up or down with it like it a handle never thinking about that extra tention across the center. Ive repaired my zippers a couple times. Otherwise, these tents have been awesome for me. Word of warning: DO NOT EVER PUT SEAM SEALER OF ANY KIND ON THESE TENTS!!!! Thats how i ruined my first one. I thought i was doing a good thing sealing all the seams on my tent. What happens is, once you fold it all up and put it in your hot garage or wherever, that sealer starts sticking to whatever it comes in contact with.(even after its dry) When you unfold it for your next use, anywhere that stuff touches will pull off the outer layer of that XTC material. Its like upening up a licked envelope. I really enjoyed these tents for years and years. My buddies like mine so much, they went out and bought them too. When we go camping together, it looks like m*a*s*h unit in to woods. In fact, i have a sign that hangs from mine that says 4077th and another sign we put out front that says "the swamp". My buddies have there own mash numbers for their tents too. Long story longer, i think its time for a change. I believe im going to give this Kodiak tent a try. The new 16x12 looks pretty cool too. It has openings at both end like the 12x20 alaknac does. You can put the adder rooms on both end too. For now, i think ill get the 12x12 with the adder room. Should be more than enough for me. People say its hard for one guy to set up. I watched a guy do it. I think i can do it myself too. Just got to balace the center pole. Thanks for letting me ramble on you feed. Enjoyed the video.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I love the sign 4077th! Great idea. Thanks for watching! -Will

[@JackieSettler]

I think it would more functional to have the stove more toward the center of the tent so the opposite corner does not stay cold.

[@guns4funfreedomkeeper999]

Very helpful. Thank you very much.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I hope you got some good takeaways. Thank you. -Will

[@ElkoCowboy888]

Whats with all the guy lines in front of Kodiak tent. Looks like a trip hazard at night if you had to go outside.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Both tents have about a dozen guy lines. Yes they can be a trip hazard but they are 80% the supporting structure of the tent. -Will

[@wendellworth353]

You did not have the outside stove pipe on Cabelas tent high enough.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

I agree. More stove pipe! Thanks for watching! -Will