eladroops

I bought new an Omnipotent in 1979 for a trip to Alaska. We encountered some pretty heavy weather, but the tent performed admirably in wind and rain for quite a few of the 21 days we were in the Brooks Range. I love this tent and it has been my main backpacking tent for many years. The tent feels roomy, even with some gear stuffed down at the bottom end. There's good provision for airflow, so condensation inside is never a problem. It's currently showing a few signs of wear (after 25 years, not too bad)--the outer fabric was beginning to leak a little in heavy rains. I just recently gave the outer fabric a coating of GE Silicone II, mixed about 3:1 with mineral spirits, and it's setting in the back yard now in the rain for a test run. Looks good so far. The tent was originally advertised at 7 pounds, think, maybe 7-1/2, but with some seam sealer, a few extra tent pegs, and plastic groundcover, I think it's a little over 8 pounds, without the vestibule, which adds about another pound. I rarely bother to carry the vestibule, as the tent alone handles most weather fine. I've probably added a couple of ounces more with the silicone coating. If the tent you are considering is in good condition, not too much used (ie, exposed to sun, which causes the fabric to break down), and you're comfortable with the weight, I'd go for it! If not, let me know--maybe I'll buy it!