Great comparison guys. I have two TCOP's, the Marine two man and the LiteFighter 1. The TCOP's I got new in the box and one of them is still unopened! I haven't used the LiteFighter yet but I can see here where I am in coastal Alabama it could be great, as a three season tent. I like the TCOP for the length and width. I'm right at 6' and I do not like to touch the tent walls at all. I have the tent loft that Eureka makes to fit the TCOP that connects to the four inside loops. It gives you a large area for storage but it reduces your headroom even more. I like the height of the LiteFighter in that you can sit up but you sacrifice length and width to get that. My GO-KOT camping cot fits the TCOP without compromising my head clearance at the wall. I like the blackout material in that you can sleep in daylight but you can get into situations where you need a light in the daytime. As far a camo goes, I like both and see advantages for both depending on terrain. I wonder if the reverse side of the TCOP would have worked better in that sage grass? I really appreciate your real world comparison of these tents. I have both for a reason but I sure do love my TCOP's.
We made a loft for the ICS2000 that worked very well in the TCOP, they're pretty much the same size. I'll check that GO-KOT out! I didn't think of reversing that fly during grass section, I might just give that a go! Thanks for the tip, Steve!
Love these longer videos whenever you guys can make them!! Feels like I'm hangin' out with the Robert's fam talking about tents, and I think tent videos are how I first discovered this channel! Always good to see you guys, thanks!
TCOP wins for durability. Lightfighter works for Florida though and the insect treatment is a plus for Florida as well. Thank you for an excellent review and all the work to make this production.
Agreed! An excellent review. Only thing they forgot is the TCOP's fly can be used as a standalone meshless shelter (if you aren't to concerned about skeeters) & you want to save on weight. Great job lads👍👍👍
I purchased a TCOP 3 years ago, after watching a video you guys posted. Only for $175. The BEST SHTF/INCH Shelter. Unused, come with a repair kit. Their out there, I got mine, hurry up and get yours. TCOP can house Two adults, or three small children if need. Prep up family it’s coming.
First thing I noticed was the torn ripstop on the Litefighter, then the broken pole. Yes the Litefighter is light. I don't like the screen tent. Every 3 season tent is a screen tent. 4 season tents have a fabric tent that can keep the breeze out. I guess if every fight was in the desert the screen may be better. I still love my TCOP. I wouldn't want to lug it around a lot but it's warm, dry, solid and trusty. Yes I shortened my fly pole on the TCOP because I spent a number of half hours trying to get that into the webbing. I've been waiting for a while for somebody to do a comparo. Great job showing the differences. As an aside, here in NW Wisconsin we had about a week of below zero night temps. After that left it's been 30's and 40's every day. No ice on Lake Superior, which in a normal year is about 3/4s covered. Not giving up my TCOP or my TC2P. Thanks Roberts for the fine video once again. Tarp behind those dead bushes on the left? I saw the TCOP first.
We probably did not give the LF enough credit for the hot death degree days of summer, it by far is better than the TCOP during those sweltering months here. Overall? TCOP is my first choice. I'd like to have a complete LF kit with the four season add on. I do think the future of these types of military tents is with LF. No ice on Superior? The winters have been much warmer here, more so than I remember them being as a child. You are correct on the guess!
I went to Diamond tent's website, and picked up a two person tent from the outlet store. It came with a mesh inner and two 2 man combat rain flys. The inner needed some work to get together, but in the end, I think it's worth it. I needed to get some qd buckles and added some guy ropes. Already spent a night in it. Slept like a baby.
@@robertsbushcraft that's the one. I got the green inner. There were no clips on the inner tent. I ordered some off of Amazon. I was also able to order the ground sheet off the main page. The blackout feature is the best. We don't have a 4th season in South Florida.
I still use my issued ORC for backpacking on the Appalachian trail myself, love it here in Pennsylvania in winter ,summer, fall ,spring, never any issues with staying cool or warm . A good trick to stay warm in the ORC is buy a ugi candle lantern and a pack of 9 hour candles , 🕯 light the lantern and stick it next to your ruck , and that combined with the mylar in the tent will keep her warm. Hiking the entire Appalachian trail currently carrying it for sleep time , that 6.5 pounds everyone's been crying about in some of these video's makes me laugh
Shout out to Duncannon PA! They've got Lady Liberty at the Dauphin Narrows, the dive Riviera Tavern ( awesome Philly cheese steaks! ) , and the Appalachian Trail crosses the bridge there at Hwy 15. Very cool to hang out at the Pilot Travel Center & chat with AT travelers, check out their gear & all. Great place for AT hikers to catch a shower. Tip for hikers: semi drivers typically have extra shower credits to spare -- just ask & you could save $15.
Good review. I have the LF. I use it completely different. I only car camp. I found the LF will almost fit perfectly on Teton XL cot. I use the Teton cot pad inside the tent. I put it under my awning or Aqua Quest tarp without using the fly. Makes for a great warmer weather setup. Fly can be added in cooler weather.
absolute great review - I was looking forward seeing cmou-tents for a very long time, because in Europe this stuff is not easy to get. I´m very impressed about all these important and good informations you guys are delivering. Thumbs up!
Very well done! You guys did an outstanding job at being objective and covering all bases. Thank you! I just this very minute, ordered the TCOP from Sportsman’s Guide and this video persuaded me, Plus I am a retired Marine which pretty much Trumps everything in this matter anyway! Right?😂 I enjoy seeing father and son work together so well. I pray it will always be that way guys. God Bless!😊
@@robertsbushcraft I received it the next day after I got worried and called Sportsman’s Guides customer service and complained about getting a trashed tent! Everything looked great, until I climbed in and laid down. When I looked up, there were a bunch of pin holes everywhere. I kept it and used Gorilla Glues seam repair spray and a few patches in places. Then I soaked it with a hose for half an hour and had no leaks as of yet. That spray is great. I used your Dads advice when trying to put on the canopy pole and ended up attaching a bit of paracord to help lock it in. My grip strength is not what it use to be anymore. Do you know how to cut down one of the poles to make it work.better? I don’t want to damage it! I will probably use a dremel tool and cut it down. Do you know where to get a new insert? Sorry for all the question my man. I really like this tent and want to use it when I need to be less conspicuous! Thanks for you and your Dad sharing the video about this tent! Mine must have been a boot camp issued one, because 2027 is written on the tent body itself!😂
Back in early March I bought the Litefighter Fido 1 AI. It's identical to this one, but it's a complete kit that includes Litefighter's tuffsack and windbreaker fly(turns these Litefighter 1 tents into 4 season tents). The two biggest selling points that made me buy my Litefighter and sell my TCOP. Are the two things you pointed out. The mesh all the way around for much better ventilation. Secondly, the easier deployment of the rainfly. One extra thing I did do with my Litefighter. I swapped out the aluminum poles with the carbon fiber poles that Litefighter sells separately. As these are supposed to be lighter and stronger than the aluminum ones. This coming winter(Northern Indiana) I'll be putting it through some testing.
Awesome comparison! I had found 3 t-cop systems at Goodwill in excellent condition for $20 each. I tried camping in each if them throughout the year and couldn't use them here in Florida as I'd get too much condensation and no airflow, even during winter. So I ended up selling them for $150 each. I have a light fighter 1 tent in Coyote tan and it works much better here in Central Florida. My rainfly seems heavier than the one you have, not sure if it's much older or not. I'm less than 6 ft tall, so I have plenty of room. If I come across any more t-cop tents, I'll likely hold onto one in case I do any camping further north in snowy conditions, but other than snow, I prefer light fighter Between the two for all seasons here in Florida.
Outstanding review, gentlemen, thank you! This is JUST the comparison I was needing. I already had the TCOP but was thinking of getting the Litefighter because it was nearly half the weight. Here on the Alabama Gulf Coast it can rain mercilessly hard and is hot more than it is cold, so a good rain fly is imperative. But maximum airflow is also imperative due to the humidity & heat. Great information! Thank you!
You are certainly welcome, Thorin! Your summer weather is similar to what we have here in northeastern NC. Hot, humid, death-degree summers that seem to last all year.
Great review Curry! You guys are on the Pro-Fess-onal lever now! lol I'm still partial to the USMC 2 Man Combat Tent that you guys reviewed a few years back. Stay safe! Shannon
I have both tents, and I also have the 4-season inner for the Lite fighter tent. The thing I find unique to the LF is this 4-season option. It can in effect only require to me have just one of the two tents. I can adjust from the 3-season version to the 4-season version by switching out the inners. The weight with the 4-season inner will add a bit to the weight of the tent, but still a bit less weight of the USMC. I do love both tents and just as you presented both have advantages to consider based on your use of each. It's like going to park. Do you take a golf club or a baseball bat. It depends and where you're going, why you're going and all of the possible conditions you need to be prepare for. Remember that old saying you don't take a knife to a gun fight. Don't be woefully under-prepared for what you're getting yourself into. Clothing and additional blankets etc. can help make up for misjudging but, being prepared is the best option and usually less weight, when weight is a concern. Anyway, just my thoughts.....Oh, I use most of the time Red light which has its uses vs bright light. I take both. My USMC tent was the Diamond brand version.
Hey Guys, I know the algorithm has a lot to do with finding the perfect videos. I stumbled across your channel while viewing a top 50 tents channel. The first video I watched on your channel was the bivi’s , then I watched this video comparing the light fighter vs tcop here. I have to say this is the most Thorough video I have ever watched on UA-cam in-depth comparison of products. I have enjoyed watching your videos so much & have subscribed to your channel. You sir must be very proud of your son as well. He seems very thoughtful, articulate & and fine young man. Both of you make a great team to watch on UA-cam. I look forward to watching more of your content. I too , lean towards the tcop for all the reasons you have mentioned, but for me the length of this tent & being four seasons has no comparison if I’m to order one . I don’t know if you guys have done a cot tent review, but I’m looking at them also in my research & one of my main concerns is length while camping & hunting in the woods & rain fly added. Anyway, thanks for your sharing your thoughts, knowledge & great video. I’ve really enjoyed them . I look forward to watching more . God Bless 🦅 🙏⚔️
Superb video again sir . You and gabriel are the best father and son team on yt .. For me it's the T.C.O.P. all the way Can be pitched in the rain , 4 season tent full blackout , Robust construction.. I love mine . Keep up the good work . 🙂👍 Edit... the 3 poles aren't the same length... the rain fly pole is slightly shorter thsn the other 2 ... Easy to mix them up .. I use duct tape on the short one ... So i know which it is ....
David, we appreciate the encouragement! We did confirm via email a few years back with Eureka that the three poles are all the same length. If you have a pole that is shorter than the other two, you have a pile that's been modified after factory. We've had four of these, three of them new unissued, and can confirm all had the same pole length. The fourth came used, and all poles were the same length. Did you get yours new?
@@robertsbushcraft Hi , thanks for taking the time to reply... Yes my tcop was bought brand new ,unissued . Everything sealed , factory packed , never opened ... ( you can tell ) If one of my poles was modified at the factory I definitely cannot tell ... before I bought it , I watched every video on yt on the tcop... with one channel highlighting the one shorter pole and warning viewers that the smaller pole must be used for the rainfly in order to avoid damage ... It's well under 1 cm shorter .but I don't need to force the rain fly pole at all when setting up .. I hasten to add ,I'm in no way questioning your honour and integrity... I greatly respect your expertise .. But equally , I can assure you that one of my poles is definitely shorter than the other 2 . If it was the same length ,I'd find it difficult to insert in the grommet without risking damage... Kind regards from England ( where only criminals have guns)😢 😂
@@robertsbushcraft I also have the diamond brand usmc 2 person combat tent . ( also brand new unissued ). I bought it on your recommendation... SUPERB TENT .. Your tent and gear reviews are the best and most detailed on yt... I'm about to buy the tennier industries ,full mmss ( with the coyote improved bivvy ) Am only getting it because I can't find the improved bivvy alone brand new ....I only want the bivvy as I have the buffalo systems modular sleep system ( made in sheffield uk ) Out performs EVERY OTHER SYSTEM ON EARTH ...( wiggy's carinthia, feathered friends , exped ultra etc.etc.etc) Rated to below the coldest temperatures ever recorded on earth WET OR DRY Can be stored fully compressed for decades without affecting the performance... But they don't make a bivvy ... that's why I need the usmc improved bivvy.. Thanks again for the reply Keep up the good work .
I wish merry ol' England would see the real issue of gun ownership does not lie with law-abiding common man. I am so thankful for the 2A here. I have no idea why one of your poles came from the factory shorter than the other two, that's a head-scratcher for sure! I'm just glad that it works!
I've never heard of the Buffalo Systems sleep system, I'll need to look them up here on YT. Keep in mind the USMC IBC (Improved Bivy Cover) is slightly smaller than the older MMSS woodland bivy.
Robert, I've watched your videos on your tarp shelters and your USMC bivvy bag setup. Now seeing your review on these tents, what is your favorite or preferred sleep system?
My favorite sleep system is the newer USMC sleep system. It's an upgrade so to speak to the older MMSS. The newer USMC system has an outer extreme cold bag, a three-season bag, an improved bivy cover, and waterproof SealLine bags. Here is a video on our collection is USMC cold weather gear ua-cam.com/video/XAvKqvX6zMM/v-deo.html and here is the sleep system with SealLine bags ua-cam.com/video/2FcVfYtnRwE/v-deo.html
I picked up the litefighter 1 a few years back, been quite happy with it. Itd be nice to have a lower profile, but if I'm setting up a tent a bit of head room is nice. Its more narrow than I'd like so I've been dabling with getting the non-berry 2p version. I can deal with cold and just plussing my sleep system a bit, but where I'm at its not uncommon to go from -20f minus wind to 120f with high humidity so the breathability is more important to me. Good video comparison to actually see other options side by side.
The TCOP definitely has a better profile, but the Lightfighter has the better camo pattern in my opinion. A person is going to be hard pressed to see either, especially if they aren't actively searching for them. I have a Lightfighter so I might be bias. I hope y'all realize how awesome it is for the Father and Son to be having so much fun together. i got along with my dad like oil and water.
Your friend needs to go to the light fighter to get the 4 season conversion piece. If you buy directly from litefighter it will cost over $500 but it includes the four season and the sand/snow anchoring pads.
biggest complaint on the lite fighter 1 tent is that at the foot and head of the tent on the rainfall needs a guy line point on the bottom hem so it can be pulled out to allow better air flow thru the tent in the 3 season configuration also be advised that the litefighter 1 is sized to be secured to an issue military cot In 24 yrs in the army i have gone from the old shelter half to the improved combat shelter in UCP camo to the TCOP in woodland pattern, which FYI M81 is a civilian designation not the military designation, to the litefighter 1 which i used in Iraq. the lite fighter has handled every thing that has been thrown at it from the woods to the desert to the artic. but as you put out each their own. i personnally prefer the litefighter as i humped enough heavy duty military crap on my back so now i want light as possible
I prefer the TCOP , which reminds me of my old usmc two men dimond brand combat tent i use for a while. Also seem more heavy duty too than lite fighter.
True Terrain camo. If you go back to 2:50 time mark you'll see me pull the stuff sack and tarp out of the SealLine bag. That is the pattern of the True Terrain.
New or used? That seems to be about the going rate on Ebay for those. If it is in good, great, or new condition, I'd say you're getting your money's worth. Be sure to check the seam tape on the rain fly before you buy if you can.
Living in Colorado I chose to buy the LiteFighter1 with the windbreaker (4th season) option seperately, this saves weight and provides winter heat retention. In addition my USMC Happy Suit + layers 1 silk weight + layer 2 waffle top. 3 season MSS are added with either an inflatable mattress or an arctic reindeer hide. I really enjoyed this comparison thank you for all the hours spent editing and the added field notes. BZ I’m now considering your recommendation on the unissued TCOP or close to it.
I'd love to get my hands on the entire LF kit! I love the idea of the modularity it brings to the table. The happy suit is just an all-around game-changer in my opinion. If you can get a TCOP at a decent price, I'd say go for it! We bought two of them on Facebook Marketplace two years ago, $50 each. You can't argue with a deal like that!
I’d love to share my tent and 4th season windbreaker with you if you want to try them out. I can say one thing does not change with that addition and it’s the light discipline. You can see light coming from inside fairly easily. Let me know and I’ll cheerfully send it to. The Earth is the LORD’s and everything it. Amen
I'd love to have a rain fly in MARPAT! That said, I have draped the USMC tarp over the TCOP to have a look. Turns out, I couldn't see it. It was camouflaged! All jokes aside, a large enough tarp can be used in place of the fly, the MARPAT pattern works well.
I've had 4 of your US military tents imported to the UK. Eureka TCOP Eureka ICS 2000 Orc Industries ICS Litefighter 1 I like them all but I agree with a channel known as 'Grunt Proof' that the Lightfighter isn't quite as rugged as you would expect combat soldiers to use, and therefore it did not pass his 'Grunt Proof' test. I'm also interested to know if anyone has used their Litefighter in extreme wind (I haven't as yet) conditions as I am curious to know how the gohst bone carbon poles stand up to wind. I defnitely prefer the three heavier duty tents because despite weight penailties, they are all lower profile and have the blackout feature that the vast majority of civilain tents do not have. So, great for remaining stealthy. It's a good feelling knowing I can have my lamp on and nonone outside can see.
Get awesome military surplus gear at Army Navy Outdoors alnk.to/fHlelyN
Great comparison guys. I have two TCOP's, the Marine two man and the LiteFighter 1. The TCOP's I got new in the box and one of them is still unopened! I haven't used the LiteFighter yet but I can see here where I am in coastal Alabama it could be great, as a three season tent. I like the TCOP for the length and width. I'm right at 6' and I do not like to touch the tent walls at all. I have the tent loft that Eureka makes to fit the TCOP that connects to the four inside loops. It gives you a large area for storage but it reduces your headroom even more. I like the height of the LiteFighter in that you can sit up but you sacrifice length and width to get that. My GO-KOT camping cot fits the TCOP without compromising my head clearance at the wall. I like the blackout material in that you can sleep in daylight but you can get into situations where you need a light in the daytime. As far a camo goes, I like both and see advantages for both depending on terrain. I wonder if the reverse side of the TCOP would have worked better in that sage grass? I really appreciate your real world comparison of these tents. I have both for a reason but I sure do love my TCOP's.
We made a loft for the ICS2000 that worked very well in the TCOP, they're pretty much the same size. I'll check that GO-KOT out! I didn't think of reversing that fly during grass section, I might just give that a go! Thanks for the tip, Steve!
Love these longer videos whenever you guys can make them!! Feels like I'm hangin' out with the Robert's fam talking about tents, and I think tent videos are how I first discovered this channel! Always good to see you guys, thanks!
Hey UrDoinItWrong, maybe we're DoinItRight!
You guys always have been for sure! I got no complaints! ;) love the channel!@@robertsbushcraft
TCOP wins for durability. Lightfighter works for Florida though and the insect treatment is a plus for Florida as well. Thank you for an excellent review and all the work to make this production.
Nice comparison! No B.S., honest, relevant. Hard to argue!!!
Exactly what we aimed for, Strider!
Agreed! An excellent review. Only thing they forgot is the TCOP's fly can be used as a standalone meshless shelter (if you aren't to concerned about skeeters) & you want to save on weight. Great job lads👍👍👍
Absolutely love just how comprehensive this review is. I have both of these tents myself and I can't think of anything I disagree with. Spot on.
Hey thanks, wasteful!
I purchased a TCOP 3 years ago, after watching a video you guys posted. Only for $175. The BEST SHTF/INCH Shelter. Unused, come with a repair kit. Their out there, I got mine, hurry up and get yours. TCOP can house Two adults, or three small children if need. Prep up family it’s coming.
We love our TCOPs! I agree, start prepping now!
First thing I noticed was the torn ripstop on the Litefighter, then the broken pole. Yes the Litefighter is light. I don't like the screen tent. Every 3 season tent is a screen tent. 4 season tents have a fabric tent that can keep the breeze out. I guess if every fight was in the desert the screen may be better. I still love my TCOP. I wouldn't want to lug it around a lot but it's warm, dry, solid and trusty. Yes I shortened my fly pole on the TCOP because I spent a number of half hours trying to get that into the webbing. I've been waiting for a while for somebody to do a comparo. Great job showing the differences. As an aside, here in NW Wisconsin we had about a week of below zero night temps. After that left it's been 30's and 40's every day. No ice on Lake Superior, which in a normal year is about 3/4s covered. Not giving up my TCOP or my TC2P. Thanks Roberts for the fine video once again. Tarp behind those dead bushes on the left? I saw the TCOP first.
We probably did not give the LF enough credit for the hot death degree days of summer, it by far is better than the TCOP during those sweltering months here. Overall? TCOP is my first choice. I'd like to have a complete LF kit with the four season add on. I do think the future of these types of military tents is with LF. No ice on Superior? The winters have been much warmer here, more so than I remember them being as a child. You are correct on the guess!
I went to Diamond tent's website, and picked up a two person tent from the outlet store. It came with a mesh inner and two 2 man combat rain flys. The inner needed some work to get together, but in the end, I think it's worth it. I needed to get some qd buckles and added some guy ropes.
Already spent a night in it. Slept like a baby.
Free Dome tent? Coming with two flies is a win!
@@robertsbushcraft that's the one. I got the green inner. There were no clips on the inner tent. I ordered some off of Amazon. I was also able to order the ground sheet off the main page. The blackout feature is the best. We don't have a 4th season in South Florida.
I still use my issued ORC for backpacking on the Appalachian trail myself, love it here in Pennsylvania in winter ,summer, fall ,spring, never any issues with staying cool or warm . A good trick to stay warm in the ORC is buy a ugi candle lantern and a pack of 9 hour candles , 🕯 light the lantern and stick it next to your ruck , and that combined with the mylar in the tent will keep her warm. Hiking the entire Appalachian trail currently carrying it for sleep time , that 6.5 pounds everyone's been crying about in some of these video's makes me laugh
Shout out to Duncannon PA! They've got Lady Liberty at the Dauphin Narrows, the dive Riviera Tavern ( awesome Philly cheese steaks! ) , and the Appalachian Trail crosses the bridge there at Hwy 15.
Very cool to hang out at the Pilot Travel Center & chat with AT travelers, check out their gear & all. Great place for AT hikers to catch a shower. Tip for hikers: semi drivers typically have extra shower credits to spare -- just ask & you could save $15.
The candle lantern is something we do on cold winter nights!
glad to see you back! keep up the good videos!
Hey thanks, Pierce!
Good review. I have the LF. I use it completely different. I only car camp. I found the LF will almost fit perfectly on Teton XL cot. I use the Teton cot pad inside the tent. I put it under my awning or Aqua Quest tarp without using the fly. Makes for a great warmer weather setup. Fly can be added in cooler weather.
My favorite to go on tents n things besides grunt proof. Thanks
Hey thanks, Bruce!
This is exactly the kind of video I was looking for. Very thorough and showed me everything I needed to know.
You are very welcome, X!
absolute great review - I was looking forward seeing cmou-tents for a very long time, because in Europe this stuff is not easy to get. I´m very impressed about all these important and good informations you guys are delivering. Thumbs up!
Thank you my friend! You just sold me on the TCOP.
Glad I could help!
Very well done! You guys did an outstanding job at being objective and covering all bases. Thank you! I just this very minute, ordered the TCOP from Sportsman’s Guide and this video persuaded me, Plus I am a retired Marine which pretty much Trumps everything in this matter anyway! Right?😂 I enjoy seeing father and son work together so well. I pray it will always be that way guys. God Bless!😊
Have you received it yet? If so, what condition is it in? What do you think overall?
@@robertsbushcraft I received it the next day after I got worried and called Sportsman’s Guides customer service and complained about getting a trashed tent! Everything looked great, until I climbed in and laid down. When I looked up, there were a bunch of pin holes everywhere. I kept it and used Gorilla Glues seam repair spray and a few patches in places. Then I soaked it with a hose for half an hour and had no leaks as of yet. That spray is great. I used your Dads advice when trying to put on the canopy pole and ended up attaching a bit of paracord to help lock it in. My grip strength is not what it use to be anymore. Do you know how to cut down one of the poles to make it work.better? I don’t want to damage it! I will probably use a dremel tool and cut it down. Do you know where to get a new insert?
Sorry for all the question my man. I really like this tent and want to use it when I need to be less conspicuous! Thanks for you and your Dad sharing the video about this tent! Mine must have been a boot camp issued one, because 2027 is written on the tent body itself!😂
Back in early March I bought the Litefighter Fido 1 AI. It's identical to this one, but it's a complete kit that includes Litefighter's tuffsack and windbreaker fly(turns these Litefighter 1 tents into 4 season tents). The two biggest selling points that made me buy my Litefighter and sell my TCOP. Are the two things you pointed out. The mesh all the way around for much better ventilation. Secondly, the easier deployment of the rainfly. One extra thing I did do with my Litefighter. I swapped out the aluminum poles with the carbon fiber poles that Litefighter sells separately. As these are supposed to be lighter and stronger than the aluminum ones. This coming winter(Northern Indiana) I'll be putting it through some testing.
Awesome comparison! I had found 3 t-cop systems at Goodwill in excellent condition for $20 each. I tried camping in each if them throughout the year and couldn't use them here in Florida as I'd get too much condensation and no airflow, even during winter. So I ended up selling them for $150 each. I have a light fighter 1 tent in Coyote tan and it works much better here in Central Florida. My rainfly seems heavier than the one you have, not sure if it's much older or not. I'm less than 6 ft tall, so I have plenty of room. If I come across any more t-cop tents, I'll likely hold onto one in case I do any camping further north in snowy conditions, but other than snow, I prefer light fighter Between the two for all seasons here in Florida.
Great comparison , outstanding review. I have the tcop, heavy but its the one
Right on, thanks Simon!
When I was issued my litefighter 1 it came with cold weather kit (allowing it to become a 4 season tent).
Outstanding review, gentlemen, thank you! This is JUST the comparison I was needing. I already had the TCOP but was thinking of getting the Litefighter because it was nearly half the weight. Here on the Alabama Gulf Coast it can rain mercilessly hard and is hot more than it is cold, so a good rain fly is imperative. But maximum airflow is also imperative due to the humidity & heat.
Great information! Thank you!
You are certainly welcome, Thorin! Your summer weather is similar to what we have here in northeastern NC. Hot, humid, death-degree summers that seem to last all year.
i'm not sure how, but I found a TCOP in the UK brand new! Snapped it up quick time! :D
SCORE! Wow! That's a find!
Great review Curry! You guys are on the Pro-Fess-onal lever now! lol I'm still partial to the USMC 2 Man Combat Tent that you guys reviewed a few years back. Stay safe! Shannon
That is a TOUGH one to beat, ain't it (bad grammar for emphasis)?
Tcop. M81 woodland God's camo. Semper fi
Right on, Semper Fi!
Hey guys great video. Thank you for your input.
I have both tents, and I also have the 4-season inner for the Lite fighter tent. The thing I find unique to the LF is this 4-season option. It can in effect only require to me have just one of the two tents. I can adjust from the 3-season version to the 4-season version by switching out the inners. The weight with the 4-season inner will add a bit to the weight of the tent, but still a bit less weight of the USMC. I do love both tents and just as you presented both have advantages to consider based on your use of each. It's like going to park. Do you take a golf club or a baseball bat. It depends and where you're going, why you're going and all of the possible conditions you need to be prepare for. Remember that old saying you don't take a knife to a gun fight. Don't be woefully under-prepared for what you're getting yourself into. Clothing and additional blankets etc. can help make up for misjudging but, being prepared is the best option and usually less weight, when weight is a concern. Anyway, just my thoughts.....Oh, I use most of the time Red light which has its uses vs bright light. I take both. My USMC tent was the Diamond brand version.
Great Job!!!
Thank You!
Thank you, and you are very welcome!
I love my TCOP. But I also love my new improved Armies combat shelter, one-man tent.
Hey Guys, I know the algorithm has a lot to do with finding the perfect videos. I stumbled across your channel while viewing a top 50 tents channel. The first video I watched on your channel was the bivi’s , then I watched this video comparing the light fighter vs tcop here. I have to say this is the most Thorough video I have ever watched on UA-cam in-depth comparison of products. I have enjoyed watching your videos so much & have subscribed to your channel. You sir must be very proud of your son as well. He seems very thoughtful, articulate & and fine young man. Both of you make a great team to watch on UA-cam. I look forward to watching more of your content. I too , lean towards the tcop for all the reasons you have mentioned, but for me the length of this tent & being four seasons has no comparison if I’m to order one . I don’t know if you guys have done a cot tent review, but I’m looking at them also in my research & one of my main concerns is length while camping & hunting in the woods & rain fly added. Anyway, thanks for your sharing your thoughts, knowledge & great video. I’ve really enjoyed them . I look forward to watching more . God Bless 🦅 🙏⚔️
Superb video again sir .
You and gabriel are the best father and son team on yt ..
For me it's the T.C.O.P.
all the way
Can be pitched in the rain , 4 season tent full blackout ,
Robust construction..
I love mine .
Keep up the good work .
🙂👍
Edit... the 3 poles aren't the same length... the rain fly pole is slightly shorter thsn the other 2 ...
Easy to mix them up ..
I use duct tape on the short one ...
So i know which it is ....
David, we appreciate the encouragement! We did confirm via email a few years back with Eureka that the three poles are all the same length. If you have a pole that is shorter than the other two, you have a pile that's been modified after factory. We've had four of these, three of them new unissued, and can confirm all had the same pole length. The fourth came used, and all poles were the same length. Did you get yours new?
@@robertsbushcraft
Hi , thanks for taking the time to reply...
Yes my tcop was bought brand new ,unissued . Everything sealed , factory packed , never opened ... ( you can tell )
If one of my poles was modified at the factory I definitely cannot tell ...
before I bought it , I watched every video on yt on the tcop...
with one channel highlighting the one shorter pole and warning viewers that the smaller pole must be used for the rainfly in order to avoid damage ...
It's well under 1 cm shorter .but
I don't need to force the rain fly pole at all when setting up ..
I hasten to add ,I'm in no way questioning your honour and integrity... I greatly respect your expertise ..
But equally , I can assure you that one of my poles is definitely shorter than the other 2 .
If it was the same length ,I'd find it difficult to insert in the grommet without risking damage...
Kind regards from England ( where only criminals have guns)😢
😂
@@robertsbushcraft
I also have the diamond brand usmc 2 person combat tent . ( also brand new unissued ).
I bought it on your recommendation...
SUPERB TENT ..
Your tent and gear reviews are the best and most detailed on yt...
I'm about to buy the tennier industries ,full mmss ( with the coyote improved bivvy )
Am only getting it because I can't find the improved bivvy alone brand new ....I only want the bivvy as I have the buffalo systems modular sleep system ( made in sheffield uk )
Out performs EVERY OTHER SYSTEM ON EARTH ...( wiggy's carinthia, feathered friends , exped ultra etc.etc.etc)
Rated to below the coldest temperatures ever recorded on earth WET OR DRY
Can be stored fully compressed for decades without affecting the performance...
But they don't make a bivvy ... that's why I need the usmc improved bivvy..
Thanks again for the reply
Keep up the good work .
I wish merry ol' England would see the real issue of gun ownership does not lie with law-abiding common man. I am so thankful for the 2A here. I have no idea why one of your poles came from the factory shorter than the other two, that's a head-scratcher for sure! I'm just glad that it works!
I've never heard of the Buffalo Systems sleep system, I'll need to look them up here on YT. Keep in mind the USMC IBC (Improved Bivy Cover) is slightly smaller than the older MMSS woodland bivy.
The Litefighter has a winter kit you need to try.
Great Review
Robert, I've watched your videos on your tarp shelters and your USMC bivvy bag setup. Now seeing your review on these tents, what is your favorite or preferred sleep system?
My favorite sleep system is the newer USMC sleep system. It's an upgrade so to speak to the older MMSS. The newer USMC system has an outer extreme cold bag, a three-season bag, an improved bivy cover, and waterproof SealLine bags. Here is a video on our collection is USMC cold weather gear ua-cam.com/video/XAvKqvX6zMM/v-deo.html and here is the sleep system with SealLine bags ua-cam.com/video/2FcVfYtnRwE/v-deo.html
6.5 lbs though, heavy for a one man tent. What is the weight of the litefighter with the winter cover on?
I picked up the litefighter 1 a few years back, been quite happy with it. Itd be nice to have a lower profile, but if I'm setting up a tent a bit of head room is nice. Its more narrow than I'd like so I've been dabling with getting the non-berry 2p version. I can deal with cold and just plussing my sleep system a bit, but where I'm at its not uncommon to go from -20f minus wind to 120f with high humidity so the breathability is more important to me.
Good video comparison to actually see other options side by side.
Question
Are both tents military?
Affirmative
The TCOP definitely has a better profile, but the Lightfighter has the better camo pattern in my opinion. A person is going to be hard pressed to see either, especially if they aren't actively searching for them. I have a Lightfighter so I might be bias.
I hope y'all realize how awesome it is for the Father and Son to be having so much fun together. i got along with my dad like oil and water.
Your friend needs to go to the light fighter to get the 4 season conversion piece. If you buy directly from litefighter it will cost over $500 but it includes the four season and the sand/snow anchoring pads.
Turns out, we got a new kit. The FIDO AI (All in One) ua-cam.com/video/nf4ejDhg5GE/v-deo.html
biggest complaint on the lite fighter 1 tent is that at the foot and head of the tent on the rainfall needs a guy line point on the bottom hem so it can be pulled out to allow better air flow thru the tent in the 3 season configuration
also be advised that the litefighter 1 is sized to be secured to an issue military cot
In 24 yrs in the army i have gone from the old shelter half to the improved combat shelter in UCP camo to the TCOP in woodland pattern, which FYI M81 is a civilian designation not the military designation, to the litefighter 1 which i used in Iraq. the lite fighter has handled every thing that has been thrown at it from the woods to the desert to the artic. but as you put out each their own. i personnally prefer the litefighter as i humped enough heavy duty military crap on my back so now i want light as possible
What about a 4 season Lightfighter out the box?
I prefer the TCOP , which reminds me of my old usmc two men dimond brand combat tent i use for a while. Also seem more heavy duty too than lite fighter.
The TCOP is insect repellent treated from the factory, just as the uniform material is. It does need to be replaced though as it degrades with use.
If you have back problems or a stiff neck and you need to spend a longer time in the tent, there is only the litefighter left!!!
I have both tents and let me tell you you can’t go wrong with either of them.
What was the camo pattern on the aquest tarp in the background I couldn't tell actually I never saw it lol
True Terrain camo. If you go back to 2:50 time mark you'll see me pull the stuff sack and tarp out of the SealLine bag. That is the pattern of the True Terrain.
Thanks guys I have the light fighter and the tcop agree with your conclusions completely By the way what was the brand of the m9 bayonet you have
@@mikestebar9378 PHROBIS III
Only issue I see here is the lite fighter is for individuals 6 feet and under
I use the light fighter 2 regularly and it fits me, my gear and my dog very well. I’m 6-3
I found a TCOP and Iam buying it this weekend for $249 , is that too much for it ?
New or used? That seems to be about the going rate on Ebay for those. If it is in good, great, or new condition, I'd say you're getting your money's worth. Be sure to check the seam tape on the rain fly before you buy if you can.
Living in Colorado I chose to buy the LiteFighter1 with the windbreaker (4th season) option seperately, this saves weight and provides winter heat retention. In addition my USMC Happy Suit + layers 1 silk weight + layer 2 waffle top. 3 season MSS are added with either an inflatable mattress or an arctic reindeer hide.
I really enjoyed this comparison thank you for all the hours spent editing and the added field notes.
BZ
I’m now considering your recommendation on the unissued TCOP or close to it.
I'd love to get my hands on the entire LF kit! I love the idea of the modularity it brings to the table. The happy suit is just an all-around game-changer in my opinion. If you can get a TCOP at a decent price, I'd say go for it! We bought two of them on Facebook Marketplace two years ago, $50 each. You can't argue with a deal like that!
I’d love to share my tent and 4th season windbreaker with you if you want to try them out. I can say one thing does not change with that addition and it’s the light discipline. You can see light coming from inside fairly easily.
Let me know and I’ll cheerfully send it to.
The Earth is the LORD’s and everything it.
Amen
How does woodland marpat do?
I'd love to have a rain fly in MARPAT! That said, I have draped the USMC tarp over the TCOP to have a look. Turns out, I couldn't see it. It was camouflaged! All jokes aside, a large enough tarp can be used in place of the fly, the MARPAT pattern works well.
I was wondering because you said the m81 had some challenges in dryer less wood areas.
Seems like ya'll ain't afraid of cold camping. Great comparison. I PREFER the TCOP. HURAW!!
Hey, we as Marines don’t like anything easy! Embrace the Suck, Devil Dog! Ooo Raaah!😂
Amen to that! OOH RAH
Scoped
The 3 reasons, Price, Price, and Price! TCOP $145, Life Fighter over $400! What?😮😢
I cannot argue against that at all.
The TCOP tent is the real deal any weather, all in one. The litefighter sucks.
It is 100% the real deal!
I've had 4 of your US military tents imported to the UK.
Eureka TCOP
Eureka ICS 2000
Orc Industries ICS
Litefighter 1
I like them all but I agree with a channel known as 'Grunt Proof' that the Lightfighter isn't quite as rugged as you would expect combat soldiers to use, and therefore it did not pass his 'Grunt Proof' test. I'm also interested to know if anyone has used their Litefighter in extreme wind (I haven't as yet) conditions as I am curious to know how the gohst bone carbon poles stand up to wind.
I defnitely prefer the three heavier duty tents because despite weight penailties, they are all lower profile and have the blackout feature that the vast majority of civilain tents do not have. So, great for remaining stealthy. It's a good feelling knowing I can have my lamp on and nonone outside can see.
That TCOP is HARD to beat in terms of durability, concealability, and price.
"promosm" 😀
What does that mean?