If you’re looking for a tent that’ll handle serious backcountry hunting, the Hilleberg Anjan 2 might just be what you’re after. I took this tent on multiple hunting trips last season, racking up over 20 nights in it across six weeks. After putting it to the test, I can honestly say it’s the best backcountry tent I’ve ever used. Yes, it comes with a price tag of around $570, but for a shelter that’ll last 20+ years and handle anything you throw at it, that investment is worth it.
Built for the Weight-Conscious Hunter
As a guy who obsesses over every ounce of weight in my pack, the Hilleberg Anjan 2 checks all the boxes. Coming in at 3 lbs 3 oz total, that’s just 1.5 lbs per person for a full, two-man tent. For the strength, weather protection, and durability you’re getting, this is one of the lightest options out there. Most shelters in this category are closer to 2 lbs per person, so the Anjan keeps things light without compromising quality.
When you’re chasing game across ridges, every pound matters. If a big bull bugles two ridges away, it’s not about “if” you’ll go after it but rather how fast you can get there. With a lightweight tent like the Anjan 2, you’re ready to move quick.
Specs and Space
The Hilleberg Anjan 2 offers plenty of space for a two-man shelter. The interior is 52″ wide, 87″ long, and 40″ tall, which is right on par with other two-man tents. But where it really shines is the extra-large vestibule—almost 4 feet long—perfect for stashing gear like your pack, boots, or bow. It keeps everything dry and within reach.
Pitching this tent is straightforward, thanks to plenty of guy line attachments. Even if you’re setting up in rough, rocky country, you can secure it tightly to prevent flapping in the wind.
Durability That Stands Out
One of the things that set the Hilleberg Anjan 2 apart is the quality of its materials. Hilleberg uses Kerlon 1000 fabric for the fly and floor, which is much stronger than typical nylon ripstop. This is heavy-duty, weather-resistant material that you can count on. When you look at and feel the fabric, you’ll see the difference in quality right away.
The inner tent combines mesh with lightweight fabric, so you get great ventilation with minimal condensation. My hunting partner and I were consistently impressed by how dry it stayed inside, even in damp conditions. It’s also a warm tent, letting us comfortably use a 32°F sleeping bag even in low-20s temperatures.
Flexible Pitching Options
The Hilleberg Anjan 2 has tons of setup options, making it incredibly versatile:
- Outer Tent Only: Skip the inner tent and use just the fly for a lighter shelter with no floor.
- Inner Tent Alone: If the weather’s clear, you can pitch just the inner tent for ventilation.
- Adjustable Fly: Roll up the fly for added airflow or set it to come all the way to the ground on the windward side for extra weather protection.
The Downsides
While the Hilleberg Anjan 2 has a lot going for it, there are a couple of drawbacks. First, the single front entrance can be a little inconvenient for two people. It’s manageable but not ideal when you’re trying to get in and out.
Another downside is that it’s not freestanding. At first, I thought this would be a bigger problem, especially in rocky Idaho terrain. But in practice, I found there were always rocks or trees to tie the guy lines to, so it ended up being a non-issue.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a lightweight, durable, and versatile shelter, the Hilleberg Anjan 2 is a solid choice. It’s built to handle whatever conditions the backcountry throws at you, and the quality is top-notch. At around $570, it’s an investment, but one that’ll pay off over years of use. For hunters who prioritize weight and durability, this tent is hard to beat.
In Summary:
- Weight: 3 lbs 3 oz (1.5 lbs per person)
- Dimensions: 52″ wide, 87″ long, 40″ tall
- Vestibule: Extra-large, nearly 4 feet long for gear storage
- Durability: Kerlon 1000 fabric, stronger than standard nylon ripstop
- Pitching Options: Outer fly-only, inner tent-only, adjustable fly for ventilation
If you’re serious about backcountry hunting and want a tent that can keep up, the Hilleberg Anjan 2 won’t disappoint.
