Question 1

What is a wall tent?

Accepted Answer

A wall tent is a canvas tent with vertical walls and a pitched roof similar to a small cabin. It is designed for longer stays where you want more space and comfort. Our standard sidewalls are 5 feet. Six-foot sidewalls are available on fire-treated canvas wall tents. The taller walls create more usable space than bell, dome, spike, and A-frame tents.

We use army duck, double-fill, marine-grade canvas. Common uses include long-term camping, hunting, glamping, and basecamps.

Question 2

What are key features of a wall tent?

Accepted Answer

Heavy duty and longevity: More durable and stronger than most synthetic tents. With normal use and proper cleaning, lifespan can reach 20 to 30 years. Not ideal for quick weekend trips or backpacking.

Compatible with wood stoves: All of our wall tents include a stove jack made from fire-resistant fabric with a pipe opening for safe stove use.

Frame options: Internal metal frames use steel angle kits with 1-inch EMT, or you can build a wood frame. External ridge setups and lodgepole frames also work for backcountry use.

Vertical walls: Provide much more usable space and comfort. Low sidewalls limit standing room to the center.

Insulation and breathability: Canvas breathes and helps prevent condensation. Synthetic fabrics trap moisture and condensate.

Customizable: Add a porch or cook shack to the front or back. Options include windows and screen doors.

Security and protection: Strong frames and eave ropes tied to 18-inch stakes improve wind and snow performance. Thicker materials offer more protection from wildlife than thin synthetics.

Bottom line: Wall tents suit campers, glampers, and hunters who want comfortable shelter for longer stays. I camp at a wilderness trailhead for three weeks a year and need the extra space and comfort. The added security at night also helps where bears, wolves, and mountain lions roam. Rich, owner.

Question 3

What size of canvas wall tent do I need?

Accepted Answer

Sleeping capacity vs tent size info guide provides diagrams with a bed, stove and table. The different tent sizes shown give an indication of what size tent is required. If you prefer more room, go one size larger.

Question 4

What is the best type of treatment?

Accepted Answer

Water and mildew treatments are normally applied to most canvas wall tents. However, less expensive canvas wall tents have no treatments applied. This non-treated canvas will shrink 8-12% compared to 1-2% for water and mildew-treated wall tents. Therefore, I don't recommend purchasing any wall tent that is not treated. Fire treatment can be added to any water and mildew-treated canvas. If your budget allows I recommend the fire, water and mildew-treated canvas. The fire-treated canvas is not totally fireproof. A continuous heat source or flame will cause the fire-treated canvas to burn. However, once the flame or heat source is removed the canvas will stop burning. To me, fire treatment is a form of insurance. However, remember no treatment is fireproof. Always keep any item that can cause a fire a minimum of two feet from the canvas.

Question 5

How difficult is it to set up a canvas wall tent?

Accepted Answer

One person can easily set up an 8x10 or 10x12. Two people can easily set up a 12x14 or 14x16. Two people for a 16x20 or 16x24 is much more difficult. Three people is much better. We have videos that show tent setup with our products. The setup is very easy using a steel frame.

Question 6

What is Sunforger?

Accepted Answer

Sunforger is a type of treatment that provides water and mildew resistance. It is not a type of canvas. Based upon my experience selling Sunforger-treated canvas, it is effective, but not superior to other types of water mildew treatments. View our info. guide on Sunforger treatment to learn more.

Question 7

What procedures are necessary to prevent wall tent wood stove fire dangers during very high winds?

Accepted Answer

Certain precautions are required if you plan on using a wall tent wood stove in a high-wind area or if there is a possibility of high wind gusts.

I always wire the stove pipe damper to a stove side shelf hole in the event of high winds. This wiring prevents the first stove pipe from becoming detached from the wood stove.

Based on my personal experience, high winds will cause the stove pipe to become detached from the top of the stove or the higher stove pipes become detached.

When I was on a hunting trip there were mild winds one night when I was in my wall tent. I was just getting into bed when a sudden high wind blast started that continued for 5-10 minutes. My cooking table against the back wall almost blew over. After I got the table with all four legs back on the ground I turned around. On my stove, the second stove pipe had become loose. Flames were shooting out the top of the first pipe. Fortunately, I keep heavy leather gloves near my stove. I reconnected the first stove pipe back together. Shortly thereafter the outside second and third stove pipe became disconnected. I reconnected these pipes. I went back inside the wall tent and had to reconnect the first and second pipes two more times until the high wind gusts stopped.

Fortunately, I had wired the stove pipe damper to my stove side shelf holes or the first stove pipe would have become detached during this real-life fire drill.

The pipes coming loose inside the tent were very dangerous with flames shooting out the pipes. Remember, a fire-treated tent is not fireproof. A continual flame will cause the canvas to burn or a synthetic wall tent to melt. This high wind gust situation could have destroyed my tent and ended my hunting trip.

To prevent wall tent stove pipes from coming loose, tie a wire on both sides of your damper and secure the wire to a side shelf hole on your stove. Use metal screws to attach all pipes together.

Secure pipes two, three and four together with metal screws and slide pipes from the outside through the stove jack hole. Use metal screws to secure stove pipes one and two together. I recommend you set your stove up at home initially to ensure there are no problems at the campsite.

Hopefully, my recommendations and real-life experience with a wood stove during high winds will help you in future camping expeditions.

Question 8

What are the disadvantages of synthetic wall tents?

Accepted Answer

Breathability: Compared to natural materials like canvas, synthetic fabrics do not breathe as well. This can lead to increased condensation inside the tent, especially in humid conditions.

Heat Retention: Synthetic materials do not have the same insulating properties as natural fabrics like canvas. This will result in wall tents heating up more quickly in direct sunlight and being less effective at retaining warmth in cooler temperatures.

UV Degradation: Synthetic fabrics are susceptible to UV degradation over time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight will cause the material to weaken and lose its color, reducing the lifespan of the tent.

Environmental Impact: Some synthetic materials, particularly those derived from petroleum-based sources, have a higher environmental impact compared to natural materials. They may not be as biodegradable and the production process can contribute to pollution.

Less Aesthetic Appeal: While aesthetics are subjective, some campers prefer the natural and classic appearance of canvas wall tents over the more modern and synthetic look of some materials.

Noise: Synthetic materials can be noisy in windy conditions. Synthetic fabrics are much lighter than canvas and flap in the wind much more. The flapping of the fabric is much louder compared to the quieter rustling of natural materials.

Water Resistance: While many synthetic fabrics are treated to be water-resistant, this treatment can wear off over time, especially with exposure to sunlight and weathering. Repeated use will require reapplication of water-resistant coatings.

Potential for Condensation: Synthetic materials will cause condensation inside the tent particularly if the tent is not well-ventilated. Condensation can be an issue in cold weather, leading to damp conditions inside the tent. Below-freezing conditions will cause this condensation to freeze inside the wall tent.

Flammability: Some synthetic materials are more flammable than natural materials. It's important to follow safety guidelines and keep open flames away from wall tents. Synthetic materials normally very quickly when in contact with a heat source.

Cost: High-quality synthetic materials with advanced features can sometimes be more expensive than basic canvas tents.

Despite these disadvantages, some campers find synthetic wall tents to be a convenient choice. Especially when considering factors like weight and quick drying. The best choice depends on individual preferences, intended use and the specific requirements of the camping or glamping experience.

Question 9

How do I set up a canvas wall tent?

Accepted Answer

Our detailed video shows how to set up a tent over the wall tent frame. Remember, your tent should not fit over the frame tightly. A tight-fitting tent weakens seams and can cause the canvas to tear. If your tent is tight, determine how much you need to cut down your frame. If unsure, call for assistance. We will be glad to help you even if you purchased a tent elsewhere.

Materials Needed:

1. Wall tent with frame

2. Tent stakes or anchors

3. Ground tarp or commonly called floor (optional)

4. Mallet or hammer

5. Guy, rope lines

6. Set up Steps:

Select a Suitable Location: Ensure the ground is level and free of rocks, sticks, and debris. If possible, choose a site that allows for natural drainage to prevent water from pooling around the tent.

Lay Down a Ground Tarp (optional): Unfold the ground tarp or floor and position it where you plan to set up the tent. The tarp should be slightly smaller than the footprint of your tent to prevent water from collecting between the tarp and the tent floor.

Assemble the Frame: Lay out all the frame components according to the location of assembly. Connect frame parts. Assemble the complete frame except the legs on one side.

Place Tent to the Frame: Drape canvas wall tent over the frame. Drape tarp or rainfly over the top of the tent. Raise the frame and assemble the remaining legs.

Secure the Corners: Check that each corner of the tent is properly aligned with frame corners.

Stake Down the Tent: Start with the corners and stake them into the ground at a 45-degree angle. Use a hammer to drive the stakes into the ground securely. Maintain some tension on the tent fabric as you stake it down to prevent sagging.

Tension the Tent: Adjust the eave guy lines with tensioners to achieve proper tension in the tent fabric. Tensioning is crucial for stability and weather resistance. Tighten the guy lines gradually moving around the tent to ensure even tension.

Secure the Rainfly (if applicable): Stake down the rainfly to keep it taut and ensure proper water runoff.

Adjust and Fine-Tune: Walk around the wall tent, inspecting for any sagging or unevenness. Make minor adjustments as needed to achieve a taut and even pitch.

Ridge Guy Lines If Necessary: Attach ridge guy lines for high winds. Stake these lines out at a 45-degree angle, creating additional stability, especially in windy conditions.

Practicing setting up your tent at home before your trip will make this process much smoother in the great outdoors.

Question 10

Should I buy a 10 oz or 12 oz canvas wall tent?

Accepted Answer

As the owner of Wall Ten Shop, I am often asked if it is best to buy 10 or 12 oz canvas. I prefer 10 oz wall tents. Some companies will try to upsell the more expensive 12 oz canvas. BEWARE. My outfitter customers do not buy 12 oz canvas wall tents despite using their tents for months in extreme weather conditions. Outfitters tell me the extra cost and extra weight is not worth it. A 10 oz canvas wall tent with a fly will last decades. Costs less and is a much better system than than the 12 oz canvas.

If you want a 12 oz wall tent I sell the Montana Canvas tents 5% below Montana retail with free shipping. The Montana 12 oz tents are the best available, top quality, with a great warranty for workmanship, Rich.

The choice between a 10 oz canvas tent and a 12 oz canvas wall tent depends on various factors, and both options have their advantages and considerations. Here are some factors to help you decide.

10 Ounce Canvas Tent

1. Weight: A 10 oz canvas wall tent is significantly lighter than a 12 oz tent. If you prioritize portability and plan to move the tent frequently, a lighter option may be more suitable.

2. Breathability: Lighter canvas tends to be more breathable. This can be an advantage in warmer weather, as it allows for better air circulation inside the tent, reducing the risk of condensation.

3. Ease of Handling: Due to its lighter weight, a 10 oz canvas tent is easier to handle during setup and takedown. This can be particularly beneficial if you prefer a canvas wall tent that is quick and straightforward to manage.

12 Ounce Canvas Tent

1. Durability: A 12 oz canvas tent is generally more robust and durable than a 10 oz tent.

2. Insulation: Heavier canvas provides better insulation. However, no canvas provides much insulation. The tent basically keeps the wind out. When the stove goes out the temperature on the inside is about the same as the outside.

3. Sturdiness: The additional weight of a 12 oz canvas wall tent can contribute to minimum increased stability and sturdiness.

Considerations:

1. Intended Use: Consider the specific conditions and environments where you plan to use the tent. If you prioritize weight and breathability for warm weather camping, a 10 oz tent is sufficient.

2. Budget: Heavier wall tents are more expensive. Consider your budget and whether the added durability and features of a 12 oz wall tent align with your budget and justify the higher cost.

3. Personal Preferences: Your personal preferences and camping style play a crucial role. Some campers prioritize a lightweight and breathable tent.

In summary, if weight, breathability, and ease of handling are your primary concerns, a 10 oz canvas tent may be suitable. Do what is best for you. Assess your specific needs, the intended use of the tent and your personal preferences to make an informed decision.

Tent Only Price Comparison	8x10 Fire, Water, & Mildew	10x12 Fire, Water, & Mildew	12x14 Fire, Water, & Mildew
Wilderness	$850 FREE S&H	$900 FREE S&H	$1150 FREE S&H
Competitors
Davis	NA	$1243	$1525
Big Sky	$1170	$1265	$1375
Reliable	$876	$1095	$1335
Kwik Kamp	$855	$1072	$1314
Rainier	NA	$1410	$1819
WhiteDuck	With Frame	With Frame	With Frame
	14x16 Fire, Water, & Mildew	16x20 Fire, Water, & Mildew	16x24 Fire, Water, & Mildew
Wilderness	$1450 FREE S&H	$1800 FREE S&H	$2000 FREE S&H
Competitors
Davis	$1802	$2184	$2563
Big Sky	$1695	$1975	NA
Reliable	$1650	$2035	NA
Kwik Kamp	$1585	$1997	$2289
Rainier	NA	$2251	NA
WhiteDuck	With Frame	With Frame	With Frame

FREE SHIPPING	Back Door or Back Window	Eave Webbing & D Rings	Double Ridge Canvas	Door Storm Flap
Wilderness	YES	YES	YES	YES
Competitor
Davis	No	No	No	No
WhiteDuck	No	No	No	Yes
Big Sky	No	No	No	Yes
Reliable	Yes	No	No	Yes
Kwik Kamp	No	No	No	Yes
Rainier	No	No	No	Yes

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wall tent?

What are key features of a wall tent?

What size of canvas wall tent do I need?

What is the best type of canvas treatment?

How difficult is it to set up a canvas wall tent?

What is Sunforger?

How do I set up a canvas wall tent?

Should I buy a 10 oz or 12 oz canvas wall tent?

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