I have had an Ursa Minor for 4 years now. Yes the mattress is thin, but you can add foam to increase the thickness to your liking. I added close cell foam to mine for added warmth retention when the cabin air is less then freezing. When closing the Ursa Minor you need to vent the air trapped inside the tent(Simply leave a portion of the inside top door fabric unzipped, not the mesh). If you do this you can leave pillows and bedding up top as well. Keep in mind you need to make room for the tent fabric, simply pull the bedding to the center strip. The reason folks are getting the fabric caught in the scissor mechanism is improper technique when closing(usually trapped air pushing the fabric out). I have zero issues with wind noise. I will say that getting in and out with two adults is a flexibility challenge, but there are two hatches and it can be done while the other person is sleeping. The LineX has been awesome. Zero pinstripes and a simple coat of 303 protectant makes it look like new. As far as your deposit. I’d go on Expedition Portal and post your spot up for sale and recoup your money. Full disclosure, I will be in the Ursa Minor booth at Overland Expo West 2022. I also paid full price for my Ursa Minor back in the day. All of your points are valid. I just think the viewers should know that there are work arounds for most of them. I look forward to meeting you in person at the event.
This is great information for those that are looking at the Ursa Minor. By no means did I intend to disparage the Ursa minor camper - i hope it didn't come across that way in the video. there are tradeoffs by going with this method, one of which is difficulty in hanging awnings or other items around the vehicle. I decided that wasn't for me due to the number of miles I travel at highway speed to get where I want. But for many, the convenience of having a 270 awning or something to that affect may certainly be worth it for them. Thanks so much for giving your viewpoints on the camper and I would love to meet up with you at OX..
@@aMAYSingLife I’d check out Force Protector Gear for an awning solution. Lightweight blankets with heat reduction properties(think space blanket). Mounts to any vehicle, no roof rack needed. #affiliated
Great video! I love both products, however I agree with all of Justin's points (like him, I'm an enthusiast). I looked at the Hatchet before purchasing my Ursa Minor on the aftermarket last year. I too am a side sleeper and I also weighed the two options extensively. Here are the aspects of the Ursa that ultimately pushed me in that direction - #1 - it's a mature product (generation 3 Ursa's have been built since the beginning of the year), whereas the Hatchet is still a work-in-progress (prototype entering early small run production). With the mature product comes great electrical options such as the cell phone chargers in the camper loft and above the rear view mirror that I really love. #2 - Tent Fabric. Ursa is using Sunbrella which is used on sailboats and is known for being really durable in the weather. I had some concerns that the Hatchet (while it looks wonderful) might have issues with the fabric keeping out the weather. I've found from experience that the Ursa Minor loft area is usually 10 degrees higher than the outside air temperature when it is closed up. I'm not sure if the fabric solution on the Hatchet would offer the same warmth. #3 - Roof color. The white Ursa top reflects the sun and the black Hatchet absorbs it (I know that some Ursa Minor owners elect for a black top - I wouldn't). When I spoke to Hatchet last year they said that it was possible to make a white top and I look forward to seeing that option in the future as the company matures. #4 - Awnings - Ursa's integrated mounting points have steel reinforcement for the awning brackets molded into the fiberglass. At this point I don't know if Hatchet has an awning mount offering. I'm sure that they will figure it out in time, but I don't think it is currently available. #5 - JK instead of JL's. JL's are wonderful and they are also more expensive new and used. Hatchet only makes a camper for the JL presently and Ursa offers one for JK and JL. I was able to get into my low mileage 2011 JK with Ursa Minor already installed for 34K. To purchase the same setup in a JL with Hatchet or Ursa would have put me at least in the 50-65K range (a substantial cost difference). #6 - Aesthetics. The Ursa Minor looks stock like a high end espresso machines and the uninitiated won't even realize that there is a camper there. The Hatchet looks more boxy like a Transformer (which I suppose it is). I personally prefer the look of the Ursa. I also want to share that I keep two down sleeping bags, two pillows and a blanket in the Ursa loft at all times and it fits just fine (larger pillows have made the top closing snug, but it still works when they are properly placed. I also practice optimum closing technique and I installed the hinge tamers to reduce the chances of pinching the fabric when closing the top. So far, no problems at all! With all of that said, it sounds like you made the right choice for your objectives - if sleeping 2 adults who need to use the restroom in the middle of the night and comfortably side sleeping is the primary requirement, the Hatchet is superior stock. Also, the entry/exit setup is ingenious and wonderful and I love the pre-install for solar and the integrated traction board solution into the roof and the thick mattress. I'm sure that you and your wife will enjoy your Hatchet. I look forward to hearing how it shakes out for long term overland use for you, particularly concerning heat retention and keeping out the weather. I also can't wait to see how the Hatchet improves incrementally over time. It has all of the promise of a world-class platform!
Sorry for taking so long to respond but your post was well thought out and As I have been traveling for the past 3 weeks now in the camper I have a bit of experience I can share so far. All of your points are valid although some a bit dated based on where and when you saw the camper compared to their production model. I have an integrated light as well as two USB ports, both C and B. The top is white now on the top and insulation proved to be superb as I camped in low 40’s and was quite comfortable. I also ended up in the Ozark sand camper in high humid and warm and was able to stay comfortable. I have discovered it does keep noise level on road quieter than stock which was a surprise. The solar panel which I opted for has been a game changer for me power wise. Loving that. I totally agree with the decisions you made particularly the JK over JL. Their mold is far more specific to the design of the JL so if you have a JK then that only makes sense. I thought the same thing about the ability to make it appear as if it were not a overland vehicle. So I get that too. Thanks for your input on the ability to have certain items left in the loft.. that’s good for people to know. I think where I was going with that is I knew I would need a 4” mattress and I question if you could do both bedding and 4” without deflating in the Ursa.. maybe? Anyway, enjoy your ride as it appears you too made the right decision for you. Very cool we live in a time where so many options are available. If you see me in the future, say hi! Cheers!
Stay tuned to the channel as in a couple weeks I’ll release my video of wheeling in the Ozarks.. it handles well off road too! I’ve camped so far in it about 3 weeks and still loving it.
@@aMAYSingLife, I see you enter the tent through the rear of the hard top. Does the pop up tent have areas cut out of the existing hard top or does the pop up tent come as a new hard top like the Ursa Minor?
Thanks I had never heard about the Hatchet. I was thinking about the Ursa but really wasn't, convince. So the JX was very tenting but also expensive. This solution same to be a good one.
I have an Ursa Minor, I'm happy with it, other than a UV fading issue at about a year and a half, in Oregon sun no less. This looks interesting, what Ursa Minor needs is compitition, and a lesson in after sale service.
Agreed. Also a fellow Ursa owner and I am excited about more competition in this space. For me, I prefer the slimness of the Ursa Minor over how thick the hatchet looks when its closed. Other than that it looks like a great alternative.
@@peytoncombs9331 yeah the slim line look of the ursa is a good look.. the thick look on mine is growing on me though and since it doesn't add wind noise its a good balance of function to form, at least for me.
Ross is a good guy and has been working on this idea for a while. His custom Tacoma build before his JL was pretty awesome as well. Having been on some adventures with him, it's cool to see this idea come to life over the years. Spot on with the Ursa Minor too. I wish they did more of a wedge style design like the Alu-Cab and some sort of rear roll cage kit replacement like Dan Grec's Jeep.
Ross's attention to detail has definitely shown through on this camper. He's done a great job doing his part to bring this to life. Thanks for watching!
Actually some of the packing techniques he uses I have implemented although a bit changed as he enters his camper through the middle of the vehicle and I go in through the back.
All looking good, an funny I also had bought an RV looked just liked yours an yes sold it , I spent 3 months in the Keys last year but the ever was not for me
we still have our motorhome.. Until gas got stupid our plan was to tow the jeep out west and use it as a base camp as we used a spider web approach to explore the area. now we are leaving the MH in place at least for now. I love the MH, its been a good one. I have about 30k miles on it.
I’m excited about it… I’m currently packing up to head that way to have it and the goosegear system installed. Then off to OX west. I hope to do a short of the progress of it as I go
Why not just go with a tear drop trailer? Have you seen the Black Bean? In the event you change vehicles you’ll always have a stellar light weight trailer with all the room to take momma’s beauty stuff/comfort items. As a 2016 JKRU owner I’ve looked at all options. Still a big fan of the Safari JXL & Ursa Minor though.
I had a trailer for a while and ultimately it just didn't work for me. Particularly teardrop trailers while they are designed for off-road can get you into sticky situations when dealing with off-camber, needing to turn around on a trail, needing to backup, the list goes on. My trailer was light-weight (m416 bantam trailer) so it was the easiest to pull behind likely out there. Even then, the setup time was more, if I got into a situation where I needed to take a different line and had to back up, that was a challenge... it just went on and on. Plus, you can't go as fast pulling a trailer as you can single. For gas vehicles, its a pretty good drain on fuel economy too. Didn't affect my diesel that much but it was still a pain to pull along. The other issue was getting into a town I couldn't just park in a spot, I had to find one where I could be long enough and get in and out. And, as trailers go I'm very experienced backing one, so that wasn't the issue as much as just logistics of it. Anyway, if you are doing light trails, maybe thats a good solution, but it wasn't for me. I like the simplicity of this setup. Thanks for watching and your comments!!
Very cool idea! I like the idea of being about to stand in the back vs the middle and have it open in case of emergency. Do you know if they plan to make it for the new bronco?
The camper wired for solar is 8500 installed. Not sure if you have them add the solar but I know the controller was about 135 and the panel was 125 or so and it’s already pre-wired for solar.. so that should give you a good idea
I’ve never been a fan of light bars.. they look cool but when you turn them on they light up the hood as much as what’s ahead of you. In addition, I don’t like the wind noise or drag. I’m pushing about 25000 lumens through 4 off road lights mounted on my bumper and it lights up the world… if anything I would add ditch lights in front of the a pillar but honestly I don’t really need it. As far as the awning, they now have an integrated awning for the rear that takes about a minute to setup and a side awning that slides into a kater track that stuffs into a 15l stuff sack. So when I’m not using it, you don’t see it and I don’t hear it. And fuel economy doesn’t suffer.. this build is all about keeping things quiet and affordable so you can actually afford to buy the gas to get on the trail. As such this works perfect for me.. don’t get me wrong, a 270 would be fun but in all reality the way I travel and the times I actually need an awning, I prefer something that can go away and me not see it until I need it.. hope they answers your question :-)
I purchased 2 zarges storage containers that all of my stuff that typically goes there will go. This will allow me to easily remove them and since they are weather protected they can remain outside while camped. Also, I bit the bullet and got the 60% delete and went with the goosegear setup. This gives me a tremendous amount of storage that I have not been used to so all of my recovery, tools, and other items that have historically taken up inside will no longer do so. I think due to the organization the zarges provides and the removal of all the things that will be hidden due to the goosegear I'll be ahead from where I was. Long term I plan to take out the windows and replace with storage that is accessible from the outside (like gull wings) that lock. This will remove further clutter. Finally, I intend to put aluminum molle on the inside where the windows are so i can mount bags on the sides that will further organize. i wont have a complete solution at OX because I couldn't afford to do it all at one time but it will be a lot further than it has ever been and furthermore, i have a plan which is pretty gratifying.
2:26 the wait is real. 4:25 you don’t really have to move your partner. They can stay in place. You just have to scoot back, move your hatch to your foot area and slide down. Granted, not elegant, and not easy for larger folks. The one really relevant consideration, in my opinion. 5:40 Ursa now provides thicker mattress options. 6:44 one of the best features of the Ursa is its streamlined, low profile design. 7:15 plenty of room for my very thick sleeping bags. And two pillows. And awning poles. 7:41 I don’t know of anyone who brings their bedding down, except maybe those who added mattress toppers or opted for thicker mattresses. 8:21 never heard of this. I have front latches and there is no noticeable noise unless I forgot to latch it. Now, I did have squeaky noises from the top rubbing on the roll bar, but that was solved with a small piece of rubber. 9:11 sounds cool. As does the traction board space. 10:22 that price difference might be moot if you consider the money recouped from the sale of the original top. I have been using and enjoying the Ursa Minor on my JLU for over two years. With a 2.5” lift and 35” tires, I can still pull into my garage! I have taken it from Arizona to Massachusetts and back. I have slept 21 straight nights in it (which went by too fast). After a rugged day in the wilderness, I can’t wait to get up there and get cozy and enjoy the view. It is my favorite place to be. It is my second and last rooftop tent. I can only say I wish it were my first.
Thank you for your input!! One thing to note is the height of the Ursa I believe is only a couple inches lower if that than the hatchet. It has the appearance of being lower profile due to the fact they replace the whole top which is taller in general whereas the hatchet goes on top and actually comes down the side over the existing top. It does appear to be much taller but it’s a bit deceiving.. great comments!! Thanks so much!
This was informative but I think you need to show the products as you talk about them more, rather than showing you talking about them. Did you get the item yet?
Yes I have numerous other videos showing my use of the camper as well as a walk around that goes into more detail. I’m back from a 3 week trip filming the Wyoming bdr that will be coming out over the next couple months, stay tuned for that! Thanks for watching!
Great video. When your tent is up, your inside and you want to exit the Jeep, can you exit through the tailgate? If so how do you open it? I can not open mine from the inside.
they add a release strap that you pull on as well as a pull strap that is velcrod to the tailgate that allows you to pull the tailgate shut when the window is down. just remember that if you lock the doors (maybe a bad area) the release handle doesn't work as it actuates the handle, not the lock. so you have to unlock the doors before pulling the pull strap.
I think it’s technically 10” but the weight is the big thing. It stays just as quiet if not quieter than before and due to aerodynamics gas mileage isn’t affected. Can’t say that about a rack and RTT. They don’t do ship because it does require cutting a hole in the oem top which is where you enter the camper portion in the back. Right now they install it in the Denver CO area but their plan is to have dealer installers in time
@@alanmunoz8961 In order to reduce the cost from competitors they utilize the existing OEM top rather than replacing the top with a full replacement fiberglass top. As such, they have heavy duty mounting brackets on the back and pylons on the roll bars to support the top directly to the roll bar rather than on the top. The gutters on the OEM top provide a tray to support the edges of the camper and help seal it from the elements. Since you access the camper from the rear and the camper itself slides forward about 20" they cut a hole in your OEM top in the rear that allows you to climb up through the top and into the camper. An OEM top is about 1600 on ebay so the customization to the top is really just seen as a savings from a version that would replace the whole top like the Ursa does. The Ursa runs about 2k or more higher than the Hatchet so at worst its a wash at best its a significant savings. Hope that helps.
The AT Habitat/J180 was a collaboration between AT Overland and Ursa Minor Campers. I believe there was about a dozen made. A cool camper that could sleep 4 adults.
I’d like to see one of these in person. I own the Ursa Minor J30 and some of your points are valid. It should have had a better mattress from the beginning, the provided on sucks. I modified mine with mattress topper foam to make it 5” thick and I keep my blankets and pillows up there. As for the hinges damaging the tent, it happens. I designed and manufactured a limited run of hinge tamers that keep the tent fabric out of the hinge when closing the top. The center entry is still an issue with the Ursa Minor. All in all though I’d buy one again. My top is quieter than a factory hard top going down the road and I’ve spent a lot of nights in it in all weather conditions. I hope that the hatch is a good product because competition creates innovation and I’d love to see a mature competitor in the marketplace. Either top is a much better solution then a rack and rooftop tent on a Wrangler IMO. Enjoy your new top and I look forward to a long term review!
good to hear regarding being able to leave the bedding on top. i had heard completely different info so good to know. i have about 3 weeks so far camping in the camper and i absolutely love it so far. having the extra room at your head when sleeping makes it feel so much bigger. my wife loves being able to get up and out without us having to do gymnastics to make it happen. i still haven't dealt with rain yet (been lucky with weather so far) but I'm sure that will come, I'm back east afterall lol. so far so good is all i can say right now though.. It was nice that price wise I was able to get the goosegear system for what just the ursa would have cost and I really think the goosegear system is pretty critical to making all this work because you need the storage and the flat nature of the system for navigating inside. I really hope I can get a bag manufacturer (US Made) to consider making quality side bags like I added. Those were game changers for organization but the quality is sub-par. Thanks for the comment John! happy trails.
They don’t currently make one for the JK because the roof design is largely different as it doesn’t have the gutters down the side like on the JL. And molds aren’t cheap to make for the top part. Cost right now is 8500 and they are keeping it at that for now but due to costs of everything they may raise that so don’t know how long they will hold.
sadly that is the case.. hopefully another company will discover them and purchase the rights to produce their product. Its still the best out there for me.
@@jerryobrienI’ve been busy creating commercial stuff so much I haven’t had time to do the channel. Big things coming though that very well will be of interest.. currently working on a project that if it goes through will be based in Africa! So stay tuned! I do need to do an update soon though as a lot has changed in a year!
I considered all the above but went with the Alucab Canopy Camper and after 3 years and 47,000 mile and over 100 nights of sleeping in it I’m 110% satisfied with it and would recommend it to anyone
No, it doesn’t have to due to a special hinge mechanism that secures it by wire to the back where internal latches are released as well as the two outside latches.
@@aMAYSingLife Thanks. I recall on some video about setting it up where it is mentioned securing the latches that are inside the rear but it wasn't clear to me that either of them had anything to do with holding the front.
I can't believe you lost your deposit from Ursa Minor. I would have went ahead bought the unit and then sold it for a profit because people would not have to wait.
I have had an Ursa Minor for 4 years now. Yes the mattress is thin, but you can add foam to increase the thickness to your liking. I added close cell foam to mine for added warmth retention when the cabin air is less then freezing. When closing the Ursa Minor you need to vent the air trapped inside the tent(Simply leave a portion of the inside top door fabric unzipped, not the mesh). If you do this you can leave pillows and bedding up top as well. Keep in mind you need to make room for the tent fabric, simply pull the bedding to the center strip. The reason folks are getting the fabric caught in the scissor mechanism is improper technique when closing(usually trapped air pushing the fabric out). I have zero issues with wind noise. I will say that getting in and out with two adults is a flexibility challenge, but there are two hatches and it can be done while the other person is sleeping. The LineX has been awesome. Zero pinstripes and a simple coat of 303 protectant makes it look like new. As far as your deposit. I’d go on Expedition Portal and post your spot up for sale and recoup your money. Full disclosure, I will be in the Ursa Minor booth at Overland Expo West 2022. I also paid full price for my Ursa Minor back in the day. All of your points are valid. I just think the viewers should know that there are work arounds for most of them. I look forward to meeting you in person at the event.
This is great information for those that are looking at the Ursa Minor. By no means did I intend to disparage the Ursa minor camper - i hope it didn't come across that way in the video. there are tradeoffs by going with this method, one of which is difficulty in hanging awnings or other items around the vehicle. I decided that wasn't for me due to the number of miles I travel at highway speed to get where I want. But for many, the convenience of having a 270 awning or something to that affect may certainly be worth it for them. Thanks so much for giving your viewpoints on the camper and I would love to meet up with you at OX..
how do i get to expedition portal? fb?
@@aMAYSingLife I’d check out Force Protector Gear for an awning solution. Lightweight blankets with heat reduction properties(think space blanket). Mounts to any vehicle, no roof rack needed. #affiliated
@@aMAYSingLife it’s a website with a forum. They have an active for sale section.
How tall is that camper on the Jeep?
💋 certainly one of the most informative, comprehensive videos on RUclips, of any subject.
Thank you so much!
Great video! I love both products, however I agree with all of Justin's points (like him, I'm an enthusiast). I looked at the Hatchet before purchasing my Ursa Minor on the aftermarket last year. I too am a side sleeper and I also weighed the two options extensively. Here are the aspects of the Ursa that ultimately pushed me in that direction - #1 - it's a mature product (generation 3 Ursa's have been built since the beginning of the year), whereas the Hatchet is still a work-in-progress (prototype entering early small run production). With the mature product comes great electrical options such as the cell phone chargers in the camper loft and above the rear view mirror that I really love. #2 - Tent Fabric. Ursa is using Sunbrella which is used on sailboats and is known for being really durable in the weather. I had some concerns that the Hatchet (while it looks wonderful) might have issues with the fabric keeping out the weather. I've found from experience that the Ursa Minor loft area is usually 10 degrees higher than the outside air temperature when it is closed up. I'm not sure if the fabric solution on the Hatchet would offer the same warmth. #3 - Roof color. The white Ursa top reflects the sun and the black Hatchet absorbs it (I know that some Ursa Minor owners elect for a black top - I wouldn't). When I spoke to Hatchet last year they said that it was possible to make a white top and I look forward to seeing that option in the future as the company matures. #4 - Awnings - Ursa's integrated mounting points have steel reinforcement for the awning brackets molded into the fiberglass. At this point I don't know if Hatchet has an awning mount offering. I'm sure that they will figure it out in time, but I don't think it is currently available. #5 - JK instead of JL's. JL's are wonderful and they are also more expensive new and used. Hatchet only makes a camper for the JL presently and Ursa offers one for JK and JL. I was able to get into my low mileage 2011 JK with Ursa Minor already installed for 34K. To purchase the same setup in a JL with Hatchet or Ursa would have put me at least in the 50-65K range (a substantial cost difference). #6 - Aesthetics. The Ursa Minor looks stock like a high end espresso machines and the uninitiated won't even realize that there is a camper there. The Hatchet looks more boxy like a Transformer (which I suppose it is). I personally prefer the look of the Ursa.
I also want to share that I keep two down sleeping bags, two pillows and a blanket in the Ursa loft at all times and it fits just fine (larger pillows have made the top closing snug, but it still works when they are properly placed. I also practice optimum closing technique and I installed the hinge tamers to reduce the chances of pinching the fabric when closing the top. So far, no problems at all!
With all of that said, it sounds like you made the right choice for your objectives - if sleeping 2 adults who need to use the restroom in the middle of the night and comfortably side sleeping is the primary requirement, the Hatchet is superior stock. Also, the entry/exit setup is ingenious and wonderful and I love the pre-install for solar and the integrated traction board solution into the roof and the thick mattress. I'm sure that you and your wife will enjoy your Hatchet. I look forward to hearing how it shakes out for long term overland use for you, particularly concerning heat retention and keeping out the weather. I also can't wait to see how the Hatchet improves incrementally over time. It has all of the promise of a world-class platform!
Sorry for taking so long to respond but your post was well thought out and As I have been traveling for the past 3 weeks now in the camper I have a bit of experience I can share so far. All of your points are valid although some a bit dated based on where and when you saw the camper compared to their production model. I have an integrated light as well as two USB ports, both C and B. The top is white now on the top and insulation proved to be superb as I camped in low 40’s and was quite comfortable. I also ended up in the Ozark sand camper in high humid and warm and was able to stay comfortable. I have discovered it does keep noise level on road quieter than stock which was a surprise. The solar panel which I opted for has been a game changer for me power wise. Loving that. I totally agree with the decisions you made particularly the JK over JL. Their mold is far more specific to the design of the JL so if you have a JK then that only makes sense. I thought the same thing about the ability to make it appear as if it were not a overland vehicle. So I get that too.
Thanks for your input on the ability to have certain items left in the loft.. that’s good for people to know. I think where I was going with that is I knew I would need a 4” mattress and I question if you could do both bedding and 4” without deflating in the Ursa.. maybe? Anyway, enjoy your ride as it appears you too made the right decision for you. Very cool we live in a time where so many options are available. If you see me in the future, say hi! Cheers!
Great insights! Could you clarify more on the Hatchet would have to bore a hole in the OEM?
Just putting thought into this! Thanks for this video. I'm checking out more...
You won’t be disappointed in this one… I’m now at about 105 nights since last may… still love it!
i was just thinking of getting the URsa minor but your video just cleared many of my questions.. tks!
Stay tuned to the channel as in a couple weeks I’ll release my video of wheeling in the Ozarks.. it handles well off road too! I’ve camped so far in it about 3 weeks and still loving it.
Thanks for the video. I’ll have to check them out and I only live 2 hours away from Denver.
Best decision I ever made for camping!! You won’t be disappointed
@@aMAYSingLife, I see you enter the tent through the rear of the hard top. Does the pop up tent have areas cut out of the existing hard top or does the pop up tent come as a new hard top like the Ursa Minor?
Hey I just read your other comment. I’ll definitely call the company and check out their stuff on my next trip to Denver.
Thanks I had never heard about the Hatchet. I was thinking about the Ursa but really wasn't, convince. So the JX was very tenting but also expensive. This solution same to be a good one.
Camped again last night.. I’m somewhere around 50-60 nights since may.. I love it!
I have an Ursa Minor, I'm happy with it, other than a UV fading issue at about a year and a half, in Oregon sun no less.
This looks interesting, what Ursa Minor needs is compitition, and a lesson in after sale service.
yeah they put raptor coat on this top - same that goes in truck beds so hopefully it will remain true.
Agreed. Also a fellow Ursa owner and I am excited about more competition in this space. For me, I prefer the slimness of the Ursa Minor over how thick the hatchet looks when its closed. Other than that it looks like a great alternative.
@@peytoncombs9331 yeah the slim line look of the ursa is a good look.. the thick look on mine is growing on me though and since it doesn't add wind noise its a good balance of function to form, at least for me.
Ross is a good guy and has been working on this idea for a while. His custom Tacoma build before his JL was pretty awesome as well. Having been on some adventures with him, it's cool to see this idea come to life over the years. Spot on with the Ursa Minor too. I wish they did more of a wedge style design like the Alu-Cab and some sort of rear roll cage kit replacement like Dan Grec's Jeep.
Ross's attention to detail has definitely shown through on this camper. He's done a great job doing his part to bring this to life. Thanks for watching!
You should talk with Chris of venture4wd. He has extensive use of the URSA minor top.
Actually some of the packing techniques he uses I have implemented although a bit changed as he enters his camper through the middle of the vehicle and I go in through the back.
All looking good, an funny I also had bought an RV looked just liked yours an yes sold it , I spent 3 months in the Keys last year but the ever was not for me
we still have our motorhome.. Until gas got stupid our plan was to tow the jeep out west and use it as a base camp as we used a spider web approach to explore the area. now we are leaving the MH in place at least for now. I love the MH, its been a good one. I have about 30k miles on it.
I almost consider getting myself a jeep. That looks to make it simple I like it.
I’m excited about it… I’m currently packing up to head that way to have it and the goosegear system installed. Then off to OX west. I hope to do a short of the progress of it as I go
@@aMAYSingLife I'll be looking forward to a more in person review! Safe driving buddy!
Why not just go with a tear drop trailer?
Have you seen the Black Bean?
In the event you change vehicles you’ll always have a stellar light weight trailer with all the room to take momma’s beauty stuff/comfort items.
As a 2016 JKRU owner I’ve looked at all options.
Still a big fan of the Safari JXL & Ursa Minor though.
I had a trailer for a while and ultimately it just didn't work for me. Particularly teardrop trailers while they are designed for off-road can get you into sticky situations when dealing with off-camber, needing to turn around on a trail, needing to backup, the list goes on. My trailer was light-weight (m416 bantam trailer) so it was the easiest to pull behind likely out there. Even then, the setup time was more, if I got into a situation where I needed to take a different line and had to back up, that was a challenge... it just went on and on. Plus, you can't go as fast pulling a trailer as you can single. For gas vehicles, its a pretty good drain on fuel economy too. Didn't affect my diesel that much but it was still a pain to pull along. The other issue was getting into a town I couldn't just park in a spot, I had to find one where I could be long enough and get in and out. And, as trailers go I'm very experienced backing one, so that wasn't the issue as much as just logistics of it. Anyway, if you are doing light trails, maybe thats a good solution, but it wasn't for me. I like the simplicity of this setup. Thanks for watching and your comments!!
That looks cool man. Never seen one before.
its new on the market... i'm excited about it.
Have they gone out of businesses? They dont have a website? 😢I I really hope not. I want one of these so bad!
Unfortunately they did. I have high hopes that another company will buy their tech and reopen it.. I still love mine!
Great video! Thank you for sharing!!
Thank you!
I went the same route. The Ursa is interesting, but a 2 inch mattress is not going to cut it for me.
The air mattress issue in an ursa?? What if you deflate it before lowering canopy’s hardtop & closing?
suppose wanted to mount this to a 7x14 cargo trailer. Will that work
Very cool idea! I like the idea of being about to stand in the back vs the middle and have it open in case of emergency. Do you know if they plan to make it for the new bronco?
Yes my understanding is they do intend to do that!
I have built a custom rack for my gladiator. I'm now looking for a tent that is capable of gladiator bed access. I believe I can make this work.
Would be interesting if you could…. If you are close to Denver it would be worth a call to see what they think
@@aMAYSingLife thank you for replying. I'll subscribe just for that. I'm on the Oregon coast. Hello from Depoe Bay.
@@tonymontgomery5827 much appreciated!! Hope you enjoy the content!
Do you have pricing, with different options? I checked the web site and couldn't find any prices. If I can have an idea, to see if it's in our budget.
The camper wired for solar is 8500 installed. Not sure if you have them add the solar but I know the controller was about 135 and the panel was 125 or so and it’s already pre-wired for solar.. so that should give you a good idea
Where to mount front light bars? Where to mount awing?
I’ve never been a fan of light bars.. they look cool but when you turn them on they light up the hood as much as what’s ahead of you. In addition, I don’t like the wind noise or drag. I’m pushing about 25000 lumens through 4 off road lights mounted on my bumper and it lights up the world… if anything I would add ditch lights in front of the a pillar but honestly I don’t really need it.
As far as the awning, they now have an integrated awning for the rear that takes about a minute to setup and a side awning that slides into a kater track that stuffs into a 15l stuff sack. So when I’m not using it, you don’t see it and I don’t hear it. And fuel economy doesn’t suffer.. this build is all about keeping things quiet and affordable so you can actually afford to buy the gas to get on the trail. As such this works perfect for me.. don’t get me wrong, a 270 would be fun but in all reality the way I travel and the times I actually need an awning, I prefer something that can go away and me not see it until I need it.. hope they answers your question :-)
Ok where can i get mine done
Regarding the Hatchet Camper - where are you planning to store your belongings since the rear of the Jeep needs to be open for standing?
I purchased 2 zarges storage containers that all of my stuff that typically goes there will go. This will allow me to easily remove them and since they are weather protected they can remain outside while camped. Also, I bit the bullet and got the 60% delete and went with the goosegear setup. This gives me a tremendous amount of storage that I have not been used to so all of my recovery, tools, and other items that have historically taken up inside will no longer do so. I think due to the organization the zarges provides and the removal of all the things that will be hidden due to the goosegear I'll be ahead from where I was. Long term I plan to take out the windows and replace with storage that is accessible from the outside (like gull wings) that lock. This will remove further clutter. Finally, I intend to put aluminum molle on the inside where the windows are so i can mount bags on the sides that will further organize. i wont have a complete solution at OX because I couldn't afford to do it all at one time but it will be a lot further than it has ever been and furthermore, i have a plan which is pretty gratifying.
2:26 the wait is real.
4:25 you don’t really have to move your partner. They can stay in place. You just have to scoot back, move your hatch to your foot area and slide down. Granted, not elegant, and not easy for larger folks. The one really relevant consideration, in my opinion.
5:40 Ursa now provides thicker mattress options.
6:44 one of the best features of the Ursa is its streamlined, low profile design.
7:15 plenty of room for my very thick sleeping bags. And two pillows. And awning poles.
7:41 I don’t know of anyone who brings their bedding down, except maybe those who added mattress toppers or opted for thicker mattresses.
8:21 never heard of this. I have front latches and there is no noticeable noise unless I forgot to latch it. Now, I did have squeaky noises from the top rubbing on the roll bar, but that was solved with a small piece of rubber.
9:11 sounds cool. As does the traction board space.
10:22 that price difference might be moot if you consider the money recouped from the sale of the original top.
I have been using and enjoying the Ursa Minor on my JLU for over two years. With a 2.5” lift and 35” tires, I can still pull into my garage! I have taken it from Arizona to Massachusetts and back. I have slept 21 straight nights in it (which went by too fast). After a rugged day in the wilderness, I can’t wait to get up there and get cozy and enjoy the view. It is my favorite place to be. It is my second and last rooftop tent. I can only say I wish it were my first.
Thank you for your input!! One thing to note is the height of the Ursa I believe is only a couple inches lower if that than the hatchet. It has the appearance of being lower profile due to the fact they replace the whole top which is taller in general whereas the hatchet goes on top and actually comes down the side over the existing top. It does appear to be much taller but it’s a bit deceiving.. great comments!! Thanks so much!
This was informative but I think you need to show the products as you talk about them more, rather than showing you talking about them. Did you get the item yet?
Yes I have numerous other videos showing my use of the camper as well as a walk around that goes into more detail. I’m back from a 3 week trip filming the Wyoming bdr that will be coming out over the next couple months, stay tuned for that! Thanks for watching!
Great video. When your tent is up, your inside and you want to exit the Jeep, can you exit through the tailgate? If so how do you open it? I can not open mine from the inside.
they add a release strap that you pull on as well as a pull strap that is velcrod to the tailgate that allows you to pull the tailgate shut when the window is down. just remember that if you lock the doors (maybe a bad area) the release handle doesn't work as it actuates the handle, not the lock. so you have to unlock the doors before pulling the pull strap.
@@aMAYSingLife thank you
Ok I’ll think to opt for a hatchet or something similar that’s better!! The ursa looks rather small anyway!!
what tires, lift and total height is your rig? I have a 7'6" garage door...
i have open country 33" 10.5 wide tires or there abouts. I am right at 7'2" total clearance needing including my traction boards in the back.
the only downside of this productbus that it had about 12 inches of height to the jeep. Do they ship to Canada? Do they have a dealer here in Canada?
I think it’s technically 10” but the weight is the big thing. It stays just as quiet if not quieter than before and due to aerodynamics gas mileage isn’t affected. Can’t say that about a rack and RTT. They don’t do ship because it does require cutting a hole in the oem top which is where you enter the camper portion in the back. Right now they install it in the Denver CO area but their plan is to have dealer installers in time
@@aMAYSingLife thanks for the inputs. Could you clarify more on the Boeing of a hole in the OEM top?
@@alanmunoz8961 In order to reduce the cost from competitors they utilize the existing OEM top rather than replacing the top with a full replacement fiberglass top. As such, they have heavy duty mounting brackets on the back and pylons on the roll bars to support the top directly to the roll bar rather than on the top. The gutters on the OEM top provide a tray to support the edges of the camper and help seal it from the elements. Since you access the camper from the rear and the camper itself slides forward about 20" they cut a hole in your OEM top in the rear that allows you to climb up through the top and into the camper. An OEM top is about 1600 on ebay so the customization to the top is really just seen as a savings from a version that would replace the whole top like the Ursa does. The Ursa runs about 2k or more higher than the Hatchet so at worst its a wash at best its a significant savings. Hope that helps.
How much are they? Can't find a price anywhere ETA $8500 base
8500 installed. wired for solar but they will install solar as part of it for additional price.
Did you check AT Habitat ?
i'm not aware they make a habitat for a wrangler, only gladiator right?
@@aMAYSingLife jk had the habitat. I think it probably is the best but i cant reach one. They look awesome...
@@ricardoterleira they must have dropped it, i just checked their site and didn't see anything about it. maybe they just dont have the JL yet?
The AT Habitat/J180 was a collaboration between AT Overland and Ursa Minor Campers. I believe there was about a dozen made. A cool camper that could sleep 4 adults.
@@justinpitcairn79 wow, 4 adults.. That's huge... I found some pics of it.. neat concept..
I’d like to see one of these in person. I own the Ursa Minor J30 and some of your points are valid. It should have had a better mattress from the beginning, the provided on sucks. I modified mine with mattress topper foam to make it 5” thick and I keep my blankets and pillows up there. As for the hinges damaging the tent, it happens. I designed and manufactured a limited run of hinge tamers that keep the tent fabric out of the hinge when closing the top. The center entry is still an issue with the Ursa Minor. All in all though I’d buy one again. My top is quieter than a factory hard top going down the road and I’ve spent a lot of nights in it in all weather conditions. I hope that the hatch is a good product because competition creates innovation and I’d love to see a mature competitor in the marketplace. Either top is a much better solution then a rack and rooftop tent on a Wrangler IMO. Enjoy your new top and I look forward to a long term review!
good to hear regarding being able to leave the bedding on top. i had heard completely different info so good to know. i have about 3 weeks so far camping in the camper and i absolutely love it so far. having the extra room at your head when sleeping makes it feel so much bigger. my wife loves being able to get up and out without us having to do gymnastics to make it happen. i still haven't dealt with rain yet (been lucky with weather so far) but I'm sure that will come, I'm back east afterall lol. so far so good is all i can say right now though.. It was nice that price wise I was able to get the goosegear system for what just the ursa would have cost and I really think the goosegear system is pretty critical to making all this work because you need the storage and the flat nature of the system for navigating inside. I really hope I can get a bag manufacturer (US Made) to consider making quality side bags like I added. Those were game changers for organization but the quality is sub-par. Thanks for the comment John! happy trails.
Do they make it for the JK and what’s the estimated cost?
They don’t currently make one for the JK because the roof design is largely different as it doesn’t have the gutters down the side like on the JL. And molds aren’t cheap to make for the top part. Cost right now is 8500 and they are keeping it at that for now but due to costs of everything they may raise that so don’t know how long they will hold.
It appears that Hatchet Overland is out of business.
Their website is gone...so I think you are correct
sadly that is the case.. hopefully another company will discover them and purchase the rights to produce their product. Its still the best out there for me.
Good to see you responding. Miss viewing your stuff. I hope to get a Jeep and would want that one on there as well. @@aMAYSingLife
@@jerryobrienI’ve been busy creating commercial stuff so much I haven’t had time to do the channel. Big things coming though that very well will be of interest.. currently working on a project that if it goes through will be based in Africa! So stay tuned! I do need to do an update soon though as a lot has changed in a year!
I considered all the above but went with the Alucab Canopy Camper and after 3 years and 47,000 mile and over 100 nights of sleeping in it I’m 110% satisfied with it and would recommend it to anyone
If they make one for the bronco I'll consider it!
They don’t yet but it’s one they have intentions of making in the future… I think it would be great on the bronco
Somewhere to sleep while your Ford is stuck.
@@ianlaughlin85 I've been broken down and stuck in my toyota tacoma eight times now. And ZERO since I got a bronco. So you're full of shit.
How does it latch in the front?
No, it doesn’t have to due to a special hinge mechanism that secures it by wire to the back where internal latches are released as well as the two outside latches.
@@aMAYSingLife Thanks. I recall on some video about setting it up where it is mentioned securing the latches that are inside the rear but it wasn't clear to me that either of them had anything to do with holding the front.
Please tell me they ship to Sweden 🙏
unfortunately they dont ship anywhere now.. they didn't make it.
How much?
They sell it for 8500 installed wired for solar but panels not included in that price.
You did not have too loose your deposit, you could bought one still have someone else buy with a reduction in deposit.
unfortunately Ursa didn't share that tidbit when I called so I didn't know it until it was too late.
Ours cracked in half due to Jeep flex. Not well built. Took it off and trashed it and put a soft top back on the Jeep.
I can't believe you lost your deposit from Ursa Minor. I would have went ahead bought the unit and then sold it for a profit because people would not have to wait.
It’s all good… it’s not like I didn’t know it was non-refundable.. no hard feelings toward Ursa..
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Uggly duckling for sure. But function over form i suppose.
Right to much work camping sucks lol