Eezi Awn Bat 270

[ab1985]

Did anyone see this awning at Overland Expo? I need to call Equipt again (I didn't leave a voice mail when I called last), but I figure I'll post here to stir some debate. I really like the idea of having coverage on the side and rear of the vehicle, but I can't see why this awning is so much more expensive than the Foxwing. Thoughts?

http://www.equipt1.com/companies/Awn...-degree-awning

[ab1985]

Does anyone have any real world feedback on this awning? Seems that deployment is a bit more streamlined than the foxwing but still can't stomach that price tag.

[jeremyk]

I'm seriously looking at it, but it does not look like it extends all around the side of the truck so that it is perpendicular to the truck, that might make it less efficient.

I sent them an email offering my Trail Teams Fj to be a demo platform for the Expo, but unfortunately - no reply

[ab1985]

That is one of my concerns. Seems like the edges of the awning are at a 45 instead of a 90 from the side and rear of the truck. For my application that would be a deal breaker.

[rshuckfinn]

I would really like to get one too. They are releasing the Manta next month. The manta is similar to the Bat however it covers more area. I would wait and look at that one. I am sure Paul at Equipt would be happy to give you feedback based on his experience with both.

They are pricy but if you will use it they are well worth it. If you only plan on using it once or twice a year I would get the fox wing.

[ab1985]

Oh, wow - just ran across the Hannibal Spyder: http://hannibal-safari-usa.mybigcommerce.com/contact/ (scroll down). Looks like the same draw back on shape but another interesting option nonetheless.

[jeremyk]

That is one of my concerns. Seems like the edges of the awning are at a 45 instead of a 90 from the side and rear of the truck. For my application that would be a deal breaker.

I agree with that; it would take up the space on the side of the truck but only really cover the rear corner very well. I checked out the Eezi Awn site and their pictures show that a little better. I want side coverage to chill and rear coverage for access to the interior without getting wet.

[jeremyk]

Oh, wow - just ran across the Hannibal Spyder: http://hannibal-safari-usa.mybigcommerce.com/contact/ (scroll down). Looks like the same draw back on shape but another interesting option nonetheless.

Interesting, but no price. They look stout enough, but I would need more details (and a right side option). Prepay.

Made in ZA, they have the usual assortment of cool stuff somebody should make here. I might consider their 2.4m awning and rig up something for the rear for when I need it.

I like to no pole idea, but your rack had better be able to take the torque involved in any wind gust you might encounter...

[ab1985]

I agree with that; it would take up the space on the side of the truck but only really cover the rear corner very well. I checked out the Eezi Awn site and their pictures show that a little better. I want side coverage to chill and rear coverage for access to the interior without getting wet.

Yep, I spend most of my time near the tailgate where the kitchen is located. I like the idea of covered space on the side of the vehicle as well but not at the expense of having to cook in the rain. Below is a one of my notes from my 4Runner build that I was never able to work through. Trying to revisit this concept for the Land Cruiser I'm about to start on.

[SWITAWI]

I guess we can figure on pretty much any 270deg awning following the same basic design layout with the 45deg angles at both ends.

It's just the nature of the beast unless someone adds extra foldout material to provide square coverage at the front and back.

Here's a dimensional drawing of the Foxwing, same basic shape with the vehicle being positioned in the blank square area...



EDIT: Looking at this tiny pic from Equipt's website I think the Manta may just well have squared ends, or at least one squared end. Still, that's basically low-end RTT money for an awning...
http://www.equipt1.com/companies/Bat...e-awning-right