Any reason why I shouldn’t pick up a Big Agnes Scout Plus UL2?

Big Agnes Scout UL2 Plus – Initial Impressions

Thanks. I've read through that entire thread already. Just looking for additional info. or other possible suggestions for a similar tent in the same range as far as price/size/weight.

I think the fly creek is lighter. Not sure why you need a heavy freestanding tent as opposed to a two person tarp. A CF tarp would probably be cheaper.

Then I'm guessing you didn't read my post! It's a compromise when going with 2 people, and they don't want to use a tarp!

For me, the biggest draw backs for the Scout Plus are the pole right in the middle of the door and the crazy amount of stakes required to pitch it properly.
If you're ok with the contortions required to exit and don't foresee problems driving the 11 or more stakes required to get a taught pitch, I say go for it.

Personally I love a lot of Henry's tarptent designs, but I share the same concerns with you about the Squall. That mesh on the sides is pretty low down, and the awning on the foot end doesn't seem to give quite enough coverage from what I see in the pictures. Maybe I just need to see one in person but I'd be worried about splash back from driving rain.

stratospire 2??? Those things are awesome. I had my SS1 in a very nasty driving rain a few weekends ago and was snug and dry inside – those huge vestibules were great for my wet stuff – heck, I even had enough room to lay stuff out to dry!

Then I'm guessing you're pretty rude.

In all honesty your first post comes off a little condescending as well. You state you disbelief that he would consider a "heavy free standing tent" when he could use a tarp. In the OP he mentions having used and loved a tarp. But now because of a new set of needs (hiking with partners who don't want to use tarps) he needs a tent. Also neither of the tents he suggested are in any way "free standing" in fact the only free-standing tent mentioned so far in this thread is the one suggested by you, the BA Fly Creek.

While I understand the need and desire to share experience and knowledge with one another, we as a community must avoid the "if it works for me it's what everyone should be doing" mentality. The OP didn't want to use a tarp under certain conditions, good for him, lets help him find what he needs. Others around here prefer not to use CF, good for them, why squabble about it? When we suggest products or methods that are far beyond the scope of what people are looking for, we're not really helping them at all.