I used the Luxe Mini-Tarp for the for time this past week. It was typical Adirondack November canoe-camping weather: cold temps, wind, rain and snow showers. After the paddle in, I setup the Mini Peak XL, then the Winter Inner and finally the hot tent stove. Next was the tarp, which came with a sufficient number of aluminium stakes, reflective cord and cord locks. There was also a diagram on the plastic bag that contained these items; I trimmed it and packed it in stake bag to use as a reference. Using the Mini-Tarp video as a guide, I cut and attached each of the guy lines to the tarp. Then I draped the tarp over the tent, attached the rear guy lines and then the side lines. Next, I set-up and staked out the front support pole (adjusting the height as needed). Finally, I staked out the two front guy lines.
The tarp provides a good-sized area in front of the tent. When the tarp is attached to the tent, it was obvious that it was designed in such a way to not did not interfere with hot tent stove chimney. The way I had it staked out, it did not go all the way to the ground, however, I believe that it could go lower by adjusting the height of the front pole. I stored processed firewood and some gear under it, and still had an area to sit when the weather was inclement. Speaking of weather, during the trip, the tarp held up just fine during strong winds (30-35 mph gusts), rain and snow showers, so I am confident about using it when conditions are not ideal. Take-down was simple: I detached and took down the front pole first, then working front to back, disconnected each of guy lines. Overall, I completely pleased with every aspect of the tarp; it truly expands the "living area" of the tent. It is well-designed and reasonably priced. Using an adjustable front pole should provide options for how low the tarp can be pitched to the ground. I was also pleased with the customer service that 3 Ridges Gear provided - my order was processed and arrived quickly.