JRC Defender Peak Bivvy

When it comes to making bivvies, JRC has the sort of heritage that you just can’t buy (we’re sure that there’s a queue of companies who’d do it if they could). The downside of having established that kind of reputation is that you’ve got to keep your standards high! Although JRC founder, Jeff Powell sold the company quite a few years ago now, the new custodians seem to be taking their responsibility to preserve the heritage of the company pretty seriously. Those standards extend right through the JRC range, from their flagship kit, to the entry-level products, like the new Defender Peak Bivvy.

The Big Questions

So, it’s good value? How good?
Well, cut to the chase why don’t you? The One-Man Defender Peak is £169.99, okay? Now, we’ve definitely seen wraps that cost more than that! Crucially, you’re getting a proper bivvy for that price. We genuinely think that the Defender Peak will last a good few seasons too; there’s no question of it being a disposable bivvy, despite the knockdown price.

Surely there’s stuff missing at that price?
Well, not that we can see. Starting with the materials, you’re talking 5500 hydrostatic head PU-coated polyester. Now, while polyester isn’t a cutting-edge material as such, it is very, very rugged and totally reliable, thanks to the taped seams! The 16mm aluminium poles are lightweight, but robust enough to survive being chucked around the garage for a few years!

In terms of features, the Defender is well provisioned. We’re talking all the stuff that you’d expect on a top-of-the-range model – how about mozzi mesh vents, front and rear? You’ve got ‘em. Rod-retaining straps? Yep. A whole three door options? They’re yours to experiment with. Of course, there’s the peak that gives the bivvy its name. It acts to prevent rain lashing in through the door when things get a bit tasty. Remember, you can also ‘letterbox’ the door too, for maximum protection.

There’s even rear vents!

Double Velcro rod straps on both the bivvy and Winter Skin

What if I want to upgrade for the winter?
JRC has thought of this too. Although the Defender Peak has an admirable footprint (something that the team worked hard to maximise), you might want a bit more space, and a bit more luxury for a longer winter trip, or perhaps that French sojourn. In that case, allow us to point you towards the Defender overwrap (sold separately). Sling it over the top and your accommodation just went from four-star to five-star! Of course, it cuts condensation issues off at the knees too, which is an edge if you don’t like scraping ice off the inside of the tent in winter!

The Winter Skin offers even more protection

Extras?
Of course. We’re talking lightweight Velcro-in groundsheet, heavy-duty pegs and full-n frame support system to keep the ribs and fabric perfectly tensioned. You get three removable windows that Velcro into the door panel, so you can choose from green polyester, clear PVC and mozzi mesh depending on conditions, and the presence of our blood-sucking friends. What’s more, you can shove the whole lot into the durable and easy-access carry bag (how has it taken this long to produce a truly easy-access carry bag?).

And if you want to opt for the Two-Man version so you can enjoy even more space and protection, you’ll be pleased to hear it’ll only cost you an extra £20!

I want a bigger one!
Then you shall have one! JRC makes the Defender Peak in both One-Man and Two-Man, and the price difference really isn’t all that significant if you’re desperate for the extra space. Parting with an extra £20 you can get two bedchairs inside, which makes the Two-Man perfect for taking the spouse, the kids, or just having plenty more room for little ol’ you if you’re the unsociable type!
“GIMME”: One-Man, £169.99; Two-Man, £189.99; jrc-fishing.co.uk