Stealth Bloxx Compact

JRC’s has a long, proud history when it comes to making bivvies, one which dates back to the late 90’s. The STI, Cocoon, Quad, Stealth – all bankside shelters which have made anglers’ stay on the bank a lot more enjoyable and comfortable.

To cut a long story short: last year JRC launched what can only be described as one of their finest shelters to date – the Bloxx – a shelter designed all around speed. For twenty-sixteen, the makers of just about everything have released a dainty version: The Stealth Bloxx Compact. It comes with all the same great features as it’s bigger sibling, including an improved user-friendly tension system at the peak, but now means it’s easier to transport and gives you the ability to fish in tighter swims.

Doing an overnighter in the summer? Then leave the front panel zipped in but take advantage of the mozzy mesh panels

The big question

So what’s different then?
In terms of features and performance, not a lot. The original Bloxx won more appraise than a Ricky Gervais sitcom thanks to its main design feature: the Central Block mechanism, only now though JRC have made this from an even lighter material to help shed some pounds on this Compact version. It’s extremely easy to erect: simply stand at the front doorway, pull the first two ribs (right and left) towards you and all five ribs instantly come around in an accordion-like way. Pop in the peak poles and bivvy is ready to peg out in seconds.

Encounter a sudden shower? Then utilise the two-way door system to create a ‘letterbox’ style opening to keep you dry but still allow for a full view of your swim

Being small and light, does that mean it’s only suited for day sessions?
Absolutely not. Where the original measured 145cm in height, the new Compact comes in a 135cm; and from front-to-back and side-to-side this new version measures just 50cm less overall, so there’s still plenty of space for all your essentials. Plus, thanks to its design, the Bloxx Compact is suitable for a multitude of different situations and scenarios.

Just doing the day? Then set it up without the included groundsheet and with the infill panel zipped out for an open-fronted ‘brolly like’ shelter

Explain…
Just doing the day? Then set it up without the included groundsheet and with the infill panel zipped out for an open-fronted ‘brolly like’ shelter. Doing an overnighter in the summer? Then leave the front panel zipped in but take advantage of the mozzy mesh panels and rear vents which keep the bugs out but allowing a cooling airflow to run through the bivvy. Encounter a sudden shower? Then utilise the two-way door system to create a ‘letterbox’ style opening to keep you dry but still allow for a full view of your swim. Or perhaps you’d like to increase the internal space a little, say for a trip to France? No problem, simply add the wrap (sold separately) that will also give you a warmer, condensation-free bivvy in the colder months.

The Bloxx Compact comes complete with storm pole caps and two 48-inch poles to increase stability

It certainly sounds multifunctional. What’s the build quality like?
It feels good, very good. All the bells and whistles you’d want are here, starting with JRC’s tried, tested and trusted 10,000HH Hydratex material. It has tape sealed seams throughout to provide 100% waterproof protection from the elements, and it comes complete with storm pole caps and two 48-inch poles to increase stability.

Rear vents will keep the bugs out but allow a cooling airflow to run through the bivvy

So what’s the damage and what exactly do I get for my money?
The Stealth Bloxx Compact retails for £259.99 and the matching Wrap will set you back £129.99. In return for handing over that hard-earned cash, you’ll get the shelter which comes supplied with a heavy-duty carry bag, plus heavy-duty PE groundsheet and JRC pegs. jrc-fishing.co.uk

The main design feature: the Central Block mechanism

Along with a heavy-duty groundsheet and carry bag, the Bloxx Compact also comes supplied with pegs