Clam XL4000t Hub or Jason Mitchell 5000 Hub

Is there any advantage of having a 5 sided hub versus a four sided hub? These two have the same square footage and center height. The xl4000t is about $100 less. What would you buy?

I’ve been running and gunning the Clam XL4000T now for 2 seasons and wouldn’t trade it for anything. High quality material, high quality zippers, large carrying bag (unlike other models) and plenty of room to fish 3 comfortable with 4 being a little snug. $100.00 cheaper is kind of a no brainer if you ask me. IMO all your doing is paying for the name brand on the other one. Reeds Sporting Goods has the best buy on them right now for $259.00 with free shipping. Tight lines my friend.

+1 on the Clam. I love mine. But, I’ve never fished out of the Jason Mitchell hub.

The geometry of the 5 side offers better external wind deflection and more internal space configuration options. The extra cost is due to the additional components and labor involved to create the product.

Thanks for all replies. If it were only at $50 difference (JM $50 more) what would your preference be between the two? They are both made by Clam. Any additional thoughts are appreciated.

Looking to order soon. Just wondering if anyone had any more opinions. Thanks to those who have replied.

As I stated before, I own the Bigfoot XL4000T and love it. I stepped into the Jason Mitchell 5000 at Cabelas this morning, prepared to change my mind. But, I’m not convinced it’s much bigger than mine. It may come down to personal preferences.
Just my opinion.

I understand you are trying to compare two hubs made by the same manufacturer. Have you looked into any other manufacturer of hubs? Eskimo, Otter and Polar Bird are all three reputable brands that make hub shacks. I am in no way trying to steer you away from a Clam unit, but there have been numerous cases of bad customer service coming from Clam in the past few weeks. I own a Clam shack and am happy with it, just wanted you to be aware.

As far as the 5 vs 4 sided hubs go, it really comes down to preference. I prefer the 5 sided hub as it does not seem to collapse as bad in higher winds. Some don’t like it as much because there are more potential anchor points needed. The internal size comparison, IMO is negligible. You will be happy with either one, but I would check out some of the other threads on here about Hub shacks. There is a plethora of info on other brands, if you are open to them.

+1 on the Polar Bird (which I believe are currently the lowest priced full thermal hubs), solid hub. I have a Clam as well and I love it and it has only had minimal issues.

I have the clam XL4000T, love it as well. It has been used at least 2 times per week since xmas. No problems yet. Holds up in negative deg weather with my Mr heater portable buddy. If the GF is with and it is below zero I bring a Coleman catalytic heater to run along with my Mr. heater and it is toasty…

I can set it up by myself on a windy day (30mph gusts) and have yet to use more than 2 anchors at once. Not counting screwing in anchors i have it out of the bag and set up in under 45 seconds.

Fished 4 large dudes (6’2″) on its maiden voyage, snug but it worked…. Fish’s 2-3 people very comfortably, by myself its the Taj Mahal.

Like others have said the over-sized bag is such a plus, When its freezing and you are trying to go home it is very easy to stuff it, zip it and be ready to leave.

Thanks for all the replies. I had a chance to look at both in person. I ended up buying the XL4000T. When fishing I like to set up two holes for each angler. The five sides seemed to limit the hole configurations in my mind when fishing 2-3 anglers. Both are high quality shelters. I will say I prefer the gray/black color of the JM over the XL4000T but it all came down to functionality for me. I also bought some Eskimo anchors on clearance. Thanks again.

You won’t regret it. And, I’m right with you on the hole placement with the XL4000 for two fishermen. And, when you’re alone, you’ll like it even more!