Wow, did not expect a reply, you're amazing 👍 Chassis frame, wall and roof structures still the same between the two? (other than the drop down frame in the Montana)
@@kevinkidney7923 Hmm.. I was in some of the bigger reflections recently and don't recall that being an issue but I'm also not sure I specifically stepped into the slide to check so it's possible I just didn't notice. TY for the head's up (or head's DOWN? lol). I'll check that next time I'm out
@@kevinkidney7923 buddy.. I 100% know what you mean. I THOUGHT I had a good bead on things when I was making these videos for Haylett's. I knew our inventory inside and out Now.. with so many NEW things flying at me all at once? Holy cow. It's overwhelming.
Zero G for steps is critical, I have the steps like on that Cougar and it came down and fractured my finger, after 2 months still can barely use it. That should be standard on all steps.
Geezzzz , I need you to help me pick a first time RV buy!!!! I know I need 2 bedrooms , ( for a man cave!) , And 2 bathrooms . 4 season for full time. I've considered a toy hauler for the extra bedroom. So many choices.
My parents just upgraded from our 2011 Cougar High Country 296BHS. Since the kids (me) are in college they decided to get a couples RV and got a 2021 Montana High Country 295RL.
Technology is good. Until it fails. Hence I prefer turning things off and on without having to pull out my phone or wait for the screen to come on. Technology = more things to go wrong. I’m looking at the High Country because we’ll be full-timing for a couple of years or so, tootling around North America.
Josh, you are so thorough, we really enjoy listening to your detailed descriptions. We have a Ram 2500 diesel and are torn between the Cougar 295RLS and Montana High Country 295RL (mainly for the king bed option on the Montana). Concerned about high profile and weight difference for towing with the 3/4 ton. Do you have any helpful comments?
Hi Roger! TY for all the visits Haylett RV was my family's store here in Coldwater, Michigan My dad wanted to retire. Neither myself nor my brother wanted to run the whole show. So, we found a group with which we felt good partnering in Bish's RV But as you can see other than changing my hat and shirt i'm still here doing the same thing I've always done More info as to why here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-gXfpY5eDtv8.html
Thank you Josh. One of the top videos I have seen. A fine job. I was just curious why you didn't mention the Grand Design line in the top 3. But, we have also been following Cougars in the RV park where we are working.. I like the Cougars. But, with our upgrade from a small 24-foot Jayco Whitehawk / 1/2 ton Silverado to a 5th wheel and 3/4 ton, we are trying to keep the length down to 30-32 feet and weight within 12k. What is your experience with the Solitude and Reflections 5th wheels?
When I made this I didn’t yet have access to grand design rvs and it’s hard to offer comparisons for something not side by side Reflection, eagle, cougar, avenue are all pretty head to head They each do some great features. I personally _currently_ give cougar a slight nod
Our 2008 Keystone Everest has so many of these features and has been trouble free for all these years and cost thousands less than todays prices, it’s a keeper! Four slide outs, Corian counter tops, king bed and washer/dryer prepped and dropped frame. Electric space fireplace and four door fridge. Keystone made a great fifth wheel then, I hope they’re still doing a great job now.
I like the cougar both are nice we have a 2021 keystone passport SL 268 bh but I would like to go fifth wheel I have a 2500 HD Chevy witch it good for 16,000 on fifth wheel so the 29 cougar would be nice for my truck
Varies by model naturally. This isn't a video hard targeting two specific layouts. We include specs (including hitch weight) in each of our videos you may find useful
Link here bit.ly/2JPDSt2 Our site has pricing for anything in stock though we are really depleted currently Our team at 800-256-5196 can get you figures for anything else!
Again: families with more than two children-a. Sink needs bigger overhang plus 2bar stools, b. Less rear windows so a Murphy bunk . The models with front full baths Need to switch to center full & master half bath for more than just husband n wife residents.
Can you define murphy bunk for me? Or give me an example of an RV with one? It's not a phrase I hear commonly but I think I have an idea what you're referencing
I recently bought a Cougar 34TSB because of your videos and love it. I wonder what the difference between the Cougar and the outback. I do love your videos and they are awesome
Keystone has tested it & found similar results to Rockwood where they dislike the strength loss you experience on a larger model. Azdel is awesome, but has a lower shear strength vs. lauan.
@@josho.7557 They do on ½ the wall - like a freedom express. Helps retain some strength while providing some of the benefit of azdel. This complicates MFGs production though, so many brands have not adopted that process. Coachmen is basically the original user of azdel in the rv business and I think their experience in that area helps make the difference.
Can you put a stack washer and dryer in the cougar I know you say a combo . You are great Josh keep up the great work . I love how you close it up so we can see where we can go inside .
Depends on the specific layout. MOST Cougars referenced in this video are a Combo by default with only specific floor plans being stackable capable High Country Montanas are the opposite. By default they're stackable prepped with only specific models being combo-only
Really appreciate the comparison videos! We have spent the past year educating ourselves as we prepare to buy in a year or two. You are our go-to guy, Josh! Your videos are SO educational! Even though we're in Oregon, we've talked about how we'd really prefer to buy directly from you, even though it would probably mean a cross-country trip!
Awesome content, I just purchased a 2022 Cougar 316RLS it was plenty for the wife and I, my decision was based on your recent review on the 316RLS, looking forward to our first trip . Thank you for doing such a great job covering each RV you show.
Wow congrats! I'd love it if you dropped my name in a quick review at bit.ly/3KVCtf2 in return for the efforts since they seemed to be useful for you! Would really appreciate it :)
I think that's one of the major lines between them really Full Timer / heavy users will tend to gravitate toward a Montana Part time / Casual users will tend to lean to the Cougar Not always. But commonly
Love the video Josh. I also would love to see the High Counrty compared to the big boy Montana. I really enjoy watching your videos. You have a great way of telling it how it is. Your knowledge of your product is tremendous. Thank you!
Here you go! bit.ly/3yPw00e Keep in mind this comparison series is about a year old now so it's not 100% accurate but I think still gives you a good enough general idea
It really is but folks seem to have really appreciated them When we can get back to more inventory in stock I will be able to crank out some more of these
Another great comparison vid. Not mentioned, maybe, is that Cougar slides have finished sides; Mont. HC are painted black. I thought that was a big deal until I noticed the Lagacy Montana also has black sides on the slide. Sooo,,,,,. ??
Hope it was helpful! We have plenty of individual videos for review as well. Is there a model/size you're seeking? I can get you some links to make finding them easier.
We are really liking the high country 295RL well maybe 294RL without residential fridge and cougar 315rls. We are going to tow with 3/4 ton GMC 2500 diesel. What slide systems do each have? I couldn’t find that info anywhere.
@@JoshtheRVNerd 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I thought it was just me!! Why mess with perfection! Now I have to make choices. Like am I going to be good and eat half or go big or go home. I like just knowing I got the whole bar and it must be eaten at one time. They are crooks!
I think I'm mostly standing in one of these: • 316RLS: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-FJQjf1jbrDI.html • 355FBS: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-DdPSv1reUbs.html The video isn't really about specific models but mostly the things that define the two brands in general though
Hi Josh, love your videos. But why don't they use independent suspension? People are posting all the time now leaf springs shackles or the word at the frame breaking. I'm in alot of rv groups and they post pictures of suspension failures.
That's also an exceptionally low minority with the posts -- important to keep the frame of reference. If everyone posted every time their suspension DIDN'T break, then imagine the flood. It's relative ;)
Josh if I could find something in Your used inventory similar to the Cougar here, in a pull behind Camper I'd like to get one. Once I win the Lottery Really nuce 5th wheels though
Yes. And they have fantastic service records. Not all cable slide systems are the same. For the past 3 years they've been the lowest warranty-rate mechanical item at both Cougar AND Montana. They're very light weight and ideal for heavy slides often found in Cougar models. Also surprises folks to learn they're THE MOST expensive slide system where they're often assumed as the "Cheap Alternative." If they weren't working, then they would most certainly not continue to use a more expensive item.
@@JoshtheRVNerd Hi Josh, thank you for responding to my inquiry. Like most people I had heard that the cable slide system was the “cheap alternative” and they shouldn’t be used on a heavy slide such as a kitchen or a long living room. Another channel I watch says that they are prone to failure and should only be used on maybe a small wardrobe slide. You said they’re not all the same but are they made by the same company? Why do you think they have the perception of being inferior? Our 5th wheel has rack and pinion and also schwintech slides which haven’t had any problems. By the way, saw the video today of the couple coming from Virginia to pick up the Jayco. Nice video and I appreciate your being open and honest with your viewers and your customers. It makes me want to come up there to see you and see if we can do a trade. Anyway, keep up the great work and I look forward to your next video!
@@robertburns5145 Cable slides get a bum rap because like too many things in the RV industry they were being used widely before they were really "ready." But like the now-myth of "china bomb" tires -- things have advances beyond common perception.
@@JoshtheRVNerd I really do enjoy your videos. Idaho may not be next door, but I may make a trip to meet you anyway. You would make a good Idahoan. ;-)thanks
Higher frontal also means more wind resistance and lower fuel economy. Don't forget cross winds also. Just remember your tow vehicle and your abilities.
Thank you Josh for all your knowledge of RV's & the RV industry. I have learned most everything I know of them, from you & i know I can trust what you say. There is so much misinformation out there. You are brutally honest & tell the truth about each model, a straight shooter & that is what buyers need to hear. You will not find that anywhere else on You Tube. Oh, and did I mention, you are also very entertaining.
We really enjoy your comparison videos. We are trying to figure out what to consider to replace our Outback 260FL. Tow vehicle is 2015 2500 HD gas. Any suggestions for a couples trailer/5th wheel planing on heading south for a few months. Thanks in advance. Great channel.
Thanks, will do! Though I have this comparison series on hold until the weather warms up a bit. Hopefully this summer I can get back to it! I had a BUNCH pre-recorded to hopefully get thru most of the cold months though. There's still a few more to come!
Thank you for this as I may soon be looking for either an RV or 5th wheel. Right now I'm just doing the research to find what would fit my wife and our son...
Why isn't the Super Solarflex package available on the High Country? Josh, you made it sound as though there was some kind of mechanical limitation on the HC which prevented more solar panels, more lifepo4 batteries and larger capacity and/or switchable inverters being used on the HC? If I wanted, could I get a qualified solar electrician do the upgrade for me?
You'd have to ask Keystone on that one. I can only guess it's so there's a clear difference between MHC and "Full Monty" You could have a solar upfit applied to nearly any RV btw
Josh, thank you SO MUCH for all of your videos. I hope Bish's is paying you well! You are my favorite RV RU-vidr. You don't leave anything out...and your sense of humor is just icing on the cake. Really, thank you for all the info and in a very fun, exciting way. I can't wait to finally buy a fifth wheel and go glamping!
Josh I believe the Montana High Country has a 12 gallon water heater compared to Cougars 6 gallon. I could be wrong but I do love my showers! I loved the videos. I get in trouble watching them so much. Those are the 2 trailers we are looking to buy. Retirement in 6 months so we want to get the perfect one. Thanks again for the great videos
10gal on MHC (though I think they USED to use 12's) MFGs found 10 and 12gal gas/elec water heaters recharged the same gallons per hour, so 12gal units were largely phased out.
Thanks for your videos..lots of info..we're looking into the Montana high county 376fl..and I was wondering how the couger compares to them..the 376fl is very unique
Hi, most informative. For overall style I prefer the Cougar, but for functionality the Montana might be better; esp if a built-in generator is wanted (how about an outdoor kitchenette-BBQ?). Are both available in a standard plainer/metallic indoor finish (I'm not a fan of 'country-style' furnishings)?
Enjoyed the video. Keep 'em comin'. We just purchased a Cougar 316RLS with the OTG package. We looked at the Cougar half-ton series, the Montana High Country, and the full Montana (and some other brands) and decided on the full Cougar 316RLS. We wanted to keep the size and weight down to a reasonable level was one of our deciding factors. We camp, almost exclusively, off the grid so the Cougar 316RLS was a good choice for us. It has both roof and side solar capability and (with the OTG package) comes from the factory with roof solar panel, charge controller, and inverter already installed. The new big bathroom was a definite deal maker for us over the Cougar half-ton model we almost purchased. We would have liked a generator because of our off-grid camping style but it's difficult to get everything. And to your comment about electronics vs. switches, I'm in that category that prefers the switches over the control panel but was willing to settle when I discovered that I could use my phone to accomplish the same things (I'm pretty phone savvy). Love all of your videos Josh. They were very helpful and instrumental in our choosing the right RV for us.
Awesome, TY Steve! Please consider taking a moment to share your appreciation in a quick review at www.haylettautoandrv.com/review-us/ in return for our efforts helping you along the way!
You know your products! I appreciate the comparisons. Sorry Mi is so far from NM. I always wonder if there are different grades of tank heaters? And I was glad you said the Cougars do come with authentic leveling jacks because it looked like the horrible pine one like are on my 2013 Eagle. Wish it was 4 seasons so much storage space.
Maybe I missed it (though I did just replay the video a second time at 2x speed, which is freaky), but I don't think you addressed cargo carrying capacity, which is somewhat front of mind for me at present. The Cougar 316RLS gives up almost 700 lbs to the 330RL. Pretty much across the board, "comparable" Cougars give up a lot of CCC.
Wow! Cougar really upped their interior game since we had ours!! LOVE the lighter color scheme!! Very nice! I like that they still have a window above the kitchen sink yet too. I have to say through. Still a manual switch person. HATE touch screen. Too time consuming PLUS if it goes out you're pretty much screwed. Whereas if one switch malfunctioned you'd still have the rest and able to control everything else. Same with our truck. One of the main reasons we bought it is it had old school gauges and nobs in addition to the touch screen. So it's a practically thing. Not an I'm too old to use technology thing.
The three I’m looking at in 5th wheels are Montana high country, cougar, and eagle. (Not in that order) Awesome video bro! Btw your impression of hulk hogan is spot on! 😀
Josh, I love the way you do these videos, the honesty you project is sincere, the information you give between them whether good or not so good, and also the variety you have. Especially the comedy. Wish I knew about you before we bought our Redwood in late 2014. Thank for doing what you seem to love doing!!!!!!
Shopping for a fifth wheel now, love Josh, leaning towards the cougar right now. Thank you for all the great details. Hope to do business with you guys. Gil
I like both. Going to be hard to decide. Guess I got a few years till retirement. Will have to see how they advance in the next few years. Thanks josh great comparison.I am team keystone. We really need to come out in the spring and look around at what you got. Be nice weekend get away. Thanks again
These comparison videos are awesome!! Very informative and enjoyable. Please keep them up. Also enjoy hearing about how solar is becoming more and more useful
