Camping stove recommendations

[Josh Wilson]

I posted this in the survival forum, then realized it would probably be better suited here.

For years I have been using an old MSR GK (the predicesor of the X-GK) that I inherited from my dad. It's old but it's a real workhorse and it always does the job.

However every now and then I see fancy new stoves that my camping buddies bought and I wonder if I should join the modern world and get a new stove. So I am looking for your thoughts on a few stove related questions. Keep in mind that I am poor and really can only afford one stove for all my camping needs.

1. Liquid fuel tanks (white gas or kerosene) vs. gas canisters (butane, propane or mix)? What are the pros and cons?

2. Are these new stoves really any better than the old ones or is it just fancy packaging?

3. Which is you favorite and/or which one do you use the most?

 

[Bagheera]

Hi Josh,

Get "the best of two Worlds" I mean the Primus Multifuel sove that runs on gas containers (with self cloasing valve) or on a lot of different fuels like petrol, white gas, diesel, aviation fuel and alcohol (I'm not shure of the last one).
Also it is very sturdy made and has a fuel pump made completely from metal and not some plastic contraption.

Triple Aught Design has them for about $ 85 which for me is a very good price as we pay more in Holland for this European made stove.

Best scouting wishes from Holland,

Bagheera

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[CD Fleischer]

I prefer the gas cannister. I used teh white gas type for years and it always seemed like the fuel would spill, alot would get wasted in teh lighting process, etc.

The gas cannisters are easy to use. No mess. I love mine and don't want to go back.

Note: In very cold weather, the gas cannister ones can be a problem. If you are going to be in very cold weather, the white gas ones might be a better choice.



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Clay Fleischer
clay_fleischer@yahoo.com
AKTI Member A000847

 

[gadgetman]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Josh Wilson:

For years I have been using an old MSR GK (the predicesor of the X-GK) that I inherited from my dad. It's old but it's a real workhorse and it always does the job.

1. Liquid fuel tanks (white gas or kerosene) vs. gas canisters (butane, propane or mix)? What are the pros and cons?

2. Are these new stoves really any better than the old ones or is it just fancy packaging?

3. Which is you favorite and/or which one do you use the most? </font>

Man, and I thought my pre-shaker jet Whisperlite was old...

Here goes.

1. Liquid fuels are better for absolute heat output and cold weather. They also allow you to tailor the amount of fuel you bring to the length of your trip, especially short ones.

The current canister stoves are pretty good though. The issue of inconsistent flame at low fuel levels can be remedied by using isobutane or isopropane mixes. The setup time and ease of use of canisters is superior. Screw on the fuel, light, start cooking.

2. The newer liquid fuel stoves are "better" not in heat output but by being able to adjust heat output. I can't simmer on my Whisperlite. This is old news, but canister stoves are self-sealing so that you can remove the cartridge before it's empty.

3. I don't have a favorite since I've only used my Whisperlite for the past 15 years. I just bought a Primus Alpine Micro (?) canister stove that is really small (without the cartridge) and easy to light. I tried it out yesterday on the balconey; it only took me 30 seconds to screw on the fuel, extend the pot holders and light it. I'll take it with me next time I go backpacking and let someoone else carry the Whisperlite. I bought the Primus lantern that uses the same fuel canisters, otherwise I wouldn't have bought the stove. (Plus both werre on sale)

gm

2.