CRITERIA
From visiting many review sites and reading their content, a common occurring theme is their inability to define precisely the criteria they are using to properly explain the properties of a particular product / group of products.
For example a particular review may describe the ‘power’ of a product as good or bad or even satisfactory but without explaining clearly what ‘power’ means and/or how it is calculated or compared to some form of standard scale.
So, before presenting our reviews, we will start by explaining our ratings and the symbols used.
| BTU : The British Thermal Unit is a measure of the energy efficiency of a stove. This unit of value is the amount of heat it takes to raise the temperature by 0.56 ° C (1 degree Fahrenheit) of 1 English pound of water (0.45 kg). Most stove manufacturers report energy efficiency in BTUs per hour. The higher this measurement, the more intense the heat. The BTU is calculated under optimal climatic conditions that are very rarely encountered in the field. Altitude, cold, fouled stove and the pressure level of a gas canister can decrease BTUs. | |
| Watt : This is the power (flow rate X calorific power of the gas) expressed in watts (W). | |
| Boiling Time : This time corresponds to the time required to bring 1 litre of water to a boil. The higher the BTU of a stove, the faster the water boils. However, wind, weather conditions or the pressure exerted inside a gas cartridge may affect the performance advertised by the manufacturer. The boiling time varies depending on the technology and the fuel used. It will be faster to boil 1 litre of water with a gas or petrol stove than with a wood or alcohol stove. Likewise, this time will be shorter if a gas stove is effectively protected from the wind, while an alcohol stove will only perform well if it has an air inlet .. | |
| Autonomy : This data corresponds to the average duration of total fuel consumption. It is indicated in minutes in relation to the weight or the volume of fuel (e.g. autonomy of the Pocket Rocket 2 stove : 60 minutes per 220 g gas cartridge). |
ALSO :
| Wind Protection | ability to protect the stove burner from the wind |
| Construction | build of the stove ; material/s used in manufacture |
| Stability | measure of how the stove moves/wobbles/tilts on different surfaces or terrains |
| Dimensions | relates to size and ease of packing & transport |
Ratings Explanation : 1* to 5* ——-> Bad to Excellent
Gas stoves
The Simple and Light gas stoves designed to boil water and cook meals in the great outdoors. These burners are equipped with a threaded valve which allows the gas cartridge to be screwed and unscrewed after use. Interchangeable gas cartridges – International Standard EN 417: Primus, Msr, Optimus, Jetboil.
- Compatible with small and large saucepans.
Pan support mounted so as to provide good protection against the wind. It always stays open, ready to use.
The Essential Trail Stove is equipped with a regulating valve allowing fine adjustment of the flame. The pressure flow remains constant whatever the altitude, the outside temperature and the quantity of gas remaining in the cartridge.
An easy-to-use stove with excellent value for money.
weight = 4* (112g)
Construction/ build = 4*
Power/Strength = 5*
Stability = 4*
Portability = 3*
Wind Protection for Burner = 5*
No. of Persons = 1-2 People
Boiling Time 1 Litre = 3 mins. 30 secs.
Accessories = Storage Bag.
“Duo” Stoves are equipped with a valve and compatible with all cartridges, including Camping Gaz.
Stability.
Compatible with small and large saucepans.
Pan support mounted so as to provide good protection against the wind. It always stays open, ready to use.
Compatible with gas cartridges with valve type Primus, Optimus, Msr, Jetboil including Campingaz gas cartridges.
The Essential Trail Stove Duo is equipped with a regulating valve allowing fine adjustment of the flame. The pressure flow remains constant whatever the altitude, the outside temperature and the quantity of gas remaining in the cartridge. An easy-to-use stove with excellent value for money.
- Weight = 4**** (112g)
- Construction = 5*
- Power = 5* ( 2,500 W - 8,600 BTU / h )
- Stability = 4*
- Portability = 3*
- Wind Protection for Burner = 5*
- No. of Persons = 1-2 People
- Boiling Time 1 Litre = 3 mins. 30 secs.
Remote Gas Stoves
Stoves with remote gas cartridge. This “spider” type stove system offers many advantages:
- Better stability of the stove: the cartridge is not located under the burner. The center of gravity of the stove + saucepan is then lower.
- More safety: the power is adjusted far from the flame.
- These stoves allow the use of large pots. This system is ideal for groups, families
Some models have an inverted cartridge system optimizing gas mixtures and consequently good performance even at low temperatures.
The 2 pans are made of hard anodized aluminum. The large pot has a ceramic non-stick coating. It is equipped with a heat distributor allowing water to boil about 2 times faster than with a non-optimized cooker.
The small pot is made of hard anodized aluminum and does not have a heat distributor. You can use it as a "normal" pan, as a bowl or to protect the ceramic coating of the PrimeTech pan during transport.
Thanks to the large pan and the windscreen, the efficiency of the stove is optimized. The pot has an integrated heat exchanger which reduces fuel consumption almost in half compared to a conventional stove. The stove has a regulating valve that provides constant power even when the cartridge is low on fuel or cold.
COMPACT SIZE: The two pans, the windshield and the tongs form a compact unit in the storage bag.
- Weight = 4* (727g)
- Construction = 5*
- Power = 5* ( 2000 W - 7000 BTU / H )
- Stability = 5*
- Portability = 4*
- Wind Protection for Burner = 5*
- No. of Perons = 1-3 People
- Boiling Time 1 Litre = 3 mins. 30 secs
- Autonomy = 119 min with a 230 g cartridge
- Accessories included = Fire starter, Saucepan, Wind screen, Storage bag, Stove rack.
Optimized Gas Stoves + Meals
In this section, there are 2 types of stoves:
- or kits including a “traditional” stove + a cooking pot (saucepan + cover).
- or optimized stoves incorporating a cooking pot: this is a system designed to optimize the performance of the burner = increase in the heating speed while reducing gas consumption. These 2-in-1 stoves include an optimized pan (with a heat distributor) and a windshield. This is the most advanced version of camping and hiking stoves.
The burner is efficient: it generates 2600 W, allowing 1 liter of water to boil in 2 min and 40 seconds. Piezoelectric ignition.
It comes with an optimized cooker with a capacity of 1 liter. It is equipped with a heat diffuser optimizing the performance and efficiency of the stove while reducing fuel consumption.
The transparent plastic pan lid (bisphenol A free) also doubles as a strainer. The silicone (red) is non-slip.
The burner + a 100 gram cartridge (not supplied) can be stored in the bowl. Comes with a mesh carrying case.
- Weight = 4* (449g)
- Construction = 5*
- Power = 5* ( 2600 W - 8900 BTU / h )
- Stability = 5*
- Portability = 4*
- Wind Protection for Burner = 5*
- No. of Persons = 1-2 People
- Boiling Time 1 Litre = 2 mins. 40 secs.
- Autonomy = 85 mins. with a 230g cartridge
- Accessories included = Saucepan, Windscreen, Storage bag.
Jetboil Flash
The Jetboil Flash is a 2 in 1 stove which includes a burner and optimized cookware. The 1 litre saucepan fits over the burner and forms a compact and light unit.
The Jetboil Flash stove has a piezoelectric ignition, a tripod attaching to the gas cartridge, which offers the whole a great stability. The lid on the container allows you to isolate and not to spill liquids (with spout – colander). Graduation inside the 1 litre saucepan.
The optimized pan is fitted with the FluxRing heat distributor. The neoprene protection keeps food warm without burning yourself and integrated a heating indicator.
The adjustment valve allows fine adjustment of the flame and the power of the burner.
The Jetboil Flash cup warmer is also optimized, versatile and compact.This cooking system presents a complete set for boiling water and cooking food outdoors AND indoors as long as due care and attention is observed.
- Neoprene protection on the pan
- Heat indicator that changes color
- Patented Flux Ring system
- Piezoelectric ignition
- Tripod for more stability
- All items fit into the mug, including a 100g gas cartridge (not included) required.
- Weight = 5* ( 371g without tripod )
- Construction = 5*
- Power = 4* ( 9,000 BTU / h (2.6 kW)
- Stability = 5* ( The base provides a secure hold for both small and large cartridges on uneven terrain ).
- Portability = 5* ; H 18cm ; D 10.5cm
- Wind Protection for Burner = 5*
- No. of Persons = 1-2
- Capacity - Each fuel canister holds 100g of isobutane-propane, which is enough to boil 10 liters of water
- Boiling Time 1 Litre = 100 secs.
- Accessories included = foldable foot, piezo ignition, cooker, wind protection, heat reflector, pot, pot insulation, heating lamellas, pack sack.
Up to now, the stove products we have reviewed have not in all honesty taken into consideration family requirements for situations where a competent device would be required to at least provide a series of hot meals despite there being no power (gas or electricity). Let’s consider this now. Remember,however, that whatever future stove device you use for power outage events, it must be kept in a location that is easily accessible – at all times.
Ideally, this location would be in very close proximity to the other items stored exclusively for a power outage/blackout scenario.
Firstly, we shall review/compare the following 1-burner gas stove devices :
Coleman Butane Instastart Stove.
Is a small and simple one-burner with a very approachable price tag. At 7,650 BTUs, it’s not a powerhouse, but not everyone needs that. For our friends who dig simple one-pot meals like oatmeal, soup, or macaroni and cheese, there’s no reason to spend a lot more on a complicated setup.
This is a great starter stove for a new or infrequent camper that wants something competent and straightforward without breaking the bank. It’s also perfect if you need an affordable extra burner for your current set-up OR an emergency stove to keep in the shed as an addition to another stove, this is a great model to possess.
PROS
- Lightweight, affordable, simmers well, sturdy, auto-ignition
- Ease of set-up, portability and maintenance
- Price
CONS
- Only one burner, no windscreen, butane doesn’t do well in the cold !
- Wind resistance & Time to Boil
- Power capability – minimal ! According to the manufacturer = 7,650 BTUs
For more details and best offer, CLICK your amazon country website link from the table below :
| USA | CANADA | UK | ITALY |
| amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
GasOne GS-3000 Stove
Sleek, powerful and lightweight, the GS-3000 is the way to go for an emergency back-up as well as outdoor excursion.With a smooth metal body and enamel-coated drip pan, this stove ensures an easy and enjoyable cooking experience. This iconic little stove delivers swift power at a small price even a small BBQ !
It’s due to this Lightweight and versatility, the model is great as a small camp stove or an extra emergency burner.
PROS
- Great simmering, inexpensive, lightweight, auto-ignition
- Ease of set-up, maintenance & portability
- Simmering capability, noteworthy
- Great Value ! You can buy two of these for half the cost of a standard two-burner camping stove.
CONS
- Time to boil i.e (1 quart of water, wind from a box fan) is poor approx. 13 minutes
- Wind Protection for burner is not good. Don’t try using the stove inside its case because by attempting to remove the safety lever you will end up cracking the case !
- Max Power available limited = 9,000 BTU s
For more details and best offer, CLICK your amazon country website link from the table below :
| USA | CANADA | UK | ITALY |
| amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
For the final part of this section as regards reviews and recommendations for emergency cooking devices, we shall now consider what I consider to be the ideal products for families confronted by events/situations in which they cannot utilize their everyday kitchen appliance for cooking meals.
Here we will consider 2 simple and straightforward two-burner stoves that provide everything you need for basic meals whilst being competitively-priced at the same time.
The 2 Gas Stoves in question are ….
- 1. Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner
- 2. GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540
| Product Models | Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner. | GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540. |
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| Uncomplicated yet great ! The most important feature of the Coleman is that after getting tossed in and out of your car over and over again, it has the best chance of not breaking. Cheap and gets the job done. Performs steadily and predictably — an essential trait for any piece of gear, but especially the feature that helps you get coffee and a hot meal. | Made for families and groups who love sharing the outdoors, & emergencies ! The GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540 2-burner stove has two burners with precise, individual controls for simmering or speedy boiling.A sleek and well-functioning stove that is easy to care for, and won't break the bank. | |
| Weight | 9.8 lbs (4.40kg) | 9.8 lbs (4.40kg) |
| Ease of Set-Up |  |
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| Ease of Portability | |
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| Ease of Care / Maintenance. | |
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| Power ( = Total BTU according to Manufacturer) | 20,000 BTU s | 20,000 BTU s |
| Boil Time (1 quart of water, wind from a box fan). | 6.25 minutes | 5.5 minutes |
| Wind Resistance |  |
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| Simmering Ability. | |
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| PROS | Affordable, fuel adaptor threads on easier than other stoves, windscreens are adjustable, compact dimensions. | Efficient, durable, compact, has auto-ignition. |
| CONS. | No auto-ignition, lower BTUs, small burners prone to hot spots. | Cooks hot, ignitor is sometimes finicky i.e.showing or requiring great attention to detail ! |
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| Conclusion. | If you just need something basic and don't want to strain your wallet, this is our favorite option. Overall Rating = B+ | The stove works great, looks good, and comes at a reasonable price. Overall Rating = A |
To read additional details and learn about the best offer for the Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner in your Amazon Country website, CLICK the appropiate link in the table below :
| USA | CANADA | UK | ITALY |
| amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
To read additional details and learn about the best offer for the GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540 in your Amazon Country website, CLICK the appropiate link in the table below :
| USA | CANADA | UK | ITALY |
| amazon.com | amazon.ca | amazon.co.uk | amazon.it |
It would be somewhat unwise and not responsible if we did not re-iterate the importance of due care and attention when using a camping cooking device indoors, especially when the reason for it is due to a power outage or something similar.
The absence of light is already a precarious situation and can very easily lead to accidents.Hence, using these cooking devices in limited light further increases the chances of an accident, be it a fall or igniting something by chance.
As a necessary precaution :
(1) Make sure a recommended fire extinguisher is at hand & (2) a quality carbon monoxide alarm is installed where cooking is done. These prerequisites’ are also ESSENTIAL as regards keeping your habitation warm during the absence of central heating and you are using propane or butane fuel heaters.
In addition, there is no harm whatsoever in practicing with your new device – especially under a “rehearsal” situation. You (and your family will be amazed just how much you can learn OR didn’t know beforehand !!!!!!!!
Just to further emphasize the great importance we attach to prudence when using these devices during a no power situation, we will close this section with a Safety Checklist :
| – Cook on a level surface – Clear the ground you’re cooking on (don’t leave flammable grass or – leaves underneath) – Make sure there’s proper ventilation – cook in a single location i.e. the kitchen – Don’t leave your camp stove unattended while cooking – Canisters of gas can explode when left in direct sunlight – Don’t pack the camping stove while it’s still hot – Be mindful of what animals might smell your cooked food or the food stored in your backpack – When cooking while it’s light out, be aware that the flame is often difficult to see – Be careful when lighting a camping stove, especially when wearing gloves.(Decreased dexterity). – Remove the canister from the stove when it’s not in use – Keep your stove clean to maintain proper & efficient performance – Store camping stoves and gas canisters in a dry place after use. |
MESS KITS
It is a must have equipment if you need to cook and eat a simple meal. These kits are simple, compact, and often relatively affordable.
As a prepper, survivalist,camper or hiker, you may need to travel light.
For this you need a compact and lightweight kitchen utensil. There are several types of mess camping kits available on today’s market.
Later down in this article we discuss a number of mess kits that offer great functionality and convenience.
How to choose the best mess kits?
If you are looking for a camping mess kit but don’t know how to choose the right one, here are some things to consider when shopping for a mess kit. what kind of mess kit you need :
- Assortment: Look at the different utensils and accessories that are part of the kit and look for the right combination.
- Durability: When you go on an outdoor adventure, you need a very durable and tough kit.
- Material: Choose a material that goes well with difficult terrain. Aluminum and stainless steel are generally the most preferred choices.
- Size: Consider the size of utensils based on the number of people.
How do you clean the mess kits?
Usually the mess kits are aluminum or stainless steel. You can rub them lightly with mild soap and a sponge, then rinse them with water.
Having a good mess kit is not a luxury, but a necessity. You can make your excursion trip a more pleasant if you have the right mess kit since it can make the whole process of cooking, eating and washing more convenient. You don’t have to waste your time handling your kitchen utensils. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the extra weight if you have a compact and lightweight kit.
However, bear in mind ……………….
REVIEWS – Group I (Mostly Non-Metallic Options) :
| Name Of Mess Kit | MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit Gear – Camp Accessories Equipment Pots and Pans Set. | UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl, Plate and 3-in-1 Spork Utensil Set. | Camping Mess Kit 4 Person Dinnerware Set with Mesh Bag. |
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| Description | This mess kit from MalloMe is one of the best options, designed with the needs of a young or adult hiker in mind. This is a backpack kit consisting of ten pieces that collapse into small pieces for easy storage. The compact and lightweight design makes it smart survival gear for the adventurous soul. | An ideal mess kit for hiking, camping, and scouting, the four piece plastic mess kit includes a plate, bowl, spoon, and clip. It allows you to pack and carry food on the go without knocking them over. | This colorful and durable camping tableware is designed for four people and includes plates, cups, bowls and sporks in red, orange, blue and green. This fun kit will appeal to young campers. |
| PROS | - Foldable bundle design - Lightweight - Sturdy handles - BPA free - Includes cleaning sponge and nylon travel bag with drawstring | - BPA and phthalate free - Dishwasher and microwave safe - Seal - Handles provide a comfortable grip - Light and compact - Non-slip silicone ring on the base and cover. | - Environmentally friendly and - BPA free - Lightweight - Comes with a mesh bag - Easy to clean and dishwasher safe - Stain and odor resistant. |
| CONS | - Small size pots - Sporks can be inconvenient to use. | - The rubber strap may not be durable - Can be difficult to clean. | - Cups do not fit together - Made of very thin plastic. |
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REVIEWS – Group II (Metallic Options) :
Below is our favourite Mess Kit (Option # i ) :
It has a ton of bonus features, too.
- It has dinnerware including bowls, mugs, and plates.
- The mugs are insulated and the bowls are nestled over the mugs to save some space.
- The pots, too, come with an included pot gripper to make it easier to use in a variety of settings.
One of the most comprehensive kits you can buy, this expansive option is one that is sure to impress your fellow preppers and survivalists.
Dimensions : 9.1 x 9.1 x 5.8 (inches)
Weight : 3.63 lbs
(+ves) : Made out of lightweight anodized aluminum ; Comes with tons of cookware.
(-ve) : Bowls are not insulated.
(Option # ii ):
| Product Mess Kit Model | STANSPORT - Stainless Steel Mess Kit for Camping,Backpacking & Outdoors. | WEALERS Unique Polished Stainless Steel Complete Dinnerware Set. | REDCAMP 9/12/18/23 pcs. Camping Cookware Mess Kit with kettle. | Texsport 5 Piece Stainless Steel Camping Cookware Outdoor Mess Set. |
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| Description | This three-piece stainless steel mess set from Stansport has utensils with copper bottoms that promise even heat distribution. It could become your favorite backpack for all kinds of outdoor adventures. | This camping mess kit has been made of food grade stainless steel and is ideal for one person. Rust and scratch resistant design makes this a durable and premium mess kit. The kit includes a plate, mug, bowl, spoon, fork and knife. | REDCAMP's Compact Backpacking Mess Kit consists of nine camping cookware. It is extremely light and does not take up a lot of space in your backpack. This awesome and well-designed mess kit allows you to cook and eat hassle-free when you go on an adventure. | This is one of the best backpack mess kits you can grab hold of. The set includes two stainless steel saucepans with copper bottom, a plastic cup and a storage bag. The mess kit is designed to make cooking easier. |
| PROS | - Comes with a nylon mesh cover - Compact and practical - Durable and stylish - Can be used on any type of stove - Complete kitchen essential to cook a meal - Folding handles | - Made of 100% food grade stainless steel - Dishwasher - Lightweight and durable - Comes with a mesh bag - Easy to clean and stackable - Different colour options. | - Easy to hang on a backpack - Made of food grade anodized aluminum - Convenient to clean - Light and sturdy - Heats up quickly and cools down quickly - Portable transport box included. | - Interchangeable handles for saucepans - Easy to store and clean - Light and sturdy - All the pieces fit together. |
| CONS | - Size may be small for more than one person - The copper base may not be very reliable. | - The plate looks more like a bowl - The cup may be a bit small. | - Its handles may not be very secure. | - Thin layer of copper - "Rattles" a little. |
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(A Final Option # iii ) :
(+ves) :
- Light and compact
- Elegant and chic
- The small bowl comes with a handle
- Can be used as a storage box when not in use.
(-ves):
- Not very robust
- The paint may peel off.
This completes the section on Food & Water Storage and all the associated sub-sections.
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