Group stoves

[Dave Briggs]

Hi,

 there are 4 of us that canoe camp several times a year and our gear has slowly been evolving over the years. We now use a Coleman propane dual burner which is OK but our trips are getting longer and the propane cylinders take up so much room (and are not recyclable) and it doesn't work so efficiently in the wind. We are planning a 10 /11 day WW trip this December and that is a lot of space used up in fuel. I have whittled it down to 2 stoves. I would be buying 2 stoves the same.

1. MSR Dragonfly, which I like because it can hold larger pots( up to 9") and parts are easy to come by but the biggest complaint is the plastic pump assembly which everyone agrees is the only downfall. The pumps cost $35 to replace.

2. Optimus Nova, which I like because it is solidly built and all metal construction but it seems like the parts aren't as readily available. The online manual advises not to use pots larger than 11" or more than 8lbs.

I could go to most outdoor stores and get a repair kit or pump for the MSR but would have to order online for the Optimus parts....but would I need them as they are less likely to break.??

Anyone use these stoves and can give any feedback or suggestions for alternatives.

I have a Trangia alcohol cookset which is great for soloing or 2 people, and a MSR pocket rocket for ultra lightweight hiking, but none are big enough for a group of 4 and I think white gas is the way to go.

Thanks   Dave

[yakmaster]

What I like about MSR gasoline stoves is, you can't buy isobutane or propane out in the middle...

 

But you can usually get a motorboater to give you a liter or two of go juice. Be sure to get the ones that run on any liquid fuel (white, unleaded, kerosene...), not just white gas. They're a bit more expensive, but the flex is worth the ticket!

 

I'm in the middle of replacing my pump assembly on my whisperlite though...

[vivian]

I've used my Trangia cookset for two with the MSR pocket rocket added as the second stove for group cooking. Best of both worlds and if one breaks (MSR) you have a backup.