mjdinsmore's Full Review: MSR Whisperlite Shaker Jet Backpacking Stove
This stove is what outdoor backpacking is all about. Its lightweight. Its simple. It works. However, it has its flaws -- just like backpacking has its bugs (mosquitos, flies, etc.). So nothing is perfect!
From my use, the only flaw that is worthy of mentioning is the start-up. Sometimes if you turn on the gas too much, you get a flamethrower shooting high flames everywhere, or fuel leaking onto the ground below and burning. With practice, however, you get a feel for it and it becomes much easier. Sorta like playing the piano! So as a newbie, don't fret and be diligent about always using it and not throwing it away for one of the gas canister stoves. The stove works in cold weather, but the white gas is harder to light. The white gas is easy to find and I would recommend just getting this stove over the International one if you plan to just use it domestically (USA). Being able to burn other fuels might be nice, but are you really going to?
Once its going, its the most simple thing to operate. Turn the knob to get more fuel or pump the canister a couple of times. As long as you find a stable place to put it, tipping over shouldn't be an issue. You can also get a Trillium base for it which can help.
If you want to pack light, this is the stove, It does well with fuel and can last quite a while. In colder weather its a little harder to start, but still possible. I've had my stove for years and it still works as good as new -- I can just get it gonig much better now! :-)
The trusted leader in backpacking stoves for over 15 years, the MSR WhisperLite Stove sets a tough standard with its simple design. Simple means easy ...More at Amazon Marketplace
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