kyklopes's Full Review: MSR Whisperlite Shaker Jet Backpacking Stove
I've used both the basic Whisperlite and the Shaker Jet for about 10 years. One of the best aspects of the stove is that it is very easy to take apart and clean or repair in the field- this has saved me from having to leave the backcountry on more than one occasion. There is an inexpensive repair kit available from MSR which I highly recommend if you purchase this stove.
It breaks down into several parts (fuel bottle, stove body) which makes it easy to stow in limited space. Because it utilizes fuel directly from the bottle you can customise you fuel supply based on the length of your trip/fuel use expectations (if you are willing to buy several sizes of fuel bottles).
The stove does not simmer very well; if you are planning on cooking gourmet meals, you may need something more complex (and heavier!) The flare-ups when you are learning how to preheat it are pretty impressive; I wouldn't use it under a vestibule until getting the hang of it.
There is also a base (called the Trillium) available to keep the stove from tipping over, which is a problem a times, particularly on snow. I just use an old license plate, though.
It is a wonderful stove; I cannot recommend it highly enough for backcountry use!
MSR WhisperLite 2005 Backpacker Readers' Choice Award Winner The MSR WhisperLite keeps getting better and better. We know one guy who's had his for ov...More at Amazon Marketplace
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