by
OwnedByTwoCats,
Verified Owner
from VA, United States
Written on September 11, 2025
I don't do long distance backpacking anymore, and growing up in the 60's and 70's wasn't used to ultra-lightweight anyway, so an ounce here and there doesn't bother me. Usually short 5-10 mile jaunts when we'll find a nice place to sit and have something to eat, rest a few minutes and head back. Along with driving along parkways and finding nice places to pull over and enjoy the scenery. This little stove rocks. Yes, it's noisy, but it's simple and reliable and when you're just not in a rush, a few extra minutes to heat something up just doesn't make any difference. "Stop and smell the roses." I've seen a lot of people trash the newer 123R stoves because of where they're made. Most people say "China," but technically Taiwan. And if you don't think the Taiwanese make good stuff - probably 99.9% of people reading this are using a computer with chips made in - Taiwan. While yes, I really wish it was still made in Sweden, it probably would cost double what it does now (GREAT, AWESOME deal here at Optics Planet, BTW). I feel that mine is good and solid and have no regrets. It's simple, runs on widely available fuel that's easy to carry and causes far less waste than gas cans, lights easily, adjusts reasonably (flame temp) and is, well, just unique. So if your uses and needs are like mine - relatively temperate weather, casual walks and drives, taking your time, you should love it!
Pros:
- Solid as a rock
- A classic
- Cost effective fuel
- Brass is beautiful!
- Few moving parts to break
- Easy to work on yourself if it ever needs it
- Things aren't sold for decades when they don't work!
Cons:
- Heavier than newer stoves, if that's your thing
- Slower than gas stoves
- Thermal output lower than newer products
- The aluminum cup doesn't really do much
Best Used for:
- Car camping
- Day hiking
- One or two people
Would recommend: Yes
0 of 0 found the following review helpful.
Was it helpful to you?
Yes
|
No
You said this review was not helpful.
Would you like to change your vote?
by
ARI,
from MI, United States
Written on September 28, 2022
I own 2 of these from many years ago they each will fit into s svea pot holder wind screen system.Blow torch heat. I SORT OF LOVE THE OLD THINGS,BUT THERE ARE BETTER MORE CONTROLLABLE LIQUID AND OR BOTTLED GAS STOVES OUT THERE NOW.I particularly like the MSR line especially the multi fuel models if you go to places where white gas is not available,if you do not not mind the cos and bother of lugging cans out the canned gas stoves are easy to use no primingand some are good even at lower settings.
Cons:
- no controlable low setting
Best Used for:
- boling h2o for freeze dried food or hot liquids.
Would recommend: No
21 of 23 found the following review helpful.
Was it helpful to you?
Yes
|
No
You said this review was not helpful.
Would you like to change your vote?