"old fashioned," but a trusty, reliable workhorse - Optimus Svea

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!