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Outdoor Section => The Outdoor and Survival Forum => Topic started by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 07:22:09 PM

Title: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 07:22:09 PM
I want to throw a small, cheap cooker in to my car emergency kit and wanted to see what you lot thought of that idea. All it will be for is to boil a couple of cups of water for tea and heat up some beans or similar.  :)

So far, I have considered a hexamine folding one and the Swiss gel ones with a lid. Are either of these worth getting and do you have other ideas along the same lines?

Also, I'm assuming a steel or enamel mug would be suitable for doing the boiling in?

Cheers in advance for your thoughts  :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Benner on January 07, 2010, 07:35:57 PM
What kinda money you looking at?
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on January 07, 2010, 07:37:45 PM
Make your own alcohol burner.  Works great. (http://www.csun.edu/~mjurey/penny.html)

Mine has traveled all over the country, and has functioned well in ALL situations I've used it in.

I use 200 proof Ethanol (since it can be transported on airplanes--it is consumable afterall...).

Easy to make, but you might have to alter which coin you use...
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 07:38:32 PM
I have a Trangia set that is absolutely brilliant, but cheap, it ain't!

The hexamines are great, and probably ideal for what you describe.

They work, have little to go wrong and are cheap. I think the local surplus place sells the fuel blocks for 2 quid!

For boiling water, you might be best to pick up a cheap saucepan or billy can. Anything you put on the hex or Trangia is likely to get sooted up, and of course very hot, so being able to pour the water into a mug for drinking might be better. You can get a little trangia-style kettle for under a tenner which is ideal. And of course more civilised :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 07:41:23 PM
Maybe a fiver or so Ben, which is why I thought those two were good options. I'm leaning towards a hexi one ATM.

I thought about making one of those Mr.W, but didn't want to carry flammable liquid in the car (any more than's in the tank already of course!).

A small billy can also sounds like a good plan... hmm.... more shopping now :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 07:43:10 PM
Here you go. It's got a whistle too :D

http://www.surfdome.com/gelert_kettle_-_gelert_aluminium_whistling_kettle_-_green-14151
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on January 07, 2010, 07:48:10 PM
Maybe a fiver or so Ben, which is why I thought those two were good options. I'm leaning towards a hexi one ATM.

I thought about making one of those Mr.W, but didn't want to carry flammable liquid in the car (any more than's in the tank already of course!).

A small billy can also sounds like a good plan... hmm.... more shopping now :D

Wot are you gonna use for fuel then?  :think:  Gas fuels can be much more dangerous in a hot car...

There is one other choice... (http://www.zzstove.com/sierra.html)

If you could pick up a ZZstove on ebay, they work very well (I used one of these before switching to the beercan stove)

Other than that, I really like the classic Svea stoves (http://www.campsaver.com/Itemdesc.asp?ic=opt0004)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: sardauker on January 07, 2010, 07:53:42 PM
Make your own alcohol burner.  Works great. (http://www.csun.edu/~mjurey/penny.html)

Mine has traveled all over the country, and has functioned well in ALL situations I've used it in.

I use 200 proof Ethanol (since it can be transported on airplanes--it is consumable afterall...).

Easy to make, but you might have to alter which coin you use...

+1 with the alcool stove :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 07:55:53 PM
Wot are you gonna use for fuel then?  :think:  

http://www.springfields.co.uk/camping/cooking-and-eating/cookers-stoves-accessories/?id=328

Solid fuel :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Woz on January 07, 2010, 08:23:59 PM
The Swiss Army Cooker 71 is great for the money. Basically it is nothing but a can of gel with a ring that is used to put the pot on. Cheap, simple, reliable. But: Slow!

Cheap to, but still good working: German army ESBiT cookers. Esbit (Erich Schumms Brennstoff in Tablettenform, Erich Schumms combustible tablets) is very easy to store and use, it is safe and reliable. But even slower then the Swiss gel cooker. There is a large and a small foldable ESBiT cooker, cheaper than dirt! The German and French army (sometimes the Austrian too) use it to heat the MRE.

Sweden has a very cheap version of the great Trangia system. Again, it is an Army version. Maybe the best army cooker out there. See here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpzHLic1A0Y

ESBiT (see above) offers a Trangia-Style cooker but improved it by adding a better ventilation system and reducing the price. See here: (german, sorry)
http://www.odoo.tv/Esbit-Spirituskochset.442.0.html (http://www.odoo.tv/Esbit-Spirituskochset.442.0.html)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on January 07, 2010, 09:04:16 PM
I'd go down the alcohol/meths route too :)

A bit over your budget, but I've used one for years and it's superb :tu:

http://www.surplusandadventure.com/shop/camping-outdoor/cooking-eating/cooking/trangia-stove-mess-kit-330662.html

The Stove has NEVER leaked! not one drop, so no worries keeping it in the car :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Magnus on January 07, 2010, 10:07:29 PM
I would go with a hexi one too, simple, easy, and compact too.

I have a Trangia set that is absolutely brilliant, but cheap, it ain't!

The hexamines are great, and probably ideal for what you describe.

They work, have little to go wrong and are cheap. I think the local surplus place sells the fuel blocks for 2 quid!

For boiling water, you might be best to pick up a cheap saucepan or billy can. Anything you put on the hex or Trangia is likely to get sooted up, and of course very hot, so being able to pour the water into a mug for drinking might be better. You can get a little trangia-style kettle for under a tenner which is ideal. And of course more civilised :D

What! No tactical teapot too! bloody philistines!  ;) :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 10:09:26 PM
I don't drink tea.  :-\
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Benner on January 07, 2010, 10:15:48 PM
I don't drink tea.  :-\

Coffee though right?!  :pok:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 10:18:19 PM
Oh yes. A lot!

My Trangia setup is essentially the civvy version of what is in Mike's link, and has the non stick pans. It's excellent, especially when assisted by a multitool for turning your bacon :D

The kettle is simply convenient!
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on January 07, 2010, 10:50:16 PM
Are those solid fuel stoves effective?  Hard to believe they are all that efficient in heating  ???

Never actually seen one though...
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 10:52:11 PM
LOL... yes, tactical beverage making is definitely what you need in times of crisis.


Mr.W, they seem to be very good for the size and money. The fuel tabs are cheap and easy to replace too, hence being army issue for a looooong time here.

Thanks for all the opinions thus far chaps, lots of food for thought :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 10:54:34 PM
They're not bad.

They are British squadie issue I think, so are abundant in outdoor / surplus stores and cost a few dollars a go.

They aren't as good as the trangia / liquid fuel setups obviously, but they work just fine, are generally easy to transport and cheap. Probably just about ideal for car-boot emergency option tbh.


EDIT: Nuphoria beat me to it!
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 11:24:59 PM
They're not bad.

They are British squadie issue I think, so are abundant in outdoor / surplus stores and cost a few dollars a go.

They aren't as good as the trangia / liquid fuel setups obviously, but they work just fine, are generally easy to transport and cheap. Probably just about ideal for car-boot emergency option tbh.


EDIT: Nuphoria beat me to it!



:)


That's the thing, I'm unlikey to actually need it but it should stand up to the small tasks it's needed for in an emergency situation - spending the night in the car for instance.

I do quite fancy a trianga set up but I'm just reluctant to leave anything worth more than a few quid in the car.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 07, 2010, 11:26:24 PM
If it helps, I have the Trangia set, and yet I have a hexamine and replacement fuel block in my car :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 07, 2010, 11:45:34 PM
If it helps, I have the Trangia set, and yet I have a hexamine and replacement fuel block in my car :)

That makes perfect sense, thank you :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 12:11:54 AM
For your stated purposes I would go for the solid tablet stove. While they are slow (10-12 minutes for a pint of water) and may not always bring water to a boil on a single tablet...they are adequate for making hot drinks and heating a can of food.

I've actually been doing a lot of boil tests over the last month with various setups and different fuels...gel, tablet and alcohol...recording boil times. It's a project to fine tune the various cup stoves and brewkits I have.

I would suggest using a pot with a wider base (a small kettle is ideal) and using some sort of windscreen for best results. A strip of foil from a disposable Turkey pan will work, you want to surround the pot with about a 1/2" gap around the sides.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 12:33:46 AM
Some good stuff there as always Spork!

I took some snaps of a Hexamine (with a UKPK for scale :D)

Cooker with box of tablets inside, plus two spare boxes of tablets (in case you're there a while  :P)

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/Hexamine/Hexamine010.jpg)

Cooker Wrapper:

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/Hexamine/Hexamine008.jpg)

Instructions on fuel tablet box:

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/Hexamine/Hexamine006.jpg)

The cooker - folded:

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/Hexamine/Hexamine002.jpg)

The cooker and contained fuel tablet box, ready to go  :)

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/Hexamine/Hexamine001.jpg)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 12:51:53 AM
Is the MOD cooker larger than an Esbit? I have one from years ago that I'm certain was made in the the UK. It's stamped "Pyrochem"
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 08, 2010, 12:53:45 AM
Oh yes. A lot!

My Trangia setup is essentially the civvy version of what is in Mike's link, and has the non stick pans. It's excellent, especially when assisted by a multitool for turning your bacon :D

The kettle is simply convenient!

Something like this you mean? :D

(http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss260/gareth_SAKs/DSCF1536.jpg)


I probably wouldn't bother buying a Trangia just for keeping in the car (although the one in Mikes link seems a great deal), but if there is even the slightest chance you'll want to use the cooker outside of emergency situations then I'd heartily recommend them.

It's been years since I tried using a hexi-stove but I don't remember liking it much. :-\  IIRC it was very susceptible  to any kind of light breeze, and even in good conditions took a long time to heat anything up.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 12:57:00 AM
A Leatherman for bacon tongs ??? >:(  Don't you have a Spirit?... :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 12:57:28 AM
Haha - that's it Gareth :D

Is the MOD cooker larger than an Esbit? I have one from years ago that I'm certain was made in the the UK. It's stamped "Pyrochem"

Well, I can tell you that the Hex I have here is 12mm x 95mm x 30mm in the folded position if that helps :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 01:01:46 AM
Haha - that's it Gareth :D

Is the MOD cooker larger than an Esbit? I have one from years ago that I'm certain was made in the the UK. It's stamped "Pyrochem"

Well, I can tell you that the Hex I have here is 12mm x 95mm x 30mm in the folded position if that helps :tu:

Did you mean 120 mm? Mine is 110mm x 95mm x 25 mm
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 01:10:25 AM
Haha - that's it Gareth :D

Is the MOD cooker larger than an Esbit? I have one from years ago that I'm certain was made in the the UK. It's stamped "Pyrochem"

Well, I can tell you that the Hex I have here is 12mm x 95mm x 30mm in the folded position if that helps :tu:

Did you mean 120 mm? Mine is 110mm x 95mm x 25 mm

Indeed I did - 120mm!
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 01:32:55 AM
I just ordered a Trangia 27-7 Hard anodized with Primus burner...didn't need it but I've been wanting one for a long time  :P

...besides I already had the teakettle for it...

...I wonder it it comes with bacon?...
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 08, 2010, 01:38:55 AM
I've just got the bog basic 27-2 UL.  Still, it kept me in hot food and drink last weekend. :tu:

(http://www.trangia.se/core/images/49/9760.140272.jpg)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 01:59:01 AM
I would have gone with a lower version but all I could find were the ones with non-stick frypans.

I'm hoping I will be able to use my cast iron skillets with this setup. I have a little 6-1/2" skillet that I'm hoping will fit the supports.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 02:04:58 AM
I just ordered a Trangia 27-7 Hard anodized with Primus burner...didn't need it but I've been wanting one for a long time  :P

...besides I already had the teakettle for it...

...I wonder it it comes with bacon?...

That's the set I have. I'd definitely recommend it :tu:

When you say Primus burner, is that the gas system that you can connect to it? I only have the Trangia meths burner with mine - which works great.

Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 02:17:24 AM
I just ordered a Trangia 27-7 Hard anodized with Primus burner...didn't need it but I've been wanting one for a long time  :P

...besides I already had the teakettle for it...

...I wonder it it comes with bacon?...

That's the set I have. I'd definitely recommend it :tu:

When you say Primus burner, is that the gas system that you can connect to it? I only have the Trangia meths burner with mine - which works great.



Yes, the cartridge burner adapter. I figured I might as well go whole hog on it.

Have I ever shown my cheesy home-cobbled version for the Swedish mess kit? It works, but it is a low quality noisy burner without a generator tube.

Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 08, 2010, 09:36:22 AM
That's a great looking set-up Dave. :tu:

I don't have the gas adaptor for the Trangia but my Dad and a couple of friends of mine all highly recommend them, they can't believe I'm happy with the old meths burner.  I'll need to borrow one and find out what all the fuss is about.



Bringing this slightly back on topic.  I was thinking that a very simple Coleman gas type stove might be just the thing to keep in the car.  Simple and easy to use, it'll also boil up some water in no time at all.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Neil on January 08, 2010, 10:59:06 AM
I have a cheapo solid fuel job the same as Mr K pictured.  Cost a pound at a carboot sale with fuel :tu:  I don't know if there are pics anywhere but I used it at the meet last year.  It handled bean heating just fine :D

For non-emergency use I have a one ring portable gas stove (packs up briefcase size).
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: sardauker on January 08, 2010, 11:24:48 AM
BTW I've bought and never used after a first try a Trangia set.

The canstove is cheaper, lighter, and more efficient.

I use what in USA is called, I think, rubbing alchool, and here is sold as "alcool etilico denaturato": ethilic with non-toxic colorants and untasty flavours.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 05:46:43 PM
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) is not a suitable fuel because it is cut with water. Denatured alcohol (ethanol) is widely available here, which is probably the same as your "alcool etilico denaturato". Methanol is also available here in a product called "Heet", which is a gas tank antifreeze additive.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 06:16:33 PM
Here's my version of the canbottle (aka Whitebox) stove.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on January 08, 2010, 06:19:15 PM
That's damned impressive work Dave :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Hedge Kid on January 08, 2010, 07:17:39 PM
Bringing this slightly back on topic.  I was thinking that a very simple Coleman gas type stove might be just the thing to keep in the car.  Simple and easy to use, it'll also boil up some water in no time at all.

You may find that the gas freezes in this weather though. Defrosting gas bottles isn't fun  :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 07:22:39 PM

I don't have the gas adaptor for the Trangia but my Dad and a couple of friends of mine all highly recommend them, they can't believe I'm happy with the old meths burner.  I'll need to borrow one and find out what all the fuss is about.


Unusually for me, I'm in the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" camp. I've got one of those 2 burners + a grill Camping Gaz things for when the need arises. My Trangia is about portability really - i.e. fit the lot in my backpack, and the meths burner is perfectly food enough for that.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: sardauker on January 08, 2010, 08:09:54 PM
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) is not a suitable fuel because it is cut with water. Denatured alcohol (ethanol) is widely available here, which is probably the same as your "alcool etilico denaturato". Methanol is also available here in a product called "Heet", which is a gas tank antifreeze additive.

My fault :/

Ok, denatured -I didn't dare to translate it :/- thank you :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 08, 2010, 08:19:13 PM
Bringing this slightly back on topic.  I was thinking that a very simple Coleman gas type stove might be just the thing to keep in the car.  Simple and easy to use, it'll also boil up some water in no time at all.

You may find that the gas freezes in this weather though. Defrosting gas bottles isn't fun  :)

That's a good thought, I just looked up the Safety Data Sheet for Coleman's 70% Butane/30% Propane and it lists the boiling point as being -25C.  Not very likely to drop below that with our weather, although you never know :-\ . Simple butane will boil at a mere -5C so that really could cause issues ATM.

 The same data sheet also recommends the canisters not being stored in a car though, due to the risk of overheating to over 50C.

http://www.coleman.com/coleman/msds/gaz.pdf
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 09:56:08 PM
Here's a question for you overseas GAZ stove owners...

I know that Camping GAZ is now owned by Coleman...I haven't seen a new stove for sale in years. Also finding CV270 and CV470 cartridges is hit and miss around here......what is the supply situation for you guys?

I keep an old GAZ stove and lantern in my earthquake kit and have been hoarding cartridges  :P
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 10:20:35 PM
They're still pretty easy to come bu over here.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 08, 2010, 10:51:36 PM
They're still pretty easy to come bu over here.


:tu: On the bright side...it gives me an excuse to buy an new cartridge stove :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on January 08, 2010, 10:52:16 PM
Every cloud.....!
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 08, 2010, 11:29:05 PM
Oh boy, lots of even sexier options now!  :ahhh

I think I do want to get a little trangia set up at some point but really don't have a use for one at the moment. I still think the cheap hexi one is about right for the car. I shall just have to fashion a foil windbreak for it or something.

Love the home made kit Spork - great job  :tu:

We also have a couple of those single ring gas ones in a case, kept for a spare in the camper van (which has a gas cooker in it) and for making tea at the allotment :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Neil on January 09, 2010, 01:45:40 PM
A very dull but probably quite practical solution for emergency overnight use...

(http://www.thermos.co.uk/images/product_images/full/186291.jpg)

Just a thought :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 09, 2010, 01:50:21 PM
A very dull but probably quite practical solution for emergency overnight use...

(http://www.thermos.co.uk/images/product_images/full/186291.jpg)

Just a thought :)

Stop being so dull and practical!  :twak: ;)

OK, it's a fine idea.  My only reservation about it is that I'd never remember to fill it up in the first place.  Or, if I did, then I'd never remember to change it and would just end up carrying around a flask of cold coffee. :-\
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Neil on January 09, 2010, 01:58:33 PM
Sorry :)

I was thinking just fill it with hot water and it can be used for making up tea, coffee, soup or <shudders> pot noodles.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Benner on January 09, 2010, 07:59:27 PM
Mmmm, Pot noodle  :drool:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 09, 2010, 08:23:12 PM
LOL... my pot noodle days are over due to having a wheat allergy (sadly).

A flask would never fly as it takes to much regular organisation.. this kit of mine needs to be a bit more idiot proof :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 10, 2010, 04:28:39 PM
Arrgh, see with you've done to me Chrissy?  I've ended up putting my old Trangia knock-off in the boot of the car, along with some coffee and a can of macaroni cheese.


I'm so easily lead. :-[
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 10, 2010, 06:10:35 PM
Arrgh, see with you've done to me Chrissy?  I've ended up putting my old Trangia knock-off in the boot of the car, along with some coffee and a can of macaroni cheese.


I'm so easily lead. :-[

Make sure you have a blanket too ;)

Ooh, and maybe some water and tea bags and.... he he he   >:D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on January 10, 2010, 07:14:46 PM
Mac n' Cheese  :drool:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 10, 2010, 07:30:22 PM
Arrgh, see with you've done to me Chrissy?  I've ended up putting my old Trangia knock-off in the boot of the car, along with some coffee and a can of macaroni cheese.


I'm so easily lead. :-[

Make sure you have a blanket too ;)

Ooh, and maybe some water and tea bags and.... he he he   >:D

Tea bags and blanket already sorted. :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on January 10, 2010, 07:32:11 PM
Very good.... now the snow will melt of course!

Still sensible stuff to have in the car I reckon :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on January 10, 2010, 07:34:24 PM
Very good.... now the snow will melt of course!

Still sensible stuff to have in the car I reckon :)

Funny you should say that, but we had a bit of a thaw this afternoon. ::)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on February 08, 2010, 03:20:09 PM
Make your own alcohol burner.  Works great. (http://www.csun.edu/~mjurey/penny.html)

Mine has traveled all over the country, and has functioned well in ALL situations I've used it in.

I use 200 proof Ethanol (since it can be transported on airplanes--it is consumable afterall...).

Easy to make, but you might have to alter which coin you use...

I have had a go at making one of these thanks for the link! I used Meths (methylated spirits)
I now have one new cut and some hair missing from my arm
Just to remind you beer cans when cut are sharp!!! (I knew this an still cut myself) ::)
also you can't always see the flames  :ahhh

I will make another one as soon as I have more cans, I need to play with the hole sizes and the seal around the edge
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Neil on February 08, 2010, 03:28:09 PM
Its a good start chap :tu:  Sorry to hear of the wounds but its all in the name of progress ;)

Now you have a good excuse to go buy beer :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on February 08, 2010, 03:32:30 PM
Humm, perhaps getting drunk and then playing with sharp and burny things wasn't the best plan. ;)

Seriously though, it's a nice job for a first time and it's very satisfying isn't it.  :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on February 08, 2010, 05:08:09 PM
Nice stove!  I'm going to try denatured alcohol I think...
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on February 08, 2010, 05:30:43 PM
I'm a bit miffed that the dustmen took all the emptys this morning
And I had forgotten hair smells bad when it burns!  :rofl:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 08, 2010, 06:27:59 PM
God effort that mate :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on February 09, 2010, 01:08:05 AM
I'm still waiting for a photo of what Nuph put together for her brew-kit  :pok:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Hedge Kid on February 09, 2010, 04:51:27 PM

I have had a go at making one of these thanks for the link! I used Meths (methylated spirits)
I now have one new cut and some hair missing from my arm
Just to remind you beer cans when cut are sharp!!! (I knew this an still cut myself) ::)
also you can't always see the flames  :ahhh

I will make another one as soon as I have more cans, I need to play with the hole sizes and the seal around the edge

Isn't it lovely to have such a practical demonstration of why someone has a certain avatar  :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on February 09, 2010, 05:30:52 PM

 :oops:
I hadn't thought of that   :rofl:  :rofl: :rofl:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike 56 on February 09, 2010, 10:50:21 PM
Here is the mother lode of home made backing stoves http://wings.interfree.it/html/main.html. They are a lot of fun to make.

Mike
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on February 09, 2010, 11:06:12 PM

Thanks for the link Mike!  :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 09, 2010, 11:12:10 PM
Here is the mother lode of home made backing stoves http://wings.interfree.it/html/main.html. They are a lot of fun to make.

Mike
Saved to favourites :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on February 10, 2010, 12:47:14 AM
You may as well bookmark Zenstoves (http://zenstoves.net/) and SGT Rock's Hiking HQ (http://hikinghq.net/) too... :pok:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on February 10, 2010, 01:33:53 AM
Done  :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 10, 2010, 07:07:54 AM
You may as well bookmark Zenstoves (http://zenstoves.net/) and SGT Rock's Hiking HQ (http://hikinghq.net/) too... :pok:
Yes master :salute: :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on February 10, 2010, 03:56:50 PM
Here's another interesting one - Firebucket Stove System (http://jwbasecamp.com/)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Blackout on February 12, 2010, 05:54:02 AM
Well after reading this thread, I felt the need for a Swedish mess kit.So began
the hunt,to my surprise, they are hard to find in the states.After looking through
many dead links,I finally found a place that still had some,although they were expensive.

So it finally came in and to my surprise it is the Stainless version,guess that is the reason
it cost so much.Anyway thanks for bringing these very nifty mess kits to my attention. :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 12, 2010, 07:37:51 AM
I'm after a steel one too, as all you can usually get is the aluminum ones :(

Cool avatar btw :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Blackout on February 12, 2010, 04:47:41 PM
I got mine here (http://www.deutscheoptik.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=1282).

About the avatar,I just started playing last week.Looks like I will be spending
alot of money on this new hobby. :cheers:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 12, 2010, 05:13:57 PM
I got mine here (http://www.deutscheoptik.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=1282).

About the avatar,I just started playing last week.Looks like I will be spending
alot of money on this new hobby. :cheers:
Just bear in mind that they call it 'plastic crack' for a reason :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on February 14, 2010, 05:27:11 AM
 :rofl: plastic crack.... oh so true!


Well I ended up getting a cheap hexamine stove and a small 2 pans with lid set to do the boiling/heating. This is plenty good enough for my emergency car stuff I think :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: bdl931 on February 14, 2010, 01:56:59 PM
2 words:
Jet Boil
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 14, 2010, 02:04:03 PM
2 words:
Jet Boil
Ben's got one of those, and there really quite impressive :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Benner on February 14, 2010, 02:53:23 PM
Sure is.  :)

Reliable, bloody quick, easy to use and highly compact.  Can't go wrong.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on February 14, 2010, 08:44:31 PM
Pretty fancy kit for making Pot Noodle... (http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs11/i/2006/236/5/7/_DSlite__by_DxButterfly.gif) :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Benner on February 14, 2010, 08:45:39 PM
Pretty fancy kit for making Pot Noodle... (http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs11/i/2006/236/5/7/_DSlite__by_DxButterfly.gif)

You need fancy gear for fancy food...
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on February 14, 2010, 08:52:12 PM
Pretty fancy kit for making Pot Noodle... (http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs11/i/2006/236/5/7/_DSlite__by_DxButterfly.gif)

You need fancy gear for fancy food...
(http://fc07.deviantart.net/images/i/2002/37/6/7/Mon_dieu.gif)  :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on February 15, 2010, 12:01:54 AM
Jet boil set ups are awesome.  For extreme backcountry/mountain adventures, most of the guys I know bring a jetboil. 
Fast, reliable and easy.  My alcohol set up is fun and pretty quick, but in a situation where I GOTTA be sure the water boils with NO issues, it doesn't compare to a JetBoil.  Doesn't compare price wise either.... :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Neil on February 15, 2010, 02:18:30 PM
Don't know if this is of any interest to the Brits on the forum...

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270531463647

No association with the seller etc. etc.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on February 15, 2010, 03:40:11 PM
Don't know if this is of any interest to the Brits on the forum...

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270531463647

No association with the seller etc. etc.
I've got one, and there a really great bit of kit :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on February 15, 2010, 05:18:55 PM
Agreed. I always consider my Trangia setup the "civvie" equivalent of the above.

Great piece of kit.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:08:58 PM
One of these arrived today  :mail:

seems to throw out some heat
I now need to make a pot stand thingy  :think:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 07:19:34 PM
I love those little burners - I'll be using one this weekend :)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:30:07 PM
Is yours the same as mine Dave?

Did yours come with instructions?

I just had a play and it seemed to work ok,
Instructions could read (for example);
A - OK to use indoors on a computer table  :tu:
B - You need bloody thick gloves to move it while its going  :-[
etc etc
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 07:41:37 PM
Lol.

Mine is part of a Trangia set, in which I'll be making bacon sarnies on Sunday morning :D

There's nothing in the instructions about using on computer desks though - so you should be fine :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:44:51 PM
Is yours a meths burner?
Does it say how much to put in?  :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: ryan1835 on May 20, 2010, 07:45:59 PM
not as much as you did i suspect :P
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:47:42 PM
Don't make me laugh Ryan! there will be meths and zippos all over the place!  :ahhh
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 07:51:02 PM
I always fill it up to the top :)

I think......
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: ryan1835 on May 20, 2010, 07:52:30 PM
I always fill it till it overflows  :D

I think......

;)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on May 20, 2010, 07:52:44 PM
Is yours a meths burner?
Does it say how much to put in?  :salute:
if you slide back the centre on the cover you can use it to block off the ring of holes on the edge, but still leave the middle open to use.   It gives you a slightly more controlled burn.  Do be warned that it'll then be very hot so taking it off again can be a bit hazardous. ;)

I always fill it up to the top :)

I think......

Yup, so do I.  It'll make no difference to how big the flame is.
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:53:53 PM
I will bring it on Sat and you can give me a lesson  :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Spork, Lord of Lime Jello! on May 20, 2010, 07:55:57 PM
3/4 full is the maximum capacity  :P

You can use a small coffee can to make a windscreen/stand that is much like the mini-Trangia - Zenstoves (http://zenstoves.net/PotStands.htm#Cans)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 20, 2010, 07:57:19 PM
 brolly/wellies/waterproofs AND  flameproof overalls!

off to the garage BRB  :tu:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 08:01:02 PM
Is yours a meths burner?
Does it say how much to put in?  :salute:
if you slide back the centre on the cover you can use it to block off the ring of holes on the edge, but still leave the middle open to use.   It gives you a slightly more controlled burn.  Do be warned that it'll then be very hot so taking it off again can be a bit hazardous. ;)

Thank heavens for multitools with pliers 'eh? :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on May 20, 2010, 08:02:25 PM
Is yours a meths burner?
Does it say how much to put in?  :salute:
if you slide back the centre on the cover you can use it to block off the ring of holes on the edge, but still leave the middle open to use.   It gives you a slightly more controlled burn.  Do be warned that it'll then be very hot so taking it off again can be a bit hazardous. ;)

Thank heavens for multitools with pliers 'eh? :D
I thought they were just for turning the bacon Dave. :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 08:03:25 PM
That's why they're called multitools Gareth ;)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on May 20, 2010, 08:30:49 PM
That's why they're called multitools Gareth ;)

Ahh! Now I get it. :doh:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: DaveK on May 20, 2010, 08:32:38 PM
:D

The Trangia and kettle have been inspected and washed ready for the weekend - check :tu:

Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on May 20, 2010, 08:34:13 PM
:D

The Trangia and kettle have been inspected and washed ready for the weekend - check :tu:



Good idea, I'll be back in a minute. :-[
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 20, 2010, 10:31:24 PM
One of these arrived today  :mail:

seems to throw out some heat
I now need to make a pot stand thingy  :think:

Where did you get that little burner from?  :cheers:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 11:10:08 AM


Here John,
¾ of the way down the page
I will be bringing mine tomorrow  :tu:


http://www.lakelandbushcraft.co.uk/cgi-bin/sh000001.pl?REFPAGE=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2elakelandbushcraft%2eco%2euk%2facatalog%2fEmergency_Survival%2ehtml&WD=meths&PN=Stoves%2ehtml%23a1_21HL006#a1_21HL006
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: nuphoria on May 21, 2010, 12:40:18 PM
Don't forget chaps, we are knocking up a veggie stew for Saturday night :)
Please bring your own bowl and fighting irons though.


We also have a dog called Ruby. Just let us know if happen to be terrified of them or anything! She is a lovely, well trained, friendly girl who would rather sit on your lap for a cuddle or retrieve a toy for you than anything else. She a 2 yr old staffy cross who we rescued as a puppy and has been an absolute joy. She does beg sometimes and usually gives up straight away if you tell her to bugger off - we won't be offended when you do either! (She has been on campsites before and learnt the ways of cooking outdoors :))

Anyway, she will enjoy meeting you as she has a better social life than us at the moment  ::)

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4626641894_26a23d47a8_o.jpg)

Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on May 21, 2010, 04:18:06 PM
Nice clean teeth!

No blood stains or anything... :ahhh


 ;) (She's adorable, btw...)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 05:27:58 PM


Here John,
¾ of the way down the page
I will be bringing mine tomorrow  :tu:


http://www.lakelandbushcraft.co.uk/cgi-bin/sh000001.pl?REFPAGE=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2elakelandbushcraft%2eco%2euk%2facatalog%2fEmergency_Survival%2ehtml&WD=meths&PN=Stoves%2ehtml%23a1_21HL006#a1_21HL006

Thanks mate when I can afford one I'm going for the SS one  ;)  :cheers:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 05:41:50 PM
Mine is Gold !  :dd:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 05:46:19 PM
Mine is Gold !  :dd:
:o
GOLD?

Look at you  :P  :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 05:48:50 PM
Anyone got about 30ml of antifreeze? for experiment  :D :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on May 21, 2010, 05:49:34 PM
Anyone got about 30ml of antifreeze? for experiment  :D :salute:

Why yes!  I do!

 ;)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 05:50:04 PM
me too..... why? :think:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 05:51:21 PM
Anyone got about 30ml of antifreeze? for experiment  :D :salute:

Why yes!  I do!

 ;)

Can you bring it Saturday?  :pok:  :D
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 05:53:23 PM
Let me go and have a look, brb
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Mr. Whippy on May 21, 2010, 05:53:53 PM
Anyone got about 30ml of antifreeze? for experiment  :D :salute:

Why yes!  I do!

 ;)

Can you bring it Saturday?  :pok:  :D

Would love to,  :-\

Unfortunately not this go around.  Perhaps the next... (Fall meetup?  :D)
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 05:54:50 PM
me too..... why? :think:

I'll show you tomorrow as I can't tell you unless I kill you after,and that would be pretty hard given how slow my connection speed is  :rofl:  
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 05:56:04 PM
Sorted, Halfords finest,  :salute:

Is it for a Polish drinking game?  :think:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 21, 2010, 05:57:49 PM
Will your beautiful assistant get hurt/burnt or damaged in any way?  :pok:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 06:13:55 PM
Sorted, Halfords finest,  :salute:



Cool  ;) cheers mate  :salute:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: ryan1835 on May 21, 2010, 06:51:24 PM
someone needs to record said experiment  :pok:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Gareth on May 21, 2010, 07:02:56 PM
someone needs to record said experiment  :pok:
Can I do it from a safe distance?
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: John on May 21, 2010, 07:09:45 PM
someone needs to record said experiment  :pok:
Can I do it from a safe distance?

Of course  ;)

a 1000 meters should be just fine  :rofl:
Title: Re: Advice needed on portable cookers please
Post by: Sparky415 on May 24, 2010, 09:51:31 PM


Here John,
¾ of the way down the page
I will be bringing mine tomorrow  :tu:


http://www.lakelandbushcraft.co.uk/cgi-bin/sh000001.pl?REFPAGE=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2elakelandbushcraft%2eco%2euk%2facatalog%2fEmergency_Survival%2ehtml&WD=meths&PN=Stoves%2ehtml%23a1_21HL006#a1_21HL006


Just a warning if you are thinking of buying one of these, This little meths burner is slightly smaller that the Trangia one so it will fall through Trangia kit  ::)