> Regarding stoves, in my opinion we are still waiting for the perfect stove. > I've got a new MSR Whisperlite, which is very reliable but (despite the > advertising) still don't simmer very well, at least for very long. I've > also got an Apex II, which simmers really well when it's not verging on > exploding in a pillar of flames, and also provides high heat output with > boiling times approaching the MSR Interesting choices. I too have been a long time user of both the MSR Whisperlite and the Apex II. Some time back I rebought the Whisperlite to get some of the updates to the design (Shaker jet cleaner so there's one less maintenance tool to carry, and better pump design from my 12 year old model). I'm not sure I understand your reference to the Apex II ills though. Mine has been as bullet proof as the MSR, which surprises me since the burner portion isn't as simple, robust and bomb-proof as the MSR. I agree though that while better than the older MSR's it still isn't something that I can simmer on. My MSR is generally always the water boiler. It's a virtual jet engine when it's going full blast, with the whole burner portion glowing cherry red. I don't find I can get near that performance with the Apex II. Though much of that excess heat is likely lost to the air unless you're using the wind screen with a close fit, and pots with the external heat capturing vanes to collect more of the heat slipping by the outside sides of the pot. On the other hand there's also enough excess for everyone to gather around and warm up over, just as though it was an open fire. But the Apex is wonderful for simmering without worry of setting it too low that it will go out. More than makes up for it's extra size when packed. Having two stoves always gives nice flexibility (and backup safety) anyway, letting you cook something on one, while keeping water hot for drinks, any boiled food pouches, and wash-up water. -- Craig Bowers *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Sat Jan 04 2003 - 13:55:27 PST
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Thu Aug 21 2025 - 16:31:01 PDT