I think you'll really like it. It's not the kind of precise simmering you'd get with gas, but if you're OK with the foibles of alcohol stoves, this is a pretty good set up.

With the Ti-Tri, as the "tri" portion of its name suggests, you've got three fuel choices: wood, hexamine (e.g. ESBIT), or alcohol. If you get the "inferno" attachment, you've got yourself a wood gasifier stove. Pretty cool.

I like the Titan kettle. It can be used as a mug, a tea kettle, or a pot. It's big enough that I can make drinks for 2, maybe even 3 people if they only drink 8oz each, yet it's light and compact enough that it's still a really nice ultralight solo set up.

HJ

Note: I have no affiliation with Trail Designs or MSR or any other product mentioned on this page. Especially wood. I'm definitely NOT God.

I'm not a very exciting cook when I'm backpacking so the limited ability to simmer isn't a concern for me. Pouring boiling water into a dehydrated pouch of food or making some instant coffee is about as complicated as I like to get in the backcountry. LNT and keeping weight down are more important to me than the menu.

I'm definitely picking up the inferno attachment. That's one of the stoves significant features IMO.

I was happy to see you using the MSR kettle. I love mine and I'm honestly surprised that I don't see more of them in use when I'm out.

P.S. Thanks for volunteering as one of our new deputies Jim. This forum is one of the most even keeled, respectful forums around. Our moderators should take a lot of pride in that.

I'm definitely of the KISS mindset when on a serious backpack. I'm not a gram Nazi, but I like going light. The Caldera Cone fits with that mindset.

Yeah, the only thing I can think of with the MSR kettle as to why more people don't have them is the expense. REI brand Ti cookware is decidedly cheaper. But doggone that MSR kettle is a nice size for solo+ hiking. and it's a versatile piece of equipment. I'm sure getting my money's worth out of mine -- which I bought used on eBay.

Let us know how it goes with the Tri-Ti when you get a chance to use it,

HJ

FYI, REI Ti Ware is made by Evernew. Found this out cause REI seems to be discontinuing their Ti Ware. Their non-stick stuff is nice, especially since its silicone ceramic and not teflon.

I hope this is a temporary thing, REI cutting back on TiWare. TiWare is indeed made by Evernew and is good stuff. Interestingly, the below TiWare 900ml kettle fits in the same Caldera Cone as an MSR Titan Kettle (850ml).



HJ