cliff : the w. german messkit is a great item of kit and a good bargin...i got turned on to mine while i was stationed in germany...i also use the stainless steel Bw knife, fork and spoon set and the esbit stove...all the items are made in germany and are well built and made to last .....i have my messkit strapped to my ruck with extra chow inside the kit ....i have also mastered over the years to boil rice in it without burning it. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />......vince g. 11b inf..