Originally Posted By: Am_Fear_Liath_Mor
Quote:
I've used it at 12,000 feet at 35 degrees and breezy, with good results. It takes about twice as long as my Whisperlight to boil a pot of water, but is much quicker and easier to get going or put away.


That sounds impressive but the boiling points of water drops to around 89C @ 12,000 ft. It is much more difficult to raise the temperature of water at lower altitudes.


It's not "much more difficult." It just takes slightly more patience.

Originally Posted By: Am_Fear_Liath_Mor
... The Primus will also bring to boil a litre of water in less than 3 minutes. The Trangia will take at least 3-4 times longer.


Not in my real world but anecdotal experience, typically boiling 2-3 cups of water. More like 2 times longer.

Originally Posted By: Am_Fear_Liath_Mor
The limitations and the greater weight for a alcohol stove become even more apparent when even more boiling capacity is required.


These stoves won't be running in a steady state, Frequent stopping, starting, priming and warm-ups alter fuel efficiency numbers.

My only point originally was that alcohol is safe and convenient for me as a BOB stove, since I DON'T need "even more boiling capacity," will be storing it in my car long-term, and live in FL. But I have to wonder what would I do in a survival or disaster situation when the gas cartridge runs out. Also note that I carry a second, 1/2 oz, alcohol burner,just in case.

Originally Posted By: Am_Fear_Liath_Mor
The alcohol stove would end even heavier than a multifuel high performance expedition stove such as the Primus Omnifuel.


Clearly, gas is a better choice, and my choice, for winter, group, or longer distance backpacking trips. Multi-fuels also work well for long term survival scenarios.


Edited by Jeff_M (10/12/09 11:50 AM)