I first learned how to cook on the MSR WhisperLite when I went back to school.
While many may complain about its one speed (hot), its noise (loud), and its difficulty to clean (I beg to differ), I am comfortable and happy cooking for myself and clients on this stove.
Features & Benefits:
First the specs: the MSR WhisperLite weighs 410 grams (14 ounces). Dimensions: 10 cm X 10 cm (4 inches X 4 inches). On average it takes 3.2 minutes to boil a liter of water. The standard model burns white fuel while the international WhisperLite will burn either white gas or kerosene. A purchase of the stove includes the fuel pump; however fuel bottles are sold separately. It also includes a heat reflector and windscreen which are fabulous for conserving gas. It burns at 11,000 BTU.
The stove is relatively inexpensive at C$109.
All of this tucks nicely into a nylon bag which then tucks nicely into my pot set, reducing wasted space.
Problems & Possible Solutions:
It does not simmer. It burns at one speed: hot, hot, hot. I’ve managed this quirk with a number of tricks over the years. Sometimes I’ll put a pot of water between the stove and say a frying pan of pancakes to avoid burning breakfast. Or with a good glove or a potholder, I’ll sauté veggies a couple of inches above the blue flame. Often times I am boiling water for pasta dishes or making a big pot of stew. The pot works just fine directly on the flame at that point.
It is quite loud once it’s up and running. If you’re traveling with friends and you want company during cook times, encourage them to bring the conversation closer.
It’s finicky if it gets wet. My only recommendation here would be avoid the temptation to leave your stove out overnight. Pack it away well and keep it stored under a tarp or fly to keep the moisture out of the lines.
Who Should Buy the MSR WhisperLite:
Anyone looking to travel with a lightweight, compact stove (especially during times of potential fire bans) will benefit from this stove. I’ve taken it backpacking, canoe tripping, kayaking, and even car camping. As a sidenote, MEC is a member-only co-op. $5 will get you a lifetime membership.
You can read more about my fun with the WhisperLite here, here, and my personal favorite… here.
Let us cook for you. Book a trip with us. We look forward to slowing down with you.