Many of my backpacking buddies have a JETBOIL for cooking. People seem to love them.
I bought a $20 PRIMUS backpacking single burner about 3 years ago, and from what I can tell, it works just FINE. But I still feel compelled to upgrade, so I thought I'd run a comparison. My set up includes a $12 OPTIMUS windshield, and a GSI Stainless Bottle Cup which I got for $12 on Amazon.
We started our water boiling at the same time. No surprise, the JetBoil won, and boiled the water first. How much faster? ONE MINUTE!! Not so bad. So for $46 vs $99 I think I can wait one minute.
I checked in with Sandeep to see what she really loves about her Jetboil to make sure I know what I am missing. Here's what she has to say about her JetBoil:
"I have the jetboil flash, I bought it from REI FOR $99.95 6/2013 for my first backpacking trip with the adventure scouts in big pine.
I love that it's compact, the smaller fuel fits inside the jetboil along with its fuel stand and a small stand for any other type of stove other than the jetboil to be put on top of.The advantages are its speed and compact size
I love that it's compact, the smaller fuel fits inside the jetboil along with its fuel stand and a small stand for any other type of stove other than the jetboil to be put on top of.The advantages are its speed and compact size
I would say that the jetboil pot itself must be unique although I may be guessing--but I feel like it somehow speeds up the boiling process. I also like that when the water is ready, the side of the jetboil has a flame that changes colors to let you know
I don't know if I'd necessarily recommend the jetboil--there are cheaper options like the MSR. I bought the jetboil off the recommendation of my brother, I was a novice and trusted him. I feel like if you're on a budget, don't go with the jetboil. "
Thanks Sandeep!
Here is a weight comparison to finalize the comparison: Jetboil Flash 15.25 oz
GSI Bottle Cup: 5oz + Primus 8oz + Optimus Windshield 3oz = 16 oz
In summary, the JetBoil has some realy cool features. If money was no object, I would definitely upgrade. But, as a novice backpacker, prioritizing some bigger budget items like my sleep system took priority over the cooking setup. I am glad I only had to spend $46 to get set up, but for $99 the jetboil is a welcome upgrade.
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