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Old 01-29-11 | 01:56 PM
  #42  
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BigBlueToe
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Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,392
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From: Central Coast, CA

Bikes: Surly LHT, Specialized Rockhopper, Nashbar Touring (old), Specialized Stumpjumper (older), Nishiki Tourer (model unknown)

My preference (which I've previously stated on similar threads - sorry for the repetition) is a stove that will burn unleaded gas, because it's so easy to find a gas station, and less easy to find a store that sells Coleman fuel by the quart (or MSR) (a gallon of Coleman fuel would be ridiculous), or butane cannisters.

I bought a Coleman 442 stove in 1992, which I believe is the predecessor to the one shown. I still have it and it still works fine, after umpteen uses. It always smelled a little bit, sometimes sputtered a little, and didn't simmer as well as butane, but it always worked and it was great to be able to top off my tank at any gas station.

I recently bought an MSR Whisperlite International with a gift certificate. It also burns unleaded. I think it's a little lighter. It's dirtier afterwards, and the wind screen is a hassle. It burns, smokes, and sputters similar to the old Coleman. It's fine.

Neither of the stoves is perfect, but they both work fine and are reliable. I still haven't decided which I like best. I'm going to take the Whisperlite on a couple more tours before I decide.

I think white gas burns cleaner than unleaded, so I look for it (by the quart) and buy it when I can (and when I need some fuel).

I'd prefer to take my butane stove if they sold cannisters at every gas station, but they don't. So I'm happy with what I have.
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