Cheap Multi Fuel Stoves

Summary: These basic and light-weight stoves use wood as well as hexamine tablets, gas canisters and white fuel via a single nozzle. They're popular in colder temperatures, but they're noisy and don't have a simmer control.

Some multi-fuel stoves are hybrids capable of burning multiple kinds of liquid fuel. The MSR WhisperLite Universal can be used with white and isobutane canisters for Cheap Multi Fuel Stoves fuel.

Optimus Nova

The Optimus Nova multi-fuel stove can be used for a variety liquid fuels. It has a quick-priming burner as well as an aluminium pump that self-purges, and a precise simmer control. Its low center of gravity and wide spreading legs make it a sturdy stove that can be used on rocky ground. This makes it a great stove for backpacking groups, base camps, kayaking and Arctic camping.

Contrary to many other stoves that use liquid fuel, which have a problem of unburned fuel remains in the fuel line and nozzle of the stove, the Optimus Nova has a shut off mechanism that works by simply flipping the container over. This disconnects the intake hose from the fuel, and forces it to draw air into the stove, which smothers the flame and decreases the pressure of the bottle.

This seems like a fairly innovative solution to an old problem and it certainly works. The Nova can also be used with a variety of regular fuel bottles that are sealed using an o-ring, such as MSR bottles. It also comes with a fully-featured stove bag that has separate pockets for spare parts, tools and lubricant, as well as the fuel pump.

This is a fantastic backpacking stove that can be used in the UK. It is particularly ideal for trips, where a variety of fuels are required. Its price is also very reasonable when compared to canister stoves that have similar capabilities. Furthermore, the Optimus Nova is easy to maintain and enjoyable to use.

Kovea Hydra

The Kovea Hydra multi fuel stove first came on the market in 2010 and has been a favourite choice for many backpackers since. A few UK backpackers seem to give it much attention nowadays perhaps because they've caught up with better known brands or whatever the latest lightweight offering out of China or Korea is but it doesn't mean the Hydra doesn't still have its merits.

It's a compact and light stove, burning all liquid fuels, including white gas and propane butane through one nozzle. It's a standard stove that has an inbuilt burner that is attached to a body that is anchored by three fold-out support legs. The pump is on top of the fuel line, while the generator loop runs around the inlet, and the flame spreader sits over. The burner itself is a low-speed flame type that helps it to be less impacted by wind.

It is a nice feature that it can be used with a container of propane or isobutane, which makes it a versatile small multi fuel stove cooker. It is simple to simmer with isobutane and propane, and it burns all types of fuels at a good rate. However, when using white gas the stove runs a bit slower.

One thing to keep in mind concerning the Hydra is that the instructions are written in English which was not written by an indigenous speaker of the language. The instructions warn against using certain kinds of lighter fluid. If you don't follow the instructions correctly this could cause an accident and put Kovea into legal trouble. Any gas canister that is 7/16ths UNEF-threaded of a trusted brand will work fine.

Primus OmniLite Ti

Primus Omnilite Ti can be an excellent option for those looking for a multifuel cookware that cooks using a variety of fuels. It can be used with petrol/gasoline, gas, or diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel. It has separate controls for each fuel type and is also able to alter the size of the flame which is a wonderful feature. This stove also has a fuel line that lies flat on the ground and can be easily connected to the tank.

While the Primus Omnilite is a fantastic stove, it does require maintenance to ensure it is operating properly. It can be dangerous because it explodes when you are priming. This is a common problem with all stoves with liquid fuel that utilize a secondary spindle throttle on the stove end to vaporize fuel instead of an engine coil.

Another issue is the fact that it requires different jets for each kind of fuel. This means that if you cook on kerosene the jet hole has to be smaller than when cooking with gas. It's a minor issue however it's something to be aware of.

MSR Whisper Lite

The MSR Whisper Lite is one of the lightest, smallest and most affordable multi-fuel stoves. It is also very easy to repair in the field. It can be used with canister or liquid fuel and includes attachments for both. The new design is 10percent lighter than its predecessor, and the burner's system has been improved for improved heat distribution. It's great for beginners or backpackers who are budget-conscious.

The whistler Lite takes a little time to prepare, prime and boil water, but it's a reliable stove that won't disappoint you. The flame is extremely powerful and can cook a liter of water within two minutes. The only drawback is that it doesn't simmer like other stoves.

MSR developed the Dragonfly to be a better burner. It's a similar design to the whistler, but it's more compact and provides superior performance. It's not as affordable as the Whistler Lite. The Soto Amicus cookset and stove is a great alternative, offering the same setup at half the price. It is also possible to purchase Whisperlite International or Universal for isobutane containers as well. Both versions use the same design and style, however, the Universal version is also compatible with canister fuel.

Coleman Sportster II

It's a simple, no-frills Coleman stove that can do the job. It's solid compact and self-contained, with the tank on the bottom and the burner on at the top. This makes it simple to use and is a great choice for beginners, backpackers who want to cut weight, and those of us who have spares in the van.

It is designed to burn Coleman's proprietary fuel (naptha gas, also referred to as white gas) This stove can be used with unleaded gasoline as well. This option can save you money since one gallon of gasoline could last longer than the conventional Coleman liquid fuel cylinder.

Liquid fuel stoves have a learning curve, as you'll have to pressurize and prime them before you create a beautiful blue flame going. If you don't do it right, your fuel may be sprayed, pool, or splash over the burner, or even sputter. To get the hang of this, practice outside before your trip.

The stove will suffer some performance and flame odor efficiency if you choose to use non-Coleman fuels. However, this is a tradeoff for its versatility. Make sure to purchase gas that is not leaded and not that's enhanced with alcohol or Methanol. These kinds of fuels can cause the unit's performance to decline and even explode.

ATG Jiko

The ATG Jiko Multi Fuel Stove from South Africa is an ultralight multifuel designed to withstand harsh conditions like Africa. It's a compact, robust stove that burns gels, solid fuel tabs and alcohol using one nozzle. It's a minimalist, ultralight design that costs less than other double sided multifuel stove stoves. Fuel is also cheaper per liter when compared to gas canisters.

Other multifuel stoves have a separate nozzle per fuel type. It isn't easy to switch between fuels during bad weather conditions, or while wearing gloves. This can add to the overall weight. The newer types of multifuel stoves have discovered ways to make use of the same nozzle for different fuels, making it easier. The newer models of these stoves are known as 'hybrid', or 'compressed multifuel stoves'. there are many names for them such as isobutane canister fuel white gas, kerosene, and unleaded car gasoline/petrol.

A multifuel stove kit can be bought to transform your Trangia burners into multifuel cookers. They are typically available from specialised camping stores and can be purchased internationally. They're a great choice for Trangia fans and they're capable of burning all liquid fuels, with the exception of diesel. If fitted with the right equipment can even simmer.