SummitPost.org

Hi Guys,

Looking for an advice on liquid stoves for high altitude and very, very cold environment (-35F). Simmering is a plus. I am between MSR XGK/Whisperlite and Primus Omnifuel/Omnilite TI. Of course open to other suggestions. I am also curious if anyone tried both Omnifuel and Omnilite Ti in harsh conditions and which one you think is better. Thank you!


…by the way, I know there is section on ‘STOVES’ in the forum but it doesn’t answer my question and seems like people don’t visit that page.

I have used an MSR XGK at altitudes up to 6,000 meters and temperatures as low as -30 F for 25 years. Never had a problem, but I would caution this stove is optimized for melting snow, not simmering or making gourmet meals. I've heard the MSR Dragonfly is better at simmering and I've seen a quite a few parties using them on Denali.

Another vote for the MSR Dragonfly International. Never have any issue the past decade. Have replaced the pump a few times from using dirty fuel. Have used all sort of fuel like regular petrol, kerosene & paint thinner. Have used up to 6,500m in Central Asia which is colder than Denali. The simmer option is pretty awesome for cooking. You will want this on a long expedition.

FWIW, MSR was within walking distance from my office. I had bought a used 15 year old MSR XGK stove that was beat to shit and had a non working pump. I brought it to MSR and asked for the $35 tune up. Dude behind the counter reaches into a box and hands over a brand new stove, pump, bag, wind screen, and maintenance kit. For $35. That is the type of customer service that has made me an MSR fan for over 25 years.