There are few things as satisfying as a good meal after a hard hike, or in the midst of a camping trip. The real challenge is cooking a great meal quickly with minimal effort, and in a variety of conditions. The MSR WindBurner Group Stove System is designed to perform in harsh conditions and deliver a quality cooking experience.
While many of us are beginning to anticipate the return of spring, winter still has a firm grip on the upper mid-west. I feel like these are ideal conditions to test out the MSR WindBurner Group Stove System. If it can hack it in blustery cold, then I know that it will serve me well during all my other outdoor adventures.
Experience:
Setting up the MSR WindBurner Group Stove System (2.5L pot and lid, stove burner, and packing cloth) for the first time is simple and intuitive. (It comes with clearly worded and illustrated instructions as well.) The folding legs work great and provide a stable base when in use. After attaching the fuel canister to the fuel line, I turn the valve slightly and here a soft hiss come from the burner. The burner lights easily with a match or lighter. With subtle adjustments I quickly boil water and I can simply turn down the heat for a smooth simmer. I am amazed at how quickly it is able to boil water (in just several minutes) – even in cold and windy conditions.
Finding a perfectly level cooking space when hiking and camping is almost impossible. However, the self-centering 2.5L pot rests on the stove’s lip which provides increased stability and gives me greater peace of mind. Although this feature does limit its use with other camp stove pots and pans, it does work with all WindBurner cookware.
I appreciate how the pot lid can be locked on and has a built-in straining feature. The pot does leak somewhat around the lid area when straining or tipping past the water line, which is to be expected. I also like that the inside of the pot comes with water volume markings, but wish they were a little more distinctive and easier to read. I love how the whole system packs snuggly in the pot and is lighter than it looks, which is a valuable bonus for hiking trips.
Meals:
I use a few pouches of Backpacker’s Pantry for my first meal. With some boiling water, stirring, and a bit of waiting I have a delicious meal ready to go. Three Cheese Mac and Cheese, and Blueberry Peach Crisp for dessert! These pack well, are relatively light, and the packaging is durable enough to eat from. However, I found they need a few more minutes and a little less water than the instructions. Although, that might be mainly preference and possibly due to my elevation.
I shared these with some of my kids and received raving reviews. Backpacker’s Pantry’s commitment to protecting the planet, while lowering their carbon footprint, and efforts to leave the world a better place for future generations makes each one of these meals that much more satisfying.
Specifics:
The MSR WindBurner Group Stove System is a modular stove system. The radiant burner with boil-to-simmer control is perfect for small groups and simmered meals. It has a pressure regulator for consistent performance. The enclosed design and internal pressure regulator work together to maintain performance in windy & cold conditions.
The 2.5 L Fusion® ceramic-coated aluminum nonstick pot measures 7.2 inches wide and 5.8 inches high. This allows the burner to fit inside the pot with room to nest the optional 8-oz MSR® IsoPro™ fuel canister (sold separately). The pot has a folding Talon™ handle, and the lid comes with a locking latch and built in strainer designed into the lid. The set weighs in at just one pound five ounces.
Winning Features:
The radiant burner is ultra-efficient, remaining consistent over a typical flame burner in windy and cold conditions. This means I can boil water up to four-times faster than other camping stoves. Additionally, I love the stability that comes with the anti-topple stove. The remote canister design and self-centering pot help provide the extra steadiness needed when in uneven terrain.
With a 2.5 L sauce pot (serves 2-4), I can tailor my cooking for a solo trip or a family adventure. The heat-capturing ring on the sauce pot allows me a range of options for simmering or cooking. The pot’s Fusion® ceramic-coated surface offers durable nonstick performance and easy cleanup.
The versatility of the MSR Windburner Group Stove System is enhanced by its nesting capability. Inside the sauce pan, I can store the burner and an 8-oz. MSR IsoPro fuel canister (sold separately). I appreciate that the compact system nests well inside the pot with minimal rattling. Easy packing and quiet on the trails is always a win for hiking and camping!
Summary:
The MSR WindBurner Group Stove System combines the reliability and performance every outdoors person desires from their cookware. The lightweight and compact nesting design is perfect for group campers and hiking adventures who want a variety of cooking and meal options. Its stability, durability, nonstick easy clean up, and windproof radiant burner make it an ideal stove system. The MSR WindBurner Group Stove System truly delivers a quality outdoor cooking experience.
Gearadical may earn a small affiliate fee when you click and buy using our links.
