MSR WhisperLite Review
The first time I used the WhisperLite stove was with a friend who got the stove from his dad. It was a very old model but it sure looked like it would hold up forever. Even the signs on the stove had the old contact info for the manufacturer. A few years ago, I got myself a newer model and I got to be honest, this is probably the first and last stove you need unless you’re a stovaholic like me. MSR is a highly respected gear manufacturer and the stove is well-priced for the quality you get. It will literally last you for decades. It’s not super lightweight, but nothing to complain about. Let’s take a closer look!
The MSR WhisperLite is a reliable and highly durable stove that can be used in any season. It comes in two different models: the standard model that burns white fuel, and the international WhisperLite that can burn either white gas or kerosene. The package includes a fuel pump, heat reflector, and windscreen to help conserve gas. The stove comes with a nylon carrying bag that fits snugly into a pot set, minimizing wasted space. It’s reasonably priced at around $110 USD.
MSR WhisperLite Features & Specs
- Allows you to use a variety of fuels available worldwide
- Boils 1 liter of water in only 3 min. 30 sec. when using white gas and 4 min. 24 sec. when using kerosene
- Shaker Jet technology makes cleaning as simple as shaking the stove
- Includes a fuel pump, windscreen, heat reflector, small-parts kit, instructions and storage sack
- Weight includes only the burner, fuel line, and fuel pump
- Fuel not included
4×4 inches (10×10 cm)
6 inches (15 cm)
10.9 oz (310 grams)
11,000 BTU
3.5 minutes for a liter of water
White gas, kerosene, and unleaded auto fuel
How To Use The MSR WhisperLite
Using the MSR WhisperLite stove is relatively straightforward and easy. Begin by setting up the stove and ensuring that it is on a level surface away from any flammable objects.
Next, fill the fuel bottle with the appropriate fuel (white gas or kerosene), attach it to the fuel pump, and pressurize the bottle. Then, prime the stove by pouring a small amount of fuel into the priming cup and lighting it. Allow the flame to die down before turning the valve to open the fuel line and lighting the stove. Adjust the flame using the control valve to achieve the desired heat output for your cooking needs.
When you’re done cooking, turn off the stove and allow it to cool before packing it away. While the stove does take a few minutes to set up and prime, it is reliable and efficient once it gets going, making it a great choice for any outdoor adventure.
How Has The WhisperLite Held Up?
While no stove is indestructible, the WhisperLite has a long track record of being a durable and reliable choice for many outdoor enthusiasts. With proper care and maintenance, it can handle decades of use in a variety of environments. That being said, it is important to keep the stove clean and dry when not in use and to store it in a protective case or bag to prevent damage during transportation.
What Are The Pros Of The WhisperLite?
First and foremost, its lightweight and compact design makes it incredibly portable and easy to carry on long hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. The stove is also incredibly efficient, using very little fuel to achieve a high heat output, which is particularly beneficial for those who want to conserve their resources while in the wilderness.
One of the standout features of the WhisperLite is its comprehensive kit, which includes a fuel pump, heat reflector, and windscreen. These features work together to help conserve gas and optimize the stove’s performance, making it an ideal option for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective cooking tool.
In addition, the MSR WhisperLite is a relatively inexpensive stove, retailing for around $110 USD. It comes with a nylon bag that fits into your pot set, reducing wasted space and making it easy to pack away.
The stove’s solid, well-balanced stainless-steel legs also make it an ideal cooking stand, and its serrated pot grips keep your pot stable and secure even when using larger pots and pans.
Finally, the WhisperLite is a great choice for adventurers facing demanding, cold, or high-elevation environments. It’s designed to perform well in that kind of environment, making it a go-to option for those embarking on challenging outdoor expeditions.
What Are The Cons Of The WhisperLite?
The MSR WhisperLite is an impressive stove, but it’s not perfect. For starters, it can be quite noisy when in use. Although not extremely loud, the hissing sound produced by the stove may be bothersome to some users The stove can also be challenging to light in windy conditions, which can require a bit of patience and persistence to get it going.
Additionally, the WhisperLite doesn’t simmer well and burns hot without much middle ground, so it can be tricky to cook certain foods. While it is great for boiling water and cooking at high heat, more delicate dishes may be harder to prepare.
If the stove gets wet, it can be finicky to set up and use properly, so it’s important to pack it away well and keep it stored under a tarp or fly. Lastly, while it’s not difficult to operate, the stove does require a little more time and knowledge than your average canister stove, making it important to learn how to set it up before heading out.
MSR WhisperLite International vs MSR WhisperLite Universal
At first glance, these stoves look like twins separated at birth. The main difference is that the WhisperLite International burns white gas, kerosene, and unleaded auto fuel but the WhisperLite Universal supports the same fuel types, but also supports isobutane canisters. That means more options for your culinary adventures.
The WhisperLite Universal comes with a canister stand that lets you flip your canister upside down. You can turn your stove into an inverted canister stove which brings enhanced performance in cold temperatures so you won’t be missing your liquid fuel.
You can get the WhisperLite International for $159.95 USD, while its more versatile sibling, the WhisperLite Universal, asks for a bit more at $199.95 USD. You’re essentially paying a bit extra for the Universal’s ability to use isobutane canisters as fuel. If you’ll be using canisters then get the Universal version, otherwise the International version will give you the same performance at a lower cost.
Conclusion
Overall, the MSR WhisperLite is a great tool for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. Its lightweight and durable design, combined with its efficient cooking capabilities, make it an excellent choice for hikers, backpackers, and campers alike. While it may produce a bit of noise and can be tricky to light in windy conditions, these minor issues are easily outweighed by the many benefits of this fantastic stove. So, if you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, be sure to add the MSR WhisperLite to your gear list – you won’t be disappointed!
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