Regan Brown
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a lightweight, compact backpacking stove that uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters. The stove does not come with fuel, which must be purchased separately and comes in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz canisters. The amount of fuel used will depend on various factors, including the number of boils per day, elevation, and wind conditions. In general, an 8 oz canister can last for over a week, while a 4 oz canister can provide fuel for up to 4 days. MSR Pocket Rocket users have reported using about 1 ounce of IsoPro fuel per day for boiling water twice a day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Isobutane-propane |
| Fuel canister weight | 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz |
| Burn time (8 oz canister) | 60 minutes (at maximum flame) |
| Burn time (4 oz canister) | 4 days (1 oz of fuel per day) |
| Fuel consumption | 10 grams per boil (between 16 and 24 ounces) |
| Fuel alternatives | Denatured alcohol, Esbit tabs, wood, liquid fuel |
| Fuel canister brands | MSR, Snow Peak, Jetboil, Primus, Coleman, Widder |
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What You'll Learn
- The MSR PocketRocket 2 uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters
- The canisters come in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz sizes
- Elevation doesn't affect fuel performance, but temperature does
- An 8 oz canister lasts over a week, while a 4 oz canister lasts 4 days
- Alternative fuel options include denatured alcohol, Esbit tabs, and wood
The MSR PocketRocket 2 uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a lightweight and compact canister stove that uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which are the most common type of fuel canisters. The stove does not come with fuel, which is purchased separately and comes in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz canisters. The isobutane-propane fuel canisters self-seal and screw onto and off of the stove. You can expect to encounter performance issues if you plan to use it for extended periods at high altitudes or temperatures below freezing as the propane and butane will vaporize at different rates, and the canister will eventually fail.
MSR Pocket Rocket stoves are compatible with most fuel canisters, including those from Snow Peak and Jetboil. However, some users have reported issues with Coleman canisters, particularly in cold weather. The main difference between the brands is the fuel mixture. Most canisters have a mixture of butane and propane, but cheaper brands like Coleman might be filled with just butane. Propane has a lower boiling point than butane, which helps the stove in cold weather.
The ratio of butane to propane in the fuel mixture determines the ideal temperature range for the gas. Cold mix gas, which has a higher proportion of propane, is designed for cold environments, while hot weather mix gas, which has a higher proportion of butane, is designed for warm environments. Chinese gas will clog your stove, but US gas is okay. The best and cleanest-burning gas is made in France.
When using the MSR PocketRocket 2, it's important to note that it does not have an ignition switch, so you will need to use a lighter, matches, or a torch to light it. Additionally, while the pot supports on the stove are solid, they can be a little tricky to fold up and down.
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The canisters come in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz sizes
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a backpacking stove that uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters. These canisters self-seal and screw onto and off the stove. The canisters are available in three sizes: 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz.
The 4 oz canister is the smallest option and is suitable for solo backpackers or short trips. It weighs 3.5 oz when empty and can provide fuel for up to four days when used for boiling water twice a day. This size is also compact enough to fit into an MSR Titan Titanium Kettle, along with the stove and a bandana for pot cleaning.
The 8 oz canister is a popular choice for backpackers and can last for over a week when used for boiling water twice a day. According to REI, this size has a burn time of 60 minutes at maximum flame for the Pocket Rocket 2.
The 16 oz canister is the largest option and may be more suitable for car camping or longer trips. It is not typically needed for backpacking trips unless you plan to cook more extensively.
It's important to note that the fuel consumption of the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 can vary depending on factors such as wind conditions, elevation, and the type of pot or kettle used. Additionally, the stove may encounter performance issues at high altitudes or temperatures below freezing due to the different vaporization rates of propane and butane.
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Elevation doesn't affect fuel performance, but temperature does
The MSR Pocket Rocket is a small, portable backpacking stove. It can be used with a variety of fuel canisters, including MSR, Snow Peak, and Jetboil. These canisters typically contain a blend of butane, propane, and isobutane.
While elevation does not directly affect fuel performance, it does influence the oxygen levels available for combustion. As elevation increases, air density and oxygen levels decrease, leading to reduced engine power and performance. This is because internal combustion engines rely on the mixture of fuel and oxygen for controlled explosions that generate power. At higher altitudes, engines may require a lower octane level of fuel to compensate for the lower oxygen levels.
On the other hand, temperature has a notable impact on fuel performance. In cold temperatures, idle time increases as engines work to keep the vehicle's cab and sleeper warm, leading to decreased fuel efficiency. Additionally, precipitation, such as rain, snow, or slush, increases rolling resistance and drive-train friction, further reducing fuel efficiency. In hot temperatures, the engine cooling fan works harder to prevent overheating, resulting in a significant loss in fuel efficiency.
To optimize fuel performance in cold weather, certain fuel canisters perform better. For instance, MSR, Snow Peak, and Jetboil canisters are suitable for cold weather due to their use of isobutane with some propane. Cheaper alternatives often use regular butane, which may not perform as well in colder conditions.
In summary, while elevation does not directly influence fuel performance, temperature has a significant impact. Understanding these factors can help users of the MSR Pocket Rocket, and similar stoves, make informed choices about fuel canisters and maintain optimal performance in various environmental conditions.
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An 8 oz canister lasts over a week, while a 4 oz canister lasts 4 days
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a lightweight, compact stove that uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which are available in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz sizes. The stove does not come with fuel, so it must be purchased separately. The amount of fuel required will depend on various factors, including the frequency of use, the intensity of the flame, and the external conditions.
When it comes to fuel consumption, an 8 oz canister typically lasts over a week, while a 4 oz canister lasts approximately 4 days. This estimation is based on boiling 2 cups of water in the evening and about 1.5 cups in the morning for coffee. It's important to note that the environmental conditions, such as wind, can also impact fuel usage. In windy conditions, a windscreen or natural barriers can help block the wind and improve fuel efficiency.
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is compatible with various fuel canisters, including those from MSR, Snow Peak, Jetboil, and other brands. While MSR recommends using their own brand of isobutane-propane fuel, some users have reported success with off-brand and supermarket fuel canisters. However, it is important to ensure that the canisters are specifically designed for use with canister stoves and have a compatible thread.
The performance of the MSR PocketRocket 2 may be impacted by high altitudes and temperatures below freezing. In such conditions, the propane and butane can vaporize at different rates, affecting the stove's performance. For extended use in these conditions, a liquid fuel stove may be a more reliable option. Additionally, the absence of an ignition switch on the PocketRocket 2 means that a separate source of ignition, such as a lighter or matches, is required.
Overall, the MSR PocketRocket 2 is a lightweight and compact stove option for backpacking and camping. By understanding the fuel requirements and potential performance limitations, users can make informed decisions about their fuel choices and usage to ensure a positive outdoor cooking experience.
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Alternative fuel options include denatured alcohol, Esbit tabs, and wood
The MSR Pocket Rocket stove is a popular option among backpackers. It is lightweight, simple, versatile, compact, and effective. The MSR Pocket Rocket 2 is an upgraded version of the original Pocket Rocket stove, weighing 2.6 ounces, which is lighter than the original's 3.1 ounces. It is also more compact, taking up less space in your backpack.
When it comes to fuel options for the MSR Pocket Rocket stove, there are a few alternatives to consider beyond the standard Iso Butane/Propane fuel mix canisters. These alternative fuels include denatured alcohol, Esbit tabs, and wood. Here is some more information about each of these options:
Denatured Alcohol
Denatured alcohol stoves are known for being extremely lightweight, even lighter than the MSR Pocket Rocket 2. They are a good option for those seeking to minimize weight, especially in cold weather. However, it is important to note that denatured alcohol stoves may be less efficient and have a slower boiling time compared to the Pocket Rocket stove.
Esbit Tabs
Esbit tabs are solid fuel tablets that can be used as an alternative to gas canisters. They are lightweight and suitable for backup fuel when venturing outdoors. However, some users have reported challenges in getting a single Esbit tab to boil a substantial amount of water. Esbit tabs may be better suited for hot drinks or rehydrating freeze-dried meals rather than boiling large quantities of water.
Wood
Using wood as fuel is another alternative, especially when seeking lightweight options. However, wood-burning stoves tend to be less efficient and may be banned in certain regions, such as the American West during fire season. It is important to follow local guidelines and regulations when considering the use of wood as fuel.
While the MSR Pocket Rocket stove is designed for use with Iso Butane/Propane fuel canisters, these alternative fuel options provide flexibility and can be useful in various situations, depending on your specific needs and priorities regarding weight, efficiency, and fuel availability.
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Frequently asked questions
The MSR Pocket Rocket stove uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which self-seal and screw onto and off the stove.
Fuel for the MSR Pocket Rocket can be bought from outdoor stores like REI and Walmart, as well as some supermarkets.
The amount of fuel you need depends on how much water you plan to boil. A 4-ounce fuel canister will last for 4 days, while an 8-ounce canister will last for over a week.
