Regan Brown
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a lightweight, compact, and portable stove that uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which are available in three sizes: 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz. The amount of fuel consumed depends on various factors, including the amount of water boiled, elevation, and temperature. For example, a user reported an average fuel consumption of 4 grams per boil at 4000 to 6000 feet elevation, while another user estimated their consumption at 10 grams per boil. It's important to note that the stove does not come with fuel, and users should be cautious when choosing the appropriate fuel mixture for their specific needs, especially in cold weather conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Isobutane-propane fuel canisters |
| Fuel Canister Sizes | 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz |
| Fuel Consumption for Boiling Water | 5g isobutane fuel per cup of water |
| Fuel Consumption for Boiling 16 oz of Water | 10g of fuel |
| Fuel Consumption for 7 Days at 4000-6000 ft with 4 Boils/Day | 4g of fuel per boil |
| Fuel Consumption for 7 Days at Sea Level with 450ml Boils | 7g of fuel per boil |
| Fuel Consumption for 3 Days with 2 Boils/Day | Small canister |
| Fuel Consumption for 4 Days with 2 Boils/Day or 3 Days with a Midday Coffee | Small canister |
| Fuel Consumption for 5 Days with 2 Boils/Day for 2 People | 30 oz fuel bottle |
| Elevation | Elevation doesn't matter |
| Temperature | Avoid plain butane for temperatures below 50 °F |
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What You'll Learn
The best fuel for MSR pocket rockets
The MSR Pocket Rocket stove is a popular stove for camping and backpacking due to its lightweight and compact design. When it comes to choosing the best fuel for your MSR Pocket Rocket, there are a few options to consider.
Firstly, it is important to note that the MSR Pocket Rocket stove typically uses fuel canisters, and the type of fuel can vary depending on the brand of the canister. MSR, the manufacturer of the Pocket Rocket stove, recommends using their own brand of iso-butane/propane fuel mix canisters, which are readily available at outdoor stores like REI. These canisters are specifically designed for the Pocket Rocket stove and are known for their reliable performance and compatibility.
However, some users have reported successfully using alternative fuel canisters with their MSR Pocket Rocket stoves. Brands such as Snow Peak, Jetboil, Primus, and LiCamp offer iso-butane/propane fuel mixes that are compatible with the Pocket Rocket stove. These alternative brands can be found at stores like Walmart and often provide a more affordable option without compromising performance.
It is worth noting that the choice of fuel can also depend on the weather conditions you plan to use your stove in. Iso-butane/propane fuel mixes are generally recommended for cold weather camping as they perform well in lower temperatures. Cheaper brands that use regular butane instead of iso-butane may not work as effectively in cold weather, so it is advisable to avoid them if you're camping in temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C).
Additionally, when considering fuel efficiency, it is important to factor in the weight of the fuel canister itself, especially if you're aiming for an ultralight backpacking setup. The weight of the canister, both full and empty, should be taken into account when planning your overall pack weight.
Lastly, while the MSR Pocket Rocket is designed for iso-butane/propane fuel mixes, some users have explored alternative fuels such as denatured alcohol, Esbit tabs, or wood. These options can be less efficient and may be banned in certain regions during fire season, so it is important to consider local regulations and your specific needs before opting for these alternative fuels.
In summary, the best fuel for your MSR Pocket Rocket stove depends on your specific requirements and conditions. While MSR's own brand of iso-butane/propane fuel mix is reliable and widely available, alternative brands like Snow Peak and Jetboil offer compatible and cost-effective options. For cold weather camping, prioritize iso-butane/propane mixes, and always consider the weight of the fuel canister to optimize your packing setup.
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How much fuel is needed for a trip
The amount of fuel required for a trip depends on several factors, including the duration of the trip, the environmental conditions, the type of stove, and individual usage patterns. Let's delve into the details of how much fuel a pocket rocket typically consumes and what factors influence this consumption:
Factors Affecting Fuel Consumption:
- Trip Duration and Usage: The length of your trip and your cooking habits play a significant role in fuel consumption. Consider how many meals you'll be cooking per day and whether you'll be making hot drinks or boiling water multiple times a day. For example, on a 12-day trip, you might need to plan for more fuel than on a weekend getaway.
- Environmental Conditions: Temperature and altitude impact fuel usage. In colder temperatures, fuel blends with isobutane and propane perform better, while plain butane should be avoided. At high altitudes, the propane and butane in canister stoves can vaporize at different rates, affecting stove performance.
- Stove Type: Different stove models have varying fuel efficiencies. For instance, the MSR PocketRocket 2 is known for its compact design and adjustable flame, while the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe offers efficient fuel usage and a faster boil time.
Estimating Fuel Requirements:
- Boil-Based Estimation: A common method to estimate fuel needs is to calculate the number of boils you expect to perform per day and the fuel required for each boil. Some users report an average fuel consumption of around 5 grams of isobutane fuel per cup of water boiled, while others estimate 10 grams per boil for larger quantities of water (16 to 24 ounces).
- Weight-Based Tracking: Another approach is to track fuel usage by weighing fuel canisters before and after a trip. This method provides insight into how much fuel you consume per litre of water boiled and helps you mark your canisters to know how much fuel remains.
- Manufacturer Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for fuel usage. For instance, MSR cites an estimate of 28 grams of fuel per 2 litres of water boiled for the PocketRocket Deluxe.
Fuel Options for Pocket Rockets:
- Isobutane-Propane Blends: Isobutane-propane blends are widely used in pocket rocket stoves and are suitable for cold weather conditions. They are available from various brands, including MSR, Snow Peak, Jetboil, and Primus.
- Butane-Propane Blends: These blends are also compatible with pocket rockets, but plain butane should be avoided in cold temperatures.
- Liquid Fuel Stoves: For extended trips in cold environments or high altitudes, consider a liquid fuel stove like the MSR DragonFly or MSR XGK, which can operate with various fuel types.
In conclusion, the fuel needs for a trip depend on a combination of factors, including trip length, environmental conditions, stove efficiency, and individual usage patterns. By considering these factors and employing estimation methods, you can better prepare for your trip and ensure you have sufficient fuel for your pocket rocket stove.
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Elevation and temperature considerations
The performance of a pocket rocket stove is affected by changes in elevation and temperature. At higher altitudes, the boiling point of water decreases, impacting the cooking time and fuel efficiency of the stove. For example, water boils at 212°F at sea level, but at 11,000 feet, it boils at approximately 190°F. This means that the stove will need to burn for a longer period to cook food or boil water, resulting in increased fuel consumption.
Additionally, temperature plays a crucial role in the vaporization of the fuel. The fuel mixture in pocket rocket stoves typically contains propane and butane, which vaporize at different rates depending on the temperature. At extremely low temperatures, the fuel may not vaporize adequately, leading to performance issues. In such cases, a liquid fuel stove may be a more suitable option.
However, at higher altitudes, the lower air pressure can offset the impact of lower temperatures. This is because the fuel can continue to vaporize at cooler temperatures due to the reduced air pressure. For instance, at an altitude of 9,500 feet, the fuel will vaporize at temperatures approximately 15°F cooler than at sea level. Therefore, a pocket rocket stove will generally perform better at higher altitudes, even with colder temperatures.
It is important to note that wind conditions can significantly affect the performance and fuel efficiency of a pocket rocket stove. A strong breeze can reduce the stove's efficiency by blowing away the heat, requiring more fuel to compensate. Similarly, the size of the pot or cooking vessel relative to the flame can impact efficiency, with smaller containers potentially wasting heat.
To optimize fuel usage, it is recommended to weigh the fuel canister before and after each trip and mark the remaining fuel level. This helps users understand their stove's efficiency and plan accordingly. Additionally, users can employ techniques such as allowing boiled water to sit with the food for a few minutes instead of continuously boiling it, reducing the overall fuel consumption.
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How to calculate fuel usage per boil
The amount of fuel used by a pocket rocket depends on several factors, including the volume of water boiled, the temperature, and the altitude.
To calculate the fuel usage per boil, it is recommended to weigh the canister before and after boiling a measured volume of water. This will give you the most accurate reading for that particular setup. It is also important to note that the fuel mixture can affect the performance of the stove, with isobutane-propane mixes being more suitable for cold weather and plain butane mixes being more suitable for warmer temperatures.
For example, let's say you want to boil 16 ounces (0.5 litres) of water at an altitude of 4000 to 6000 feet. According to a user on Rokslide Forum, the fuel usage per boil was 4 grams. This included attaching and removing the burner for each boil.
Another user on the same forum reported an average fuel usage of 10 grams per boil for a similar volume of water (between 16 and 24 ounces). This user also noted that they had only run out of fuel once after a long, wet day of hiking when they made too many hot drinks.
It is worth noting that the MSR PocketRocket 2, a popular pocket rocket stove, uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters that come in sizes of 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz. The fuel consumption will depend on the size of the canister and the intensity of the flame, which is adjustable.
Therefore, to calculate fuel usage per boil, it is essential to consider the volume of water boiled, the temperature and altitude, the type of fuel, and the specific stove model. By weighing the fuel canister before and after boiling a measured amount of water, you can determine the exact fuel usage for your particular setup.
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Liquid fuel stoves vs Pocket Rocket stoves
The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a 2.6 oz / 74 g backpacking canister stove with three foldable pot supports and an adjustable flame. It is lightweight, compact, and compatible with isobutane-propane fuel canisters, the most common kind 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. On average, users can expect to use about 1 ounce of isopropyl fuel per day, which accounts for boiling 2 cups of water in the evening and about 1.5 cups in the morning.
Liquid fuel stoves, on the other hand, often require experience and skill to achieve a good simmer. They also have a steep learning curve and are not recommended by manufacturers. Additionally, liquid fuel stoves may have problems in the wind, affecting their fuel efficiency. However, they can be paired with a windscreen to block the wind and focus the heat on the pot, which is not recommended for pocket rocket stoves as it can cause the canister to overheat and explode.
While pocket rocket stoves are lightweight and compact, liquid fuel stoves are bulkier and require more accessories. Pocket rocket stoves are also easier to operate, with large wire knobs that make them more accessible and user-friendly.
Overall, pocket rocket stoves are a more convenient and efficient option for backpackers due to their lightweight, compact design, and ease of use. Liquid fuel stoves may be more suitable for certain situations, such as extended periods of high altitude or below-freezing conditions, but they require more skill and experience to operate effectively.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel consumption of the Pocket Rocket depends on the amount of water boiled, the temperature, and the altitude. The Pocket Rocket uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which are available in 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz sizes.
The Pocket Rocket Deluxe uses around 10 grams of fuel per boil, depending on the elevation and temperature. At sea level, it can use around 7 grams of fuel per 450ml boil.
A small canister can last around three to four days with two boils per day. A larger 16 oz canister is likely only needed for car camping rather than backpacking.
The Pocket Rocket uses isobutane-propane fuel canisters, which are the most common type of fuel canisters. It is recommended to use a propane/isobutane mix for cold weather conditions.
While the manufacturer recommends using MSR fuel canisters, some users have reported success with off-brand fuel canisters and other brands such as Snow Peak and Jetboil. It is important to ensure the fuel is suitable for the temperature conditions.
