View Full Version : trangia argument
i was looking at a trangia the other day and i love the way they pack down with room for a bit of a bite to eat. But they take a long time, don't they??? i already have a gas stove but was wondering what you think the pros and cons are of both.
Here are my observations:
Pros:
- Cheap to buy/run
- Simple, easily maintained
- Fuel easily available
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Smelly fuel
- Not as efficient as gas/petrol
- Not as clean as gas
- Little flame control
- On/off control primative
- Not enough heat for a fry-up!
I like my Trangia burners but they are nowhere near as powerpul as an MSR petrol stove but they are simpler and less hassle.
You can buy a Trangia with a gas conversion kit. Runs off standard gas cylinders.
Best of both worlds :o):
innocent bystander
07-02-2005, 21:23
I remember once, when camping, i had to visit the nearest farm to borrow a pair of stilsons to open the burner. the meths had chrystalised the lid on. valuable lesson learned, to check it before setting out !!
As for the speed of cooking, i figure i'm in no hurry...
A drop of water in the burner with the meths seems to help with the sooting.
If you make a brew first, the burner is / should be warm enough to do a fry. Just wish i had the nonstick version.
martin...
arctic hobo
07-02-2005, 21:30
Trangias boil water very quickly and don't go wrong (except in blizzards but that's another story). The rest was covered by Adi. It's my stove of choice :biggthump
the gass attachment for a trangia is great!! but really expencive!
arctic hobo
07-02-2005, 21:44
Actually, never thought about it before. I'm a weight freak, would other fuels be lighter? :?:
Of those I've tried:
Gas - the hillwalking fraternity seem to go mostly for gas, for UK use. Convenient. I had an epigas one with integral windshield. However, on a cold day, sitting on the snow, a half empty cylinder and a 30 knot wind, it struggled a bit. None too stable, either.
Petrol - MSR ones are apparently good. Russian copies of the famous Optimus are cheap, apparently good, but heavy. Used to have a Coleman Peak One, which had two settings; 'barely working' and 'Achtung, flammenwaffen'. Good for melting snow as bags of heat.
Trangia - I am a convert to Ye Olde Swedish Army Trangia. Never fails, never falls over, never sets fire to your eyebrows, you can set it up and get on with something else. Bit heavy, but good. Readily available new and unissued just now, but for how much longer?
Home made alcohol stove - see the web. The lightest option by quite a bit.
Hexamine - Did not like it in my service days. Do not like it now.
RAPPLEBY2000
07-02-2005, 22:45
i put, trangia, purely because it's bomb proof, i've heard of these being dropped down cliffs, bent back and used minutes later, gas would be more exciting!
as for the lid getting stuck, this happened to me once very embarrasing, try lubing the threads with vasaline, also have a rubber band handy it helps you get a grip of the lid with gloves on or cold hands( i use a bit of bike innertube).
meths also has other aplications such as cleaning fluid, a fire lighter/starter, and also to harden skin(though i don't do this).
mine has flared up1ft high fireball (twice now) and i still haven't figured out why, (no rain, or other possible cause)otherwise i would say safe to use in a tent dorway. i have spilt burning meths before in a tent,(my scout leader told me to refill the trangia but gave me no instructions, so i literally poured more in whilst alight, (i coulden't see the flame) for this reason i would say it is a potential fire risk compared to refilling gas or petrol stoves, when meths burns you can't see the flame in daylight which is asking this to happen.
if i was doing a long haul trip i would use my MSR whisperlite international 600, purley because it's reliable, hot, and you can get petrol everywhere, meths and gas are not so easy to find, oh and you can also run my MSR on diesel meths, aviation fuel, white gas, vodka(any alcohol!), pretty much anything that will burn and i have heard of people welding plastic canoes with them! petrol also doubles as obviously a vehicle fuel so one can be siphened to the other where needed.
hexamine: i used to swear by but it's expensive, dirty and not so hot or controlablein comparison.
fire gel: seems more of a gimmick.
gas IMHO is more of a one hit wonder:
possitive, it's easy to use, light, compact ect.
neggatives, difficult to get hold of and the right size, it is far more dangerous to carry and store.
the cookers they fit to (apart from hose versions) tend to be top heavy.
gas can be difficult to light in cold conditions. (as can meths).
Gotta be gas for cleanliness and convenience, but for sheer reliability it's the Trangia every time for me :biggthump
It works and there's nothing to go wrong
Paganwolf
08-02-2005, 09:32
Trangia's are top cooking kit, have a look at this i picked a couple up from Australia and just found this link if anyones interested, STAINLESS STEEL BURNER :naughty: and they also do a stainless simmer ring, works really well seems better than the swedish brass job, gives of a better flame IMO and the simmer ring adjuster allows you to adjust the heat quite well.http://intranet.tatonka.com/infosys/infocgi/artinfod.dll?185@1 i haven't tried to order one from Germany yet, oh and they're nice n shiny :naughty: :lol:
I absolutely cant stand trangia
the fuel is prone to leaking all over your kit.
it stinks.
it gives of about as much heat as a bic lighter and takes forever to even warm your water.
the flame is invisible so you cant tell if the water isn't boiling because meths takes forever or because its gone out, you cant tell that you've spilt it either except for the smell.
the slightest breeze before you get the shield on and it goes out.
pots get covered in soot.
they are not that light, many gas cookers are as light the trangia burner.
they are not efficant, look at all the wind shields required to protect the variable flame and the extra weight and bulk of carrying it.
I remember taking a group of scouts out for a few days in the brecon beacons
and watching the group try to prepare a meal in typical brecon weather.
In the end I had to cook for everyone on an MSR.
gas is more dependable than meths in my opinion, in most good gas cookers there is only 2-3 moving parts, turn the tap and light.
they are so small I can put it in my pocket and boil a liter water in just over a minute, a distant dream for a meths burner
its a shame you cant get the canisters abroad (outside europe) easily but then it can be difficult to find meths too. but gas cookers will run off blow torch canisters if you find them (same thread)
choice between meths and gas........ gas for me, but that just my choice
Ranger Bob
08-02-2005, 10:50
I absolutely cant stand trangia
the fuel is prone to leaking all over your kit.
it stinks.
it gives of about as much heat as a bic lighter and takes forever to even warm your water.
the flame is invisible so you cant tell if the water isn't boiling because meths takes forever or because its gone out, you cant tell that you've spilt it either except for the smell.
the slightest breeze before you get the shield on and it goes out.
I'm inclined to agree...however, I don't like gas either really!
Can I choose petrol? :lol:
bambodoggy
08-02-2005, 11:12
I don't really like either Gas or Trangia....although I think I'd chose Trangia over gas.
I tend to swap between Hexi, Coleman Petrol stove and open fire depending on where I am and what the restrictions are. I very rearly if at all use a Tent so the cooking inside and safety associated with it doesn't really apply to me.
I know they are a bit unpredictable but for simplicity I prefer Hexi and for permanant camps I prefer the Coleman Petrol Stove..... I prefer an open fire to either but can't always have one.
I've only used a Trangia a couple of time and found it more trouble then it was worth....leaky meths....top fusing to the burner if you put it on before the burner has totally cooled....this melts the rubber O rings and then next time you use it, it leaks (yes I know this is just good housekeeping but I like idiot proof - I can think straight now but not with a broken leg on the side of a mountain with mild hypothermia etc) Once going they aren't bad though. Used Gas once...hated it and was paranoid the whole time carrying a gas cylinder on my back....not such a worry for civvi's but a big fear for squaddies. Having said that if I'd slipped on a scree slope and bounced down a Mountain side again I'd hate to know I had a gas bottle on my back!
I haven't ticked either box on the vote as I don't like either :nana:
My main gripe about gas (other than having seen two tents on two separate occasions disappear through unsafe use of gas powered device) is the canisters. They are light and cheap but also just seem to me to be a real waste (read - crime against the planet) and present a huge disposal issue.
My main gripe about gas (other than having seen two tents on two separate occasions disappear through unsafe use of gas powered device) is the canisters. They are light and cheap but also just seem to me to be a real waste (read - crime against the planet) and present a huge disposal issue.
...and you find that you have lots of partly used cannisters because you end up taking a fresh one away with you.
...and you find that you have lots of partly used cannisters because you end up taking a fresh one away with you.
Good point - I have stacks of half-used ones.
Another point in Trangia's favour - it is very popular in its native Sweden.
The Swedes, in my humble experience, know what they are doing.
bambodoggy
08-02-2005, 12:15
Another point in Trangia's favour - it is very popular in its native Sweden.
The Swedes, in my humble experience, know what they are doing.
I'd only ever seen/used the normal round civvi trangia's before and my below statements are based on that.....however...
At Ashdown the other week I saw Bruce using the Swedish Army one and I have to say if I was to use Trangia it would be that one....it looked a bit more up to the job....same applies for melting the O rings to the burner though!
I have to admit to no particularly liking gas either..... but in a comparison with meths......... gas wins my favour by a long long way
Paganwolf
08-02-2005, 12:41
regarding the burning the seal thing, the lids are supposed to be dropped on top side down to extinguish the flame then allowed to cool only then the lid is fitted, i wrap my brass trangia up in a couple of plastic bags to stop the stink if any meths is left over although this stainless one is much better constructed and once the lids on there is no meths leakage at all.
Personal opinion, I don't think it is a fair question.
If you had said Meths against Gas, that would of been fair.
Gas, butane (Bluet) or propane / butane mix, stoves with preheat (coleman alpine) or without (coleman micro).
Personally I like gas for ease of use, but the only stoves that are viable all year round are ones that have some form of preheat system and run on propane / butane mix, which has better peformance in cold conditions than plain butane. I have seen gas cannisters explode/rupture in hot conditions so they have a down side there as well.
Trangia, bombproof, if a little large. Treated correctly one will last a lifetime and more, not the fastest, but dependable beyond belief, they are easy to light, I have used them in arrid, semi-arrid, tropical, temperate and arctic conditions, they have never failed me.
If you want one to burn cleaner use good quality meths with water in it. Smelly, I have never really cared when it has been making a brew in the harshest conditions, throwing a bit of warmth out into the bitter cold and giving off a faint glow that is very warming in it's own right.
Petrol stoves smelly, yes, dirty ( they can be if anything gets into the fuel), they can be complicated to get running and the time that you save on boiling water is lost on the amount of time setting it up and letting it cool down, you still require a pan set and still need to carry extra fuel. Fuel, they can be very thirsty beasties can petrol stoves and the amount of extra fuel that you need to carry can be considerable. You may need to preheat (in South Georgia we were getting through a quarter hexamine block to preheat a Peak1) and the availability of good quality fuel may not be gaurenteed.
Pros and Cons
Petrol stoves are quick once running and can be clean.
Gas stoves are quick clean and easy to use.
Trangia, everything included (pans and windshield), simple, easy to use, quick to setup, bombproof with virtually nothing that can go wrong with it, relatively cheap to run and realtively cheap overall cost.
Petrol stoves, may require preheat, can be complicated to set up and run, you may require to buy a pan set / windshield, if water gets into the fuel it is knackered, they are expensive to buy / run and cannot be thrown around as most are not robust enough.
Gas stoves, the fuel is reasonable price, but you still have waste at the end, the availabilty of fuel cannisters may be limited, you still require to buy a windsheild with most, you still require to buy a pan set with most, performance can vary greatly with fuel type / weather conditions and can be a little fragile.
Trangia, a little smelly, a little bulky and not that fast.
Sorry folks, but with the running costs of a Trangia, its general robustness and the availability of fuel IMHO I think it wins hands down :o):
brucemacdonald
08-02-2005, 15:42
I will go with the Trangia camp. I do have gas stoves as well but those are for conventional camping, not for bushcraft use.
One thing I have noticed with meths (as I discovered at Ashdown) is that if it is cold, there is not enough vapour for the spark to light the fuel in the Trangia burner. I was using a firesteel to light; this was no problem whatsoever at the WG in September, but in January, it wasn't lighting. I guess this is why the Swedish meths bottles are moulded flat so they can be carried in an inner pocket to keep the fuel at body temp, making it easier to light.
Best wishes
Bruce
you have to keep spirits warm if you want to light it, just put a candle under the stove and wait for a while and it will light as easy as ever.
innocent bystander
08-02-2005, 17:31
Out of interest, who has got the oldest trangia here?. I've had mine some 22 years or so. Bit battered and bruised, but still does the biz..
arctic hobo
08-02-2005, 18:18
I absolutely cant stand trangia
the fuel is prone to leaking all over your kit.
it stinks.
it gives of about as much heat as a bic lighter and takes forever to even warm your water.
the flame is invisible so you cant tell if the water isn't boiling because meths takes forever or because its gone out, you cant tell that you've spilt it either except for the smell.
the slightest breeze before you get the shield on and it goes out.
pots get covered in soot.
they are not that light, many gas cookers are as light the trangia burner.
they are not efficant, look at all the wind shields required to protect the variable flame and the extra weight and bulk of carrying it.
I don't want to start a disagreement, but:
If you get a good bottle the fuel will not leak. I have a sigg-style bottle that lost it's rubber seal years ago but has never leaked a drop.
The smell is a matter of opinion of course.
I've found that the trangia is very quick to boil water, admittedly not as fast as some others may be but a good speed to cook on. If you're depending on it for instant hot drinks I guess it might be a little slow :?:
The flame is invisible, but in my experience it is always visible again as soon as a pan is put on it - it becomes yellowy. Plus it's usually dark when you use it so it's easier to see it.
I light my trangia with the shield already on :?:
If you mix it 1:10 with water the pots do not become sooty.
Efficiency and weight I don't know because I've never noticed a big difference, but then my experience with gas stoves is limited.
As I say I'm not starting an argument here - I am in fact open to suggestions because I need a new ultralight stove for this summer.
http://www.bushcraftuk.net/community/showthread.php?t=4166&highlight=clickstand
CM Burns
08-02-2005, 19:21
i use a trangia/gas combo for winter camping - exceptionally safe for use within tent. i use part empty canisters to warm up tent/dry clothes etc. obviously the tent must be carefully vented when doing this!
i only use the trangia burner. I use it in conjuction with a DIY pot stand and windscreen. Everything fits well in the pot ( track 900 ) with some additional things. It's a lightweight and space effective solution that works for me.
rapidboy
08-02-2005, 21:02
I have 4 trangias (a model 25 ,model 27 ,an aluminium military and a stainless military).
The military versions are great value ,reliable and great for using over an open fire if required especially the stainless version.
The main disadvantage is the burner sits on the ground so you have to be careful what surface you use it on.
The civilian versions are very good ,more expensive than the military versions but not expensive when you compare them to other cook systems where you have to buy wind shields and pots separately.
It has been mentioned that they are bulky but there are a couple of version to choose from and as they contain a wind shield and a full set of pots they are actually quite compact.
I use trangia fuel bottles and have never had a problem with them leaking.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/rapidboy1/395_9527_1.jpg
That's a 1 litre trangia fuel bottle on the left (500ml version also available) with a model 27 on the right.
I use a firesteel to light mine and always install the wind shield before i light it ,a match will blow out but a spark from a firesteel "jumps" right into the burner and this works in even the worst weather conditions and i have never been unable to light mine using this method.
I use mine when beach fishing in storms and have never had a failure.
I use the simmer ring to extinguish the burner and so i never damage the seals.
The burner is raised on the civilian version and it means you can use it on any surface ,they are also very stable especially when compared to some of the as stoves.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/rapidboy1/364_6496_1.jpg
Thats my model 25 being used in a boat.
Note the sides of th ekettle are black ,I now use industrial spirits and this eliminates the soot deposit (caused by the purple dye) and reduces the meths odour.
The simple aluminium and brass construction and the simplicity of the burner mean you can use it around salt water without corrosion problems.
I use mine for fry up's ,for boiling potatoes and making stew and have never found them lacking in heat output but i have replaced the standard pan on mine and replaced them with non stick versions which make sfrying fish etc. much easier.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/rapidboy1/worlds_004_1.jpg
A pot of Irish stew :lol:
A great little extra the green plastic "multi disc" that protects the non stick pan and can be used to drain rice or pasta and as a chopping block..
They are slow but not ridiculously so and when your in the woods ,whats the rush ?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/rapidboy1/376_7682crop_1.jpg
The only problem i find is the pots dont lend themselves to being used over an open fire which would make them even more versatile.
Stainless pots and a pot hanger would remedy this but add more weight.
I like the look of the clickstand and im sure i will try one sooner or later.
rb
Nice mini review review rapid :o): :biggthump
nameless
08-02-2005, 21:41
i choosea sweedish army mess tin ALL the time just becasue its reliable and i have never had any problems of leaky bottles or faulty burners though i still dont mind using gas though i just find it fiddly when your cooking a pot of water over it,also whats the rush of boiling everything? take your time and enjoy yourself!! :pack:
arctic hobo
08-02-2005, 22:26
Nice one RB, you're making me hungry :biggthump
I love the Trangia (Swedish Army stove)
1)Like Rappid my Trangia fuel bottle is the nuts and never leaks :nono:
2)For those searching for a cheaper meths setup checkout the new Argos catalogue, looks the same as the Trangia :naughty:
3) I really want a stainless steel Trangia Swedish Army mess set can someone please point me in the right direction?
I know they are heavier and take longer to heat, but I want one for an open fire.
Cheers
Horses for courses.
I've used the same civvi spec trangia for over 25 years. Bombproof, the ultimate in stability, leave it outside in a gale and it goes like a train. Downside is bulk and a truly lousy fuel. These days I still use it for car camping, carry a 110g isobutane cylinder and a crux gas stove inside a crusader mug in my bumbag for days out, and a high output primus himalaya gas stove for weekends. If I was travelling abroad or headed out for a couple of weeks I'd definately take petrol / naptha because it's the most common energy dense fuel.
I reckon the D's B's for trips in europe has to be the new clickstand setup with a trangia gas conversion - awesome idea. :biggthump
Danceswithhelicopters
09-02-2005, 16:48
I have 3 Triangias-A 27 Duossal, Alu Military and Mini one. I am mainly out in the treeless highlands of Scotland and if you want a laugh watch people with a gas burner build walls of rocks, rucksacks and occaisonally themselves in high winds. All to stop the flame blowing out or the heat going sideways.
Me in high winds? Wondering if I should turn the shield away from the wind as the flames are too high! In bad weather the Trangia wins hands down. In good weather it doesn't but you need heat and hot food in bad weather alot more than on a sunny day.
As for the oldest in use my mate Graemes was bought in '82 - 23 years. We used last year taking our sons away for the first time into the wilds.
Great piece of kit. recommend the Duossal version with a non stick pan and a Multi disc. Firesteel to light and your complete.
Try not to carry fuel in the burner as it will leak, let it cool and pour it back in the bottle. Siggs for me.
I've got a catalytic gaz stove and it's wonderful. No stink, no flame blow outs, easily obtainable refills and quick.
The disadvantages, heavyish and that it can take a while to cool down, aren't problems for me. The empty refills go in the recycling bin and the partially used canisters end up in the workshop for blow torches, etc.
I don't do extremes though, so I'd concede that I don't know how the cat stoves would do under more rigorous situations.
Toddy
I am mainly out in the treeless highlands of Scotland and if you want a laugh watch people with a gas burner build walls of rocks, rucksacks and occaisonally themselves in high winds. All to stop the flame blowing out or the heat going sideways.
Me in high winds? Wondering if I should turn the shield away from the wind as the flames are too high! In bad weather the Trangia wins hands down.
I absolutetely agree, Dances! I avoided trangias at first because of the cost, but a couple of attempts at gas in the mountains quicklychanged my mind. I'm now the proud owner of a 25-8 duossal, and I'm not looking back!
Mal
rapidboy
09-02-2005, 18:37
Is the kettle and pan duossal as well as the pots on the duossal versions ??
How do they compare in weight to the alu versions.
Hmmm... seems that posters from Scotland/NI/Ireland particularly favour the Trangia - perhaps a reflection of the weather and mountains in these parts.
Not for nothing is the Trangia called a 'sturmkocher' - 'storm cooker'!
arctic hobo
09-02-2005, 21:08
One problem is it cannot work in a blizzard. But then I don't know a stove that can, so it is best to dig a snow hole!
I have used the Trangia in blizzard conditions, I could'nt see it, so I did'nt realise the rubber ring from the lid had stuck to the burner, but while I "dug-in" the "trang" did its job boiling water for a "life-saving" brew. They a simple and truly dependable.
Neil
arctic hobo
09-02-2005, 22:24
You were luckier than me - it was too hard to stop the snow blowing in all ways, and also makes it so hard to light. :?:
Is the kettle and pan duossal as well as the pots on the duossal versions ??
How do they compare in weight to the alu versions.
RB, the pan is duossal, but the kettle is the standard aluminium.
Slán,
Mal
Walkabout
13-02-2005, 15:22
Im a big fan of hexamine. It wont explode and if you spill it you can just pick it up! It does leave a horrible mess on pots, but you can pull up a clump of grass and scour it off with the roots. Its very light, the cooker is tiny and if you knock it over then just put the block back on with some sticks. It is tough to light but if you hold it and light one corner with a lighter then you are away. The best bit of all is that it throws out a lot of light and a little bit of heat so it makes up for a fire. :chill:
SquirrelBoy
13-02-2005, 16:03
Im a big fan of hexamine.
It was great to see you use it at Ashdown, very lightweight setup indeed :biggthump Ive got a few esbit cookers and tabs kicking around but they dont really get used that often.
I like the trangia meths burner, because you can use it in both summer and winter. The burner is idiot proof so you can´t fail using one and the only thing that can get broken is a small rubber ring. People has been using these for many many years and all the people that has been in the army has been handling these in even the worst of conditions.
If you don´t want methe everywhere get a real fuel bottle and always let all the meths burn out or carry it in a small plastic bag.
People always say it takes too long time too cook with the meths burner, but hey who is in a rush?
Nightfall
13-02-2005, 20:21
I like my trangia. I have the civilian module. The only complaint that I would have is the wind screen. I just picked up the army canteen cup holder that can be used with heat tabs. The trangia fits perfectly under it. Should work better.
neo_wales2000
13-02-2005, 21:32
Without doubt, the Trangia is the most reliable stove made, can't fault it. Those who say say are slow to boil in an emergency, I would say left it too long to find shelter in the first place.
I Still use kero burning Primus stoves like the 96 and 210 some are over 80 years old and still work 100%, I wonder how many MSR's will still be working in 80 years?
Hi,
what the size of the trangia military version? Is it ok for two people?
Thanks,
Mauro
Hi,
what the size of the trangia military version? Is it ok for two people?
Thanks,
Mauro
The swedish mess kit is for one person.
it's quite a generous size for one person, i reckon it'd be more than adequate for two, if you can live with a menu out of only two pots.
cheers, and.
arctic hobo
16-02-2005, 10:48
When not worried about weight I always take two Trangias, it makes cooking easier.
big tony
16-02-2005, 16:24
Used a trangia in lots of places on boats in gales by the side of lochs
never had any problems water in fuel helps but not to much. hexamine blocks should be made illegal and an optimus blow up on me once when the solder melted and have trouble getting the right sizes of bottles for gas and dont like the waste "canisters".
Trangia make a realy good fuel bottle that dosn't drip and is easy to use. dont know about a lack of heat for frying things bacon and sausage rolls from trangias are how i got to this size .
:chill:
I once used my trangia on a scottish beach,with a stiff breeze coming of the sea and onto the vent thingy on the side of the stove . next to me was a guy using some type of petrol stove and bragging about how quickly it would boil.my trangy boiled first plus i still had my eyebrows and fringe.I am very attached to the pot gripper and use it over wood fires to well,grip pots.I should point out that re the trangy v petrol stove/bomb ,some strong drink had been taken.
just received 2 swedish mess kits, only tested stove a few times but so far I like the performance and fuel consumption rate
when i was a kid and in scouts we used to use trangias all the time.
just recently bought a swedish army one for 8 quid, cant complain, its a good bit of kit - solid and reliable.
i have a single ring gas stove - but i dont really use it, its handy tho... prefer the trangia.
raskusdrotti
28-06-2005, 13:47
Hi All,
Slightly off topic, but where can i get a Swedish army Trangia for £8??
IMHO i would always go for the trangia for the reliability and ease. :D
Neil
Hi All,
Slightly off topic, but where can i get a Swedish army Trangia for £8??
They usually go for £10 in army surplus shops. but if you want to save £2, ask Grahoom to pick one up for you. ;)
Martin
Graham_S
28-06-2005, 13:55
there is an army surplus shop in lanark selling them for £5 (at least they were last time i was home, i've been in belgium for a month)
i've used several stoves over the years. i hate hexi, the fumes are poisonous and it takes too long to do anything. my peak one is good but i love my SA trangia after all, i can use the pot over a fire if i want, and the fuel is cheap and easy to get.
Out of interest, who has got the oldest trangia here?. I've had mine some 22 years or so. Bit battered and bruised, but still does the biz..
Mine originally belonged to my dad, who bought it in the early 1970s when he became a civilian instructor at an Army Apprentice College. There were times when it was very handy for him indeed - especially on Dartmoor in October! I inherited it in the early 90s, and it's still in good woking order now.
Hi, I love threads like this! Let me be honest I am the worst kind of person – a kit freak who seldom camps! Over the years I’ve collected so much kit it is embarrassing (but never paid full price), but I love it all. I have, MSR petrol, Trangia (plus gas conversion), Mini Trangia, Gas, Green gel, Kellys Kettle and Hexy. They are all good and bad in different ways.
The MSR, I wanted one from being a kid, I love it. I find the idea of pressurised petrol 9” from a naked flame terrifying but it works well. I find having to preheat it a pain as it gets very sooty. It is very hot, but too hot to cook things on sometimes try simmering something!
The Trangia is very good; you feel part of the in crowd in the lakes. But meths feels expensive even though it isn’t. Everything gets a bit sooty, but not as bad as you do handling an MSR. It feels very bulky, but then you should compare the alternatives in conjunction to a wind break, two pans and a kettle.
The Gas conversion just works well, but it all seems to be a bit of a palaver!
The Mini Trangia is really quite good and I tend to take it with the big one to have two burners on the go.
Gas, boringly efficient. The VW of the stove world.
Green Gel – I got a Crusader cup and stand for Christmas and some gel, not impressed, still not managed to get a mug of warm water to a boil even inside!
Kelly’s Kettle – It was a present and I don’t really use it, it just seems to get so dirty and is bulky. I suppose it looks great in a Range Rover or a by a salmon stream with a black lab. It works well with a coke can meths burner in it though!
Hexy, I loved when I was a kid and I don’t know why I don’t use it more. Not high tech enough I suppose. I think it is because I don’t have a feel for how much fuel I would need for x number of days. But if you consider weight, size, cost and effectiveness it’s difficult to beat, so I don’t use it.
So all in all, go to the chippy!
I like my trangia. I have the civilian module. The only complaint that I would have is the wind screen. I just picked up the army canteen cup holder that can be used with heat tabs. The trangia fits perfectly under it. Should work better.
Your kidding? This the one that the cup sits down inside the canteen cover??
Gotta try that!
Note the sides of the kettle are black ,I now use industrial spirits and this eliminates the soot deposit (caused by the purple dye) and reduces the meths odour.
Where do we get this product and what do we ask for? I don't like the idea of soot covered pots, not because of aesthetics but because it's horrible stuff that gets everything disgustingly dirty.
Thanks for the review by the way, interesting and helpful.
I've been a gas user but that's because I camp with the family and we are always back at base camp for the cooking. Gas is fast and convenient but what I've got is a major size family stove that you wouldn't want to carry anywhere except in a vehicle.
Now that the kids are getting older I want to have a more portable setup for cooking away from "home". No major expeditions just a simple meal out in the woods for three or four.
I've found this thread helpful because I've been looking at Trangias. To me the Trangia sounds ideal and more windproof than gas which blows out very easily especially when simmering. There's many a time I've come back to my gas stove to find it blown out and leaking gas, and that's with a windshield.
"Your kidding? This the one that the cup sits down inside the canteen cover??"-yeah, I was thinking that to, from memory my crusader cooker won’t fit a Trangia burner in it! Or will it?
Plus where do you get that "clean" spirit from?
ta
the "ringstove" that fits underneed the US army field bottle (and the dutch) and cup will have enough space for a trangia. But you have to turn the cup 180 degrees. Or else the cup will sit on the stove directly, cutting the flames. Thats how i use it, great for short hikes. Not very efficient in the wind, though...
BorderReiver
28-06-2005, 17:28
Here are my observations:
- Not enough heat for a fry-up!
.
Always worked for me :p .
I was thinking about this last night and suddenly remembered the Gaz Globetrotter stove I got 27 years ago!!!
It was a small stove that nested in two pans. With the stove removed the mini Trangia in its stand/wind break fits as if it was designed to. It’s the perfect solution, a Trangia, pot stand two pans and a handle which when packed is 4”x4” cylinder!
Brangdon
29-06-2005, 21:05
I'm not very hard-core. I just need a mug of coffee in the morning, another in the evening and maybe a bowl of noodles - other meals I get from a local pub. For what it's worth I'm a hex fan.
It's adequate to my needs. It helps to use the army-style rectangular tablets, rather than the round pill-like ones you get from Millets etc. I am experimenting with Trangia stoves but I think liquid fuel is a bit scary - what if I spill the meths? What if the bottle leaks? I have a petrol stove which I find very scary indeed, especially in the period between when I've put it out and when it cools down.
the "ringstove" that fits underneed the US army field bottle (and the dutch) and cup will have enough space for a trangia. But you have to turn the cup 180 degrees. Or else the cup will sit on the stove directly, cutting the flames. Thats how i use it, great for short hikes. Not very efficient in the wind, though...
Thanks PC2K!...old habbits die hard, been carrying the USGI canteen/cup/cover for a # of years in different situations, but always used an Esbit to brew up my Ceylon tea,rather than the issue cup stand for some reason known only to my psyche. Trying to get my mitts on a couple of type 58 bottles though..canteen junkie I suppose I am!
bogflogger
16-12-2005, 11:40
My trangia is getting on for 30 years old! I have both a meths and a gas burner, so it's pretty multi-fuel (at least in europe). I have replaced the standard pans with "duossal" (stainless/alloy sandwich) pans, they were worth the cost. I also have a non stick frypan, plastic lid/strainer and a large billie that the whole stove fits inside. This last item is useless on the stove, as it sits too high up from the burner to boil water, but comes in handy for wood fires. I have also made an ultralight stand and windshield, so I can leave the rest behind in summer,or if dashing off peak bagging. Of all the stoves I have owned the trangia is the only one that has never let me down...ever.
I was "converted to Trangia" about three years ago - thank you God!
Totally swear by them now. I have 3! :o
Mini - for lightweight / stealth trips - add small kettle if required
27K with non-stck pans and plastic strainer for winter/entended trips
Military - with civvy burner - its quicker. Nice self contained bushcraft rig
Still have an MSR Rapid Fire (you don't see many of them) and a Pocket Rocket. They form the "how we used to cook section" in my kit cupboard ;)
I got all kinds of alcohol stoves some cook some just warm up .now just for one perk cup this is one way the burner on 1/4 oz fuel burns for 7 min but outside will need a wind screen
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/flintstove1.jpg
And a Trangia combined with a Primus (or even a Whisperlite) is definitely Top of the heap!
Basemetal
18-12-2005, 00:03
I have had and used a Trangia since 1981 (24 years) and love the kettle!
But...I rarely carry it for day trips or weekends because of bulk. To be honest it got most of it's use when cycle-touring was my thing -meths was easy to pick up as you were in towns every day or two and weight was less critical.
I also have a tiny SVEA 123 Petrol stove -this replaced a Coleman Stove in 1981 (which got too severely dented in a fall) For week long trips the higher efficiency of petrol won out over meths.
These days, to my own surprise -I'm using mainly Hex and boil-in-the-bag food with a Crusader rig. It isn't sexy, but it does the job if I can't light a fire. The army can't be all wrong (though there are tactical reasons for gas and petrol -speed v noise v smell )
I was happy to see someone mention the GlobeTrotter Gas Rig -I had one of these in 1979 travelling round europe and it did the job at a price (expensive cartridges). Serious problem wa binding the two pots together if sand got in between -separating could be a MAJOR problem. And then these were the days before sealing cartridges so there was always a nagging doubt and smell of gas in the rucsac...
directdrive
18-12-2005, 00:46
Trangias are great little stoves. I've used mine for years. The things I like best about them is that they have nothing to break or wear out or go wrong.....simplicity and reliability!
Another GREAT little meth burner is the Brasslite. You can find it at www.brasslite.com
Best, Bruce
Yesterday I compared the big Trangia (civilian version) with the one from the swedish army.
The former took 20min to bring the kettle with 0,9l of water to boiling point. The military one needed 6min for 0,5l and 14min for 1,0l.
After 24min the big burner of the military stove was empty, after the same time the small burner of the civilian version had suffered a lower level of the meth of only 6mm. Thats when I stopped.
It seems I will cut a bigger hole in the lower windshield of my trangia to accomodate the big burner.
neo_wales2000
20-12-2005, 00:22
I'm suprised to see this thread still running after a year. As in a post of mine last December, I still say the Trangia is the best cooking system designed overall.
Pro's:
Bombproof
Always work (use a match to light in the cold)
The fuel evaporates leaving no smell, unlike petrol stoves
Using the simmer ring will let you cook for an hour without refill (with practise)
Burn better in high winds due to design
Practise makes perfect, and they are a "safe" stove to use in a tent.
If they are good enough for Arctic Norway, they are good enough for any UK season
If you can't do a fry up on one, then you just can't cook, stick to HP beans
Petrol burners like the MSR are good, but prone to clogging if you use un-leaded fuel (plus all the cancer giving agents you inhale) instead of Naptha (Coleman fuel), Parafinn stoves seem better needing less maintainence, although the fuel smell stays forever if you spill it.
My stoves of choice:
Trangia 25, 27, or military
Plus, if there are two of us or more, one of the followng:
Svea 123 with SIGG Tourest Cookset
Optimus 8 or Russian R8 clone
Optimus 111 multifuel, heavy but burns ANYTHING
If you have any stove questions or need advise on maintaining your stove feel free to email me
Neo, Classic stove collector
Razorstrop
20-12-2005, 00:37
Trangia with gas conversion. Love it use it all the time
Mr Strop
Yeah, I'm a Trangia convert, too. A few years ago I bought a "28 Mini" model and I've never looked back since. I got tired of using MSR petrol stoves and having singed eyebrows due to flareups and cracked o-rings and clogged jets and burning my dinner because the damn things don't simmer worth a damn. They seem to have two settings: Off, and "Lets Start Welding."
Okay, in all fairness, petrol's fast to cook on, melts gallons of snow in minutes and the fuel's a bit more available worlwide. Well so what, I don't mind waiting a few more minutes for my meal too cook or melting a wee bit of snow, and the fact that my Trangia doesn't make any noise is also a bonus. (At least I can have a conversation when I'm cooking instead of having to shout!) :D
Adam
stonyman
23-04-2006, 14:50
I've got a Trangia with both the Meths burner and athe Gas conversion kit, The gas tends to light easier in the colder weather and the meths better in warmer weather, I have used meths in -3 degrees and it lit okay, but you do need a decent ignition source.
fred gordon
23-04-2006, 17:03
Here are my observations:
Pros:
- Cheap to buy/run
- Simple, easily maintained
- Fuel easily available
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Smelly fuel
- Not as efficient as gas/petrol
- Not as clean as gas
- Little flame control
- On/off control primative
- Not enough heat for a fry-up!
I like my Trangia burners but they are nowhere near as powerpul as an MSR petrol stove but they are simpler and less hassle.
I converted my trangia to gas years ago and never regretted it. Still prefer a wood fire for cooking though.
The poll is missing a third option: a Trangia with a gas-insert instead of the original one. I like the Trangia system, but the meth burner really s***s.
This depends a little wich Trangia set you buy and what components you use. I use the 25-7 with duossal 1.75, 1.5 litre saucepans, fryingpan and the 1 litre fuel bottle when im out. IMHO it basically comes down too these things listed below. The rest is depends on weight restriction, wallet and preferences.
+
Reliable
Long lasting
Modularized
-
Slow
Heavy
Risk of spilling
Im thinking of getting the Multi-fuel additon to my Trangia. On one hand you got the bombproof and light standard burner. But the other burns unleaded petrol or kerosene/paraffin. You can adjust the flame and turn it of when you are done. No spilling accidents = more secure.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b273/tantoman/Kitchen/multifuel.png
Power: appr. 2850 Watts/9700 BTU. Weight: 440g (burner and pump including fuel bottle). Boiling time 1 litre of water: appr. 3,5 minutes with the above mentioned fuels.
If i can find several good reviews that its reliable, if i get the money, if...
Ahhh, the Trangia Nova, ...it's actually a cut down Optimus Nova, a blimmin brilliant stove in it's own right, in fact one of the best ultralight petrol stoves on the market. If you get the Optimus Nova instead, you can get an adapter to turn it into one of these...
Start with a nova...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/optnov09.jpg
Get the adapter...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova1.jpg
Strip the nova...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova2.jpg
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova3.jpg
Attach the adapter...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova4.jpg
Install the adapted nova into the trangia windshield...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova8.jpg
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova9.jpg
Away you go...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova02.jpg
It packs down nice...
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova06.jpg
http://www.britishblades.com/pics/trangnova/trangnova07.jpg
...and it's all reversable.
If you want to read reviews, start with reading reviews of the Optimus Nova, buecause it's the same stove.
The adapter is about £10. If you try and find a secondhand Optimus Nova and add a new adapter, you may save a lot of money, plus retain the versatility bof the original stove.
In terms of power and controlability, the Nova is in a totally different league to the trangia. It's simply ferrociuos by comparison, but will adjust down to a gentle simmer too. For the most part, the regular alcohol stove works fine, but for long trips or expeditions, or cooking for more than one, the petrol variant takes the trangia setup to a whole new level.
There are downsides, it's more fiddly than the regular alcohol stove, you are using petrol instead of alcohol and that has additional considerations. The nova also needs priming and pumping, like all petrol stoves. But these things are relatively minor considerations and once you get used to using the stove, become much less of an issue.
Now don't laugh to loud hard. i mite hear you. Got this burner just to try things out did all kinds of pot stands why cant i make the trangia set up like you buy. The bottom is a alum. fry pan the top is a sauce pan alum the rest you can see. It works for me
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/th_trang.jpg (http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/trang.jpg)
Ahhh, the Trangia Nova, ...it's actually a cut down Optimus Nova, a blimmin brilliant stove in it's own right, in fact one of the best ultralight petrol stoves on the market. If you get the Optimus Nova instead, you can get an adapter to turn it into one of these...
Thank you for the excellent post. The kit just got more interesting. :)
Just found Martyn's Trangia Nova review on BB. For those that are interested follow this link (http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?goto=lastpost&t=4553).
Now don't laugh to loud hard. i mite hear you. Got this burner just to try things out did all kinds of pot stands why cant i make the trangia set up like you buy. The bottom is a alum. fry pan the top is a sauce pan alum the rest you can see. It works for me.
Isnt using knowledge and materials available what defines bushcraft? I like your work!
Best Regards
I personaly prefer the swedish army type, yes a little weighty but very reliable..
dont like gas much as it is not much good to me 'coz I travel on aircraft alot and cant take gas with me, gel, well its good to preheat multifuel types but thats about it, Hexi' well I'll just pick my self up off the floor while I reach for my resporator.... , Hobo stove, not bad but alittle messy for me, dribble stove (oil and water) very hot but again too fiddly and messy.
Karl
Minotaur
24-04-2006, 12:51
You can buy a Trangia with a gas conversion kit. Runs off standard gas cylinders.
Best of both worlds :o):
Biggest mistake I ever made was not buying the gas covertor when it first came out.
Trangia is the business.
anthonyyy
24-04-2006, 14:45
Does the gas conversion kit for trangias fit the fit the army version?
Does the gas conversion kit for trangias fit the fit the army version?
No, they dont.
I also converted a stove to fit the trangia. I used mine old primus mulfti-fuel stove (MFS) and made a bracket from an old piece of metal (old metal cover from a old PC) Work fine, the only problem seams it won't get enough O2 when i have the frying pan on. Interesting woush, when i lift one side of the frying pan off... The normal pans works like they should.
It seems to me if you are in a hurry then gas is popular.
I prefer to put the stove on while I'm setting up the camp, then it's ready when I'm finished.
I stopped using gas a long while ago because I got fed up of finding other peoples used gas canisters everywhere I went.
I've used all sorts of stove and I use a Frankinstein combination now.
My set up is a 10cm Zebra billy which has the bail removed and replaced with braided wire and it now carries a stainless steel hobo stove wrapped around it.
Inside is a titanium Triad solid fuel/meths combination with the windshield from a clikstand, a light chain for fire use and a cut down Trangia pot gripper.
The top bowl of the billy is drilled around the edge for use as a steamer, I tend to eat direct from the pot.
It's also got a folding cup, a pot scraper, some foil wrapped Esbit tablets and a film canister of matches in it. The skewers that form the pot rest for the hobo stove fit inside too.
All this fits into a small reindeer leather bag to keep it from fouling the rest of the gear in my bag.
I'm getting pretty close to my perfect cooking combination for backpacking with this set up but I'm always experimenting.
I don't like gas much, don't work in the cold very well, I prefer a Trangia and or the Trangia/Nova
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1915Small.jpg
For that matter, I prefer any liquid fueled stoves to gas to be honest
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_111restore2Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/111restore2Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_DSCF1813Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1813Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_COLEMAN.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/COLEMAN.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_s3.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/s3.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_BULLDOG.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/BULLDOG.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_no12a.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/no12a.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_42cleanSmall.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/42cleanSmall.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_FOXHOLE1Medium.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/FOXHOLE1Medium.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_DSCF1423Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1423Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_DSCF1379Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1379Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_221Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/221Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_monitor2Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/monitor2Small.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_DSCF1112.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1112.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_DSCF1074Small.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/DSCF1074Small.jpg)
Silly hobby for a grown man, but it keeps me off the streets at night :)
i take it you like stoves then :D why not everyone needs a hobby
;)
i take it you like stoves then :D why not everyone needs a hobby
;)
Not as much as I used to, I've really cut back now, but there is another member here, from over the pond, who has a shed FULL, and I'm not talking a small shed :)
bushtank
24-02-2007, 20:47
I have had my tragia for 12 years now and it is one of the best bits of kit i have bought. ( trangia :You_Rock_ )
I think rik thinks its me maybe not its a very good video but you get the idea
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/th_shopstoves-1.jpg (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/?action=view¤t=shopstoves-1.flv)
It's the trangia for me. I have both Army and civilian versions. If you're worried about the weight, try this:
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c269/prmaklpboo/DSCN0223.jpg
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c269/prmaklpboo/DSCN0216.jpg
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c269/prmaklpboo/DSCN0207.jpg
I tried it out this morning and it works a treat. The burner is a civilian one but the army just fits underneath the hexy stand (although it's slightly taller).
Pablo
I think rik thinks its me maybe not its a very good video but you get the idea
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/th_shopstoves-1.jpg (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d52/oops62/?action=view¤t=shopstoves-1.flv)
Here's me trying to keep your secret safe Robert :)
Compared to gas stoves the triangia is bombproof.
Might not boil your water as quick but what can go wrong with it compared to a gas stove?
For me the Triangia wins hands down!!:)
Now I've voted gas but to be honest I use all sorts if I cant have a fire (hard in a tent 1/2 way up a mountain I use petrol / diesel / yaks urine (apparently) well anything that my XGK will burn. But having said that I also use take a gas stove (old epi alpine) if i'm car camping or a trangia burner and homemade stand to give a second ring / warmer if i'm not concerned with the weight
So pretty conclusivly i can say - I use all sorts an love am all in the appropriate situation! :rolleyes:
demographic
24-02-2007, 22:20
Im a big fan of hexamine. It wont explode
Your not mixing it with the right stuff then...
The London bombers might say different.
Good point - I have stacks of half-used ones.I bought a gas light that fits on top of the cylanders for £15. We use it at camp if we come in after dark while we get the tillies or petrol lamps sorted out.
I have used many types of stove over the years and always come back to the trangia, its just so reliable and easy to use.
I use the gas convertor (£26 from the outdoor shop sale last month) for most of the year but meths if its going to be below 5deg as the gas really struggles unless you keep the cylander warm. :(
I never trust the cover on the burner to stop leaks, and always burn the fuel right off. I use a trangia brand meths bottle and have found that if I pour it out the saftey nozzle I get 5 minutes burn time for every count of "one" pouring, so for example 15 minutes burn is "one.. two... three.." :)
I too use the nonstick frypan although it is a bit heavier and have a multidisk strainer to stop it getting scratched by the base.
I don't get on with the kettle, mainly because round here everything gets furred up very quickly and aluminium pans get skanky very quickly.
For standing camps I use a standard 1ltr stainless kettle which fits on top just nicley but is only really of any use with the gas convertor. :D
Bjorn Victor
25-02-2007, 08:30
I know the trangia's perform well in wind, but you should see my Primus omnifuel in action. I tried to blow it out, but couldn't! The heat output is incredible and it burns all liquid fuels + most gas cartridges!
Can't go wrong with that. Also, one bottle of coleman fuel will get me a lot further than a bottle of methanol.
bjorn
When I started out about 17 years back I was introduced to gas. Ok it worked even if it was a bit of hassle in the cold. Then I read about Trangia. Got one a year later and have never looked back.
Sure they can "seem" slow but you know they'll get there in most conditions.
Can't argue with anyone about them being bombproof either :D
A difficult one to decide on. If I'm off to the hills, I'll take my Optimus Nova - wonderfully hot and controllable, compact, not especially light but I don't generate a useless empty gas canister at the end. For most other events, I take my Swedish Army Trangia with a civvie burner (with simmering ring, etc.).
Gas? Only ever for the ultra-lightweight, few-days-only type trip.
Well, I've got a couple of petrol stoves, the superb optimus nova and equally superb optimus 111c, I've also got the trangia converter for the nova, which again is super. Obviously I also have the alcohol stove to go with the trangia - actually I've got abou half a dozen of em. But I've just ordered a "jetboil".
Philisitne I hear you shout. :lol:
Well, they all have their place. As others have said above, they pick the stove that is best suited to what they are planning on doing. The optimus 111c is a superb base camp stove or a car camp stove, super-solid, reiable and powerful. The nova is the backpack equivalent for serious cooking on extended camps. The trangia is great too. It's super simple and ultra-reliable and gets thrown in the sack for any casual jaunt. But there is a place for gas too - or at least the jetboil. I bought it because all the other stoves I have are fiddly, or slow or smelly or any combination. Gas is quick, powerful and clean. I plan to keep the jetboil in the back of me landy for those "fancy a quick brew" moments. It only takes 90 seconds to boil, is very stable (you can boil up while holding the cup because it all screws together), I can use it inside the landy without worrying about priming, or smelly fumes. It's also a good, compact day-trip brewing machine. Just throw it into a side pocket and you're good to go. It wouldn't be my first choice "do it all" stove, it's too limited for that, but it has it's place. I dont think it is fair to write off any one particular stove/fuel setup in the search for the holy grail. They all have merits ...and shortfalls. The jetboil isnt even a little tiny bit bushcraft, but so what? It does what it says on the tin. :)
I have had problems with the fryingpan. The heat would be concentrated in the middle and a lot of soot. I solved it by bending some sheet metal in a triangle shape and putting it in the windsheild to get the burner higher up. Each side is 120x55mm.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b273/tantoman/Trangia-7.jpg
so I´m not the only one with a raised burner under the duossal pan .... :rolleyes:
I´ve drilled 3 holes in the upper windshield and use 3 modified st/st bicycle spokes (you´ll get them pretty cheap as new ones at your LBS or nearly for free at the recycling office). Don´t take galvanized steel spokes as they tend to rust and may be harmful to the aluminum made windshield.
Don´t take galvanized steel spokes as they tend to rust and may be harmful to the aluminum made windshield.And they will probably produce toxic fumes when heated:nono: :lmao:
since they´re located underneath the flames I wouldn´t worry too much about that. The burner itself reaches low temperatures only
I like using trangia but as a stand by i have a coleman f1 if i need something boiled quickly if really cold.
If i'm off to the hill's then i'll take liquid fuel, MSR xgk or similar for the quick boil, general camping with friends then it's the gas for ease of use and lack of smell.
Trangia's are gutless thing's at the best of time's, smell, are totally uncontrollable (lucky their not hot ay?) and take up more space then i'm willing to share :ban:
As for using a gas burner with your trangia? sell out :D
Silverback
08-03-2007, 08:54
Trangia's are gutless thing's at the best of time's, smell, are totally uncontrollable (lucky their not hot ay?) and take up more space then i'm willing to share :eek: Blasphemer!
If i'm off to the hill's then i'll take liquid fuel, MSR xgk or similar for the quick boil, general camping with friends then it's the gas for ease of use and lack of smell.
Trangia's are gutless thing's at the best of time's, smell, are totally uncontrollable (lucky their not hot ay?) and take up more space then i'm willing to share :ban:
As for using a gas burner with your trangia? sell out :D
Yep there's nothing like petrol all over your kit when you kakked up XGK pump leaks , or worse bursts apart. Even scarier if the stove is lit up. Even more fun in a tent! But don't lets not have nightmares.
If your trangia smells you are doing it wrong. All you need to do is make sure that the simmer ring is properly aired and dried before you pack the stove away. About the only maintenance a trangia needs. Unlike, an XGK...
any body any prferences as to model of trangia?
MINI trangias rule!
tp
My favourite Trangias are T25 or T27 depending on number of people, of course with Duossal or titanium pots. I´d take the stainless steel (for sure not the aluminum one) army version if I´m going to use a camp fire every once in a while.
T28 (the mini) as it comes from the store is for sure not light and not mini, just a waste of money IMHO.
A light Trangia stove IMHO would be: the Trangia burner and homemade windshield that fits your favourite pot (similiar to the Caldera Cone - or get exactly that one. The Caldera burner is much lighter but can´t be used for transporting fuel, you need to calculate the weight of a fuel container) - make sure the burner doesn´t get in contact with the ground and you´re fine.
My favourite Trangias are T25 or T27 depending on number of people, of course with Duossal or titanium pots. I´d take the stainless steel (for sure not the aluminum one) army version if I´m going to use a camp fire every once in a while.
T28 (the mini) as it comes from the store is for sure not light and not mini, just a waste of money IMHO.
A light Trangia stove IMHO would be: the Trangia burner and homemade windshield that fits your favourite pot (similiar to the Caldera Cone - or get exactly that one. The Caldera burner is much lighter but can´t be used for transporting fuel, you need to calculate the weight of a fuel container) - make sure the burner doesn´t get in contact with the ground and you´re fine.
Why not the aluminium 25 or 27?
I don't find the 28 'Mini' a waste of money. I own it, and it's not half bad. All it needed was a bit of modification.
I took an MSR windscreen, cut it down to size and poked some holes in the bottom. You can see the result in the crappy photo. The point is that the model 28 isn't actually all bad if you change a few things. I also have a piece of cork which I use as a ground insulator in cold weather. This all tucks nicely into the pot and doesn't take up much in the way of pack space.
Adam
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a336/addyb/Trangia.jpg
Timinwales
14-04-2007, 01:14
Trangia for me I'm afraid I've had my 25K (stainless lined) for longer than I care to remember it's definately in its late teens maybe even 20 :confused: I also own a mini which imho is cracking to just bung in a day bag or for a solo overnighter(s).
The only issue I've had was last Sunday morningwhen the meths would'nt vapourize and so wouldnt light but after sticking it in my pocket while I struck camp it had warmed up enough and that was that.
This leads me on to a question though have we unknowingly fallen foul of some piece of European legislation in relation to flash points for readilly available spirits like meths?. I ask because I've used trangias in the past at higher altitude and much colder temps. If anyone has any thoughts I'd be interested.
Cheers Tim
PS for me Trangia works! :D
My high regard for Trangia's is well known among my fellow stove collectors, as can be seen here
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/th_RikCoin2.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j188/rik_uk4/RikCoin2.jpg)
The only stainless steel version I own are a couple of the army units and to be honest I don't mind using aluminium at all. I must have about 10 or 12 Trangia's now of different types, without doubt my favourite stove. Put a Nova with a 25 or 27 and you have the perfect winter stove :cool:
Trangia for me I'm afraid I've had my 25K (stainless lined) for longer than I care to remember it's definately in its late teens maybe even 20 :confused: I also own a mini which imho is cracking to just bung in a day bag or for a solo overnighter(s).
The only issue I've had was last Sunday morningwhen the meths would'nt vapourize and so wouldnt light but after sticking it in my pocket while I struck camp it had warmed up enough and that was that.
This leads me on to a question though have we unknowingly fallen foul of some piece of European legislation in relation to flash points for readilly available spirits like meths?. I ask because I've used trangias in the past at higher altitude and much colder temps. If anyone has any thoughts I'd be interested.
Cheers Tim
PS for me Trangia works! :D
They're not great at melting show. It took me a long time to want to admit that but its true nor do I think its worth the fuel consumption. I CAN do it with my cork bottomed/windscreened 28 but it takes AGES and eats up fuel at an ungodly rate.
If anyone cares to dispute this I'm all ears!
Adam
Timinwales
14-04-2007, 16:41
They're not great at melting show. It took me a long time to want to admit that but its true nor do I think its worth the fuel consumption. I CAN do it with my cork bottomed/windscreened 28 but it takes AGES and eats up fuel at an ungodly rate.
If anyone cares to dispute this I'm all ears!
Adam
Conceeded even with good meths.....
But I still really like my trangia, has anyone tried these 'green ether fuel gel thingies I keep seeing advertised?.
Tim
Conceeded even with good meths.....
But I still really like my trangia, has anyone tried these 'green ether fuel gel thingies I keep seeing advertised?.
Tim
None of the Trangia's are great snow melters, the Swedish army and the 28 are the worse. The 25 and 27 beat them because of the pan/wind shield design. If you want to melt snow in a Trangia, mount a Nova in one and watch the water come :)
Never used a trangia, but have smelt them, from others using them, or filling them....I have always used the fire, gas or my trusty whisperlite.......Now I have a wood burning stove, and intend on using that pretty much everywhere as it is free fuel.......
Gawd, those greenheat gel packages are awful. I have a container of blue gel and it's basically the same thing. In fact, you might as well compare them to the old 'Tommy Cookers' of the byegone era.
I figure if you want to carry a decent pocket cooker, stick with hexamine/esbit tablets. If you need more heat, add some small twigs to the tablet. It works just fine. But seeing as this is a Trangia thread, I'll add my last two cents to the argument.
- They're dead simple. A five year old could use one. (Not that he SHOULD but...) :P
- They're reliable. If the jets become clogged, you can clean 'em out with a bent paperclip. I carry one in my pack at all times. (Not that I get out much but...)
- Yeah, you can melt snow on 'em. But for my money, it's just not worth it.
I really can't think of anything else to say. I love my 28 dearly and wouldn't part with it for anything in the world.
Adam
I have used a trangia for twenty five years and it was ok, bulky ,but a year ago I was persuaded to get the SA model , for ten quid fantastic, I filed out some groves in the windshield so I can sit a frying pan on top, and now use a "HI-GEAR burner cos it is a lot faster to get warmed up and if there is a better bit of kit for fifteen quid out there I will drink my methts ok
Why not the aluminium 25 or 27?
ti and st/st are much easier to clean "in the field" plus some very bad memories about alu pots issued by my government (not "T"-alu)
addyb: your windshield isn´t high & wide enough -you´re wasting fuel & time.
For what it does the T 28 pot/burner holder is by far too heavy: ~50g.
I´ve tuned (drilled a lot of holes) mine and it´s now at 32g - still way too heavy if compared to www.brasslite.com and beverage can stoves
Somewhere in the internet is a "Westwind" clone made from titanium with below 30g :cool:
ti and st/st are much easier to clean "in the field" plus some very bad memories about alu pots issued by my government (not "T"-alu)
addyb: your windshield isn´t high & wide enough -you´re wasting fuel & time.
For what it does the T 28 pot/burner holder is by far too heavy: ~50g.
I´ve tuned (drilled a lot of holes) mine and it´s now at 32g - still way too heavy if compared to www.brasslite.com and beverage can stoves
Somewhere in the internet is a "Westwind" clone made from titanium with below 30g :cool:
The link between aluminium and going ga ga has not been proved, and was blown out of proportion by some and aluminium cleans ok, just stir your food and don't burn it ;) I was given a Brasslite a couple of years ago to evaluate, to be honest I was less than impressed, have they improved it now?
I love to get one but got no passport oh well. :p
oh that turned out maybe a little in the wrong direction: the alu pots were government issued - not the bad memories.
The rumors about alu and constant forgetting - that came IMHO probably from some starting-semester student or a professor who wanted some publicity. I don´t follow that track.
My concerns are just a bit in direction of well known Murphy: if it can go wrong it does go wrong... for pots and pans it turns out to me that it´s just a bit less complicated with ti and st/st. OTOH alu is by far a better heat conductor ("T" had a reason to introduce Duossal rather than just plain st/st). I don´t mind using a "T" teakettle and the alu made Kelly Kettle for boiling water.
AFAIK Brasslite stoves got some modifikations over the years: changing from pressurized to open burner (you´ve read the well known story "Laminar vs. turbulent flow" it´s published in zenstoves.net and other sources).
different stove sizes
pot stand extensions
The first burners have been produced by Aaron Rosenbloom himself, now they are made in Asia.
What I don´t like on "B´s" compared to my "T":
the pot stand in combination with a bigger pot (a modification is offered now, in the future the potstand will be different- to me it looks similiar like on the old Volcano stove, Simon stove and others)
the need for a fuel container on short (weekend) trips and measuring in advance the amount of fuel needed
and a major design fault IMHO: the stove beeing placed directly on the ground
I used to use a petrol stove SVEA 123 because it fitted in a bottle rack on the bike, but the thing always frightened me to death. It was like being in close company with a harrier jet taking off. Its high point was selling it on ebay over 20 years later and recovering what I'd paid for it originally.
I like the trangia on my boat and sometimes use the gas conversion, but for day rides and overnights a Crusader cooker and mug with hexy blocks. I rarely cook nowadays so I just boil water for drinks, eggs and pasta.
I also like hobo stoves and kelly kettles but hexy is quick enough and easy.
twisted firestarter
27-05-2007, 11:59
I don't get the argument about meths smelling. Sure it does but gas stoves give off carbon monoxide which doesn't smell but is very dangerous. surely it's a case of the better the devil you know :argue:
In case you hadn't guessed I love my Trangia :D
Tricky question. I was braught up on a Classic Trangia with spirit burner but have lately been comitted to the gas. If I have to pic one of them, it would be gas, but it would in that case be a gas burner in a Trangia stowe. The basic concept of the Trangia stowe is simply briliant... I do however still bring a small 300 ml spirit bottle and burner with me just in case.
fred gordon
27-05-2007, 17:56
You can buy a Trangia with a gas conversion kit. Runs off standard gas cylinders.
Best of both worlds :o):
For me this is the problem with several polls of late, missing out the obvious options. Gas trangia stoves are very efficient and gives the best of both worlds. So, if you answer Trangia, or gas, what do you really mean? What does the result mean? :dunno:
Scots_Charles_River
27-05-2007, 20:45
Gas is limited in cold temps and wind, even in scotland.
Meths rules :D
Nick
Gas is limited in cold temps and wind, even in scotland.
Meths rules :D
Nick
True, back in January, I watched one of the lads trying to boil a pan on a pocket rocket or something, in the end, I took sympathy and boiled it double quick on my Trangia 25/Nova combo:) It was chilly though, I would imagine the air temp was around -5c or so that night
Neanderthal
10-06-2007, 10:09
Out of interest, who has got the oldest trangia here?. I've had mine some 22 years or so. Bit battered and bruised, but still does the biz..
In 1980 I met a guy on the Pennine Way with a Trangia, I was using a Bluet S200 Campinggaz stove at the time. I was so impressed I bought a Trangia for my next trip and used it until recently. These days I'm using homemade alchohol pop can stoves which are much lighter.
These days Trangias are made from thinner metal.
Stu
For me this is the problem with several polls of late, missing out the obvious options. Gas trangia stoves are very efficient and gives the best of both worlds. So, if you answer Trangia, or gas, what do you really mean? What does the result mean? :dunno:
But if you are using a gas conversion, then surely you are using gas?
Is the trangia a windshield, or a stove?
The question is "gas or trangia?" ...which implies gas stove or trangia burner, since it's silly to compare a fuel type with a windshield. Perhaps it should ask "gas or meths?" to be more accurate.
Anyway, back to the argument... :)
A few weeks ago, I bought a jetboil and for what it does, it's awseome. Talk about fuel efficient. It will bring 250 mls of water to a bouncing boil in 90 seconds flat. So what I hear you say? well that means an awful lot of boils out of a single, tiny 100g cartrige of gas. You have to carry a litre of meths to get the same from a trangia - and a litre of meths weighs a kilogram. The jetboil is fast, convenient, thrifty and easy to use. For cleanliness and fuel efficiency, it knocks spots of the trangia.
But... the point is it's not perfect for every situation. For cold weather, altitude, power output, boiling snow and access to fuel, you cant beat a petrol stove. But that doesnt mean you should take one on every trip.
Sometimes a trangia may be preferable than either gas or petrol. It depends on what you are doing, what you need from the stove, where you are going, for how long, at what altitude etc.
I dont think it's possible to simply answer gas, meths or petrol to a "which is best?" question.
The stove which lives in the back of me landy is the jetboil - the convenience of it is impossible to ignore. I can add 250mls of water to it, light it with the pietzo ignition, set it on the wheel arch and by the time I've added coffee to the cup, the water is boiled. The stove has cooled and can be packed away long before I've finished me cuppa. It's the nearest thing to having an electric kettle that I've found. Because the stove connects to the pot with a bayonet mount and because the pot is insulated, you can even hold it in your hand while it boils.
To make things more complicated:
I prefer the Trangia... with either the meths stove, the gas unit or with the Optimus Nova fitted inside.
Albeit a bit in the heavy side sometimes, I think its the best windshield/pot combination around.
/ Karl
To make things more complicated:
I prefer the Trangia... with either the meths stove, the gas unit or with the Optimus Nova fitted inside.
Albeit a bit in the heavy side sometimes, I think its the best windshield/pot combination around.
/ Karl
I agree with you 100% carl, for sole trips I use the smaller Trangia 27 with the meths burner (unless its winter) but when my lad is with me I use the larger Trangia 25 and Nova burner ( usualy burn kerosene these days), which in my eyes is the best stove/combo available (much the same as the KAP Arctic). A serious setup for those who want more than hot water or noodles;)
wingstoo
18-08-2007, 17:51
I don't get the argument about meths smelling. Sure it does but gas stoves give off carbon monoxide which doesn't smell but is very dangerous. surely it's a case of the better the devil you know :argue:
In case you hadn't guessed I love my Trangia :D
Now I am sure someone will correct me if I have got this wrong, but I am pretty sure that any fuel being burnt will give off CO (Carbon Monoxide) and CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) and of course is the silent killer be it gas or another fuel. Also Charcoal will give off huge amounts of CO...
LS
Now I am sure someone will correct me if I have got this wrong, but I am pretty sure that any fuel being burnt will give off CO (Carbon Monoxide) and CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) and of course is the silent killer be it gas or another fuel. Also Charcoal will give off huge amounts of CO...
LS
If you want a real deep sleep in your new tipi with a woodburner stove, then burn charcoal and hope your flue is working well;) Any stove in a tent is a killer in the making, be very, very, careful comes the winter and you want to keep warm; spend extra on your sleeping bag or clothes and keep safe. Warm drinks and food, plus a hot water bottle will make a big difference to your sleep
crazyclimber
19-08-2007, 16:02
Think it's a case of picking the right stove and fuel for the job. My choices:
Trangia - have the SAT and will take the burner and a saucepan for a 1 or 2 day wood walk in summer. The whole lot is too heavy, and from my experiences with the large trangias with scouts years ago the large set is way way too bulky. Difficult to light in strong wind, but does the job dependably once you've got it lit. Pretty much bombproof, but my big big hate: the fuel stinks. Until you've spilt meths inside your rucksack you have no idea... Plus, for longer walks it's not that efficient. Less energy per unit weight. I know there's an arguement that a trangia is a complete cook set too. Thing is though, a crusader cup (under a water bottle) and spoon and I'm sorted. If I fancy it I'll stick a mess tin and lid in as well. Full of food - almost no more bulk. That isn't really an arguement for me.
Gas - light, reliable, great for summer mountain use in the UK. Mine doesn't like wind very much (not sure about others - got a years old cheapo millets one) and performance goes down badly on snow or in the cold, hence summer use.
Petrol - my winter mountain stove of choice. Efficient, fast and powerful (great for melting snow), a little more bulk and weight than gas, but retains it's performance in cold weather. My biggest problem used to be reliability with MSR stoves. Used to find myself chucking a hexy block in as well, just in case - the MSRs did used to fail on me once in a while. Now got an Optimus nova. Expensive, but worth every penny. Easy to use and has never let me down.
My two cents worth :)
Have used trangia's in the past and hated every minute, slow, smelly, bulky and heavy.
True gas stoves are a crime against civilisation, but for a quick brew nothing faster.
Personally i use MSR's XGK for most of my campsite and travel need's, but recently have converted to my Hobo stove for everything, just can't use it everywhere, SHAME:(
Blasphemer? Damn straight :D
Gas converted tangia? just buy/make a windshield you sellout's :umbrella:
Modern gas canisters contain isobuthane, which turns into gas at around -10c, compared to regular buthane which is at 0c. By using this propane/isobuthane combination, you can keep going at -10c and even longer if you just keep the gasbottle warm.
The good thing about gas is that it contains almost twice the energy than meths, but the downside being the canister itself.
It love my jetboil, but i have yet to try it in harsher conditions, according to the webpage, paople have been using the system far up the mountains in quite cold weather. But i think I would bring a multifuel burner for that :)
bushyboo
20-08-2007, 20:03
Triangia
recently got a swiss army one and have used it ever since used a colemans duel fuel
before that and always found it heavy and bulky and you still had to keep it out the wind my triangia boils 1 pint of water in around 7 and a half mins which is plenty time to put up your tarp and hammock
never liked gas and you cant beat a small fire:headbang:
I have used Trangia stoves for about 25 years on and off. I think you have to realistic about what they can do, but they are so popular because they are fool proof - i regularly run D o E Award training and expeditions and always use the SA trangia because they are reliable, cheap, easy to use and safe (once shown!).
However i also have a Crusader mug and cooker combo, an optimus omnifuel and several gas stoves. What i carry on the day depends on where i am going, what the weather conditions are, how high i am going and who i am with!
Mini trangia for me
One of the pluses that has not been mentioned is that you can see how much fuel you have. How many of you have shaken the can before you went out only for the flame to go out during your brew up... ; )
I have been an avid fan of the Trangia 27 for many years but recently came across the Swiss military version (http://www.militaerbestaende.eu/product_info.php?products_id=1 189&cPath=21). It has a better design with the saucepans stacking whilst cooking to keep one warm whilst the other cooks etc. I picked one up for under £7 in excellent condition. They're made by Meta of Basel, can't find any info on them anywhere.
I've no interest in any company making/selling them etc.
commandocal
27-08-2007, 00:25
Trianga all the way! :)
antwerpman
28-08-2007, 13:32
I could perfectly fry meat in the trangia pan, but the burner should go for a minut to get its maximal heat output. As for the smelly fuel, that's true for the methylalcohol sold in Britain and Ireland. I go often camping in Ireland and discovered that the meths were very expensive and that a disgusting smell was added. Also the fuel there was blackening the pots. The methylalcohol sold here in Belgium ,costs about 1 € a litre(in a 5 litre can), is colourless and doesn't smell or blacken the pots.I used gas and colemanburners for many years and since 4 years a trangia . I like it a lot and will never go back. Excellent for cooking,no burned on pots, reliable, cheap and no noise
trangia all the way
great bit of kit
I have been an avid fan of the Trangia 27 for many years but recently came across the Swiss military version (http://www.militaerbestaende.eu/product_info.php?products_id=1 189&cPath=21). It has a better design with the saucepans stacking whilst cooking to keep one warm whilst the other cooks etc. I picked one up for under £7 in excellent condition. They're made by Meta of Basel, can't find any info on them anywhere.
I've no interest in any company making/selling them etc.
A very nice setup there, similar to the SIGG Tourist Cookset:cool:
I've used my Trangia for almost 20 years and it's still doing fine, the only things I've done is replace the O ring seal a couple of times and clean it occasionally. It's been bashed about in all kinds of ways and has an 'interesting' look to it, and works fine. Faultless!
hedgepig
10-09-2007, 20:44
I'm a trangia convert. My MSR pocket rocket is great, nice and light, but a bit of a bugger in windy conditions. My recently acquired stainless steel SA trangia recently cooked happily away in REALLY windy condition. It is a bit heavy though.
Scots_Charles_River
11-09-2007, 21:16
I'm a trangia convert. My MSR pocket rocket is great, nice and light, but a bit of a bugger in windy conditions. My recently acquired stainless steel SA trangia recently cooked happily away in REALLY windy condition. It is a bit heavy though.
Windy=trangia
Agreed, that's why I switched over.
Nick
I've used my Trangia for almost 20 years and it's still doing fine, the only things I've done is replace the O ring seal a couple of times and clean it occasionally. It's been bashed about in all kinds of ways and has an 'interesting' look to it, and works fine. Faultless!
Are you talking about a proper Trangia stove set or the heavy slow burning Swedish army junk? I'm a great fan and advocate of the 25 and 27 series, the 27 is always my stove of choice from my collection on a solo trip, simply because it is 100% reliable:) :)
Are you talking about a proper Trangia stove set or the heavy slow burning Swedish army junk? I'm a great fan and advocate of the 25 and 27 series, the 27 is always my stove of choice from my collection on a solo trip, simply because it is 100% reliable:) :)
T'is the 'proper' one - a 27 (though I don't think it had such a number in the old days!) - a trifle on the large side, it must be said, but a lovely thing nonetheless. It's been bashed about in saddlebags (horse, of course) and never missed firing up once.
slamdunk
02-10-2007, 07:45
Gotta go with Trangia - years and years of service, silent so no intrusion on my enjoyment of the solitude......
Treated myself a few years ago to the titanium pans too - they're wearing well!
Neither - Petrol coleman.
Gas is too unreliable. When it gets cold it doesn't work.
Trianga's are ok, but in my experience I don't want to wait 20 mins to boil a pot of water for a cup of tea. My good old coleman gets a billy done in about 2 mins - I've had it for about 5 years and it's never failed.
Neither - Petrol coleman.
Gas is too unreliable. When it gets cold it doesn't work.
Trianga's are ok, but in my experience I don't want to wait 20 mins to boil a pot of water for a cup of tea. My good old coleman gets a billy done in about 2 mins - I've had it for about 5 years and it's never failed.
To be fair, the new gas mixes which contain Isobutane work well in the cold, thats what they are designed for. If you waited 20 mins for a brew off a Trangia, you must have been using one of those Swedish Army meths setups, to be honest, they are too heavy and slow for serious use:ban: :tapedshut
Coleman make good stoves, I have a few myself, but I find them harder to fettle when they go belly up on you so I use a Nova or Omnifuel these days, both can mount in a proper Tangia, making the perfect cold weather cook system:)
Trianga's are ok, but in my experience I don't want to wait 20 mins to boil a pot of water for a cup of tea.
Did you try lighting it? :D
I'm a trangia convert. My MSR pocket rocket is great, nice and light, but a bit of a bugger in windy conditions. My recently acquired stainless steel SA trangia recently cooked happily away in REALLY windy condition. It is a bit heavy though.
A bit?
I am considering getting a Sankey trailer for mine, though I'm not sure the axles can take it. Mind it could double as a land anchor if I get bogged. :lmao:
Yep they take longer than other fuels. Are you in a hurry?
Thinking of dipping my toes in the trangia-pool, so to speak..
Wondering if anyone's had any experience with the new Hard-Anodized models? They look like they might be pretty good...
Bogman10
23-01-2008, 23:04
I could perfectly fry meat in the trangia pan, but the burner should go for a minut to get its maximal heat output. As for the smelly fuel, that's true for the methylalcohol sold in Britain and Ireland. I go often camping in Ireland and discovered that the meths were very expensive and that a disgusting smell was added. Also the fuel there was blackening the pots. The methylalcohol sold here in Belgium ,costs about 1 € a litre(in a 5 litre can), is colourless and doesn't smell or blacken the pots.I used gas and colemanburners for many years and since 4 years a trangia . I like it a lot and will never go back. Excellent for cooking,no burned on pots, reliable, cheap and no noise
no smell or Blackening ;) here in Canada Either, I use yellow Heat gas line anti freeze, best thing I've ever used in cold Canadian Winters whike ice fishing!
Trianga on the trail,hunting and Fishing, Coleman multi-fuel lives in my truck for the heck of it, Coleman 2 burner Camping in a camp ground with the wife so my wife will cook!
Unless It something in the Dutch Oven with a fire Which is my all time fav!!
Try bean hole beans or a stew . Dig a hole, lite a big fire out of hard wood and medium stones. burn down to coals ,bury the Beans or stew, cover with dirt. Go hunting till dusk, when you get back ,tasty stew hot and ready to eat!
Bogman10
23-01-2008, 23:17
Meths = no empty fuel cantainers filling up the land fills, less pollution in manufacturing the fuel .
I use a refilable 5lb tank for my 2 burner coleman propane, because I don't like thr throw away tanks!
my 2 cents.
robadams
28-01-2008, 13:14
I have had a Trangia for over 25 years and it is still going strong, mind you I have worn out and replaced most of the components over that time.
A few o rings due to a hot burner, a new burner after wearing it out(yes you can), a new kettle after the 1st one developed a couple of holes in the base, new pans when they started offering non stick and stainless steel versions.
I own and have used gas and multi fuel over the years but keep going back to the trangia.
It is simple to use and no moving parts to break, stable, great in strong winds,the pans can be used with other cookers, if the fuel leaks it won't ruin your kit, the fuel is available pretty much everywhere if you know what it is called in other countries and requires no preheating in the winter.
As for the wait time, simple, at the end of the day, drop your pack, set up the trangia and then start to make camp. 15 mins later you have water ready for a brew. Stick a rock on top of the Trangia and it can be left alone without any worries.
Now I am introducing my 7 & 9 year olds to the joys of camping it is perfect for them to use!
Variant 13
28-01-2008, 13:47
I hate Trangia, used them in my teens and had one for years with a gas attachment. But they are huge, heavy and slow.
These days I use real flames where possible and failing that a Jet boil as it's small, quick and lightweight and I can use the pan/cup over a flame as well.
Graham
Andy2112
28-01-2008, 14:03
Had a Trangia for years. Converted mine so that i can use an alpine gas stove (legs removed) and cut a hole and slot so that the gas tap fits through, not the best fit but better than the high price for a Trangia gas one.:swordfigh
I have had a Trangia for over 25 years and it is still going strong, mind you I have worn out and replaced most of the components over that time.
A few o rings due to a hot burner, a new burner after wearing it out(yes you can), a new kettle after the 1st one developed a couple of holes in the base, new pans when they started offering non stick and stainless steel versions.
I own and have used gas and multi fuel over the years but keep going back to the trangia.
It is simple to use and no moving parts to break, stable, great in strong winds,the pans can be used with other cookers, if the fuel leaks it won't ruin your kit, the fuel is available pretty much everywhere if you know what it is called in other countries and requires no preheating in the winter.
As for the wait time, simple, at the end of the day, drop your pack, set up the trangia and then start to make camp. 15 mins later you have water ready for a brew. Stick a rock on top of the Trangia and it can be left alone without any worries.
Now I am introducing my 7 & 9 year olds to the joys of camping it is perfect for them to use!
Good post, that just about sums up a real Trangia, they are my stove of choice for solo camping although in winter when there are two of us, I mount a Nova in mine, its the best winter stove combo around (next to a nice open fire)
As per my earlier post, I have been using various types of Trangia since being a Scout - so 25+ years.
I have just bought myself a Vargo Triad stove, made from titanium, to use with my hobo stove and have used it a few times with meths and once "upside down" with hexy blocks and am very impressed!
Packs up small and extremely lightweight!
Bought it from these people and was impressed with comms and delivery time.
http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/product129.asp
Simon
have to say that everything i've heard about those stoves has been to the contrary. i thought they looked a great size but general consensus changed my mind. how does it compare to a trangia burner?
have to say that everything i've heard about those stoves has been to the contrary. i thought they looked a great size but general consensus changed my mind. how does it compare to a trangia burner?
Cons:
It doesn't have the fuel capacity that a Trangia has and so burns out quicker.
It can not store fuel in the burner either, so you have to take a bottle with you.
It needs a separate windshield.
Pros:
It packs up small.
It wieghs next to nothing!
Can be used with hexy as well as meths.
The windshild isn't an issue as I use it inside my hobo stove. Size wise I love it as it fits inside the "plate" of my zebra billy - I'll take some pics and post again later.
Simon
It's been an interesting read. I've only ever used a gas stove previously, but recently bought a Trangia copy. I bought it for about £8 in Lidl but haven't had a chance to try it out. I'm planning to get sorted for an outing shortly to give it a test. I'll probably take the gas burner with me as a back mind. More for peace of mind than anything else by the sound of it.
bikething
28-01-2008, 20:46
Robby, You could always try it out in your backyard to get used to it :)
Use an army version of the trangia plus a civil nonstick number 27. Really like them both.
We also have a petrol inlay for the 27...
By the way, I always have two burners with the trangia's. If the fuel runs out, I just fill the second burner to place in the trangia. This to prevent burning myself refilling the hot burner.
Second, I always let the burner burn out completely instead of putting it out. This prevents leakage.
Esp. the ideas of having two burners is a good idea for kids using the trangia. (scouts for example)
I was thinking of that but with the weather we've had over the last while I'd have had to lash myself to the clothes pole and pegged the stove down. our garden seems to be at the end of a wind tunnel. The stove might have worked but I don't know if I'd have been able to tell due to my my eyelids flapping in the gale....:D :D
bikething
28-01-2008, 21:08
that's the best kind of testing! - better to fail 6 feet from the kitchen than 10 miles into the wilderness :D
Rothley Bill
17-12-2008, 20:21
Over the years I have used many fuels, I started with gas, like many on here. Moved on to petrol, but that has serious problems in my view. But in 1979 I bought a trangia have not looked back, I use it all year round and have used it all over the continent including the far north of sweden and norway. They are faultless in the near 30 years i have owned it I have replaced the burner and the kettle which was only 20 years old. I have also just bought a swedish army version very good but I miss the kettle which I use as a teapot.
Sussex Man
18-12-2008, 10:11
I must say I prefer Trangia's I've used gas in the Alps and it didn't like the cold altitude, I have an Swedish army trangia in s.s quite heavy but bomb proof and when you run out of meths you can light a little fire in them- great news if you travels are extended.
It's been an interesting read. I've only ever used a gas stove previously, but recently bought a Trangia copy. I bought it for about £8 in Lidl but haven't had a chance to try it out. I'm planning to get sorted for an outing shortly to give it a test. I'll probably take the gas burner with me as a back mind. More for peace of mind than anything else by the sound of it.
The Lidl clone is very good quality, they have even drilled out the holes so you can mount an Optimus Nova or Omnifuel in them.
Next March/April keep an eye out at Aldi, every year they sell a two piece non stick pan set with frying pan lid for about £6, these fit the Lidl clone like they were purpose made for the job and the quality is very good, easily as good as genuine Trangia pans
bushgeek_us
19-12-2008, 05:50
Greetings from across the pond. I've been lurking on these forums for some time. I had a question and I figure this is as good a topic as any to ask it in. Do the Trangia fuel valves from the Trangia fuel bottles fit on MSR and Sigg bottles? I have a number of army Trangia and Svea burners and mess kits and I'm looking for a good alternative to the flat fuel bottles that come with the kit.
Greetings from across the pond. I've been lurking on these forums for some time. I had a question and I figure this is as good a topic as any to ask it in. Do the Trangia fuel valves from the Trangia fuel bottles fit on MSR and Sigg bottles? I have a number of army Trangia and Svea burners and mess kits and I'm looking for a good alternative to the flat fuel bottles that come with the kit.
They do fit
Scots_Charles_River
26-12-2008, 21:58
I have just been using the swiss army ranger volcano stove, grp buy 36, without a burner just cardboard, but will use the swedish military trangia meths burner too.
Handy stove with the combo of burners and heat options.
Nick
OK, I'm swedish so I have to chip in!
I´ve read the whole thread and I find it a bit confusing.
When you guys (gals?) say trangia everyone means something different.
Some mean the methsburner which functions about the same as the one you can make out of beercans.
Some mean the windshield setup (which is what it means here in sweden).
Some mean the swedish army heavyduty personal stove for heating canned meals (the old swedish C-rations were just cans) which is supplied with a trangia methsburner. Not to be confused with the swedish army "ranger stove" which is similar to the trangia windshield and also comes with a trangia methsburner...
Anyway, the (any) methsburner is simple and rugged but as mentioned, meths is no good for winter conditions and it gets even worse when you, as sugested, mix it with a little water to reduce sooting. In the army when living in snow "digouts" in the mountains we would be three men in a team. Two digging and one just keeping the burner going, melting snow to prevent the diggers from dehydrating.
The real bennefit of the trangia, rangerstove and clones is that it gives great protection from wind in any direction and also channels the heat from the fuel up along the sides of the pot giving much greater fuel efficiency. Just fit the burner for the fuel of your choice.
On the other hand it weighs close to a pound and that equals quite a lot of fuel.
The trangia shield with methsburner is a great, proven piece of kit and can be overkill or not sufficient depending on your needs.
What I use?
Trangia stove with KAP-arctic keroseneburner. I did say I was swedish!
BushTucker
04-01-2009, 13:34
Having had problems in the past with gas, I now only use a Trangia for long trips, my pic shows the type i use, I think it is the heavy sweedish army type. As for the lid sticking on the burner, if you put the lid on while still warm the rubber ring seals itself. Putting a smear of vaseline on it only blocks the holes in the burner so I use a smear of olive oil.
OK, I'm swedish so I have to chip in!
I´ve read the whole thread and I find it a bit confusing.
When you guys (gals?) say trangia everyone means something different.
Some mean the methsburner which functions about the same as the one you can make out of beercans.
Some mean the windshield setup (which is what it means here in sweden).
Some mean the swedish army heavyduty personal stove for heating canned meals (the old swedish C-rations were just cans) which is supplied with a trangia methsburner. Not to be confused with the swedish army "ranger stove" which is similar to the trangia windshield and also comes with a trangia methsburner...
Anyway, the (any) methsburner is simple and rugged but as mentioned, meths is no good for winter conditions and it gets even worse when you, as sugested, mix it with a little water to reduce sooting. In the army when living in snow "digouts" in the mountains we would be three men in a team. Two digging and one just keeping the burner going, melting snow to prevent the diggers from dehydrating.
The real bennefit of the trangia, rangerstove and clones is that it gives great protection from wind in any direction and also channels the heat from the fuel up along the sides of the pot giving much greater fuel efficiency. Just fit the burner for the fuel of your choice.
On the other hand it weighs close to a pound and that equals quite a lot of fuel.
The trangia shield with methsburner is a great, proven piece of kit and can be overkill or not sufficient depending on your needs.
What I use?
Trangia stove with KAP-arctic keroseneburner. I did say I was swedish!
Good post Husky, and I agree with you about the real Trangia and the Ranger stove. I also use a KAP Arctic type setup. The one in the pictures is using the burner from an Optimus 111T burner coupled to an Optimus Nova fuel line and pump. The burner is on a mounter plate for quick insert into the stove setup. This one is using a Trangia clone, very fast boil time (knocks spots off a Jetboil in my timed tests)
The Ranger/Tor stoves were available in the UK a couple of years ago, I bought five for £20, wonderful value for money :)
Click images
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/th_DSCF3189.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/?action=view¤t=DSCF3189.jpg)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/th_DSCF3174.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/?action=view¤t=DSCF3174.jpg)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/th_DSCF3178.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/?action=view¤t=DSCF3178.jpg)
I have mentioned not diluting meths in the past, but this falls on deaf ears very often and the habit continues I'm sad to say
grebo247365
05-01-2009, 20:42
I have both the aluminium army trangia and the civvy trangia mini, and have used both in hill and forest conditions, the army model performed poorly in windy conditions taking 15 mins to heat up a tin of curry, also the high sides and curved shape made it a bugger to clean afterwards .
The trangia mini on the other hand I find a pleasure to use, the burner is the slightly more efficient commercial type is nestled in a small pot stand, it has pot grip, a 0.8l alu pan and a non stick lid, just big enough to fry an egg.
My only gripe with it is the pan grip which is a springy one piece affair and tricky to use with a full pan of boiling water, so I take along a standard trangia pot grip.
The mini only weighs about 300g so I take along a lightweight alu windshield to reduce boiling times and increase fuel efficency in windy conditions.
Also I never use a fire steel to light a meths burner, once I was testing a beer can stove I had made in my kitchen and opted to light it with the fire steel, simultaniously igniting/punching the meth filled burner across the room, setting said room and my hand a bit on fire.
A turbo lighter or matches are much safer!
calibanzwei
19-01-2009, 14:30
Question: What are the dimensions of the SA (m/42) version? Looking to purchase some kind of pouch for it once I but mine at the end of the month (buying pouch and stove together :) )
EDIT: and its weight please!
EDIT No2: found 'em :) For those that don't know:
Stove Total Weight : 950 gms
Size When Packed : 17cm Tall,18 cm Wide,11cm Across
Small Pan/Lid : 6 cm Deep, 16.5cm Wide,11cm Across
Large Pot : 13 cm Deep, 16cm Wide,10.5cm Across
MancsMan
25-01-2009, 14:26
I bought this to mod, (60289489850) on ebay, £2.50 delivered...... great buy,
Scots_Charles_River
15-02-2009, 10:18
Question: What are the dimensions of the SA (m/42) version? Looking to purchase some kind of pouch for it once I but mine at the end of the month (buying pouch and stove together :) )
EDIT: and its weight please!
EDIT No2: found 'em :) For those that don't know:
Stove Total Weight : 950 gms
Size When Packed : 17cm Tall,18 cm Wide,11cm Across
Small Pan/Lid : 6 cm Deep, 16.5cm Wide,11cm Across
Large Pot : 13 cm Deep, 16cm Wide,10.5cm Across
I got a canvas kidney shaped pouch that fits it.
Nick
I got a Trangia 27-4 UL some years ago and it served me well but it's not something I would use to boil a lot of water as the output is too low.
I use an MSR XGK with kerosene now whenever a fire is not available/practical. I did bring both once but it turned out not to be worth the hassle with the extra bulk/weight. I still use the Trangia pots and pans but the burner stays home.
Bought Trangias own multifuelburner and tested it thorougly lastweekedn with my scouts.
Its a optimus nova btw.
Very good bit of kit, and i can not see myself going out without it, or with the methsburner anymore, thats for sure.
webmuppet
23-02-2009, 12:27
I've just gotten a Trangie 27-4 (I think). People say it should boil 1L of water in 10-15mins. Best I've made it do (inside with the pot covered) is 20 minutes which is a shade long. I cooked a handful of sausages in it at the weekend and had to refill it half way through because it had run out. Maybe I just need more practice and experience :)
I was out last weekend and used my trangia with methsburner to melt snow for drinkingwater. It took forever and I had to refill the burner several times. The good thing is it's pretty safe and I have no problem leaving it while I run around chopping wood. The MSR multifuel is not as stable when a big pot is resting on it and can easily tip over - especially when the snow it rests on is melting beneath it.
I just couldn't read all posts so maybe this question has been asked before. Apologies if it has:
I have a Swedish army cooking set which is just the military version of Trangia.
Like said in previous posts I experienced slow cooking and the problem of soot (from methyl. spirit).
BUT has anyone used the Swedish army set or its civilian version Trangia as a wood (or twig) burning stove? By just piling your twigs and branches under the protection of the cooking set's windscreen and putting your saucepan in its usual place for cooking? That could be a life saver when fuel has run out or as a deliberate choice to avoid using methyl. spirit. Has anyone tried that? I haven't but think I will give it a try.
I also got that idea but decided against trying because somewere on this forum I have seen a picture of a melted hobostove made from aluminium.
Alu doesn´t give you any warning like turning red, it just collapses!
Yes Husky, this happened to me too as in fact I had already tried this experiment but never actually cooked anything: the windscreen turned red and seems ''changed'' ever since.
I have also the steel version of the Swedish army cookset so the windscreen would be made of tin I expect (this version of the cookset dates from wartime when Sweden couldn't import aluminium).
nige7whit
02-03-2009, 19:19
I've got both the aluminium and stainless steel versions of the Swedish Army Trangia, and I'm in something of a quandry.....
In theory, the stainless version should be almost perfect, but I'm finding, when cooking stews in the big pot, it tends to burn the food, right above where the flame is, even when turned down using a simmering ring.
I'm putting this down to the reduced head transmission of the stainless, so it keeps the heat a little more localised, leading to a 'hot spot' and consequent burning. For boiling water, or boil in the bag, it is ideal.
I'm thinking of getting a stainless Tatonka burner and simmering ring, has anyone used a Tatonka burner with one of these stoves? Will the standard Trangia simmering ring fit this?
forestwalker
03-03-2009, 05:29
I've got both the aluminium and stainless steel versions of the Swedish Army Trangia, and I'm in something of a quandry.....
In theory, the stainless version should be almost perfect, but I'm finding, when cooking stews in the big pot, it tends to burn the food, right above where the flame is, even when turned down using a simmering ring.
I'm putting this down to the reduced head transmission of the stainless, so it keeps the heat a little more localised, leading to a 'hot spot' and consequent burning. For boiling water, or boil in the bag, it is ideal.
When you say "Swedish Army Trangia", you mean set with the oval pot, right? See, the Swedish army used to have their own version of the "real" Trangia, Same burner as in the kit you appear to be talking about, somewhat hourglass shape on the set up stove (may ha e been made by Optimus, but not sure). About 20 some years ago rangers (etc) got the nice one, the rest got the oval pot with the burner kit. No idea what the current kit is.
I like the stainless version, since I have seen Al ones melt in hot fires when people have tried to melt snow without paying attention.
nige7whit
03-03-2009, 11:16
I have the version (ebay, about £10) with the oval pot and the shallow cup with the long hinged handle. I have taken the grey paint off with oven cleaner, and it looks better now.
I don't really have a big gripe, it's just that the stainless pot seems to hold the heat in a spot above the flame, causing stew to burn and stick, unless the burner is turned very low using the simmer ring. Long cooking for stew is not so bad, but frying of onions initially (used a little oil) is a task that needs constant motion in the pot, or they will stick.
I'm using the civvy trangia burner in mine, as it's smaller when packed (I have all manner of extras packed into the pot as well), and because it has a simmer ring, whereas the military burner does not work well with the simmer ring, as the mouth of the burner is too wide.
I'm considering one of the Tatonka stainless burners, but I need more info regarding the sizes first.
The smaller fuel capacity of the civvy Trangia burner does not seem to be an issue, when cooking stews, as the flame is so small, using the simmer ring closed 3/4, that it will burn for a couple of hours on a full load of meths.
It's a case of familiarity with what you have, at the end of the day. I'm learning what works, by using this setup in my kitchen at home, to make life easier when I take it outdoors.
mojofilter
03-03-2009, 12:24
I'm using the civvy trangia burner in mine, as it's smaller when packed (I have all manner of extras packed into the pot as well), and because it has a simmer ring, whereas the military burner does not work well with the simmer ring, as the mouth of the burner is too wide.
I'm considering one of the Tatonka stainless burners, but I need more info regarding the sizes first.
The tatonka burner is the same diameter as the civvy trangia burner, and a little taller, perhaps 20 mm or so from memory.
In my experience it does not burn as hot as the trangia burner, but burns for considerably longer on the same amount of fuel.
See here for some comparisons I done. :)
http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?t=69469
You mention a "civvi Trangia burner" but I thought both the army and civvi burners were exactly the same. In fact the only thing they have in common...I may be mistaken.
I heard that generally stainless steel is a poor heat conductor. Aluminium is a good one. Carbon steel is a good one too.
I am not too sure if my Swedish army cookset is made of carbon or stainless steel.
Nige7whit are you sure what you have is stainless steel? Could it be carbon steel?
My cookset is a WW2 issue I think. It would seem in those days stainless steel was uncommon. It has invaded (civilian) kitchens rather recently.
In my own kitchen | have noticed that all my stainless steel pots get the food to stick/burn. By the way, good idea Nige7whit to test camping cooksets at home first. If they fail outdoors you don't always have the luxury of a Plan B...
With the steel Swedish army pot my experience of it is only with boiled food so far. I have more experience with the alumium version and it doesn't seem to particularly get things to stick or burn.
nige7whit
06-03-2009, 18:12
You mention a "civvi Trangia burner" but I thought both the army and civvi burners were exactly the same. In fact the only thing they have in common...I may be mistaken.
I heard that generally stainless steel is a poor heat conductor. Aluminium is a good one. Carbon steel is a good one too.
I am not too sure if my Swedish army cookset is made of carbon or stainless steel.
Nige7whit are you sure what you have is stainless steel? Could it be carbon steel?
My cookset is a WW2 issue I think. It would seem in those days stainless steel was uncommon. It has invaded (civilian) kitchens rather recently.
In my own kitchen | have noticed that all my stainless steel pots get the food to stick/burn. By the way, good idea Nige7whit to test camping cooksets at home first. If they fail outdoors you don't always have the luxury of a Plan B...
With the steel Swedish army pot my experience of it is only with boiled food so far. I have more experience with the alumium version and it doesn't seem to particularly get things to stick or burn.
I think we're on the same wavelength regarding the heat conduction of stainless v aluminum. I got the stainless trangia, because of the fact that it would likely be tougher, and the stainless not tainting food as much, if it's an issue at all.
I am pretty confident it it stainless, it would have rusted by now, if carbon steel.
Regarding the burners, the military trangia burner is significantly bigger than the one that comes with the Trangia 27 etc. The base that holds the meths is bigger, holds more meths, the flange diameter is larger, and I think it's a little taller too. The mouth of the burner is a little large for the civvy trangia simmer ring to sit on without a balancing act.
For my purposes, I prefer the civvy trangia burner in the military cookset, as it allows me to get more accessories inside the pot with the lid on, I have:
the issue meths flask,
swedish firesteel,
small bottle of olive oil,
small bottle of washing up liquid,
small bottle of soy sauce (for noodles),
plastik spork,
piece of scotchbrite scourer,
Trangia pot grip
civvy trangia burner with simmer ring
I might try an experiment sometime.... I have been thinking about getting a piece of metal to place under the base of the large pot, to spread the heat better (like a really thick bottom saucepan, but a seperate piece). I have access to several metals, so it could be stainless, alloy, maybe copper, or even Titanium. I could cut it to a size that it would even pack away into the cookset for storage.
I just couldn't read all posts so maybe this question has been asked before. Apologies if it has:
I have a Swedish army cooking set which is just the military version of Trangia.
Like said in previous posts I experienced slow cooking and the problem of soot (from methyl. spirit).
BUT has anyone used the Swedish army set or its civilian version Trangia as a wood (or twig) burning stove? By just piling your twigs and branches under the protection of the cooking set's windscreen and putting your saucepan in its usual place for cooking? That could be a life saver when fuel has run out or as a deliberate choice to avoid using methyl. spirit. Has anyone tried that? I haven't but think I will give it a try.
Nomade, the Swedish cookset is nothing like a real Tangia, not nearly as good. Some stove sets like the Optimus Tor/91/Purple Flame are used over there I beleive. Don't compare the oval setups with a real Trangia, they are not in the same class of cook setups mate.
The Lord Poncho
14-04-2009, 12:45
Any stove that is carefully designed for endless campsite entertainment gets my vote. I am particularly fond of the frisbee and nipple grippers (which usefully seem to double as a frying pan and pot grip).
That aside, i have various ultra light gas stoves (great for military use with a tiny gas cartridge and aluminium mug- but forget it if there is any wind), a peak one petrol stove- fun, but rather bulky, reletively heavy, and seems to get through fuel quickly, and the age old hexy burner (the fumes i am told make you sterile- depending on the hormonal situation of your wife, this can be a highly rated credential of any stove).
The trangia as cracking for group use (combined with an endless supply of replacement rubber O rings), copes well in the wind, and actually (with a few exceptions) in test brings water to the boil in a broadly comparative time to most other types of stove. I can't help but feel that people who whinge about their slowness are simply overly taken in by the hearty roar of the petrol and gas offerings.
The trangia as cracking for group use.
Yes, for D.of E. kids - the main (probably only) advantage being that they're difficult to break.
The 'full' civilian Trangia set is a truly dire bit of kit for solo backpacking. It's the Volvo of cookers - a big heavy inefficient lump, albeit reliable!
Jim
Trangias are the only way to go in my opinion. Mind you I haven't used it in extremely cold conditions or at high altitude.
Here in Australia you can buy metho anywhere and its cheap. Gas canisters for small stoves are hard to find outside of the bigger Cities\towns.
They must put something in your metho over there to make it "smally", doesn't smell here.
If you add roughly 10% water into your metho it stops the bottom of your pots going sooty black.
New trangia pots, like a new billy won't boil as quick as a seasoned one. I have observed my Trangia will boil 1L of water just as quickly as a jetboil gas stove.
Dan :)
Where does this theory about adding water to meths come from?
If you add water it slows the cooking time,this is because some of the heat generated by the meths burning is used to evaporate the water.
Now my self I'm never in that much of a rush that I need the water to boil a few seconds quicker so the time delay in boiling doesn't bother me.What bothers me is the fact that I'm burning more meths for the same end result,this means that I have to carry more fuel just to waste it.
I honestly believe that for simplicity,durability and ease of use,you can't beat a trangia,It's a self contained cookset including every thing you need and space for some extras too.
I have just bought a 27-2 in duossal and if I'm out for a bimble I am happy that this is the most efficient way to ensure that I have a full cookset and fuel in one small and lightweight package.
As a stove fetishist, with many stoves, having tried about everything, for going light on foot in this country I would take a Duossal (light-weight stainless steel coating) Trangia with a gas burner. For canoe-camping, something like an Optimus 111 or a modern multifuel like a Dragonfly. I gave up on Trangias powered my meths, but each to his/her own.
Out of interest Nonsuch ,why do you prefer the gas converion over the meths burner?
Much hotter and faster. I seem to end up in situatons when using meths in my Trangias that either the meths won't light properly at all, or I can't get water really boiling, or I run out of meths, or I can't simmer easily.
Having said that I used a meths Trangia for a good few years and was satisfied. It's just that I like a gas trangia better
I absolutely cant stand trangia
the fuel is prone to leaking all over your kit.
it stinks.
it gives of about as much heat as a bic lighter and takes forever to even warm your water.
the flame is invisible so you cant tell if the water isn't boiling because meths takes forever or because its gone out, you cant tell that you've spilt it either except for the smell.
the slightest breeze before you get the shield on and it goes out.
pots get covered in soot.
they are not that light, many gas cookers are as light the trangia burner.
they are not efficant, look at all the wind shields required to protect the variable flame and the extra weight and bulk of carrying it.
I remember taking a group of scouts out for a few days in the brecon beacons
and watching the group try to prepare a meal in typical brecon weather.
In the end I had to cook for everyone on an MSR.
gas is more dependable than meths in my opinion, in most good gas cookers there is only 2-3 moving parts, turn the tap and light.
they are so small I can put it in my pocket and boil a liter water in just over a minute, a distant dream for a meths burner
its a shame you cant get the canisters abroad (outside europe) easily but then it can be difficult to find meths too. but gas cookers will run off blow torch canisters if you find them (same thread)
choice between meths and gas........ gas for me, but that just my choice
Oh, and Stuart, you forgot to mention that Trangias are rubbish too. :D
I agree with all said above and I'll add that they are expensive for what they are and they're pants when it comes to any sort of heat control. Whenever I think 'Trangia', I think stench of meths and burnt dinner. I persevered with a Trangia for years as a kid because I didn't know better, then borrowed a gas stove and saw the light.
Frankly, same goes for vast majority of meths, tablet or gel burning systems, including crusader, Swedish Army Cookset, etc.
Get a teeny gas stove and stop messing about! :slap:
PS. And meths tastes blimmin' awful. :yuck:
Just a question to all who have complained about lack of heat cntrol on the trangia.
How do you control the heat on an open fire?
Just a question to all who have complained about lack of heat cntrol on the trangia.
How do you control the heat on an open fire?
You move the pot further or closer, or up and down the pot hanger.
In a Trangia, from what I remember, there may be a couple of hinged metal tabs to do this but there are only a couple of positions. With the Trangia, there is also the burner ring.
However, these still limit the amount of control you have to a few options.
My mind is not changed.
gregorach
02-06-2009, 11:04
Just a question to all who have complained about lack of heat cntrol on the trangia.
How do you control the heat on an open fire?
Practice. ;)
Plenty of control with a Trangia, use the simmer ring:rolleyes:
Plenty of control with a Trangia, use the simmer ring.
Yeahbut, it's a bit 'mickey mouse', isn't it!
I think the reason why people use Trangias is because they used them in the Scouts and D.of E. - so they must be good. They're the Nijer of cookers - crude, inefficient, heavy and about 50 years out of date!
Jim
Wallenstein
02-06-2009, 12:40
Presumably an open fire is 10000 yrs out-of-date ;)
Presumably an open fire is 10000 yrs out-of-date.
Yup - and a great big no-no in the Scottish pine forests and heather moorlands. I've seen peat fires burning for days in Rothiemurchus!
Jim
Yeahbut, it's a bit 'mickey mouse', isn't it!
I think the reason why people use Trangias is because they used them in the Scouts and D.of E. - so they must be good. They're the Nijer of cookers - crude, inefficient, heavy and about 50 years out of date!
Jim
So, what is 'in' date, and please don't say a Jet Boil:rolleyes: Two saucepans, wind shields, frying pan, kettle, efficient meths burner and all stacks into a small package. Overkill for those who live on noodles but perfect for those who want proper food.
I don't like the relience ofnopen fires anymore and decided this year to only use a communal fire, or perhaps a solo fire in the winter.
Bushcrafters use too many fires, leave too many earth scars no matter how well you clean up.
BushcraftBaird112
02-06-2009, 16:21
I think that trangia cheaper but not as reliable. Really I dont think it matters it just depends on your personality.
Asa Samuel
02-06-2009, 16:26
I voted for trangia, not bothered about the weight, got enough control with the simmer ring, always been able to fry stuff and it's nice having the pots, kettle, pans, burner and wind shield all in one.
Oh that and I love how cheap methanol is (heck of a lot cheaper then methylated spirits)
I have both, mostly use Trangia / S.A. Trangia, but also use a small gas stove on one day winter mountain walks etc.
I think as with so much about Bushcraft, it's not just a matter of what is best, but also what is most enjoyable to use. Gas stoves are almost a little too easy, or "domestic" feeling IMHO. Whereas there's something about cooking over the naked flame of a meths burner, that's more cosy or satisfying somehow. Sort of second best thing to an open fire (or Hobo).
(Sad Old Romantic!)
So, what is 'in' date, and please don't say a Jet Boil.
The Jetboil seems overpriced and overweight. Probably fine for bushcrafters operating from their Winnebego!
For lightweight and practical camping I use a Coleman F1 Lite, a titanium kettle, mug and spoon. Camping from the boot of the car, I'll mostly use either a Russian R1 or Optimus 111T - both running on petroleum naptha. I sometimes bring out an Enders or an Army Number 12 cooker, both from the car boot. The Number 12 cooker is massively heavy and overengineered - it could probably take a direct hit from an RPG!
Jim
Humpback
02-06-2009, 16:51
I'm a Trangia fan. I have and use 25 and 27 versions with meths, gas, coleman fuel options. I also use T pans on my wood burning Honey stove (which incidentally accepts all the heating versions mentioned above).
I therefore have multiple alternatives for cooking depending on how (foot or canoe) and for how long I will be out and about.
I've never been a scout nor done the DoE award.
When using meths (which is kept in a small nalgene bottle - several brews or an aluminium fuel bottle for longer trips) I lift the pot or pan off the flame if it is too hot for the food I'm cooking.
Alan
gregorach
02-06-2009, 16:55
What finally put me off gas stoves was the ever-growing cupboard-full of nearly empty cannisters. At least with a meths stove, I can easily tell how much fuel I've got in my bottle and I can estimate fairly accurately how long it will last me. If I'm only out for an overnighter, I don't need to carry a week's worth of fuel.
The Jetboil seems overpriced and overweight. Probably fine for bushcrafters operating from their Winnebego!
For lightweight and practical camping I use a Coleman F1 Lite, a titanium kettle, mug and spoon.
The Jetboil gets up to twice the amount of effeciency compared to that setup.
For lightweight single user purposes, I would chose the caldera cone with a TI mug. The fully enclosed cooking area also improves upon the effeicency.
My Jetboil is the best personal cooker I have yet used for military purposes, where it need to be extremely effecient, reliable, and as fast as possible. Just brilliant.
The trangia is very nice for more luxrious outdoor cooking.
The Jetboil seems overpriced and overweight. Probably fine for bushcrafters operating from their Winnebego!
For lightweight and practical camping I use a Coleman F1 Lite, a titanium kettle, mug and spoon. Camping from the boot of the car, I'll mostly use either a Russian R1 or Optimus 111T - both running on petroleum naptha. I sometimes bring out an Enders or an Army Number 12 cooker, both from the car boot. The Number 12 cooker is massively heavy and overengineered - it could probably take a direct hit from an RPG!
Jim
The 12's are very good, I have a couple, the 111T is probably my all time favorite cooker though and I have an embarrassing amount of them:o Those little Russian R8's are pretty good saw some on eBay recently for about 25 euro's, all of course heavier that a Trangia setup;)
This is the standard 111 kerosene only model, much favoured by my norgie stove collector mates for winter use
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF4182640x480.jpg
Here is a 12 next to a British Army No7, the pans are stainless steel and are often matched with the No2 army stove
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF4131640x480.jpg
If you are camping from the car this is a dandy setup I put together this year
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF4118640x480.jpg
Trangia clone on steroids, with a 111T burner fitted
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF3191.jpg
This is an old 50's/early 60's Trangia type setup, not as efficient, but nice and I love the kettle on it
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF3170.jpg
This is a cheap Chinese burner mounted in a Trangia clone, throws out some good heat too
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/rik_uk3/DSCF2863.jpg
eBay item 260413589390 make him an offer, it will burn naptha, gas canisters and indeed paraffin
Plenty of control with a Trangia, use the simmer ring:rolleyes:
It's digital. How is that control?
The Jetboil seems overpriced and overweight. Probably fine for bushcrafters operating from their Winnebego!
Poppycock. Jetboil all fits inside integrated cup (including gas cannister). Although I haven't weighed it alongside trangia and fuel, I suspect there's not a lot in it and I bet the Jetboil takes up less space.
I have used a Jetboil now for about 4 years and, pound for pound, it has been an excellent investment. It has been up mountains (>4000m), in the jungle in Africa and Central South America, swamps, the highlands, the deserts of the Near East and Central Asia and it has never - I say again - never let me down. I am usually watched in awe, admiration and jealousy by others, who fannying around with their various random stove designs, as I rapidly cook my meal, have a brew, wash up my one pot, and go to bed, before they've even got the first pan of water to boil. The only thing that comes close is an MSR XGK but that runs on different fuel system altogether.
I have the pan support, the flux ring frying pan if required, and a hanging kit which keeps it all off the ground.
I'm not telling anyone to go out out and buy one - it's up to you. But, if you want something that is extremely good at doing what it does, there is little better on the market.
Dear Jetboil, please can I have a job? :D
The Jetboil gets up to twice the amount of effeciency compared to that setup.
But the great lump of a thing weighs 425g! Probably O.K. if there's more than one of you, and you can get your mate to carry it!
If I'm backpacking for a few days, I'm more interested in lightness and compactness. If a 250g gas canister lasts that long, it's enough!
Jim
eBay item 260413589390 make him an offer, it will burn naptha, gas canisters and indeed paraffin
That's cheap - I might be tempted (to add to my collection)!
Jim
The quality is not bad, the fuel line is not as tough as the Optimus or Primus lines though.
But the great lump of a thing weighs 425g! Probably O.K. if there's more than one of you, and you can get your mate to carry it!
If I'm backpacking for a few days, I'm more interested in lightness and compactness. If a 250g gas canister lasts that long, it's enough!
Jim
Mine weights 509g excluding the gas canister.
Thats including the burner, pot, windshield, pot cosy, lid, igniter, heat exchanger and cup.
Easiest and most effecient system I have tried to date.
For lightweight purpose, I wouldnt look at gas anyway.
Ha the never ending Debate on the Trangia and also the Jetboil.
I've used the Trangia a lot and the Jet Boil a fair amount as well.
In my mind Trangia Down sides are:
It uses a lot of fuel on a prelonged trip (which you have to carry).
It takes forever to melt snow with (not such a problem for bushcrafters)
It takes a while to get going in really cold conditions.
Up sides:
It's quiet in use.
Very stable
The kettle on the 27 is a design masterpiece.
It's not too heavy to lug around in the bergen if you share a 27 between 2 people
To my mind if you chuck another style of burner into a trangia windshield like the KAP Arctic ( gas / multifuel) then you aint got a trangia it's a Gas / multifuel stove with a windshield.
The problem of Trangia's leaking fuel and being difficult to simmer/ control the flame are easily sorted out by getting to know how to use the stove correctly. The more you cook with it the more you learn its foibles.
The Jet boil PCS gets a lot of knocks on various forums as it's now so mainstream and sucessful I guess. I was a bit sceptical about it at first but it's actually a really good stove and a IMHO the PCS is a future design masterpiece. It's certianly had a major impact on Stove manufacturers the world over. If you are wanting hot drinks or reheating meals in retort pouches (army rations / wayfarer / Watties pasta 'n' sauce) or Dehydrated meals then it works really well and is very efficient in use of fuel. It melts snow reasonably well ( as long as you dont overstuff the cup with snow) and operates well in cold high conditions. Fits in a PLCE or Vulcan side pouch with heaps of room to spare and a small gas canister lasts easily for a week if you keep the stove out of the wind and are careful to only boil as much water as you need. Plus the cup on the PCS means you can ditch your mug if you're going lightweight.
Cheers
John
Wallenstein
03-06-2009, 06:53
It's digital. How is that control?
Eh? The simmer ring on mine is hinged, so it can be swung round from fully open to almost closed, which gives a whole range of temps to cook with.
It's not an "on or off" thing at all.
http://www.soc.com.au/sd-images/55779.jpg
Eh? The simmer ring on mine is hinged, so it can be swung round from fully open to almost closed, which gives a whole range of temps to cook with.
It's not an "on or off" thing at all.
http://www.soc.com.au/sd-images/55779.jpg
Yeah, but still pretty crude and pretty much a 'kludgey' afterthought!
You have to take the pot off the cooker and faff around with a stick or tent peg to adjust it. Put the pot back on, find it's not enough or too much. Take the pot off again - and so on!
Jim
Asa Samuel
03-06-2009, 11:01
Actually, once you have used the simmer ring a couple of times you instinctively know where the place the simmer ring, I think it's a fantanstic idea, not "kludgey" at all.
Having used both gas stoves and meth burners I'll still go for meths any day. I love my trangia (I have the one with the kettle) and I'm getting a SA version soon.
antwerpman
04-06-2009, 12:42
Here are my observations:
Pros:
- Cheap to buy/run
- Simple, easily maintained
- Fuel easily available
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Smelly fuel
- Not as efficient as gas/petrol
- Not as clean as gas
- Little flame control
- On/off control primative
- Not enough heat for a fry-up!
I like my Trangia burners but they are nowhere near as powerpul as an MSR petrol stove but they are simpler and less hassle.
smelly fuel in your part of the world, the methanol they sell here in Belgium costs 2€, has no colour and no smell; When I was in Ireland I noticed that it was more expensive and they added a blue colour and a disgusting smell. I suppose they try to avoid that way that people would drink it. A petrol stove smells a lot more, Trangia is also safer, the food is less easily burned and it performs excellent in windy conditions.It also doesn't make noise. For 20 years I cooked with an Epigaz stove but since I have a Trangia I wouldn't go back to that.
Petrol smells linger for ever, but a clean fuel like Coleman/panel wipe/Aspen 4T won't leave a smell and will not clog up your stove like the additives in car petrol will.
I am guilty of slagging off the JB, but in truth its a good stove although very limited in what you can cook in it; for my style of camp food it is just inadequate for my needs. If I was 20 years old again I would go down the UL route and daresay the JB would be my stove of choice because I would be living on small high energy snack meals rather than the stews and curries etc I favour these days. The Primus Eta Express is a good alternative with better boiling times, the full sized ETA system is to my mind just about the best gas setup going and they are now offering a multifuel burner option, I'll treat myself to one for my birthday in October:)
Andy2112
04-06-2009, 14:29
You can buy a Trangia with a gas conversion kit. Runs off standard gas cylinders.
Best of both worlds :o):
I modded my trangia to run on both, all you need is one of those alpine stoves with the legs removed and cut a hole in the base stand of the trangia so the micro tap fits through. Been using this set up for ages.:D
Wallenstein
04-06-2009, 14:58
I modded my trangia to run on both, all you need is one of those alpine stoves with the legs removed and cut a hole in the base stand of the trangia so the micro tap fits through. Been using this set up for ages.:D
Any chance of a pic of how you've set it up? Sounds like a neat solution.
Andy2112
04-06-2009, 16:39
Any chance of a pic of how you've set it up? Sounds like a neat solution.
I'll bring it to the next meet at RC if your going, failing that i'll get Dave to take some pics for me and post them here. I was impressed with how easy it was to mod as i'm not that technical. All i used was a big drill for the initial hole then filed it bigger then i filed out two square sections either side of the hole. Now all you need to do is push the gas tap through where the burner sits and out through the hole then screw on the gas canister. The only problem i have found is that the burner does slide round in the hole but i've not had any problems as before you light it all you need to do is site the gas burner centrally in the hole. hth W
Andy
Eh? The simmer ring on mine is hinged, so it can be swung round from fully open to almost closed, which gives a whole range of temps to cook with.
It's not an "on or off" thing at all.
http://www.soc.com.au/sd-images/55779.jpg
I find adjusting the simmer ring after it's been on is a pain. I'm sure theres a technique but every time I try and change I usually get singed!
I find adjusting the simmer ring after it's been on is a pain. I'm sure theres a technique but every time I try and change I usually get singed!
Work the hinge until its loose then use the tip of your knife, fork or spoon to open and close it, don't try this with a plastic spork;)