Just wanted to introduce myself as a new member. I've become quite interested in (primarily) 123's, 8r's, and 111's in the past year or so. Over that time I've collected a 123 & 123r (both early 70's), (3) 8r's (1 is new/unfired) and a 111b. All are in excellent condition and are "users" except for the unfired 8r. I also own an old Coleman 550 Peak1 single burner (which has seen the top of the 2 highest Adirondack peaks), and the classic Coleman 2-burner. When it warms up enough to take some pics outdoors I'll post some. With regard to the 123 I have been looking for an original pricker and if anyone here in the U.S. might have an extra one to part with I would be interested in buying. I also have a question regarding this stove. Is there any problem (pressure related) in running it for long periods of time (a tank of fuel), either full bore or simmer? Would a full flame create more pressure, or less?
Welcome aboard mate The only problem running a full tank is letting it run dry. Do that too often and you can char the internal wick.
Hi FC01, The good thing about the 8R and 123's are that you cannot not hear them when they are running well. But, if the noise starts to seem abnormally louder than ususal, it might be time to let things cool off a bit. On the 8R this can happen when the pot is large enough to reflect heat onto the tank (I have even poured a little cold water on the tank at times). I have not had a similar experience with a 123 but I suppose it is possible under some conditions (I have seen Sigg wind screens that appear to have been over heated). I would just remember the old advice of not leaving the stove running completely unattended. Oh, and those old folding prickers are much harder to come by than the stoves, by a long shot. I'd bet if one came up by itself for sale on an auction site, there would be much bidding.
Thanks for the info. In my research on the 123's I've never seen any recommendations or warnings regarding long-term cooking/simmering (45mins to 1hr), so I am not too concerned, but given my limited experience with these stoves I wanted to be sure. This summer will be the first year that I will put my collection to more serious use. I've looked for quite a while for an original pricker and you are right - they are not to be found. I guess I'll have to come up with a fabrication.
Welcome to CCS. There are some here who know a lot, and some who don't but, it seems like everybody knows themselves, and nobody talks outside of their knowledge. Except me. If you ask questions, heed the responses, because they're mostly very carefully worded. I don't know that much myself, but man..you will if you hang around here! And, yes, 123s rock. Keep looking and you'll find the prickers you want. Go on eBay, and type in Svea 123. When they come up, look closely, and you'll see what you want. Also, if you put the upper windshield of a Sigg Tourist on upside down, ( ), you can very easily overheat a 123. Bring your camera. Also, it's very impressive at night. Al in Oklahoma
