Since I own two 96 size stoves, I thought it could be fun for them to particpate in a friendly little competition. The older competitor is an old Swedish gentleman called Primus 96 (sometimes called mr. Lipstick for some strange reason), while the younger is a Japanse youngster called Manaslu 96. The competition took place out of doors, at around 0 degrees C. In other words the temperature where water turns to ice. So, what could be more appropriate than to bring water up to the temperature where it boils, and transforms to steam? It was agreed to process half a litre of water each. Both stoves were filled up with identical kero, and had their jets cleaned by an appropriate pricker. The youngster with the big roaring burner head was eager to get started, and since the older Swede was in no hurry at all, mr. Manaslu started first: And Manaslu was working quite hard: ... while his performance was monitored all the way: Manaslu was reasonably happy with his performance, as he accomplished his goal in 3:40, but he thinks there may be room for some improvement. By now, Mr. Primus was warming up. He seemed a bit unhappy with his starter meths, as he produced quite a bit of yellow flames: He was however soon up to speed when given his favorite kero main course: Primus soon realised that he couldn't quite keep up with the younger Manaslu, but given his age and somewhat simpler design, he was well pleased with his 4:50 result. In fact, he was so happy to be in action again, that he kept the fire going for a while after crossing the finnishing line: All in all a pleasant outing with two small but spelendid performers! The results are not to be taken too seriously.
LOL! well, i have not had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Lipstick in person, but i am well acquainted with the youngster Manaslu - looks like they had a good time and performed admirably! well done! willie a Manaslu 96 fan on the Gulf of Mexico
Good Morning, knutb, Excellent report, and photos! Thank you for the big smile I'm wearing right now, as it's a great way to start the day!! Well done, and God Bless! Every Good Wish, Doc
Could not agree more Knutb a excellent pictorial report. I say this every time, I adore all the Korean stoves they are really superb, the Manaslu having a 210 type roarer burner, would out perform the smaller 96 burner. It is hard doing a test, as you could have two identical models, yet one may have very slight enlarged jet orifice, or any very slight issues that may not notice yet will effect performance. Overall I say the Primus 96 with standard lipstick burner gave the updated version a good run for its money
Thanks for your comments! Indeed. Reliable test data require careful planning, a large number of tests and so forth. I didn't even check the initial water temperature; just used plain tap water that felt "pretty cold". Both stoves could have been pumped to somewhat higher pressure, and the list goes on... But it's fun messing around with different stoves, and that's the most important result
Hi Knutb I have not done any comparison tests on my stoves yet. I must admit it really does look fun and interesting, especially when between two very similar stoves. Sorry George I don't know what made me think otherwise. Both nations' stoves are in the highest standards.
Awesome pictures and an awesome post. Makes me really excited to be getting my Manaslu 96 this Xmas and to get it out in some winter camping.
Hi arson, glad you liked it! The Manaslu 96 is a great stove, very nicely finnished. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
I hate to intrude into your post but my Manaslu 96 arrived the other day and the jet nozzle prickers that arrived with it do not actually go into it. Is this your experience as well?
Great idea for a contest - I like the saying "old age and treachery beats youth and inexperience" - I guess we'll call them both winners. Got me thinking about my 123's - one being a new "Chinese" model. Norm
Intrude away As long as it's related to a stove it's all good. No, your experience doesn't match mine. The prickers that came with mine work just fine.
The idea behind the "contest" was mostly to get an excuse to play with the stoves... But still; two stoves of similar size but with very different burner design is quite interesting to compare. The simplicity of the old lipstick burner is fascinating, particularly so since it works out so well in practical use.
Hmm all 3 of my provided jet prickers do not fit, however a vintage pricker from a Optimus 00 works just fine, I'll just use that.
arson51. I looked at Base-Camps web site and all three of Manaslu's stoves, 96, 121 & 126, has the same burner and jet so that you have got the wrong prickers seems odd. Contact the seller and ask for a replacement. Michael
It took so long to get over here I actually ordered it from a NZ shop because BaseCamp was out of stock. I will probably just order old stock ones from a US seller in Ebay. Thanks for finding that info for me.
