This is the UK in January snwcmpr. There isn't a dry leaf within 500 miles! Took the Trangia burner out to try it on the Crusader MKII that I've just got hold of. Worked a treat.
Ok, but I still clear the leaves away because a fuel spill could ignite even wet leaves, but that's just me. I don't like uncontained fires much.
@Gavin Mulholland , that looks like a Crusader II? Do you know the total weight of that kit? I've seen so many writeups on it but no one ever states the weight. Thanks.
Hi Knotty, The MKII comes in at around 720g before you add in any water and fuel. So while not the lightest, easily light enough and once you add in a spork there really is nothing else you need to add (though a lid helps). I was reluctant to replace my old Crusader MKI as it seemed pretty perfect and served me well for years but I have to say, the MKII is an improvement (lighter, bigger volume pot, bigger gap under the cooker allows use of Trangia burner or even twigs etc.). It is a great bit of kit to have.
Thanks Gavin. You've provided the missing puzzle piece. Some day curiosity will get the best of me and I'll order one. Would like a lower weight solution to what seems like an overly robust, aftermarket lid though.
That's true. I could be wrong but I don't think they do the plastic lid for the MKII. Had some melting issues anyway from what I hear but I never had one myself.
My Trangia is my main 'power cut' stove. Runs well on alcool a brulee that I picked up in France- much less smelly than meths. Last time there was a power cut and I was using it, I thoughtlessly put the grill rack from my oven on top, to use as a pot stand. I hadn't cleaned it very well and the fat on the grill must have ignited; it ended up glowing red hot and the wires buckled and sagged. SWMBO was none too happy...
Here's a tip for lighting a Trangia with a firesteel Pour some alcohol into the burner Dip the steel into the burner Strike the firesteel; use it as a match to light the burner.