Optimus Hiker+ Discontinued?

Apologies if this information has appeared in an earlier post. I've just been looking on the Optimus website and the Hiker+ isn't mentioned. Does this mean that's the end of it? if so, buy them now while you can still get them.

 

https://www.optimusstoves.com/us/us/272-8016278-optimus-hiker-plus

Ok, that was from an internet search. The normal function of the website does not show the Hiker +.

 

You still find it at https://www.katadynmilitary.com/

 

I still find the stove on different websites, although not through the normal website. Strange. And I have to say, €279,- is a very hefty price for a stove, but that's just my opinion...

 

This website seems to know more than most:

https://www.campsaver.com/optimus-hiker.html

 

Hi @Retro Camper , I can confirm that the Hiker+ has been discontinued. There is probably some limited stock left here and there.

 

Thanks for the confirmation Staffan. That's sad news but I shouldn't complain as I have never bought one. Until now that is!

 

Are the last ones with embossed on printed "Optimus" text on the case? Many on-line store pictures show printed version of the case.

Also how to recognize whether the tank is made of steel or brass?

 

Hi @Afterburner , as far as I can recall the Hiker+ case was always embossed. I know there are pictures floating around with print on the case, but this was never in production.

From distance I cannot think of any way to recognize tank material, you really need to scrutinize the tank. The tubes for the filling lid and for the pump rod was always in brass, so you would need to look inside the tank. Brass tanks were introduced in production during 2010.

 

A magnet will distinguish between brass and steel under paint.

 

The magnet, yes of course!!

 

To bad that they discontinue this stove. I guess it's the end if the 111 era.

 

Hey @Staffan Rönn Thank for the information! Maybe last Hiker+ stoves that are still for sale have brass tank if tank has been made from brass since 2010. (Here I changed one 111(C?) steel tank to brass tank: Hiker Silent brassification )

@Marc Sure magnet will do the trick but for stoves that are for sale on-line some visible indication would be easier way to ensure to get stove with brass tank.

 

Am I right in assuming the new hiker shared a burner with the nova?
I wonder about the future of the nova now.
Ivan

 

@Afterburner Use one of them newfangled internet magnets!

 

I just realised there is one way at least indicating from the outside if the tank is of brass or steel. Image below shows two packaging generations. The black one to the right was used during steel tank and beginning of brass tank era. I have no cut-off date. The white box to the left is newer, only used for versions with brass tank.



Of course there is the marginal risk that a dealer has had both on stock, taking them out and mixing them up but I guess probability of that happening is quite low.

 

@Staffan Rönn Thanks again for detailed information! On the other hand it makes more headache for Optimus collector, since he/she needs to find all variants.

 

Greetings, @Staffan Rönn , and All,

I, for one, am bummed out that the 111 is being discontinued. But, times change, I guess, and even the best of things from "the past" may not excite the campers of today, sad to say!! I do feel sorry for today's campers, hikers, and backpackers, as they missed out on quite possibly the very best camping gear ever produced and sold!!! I am equally glad to have been born in a time when I can, and do enjoy using that same gear!!!!! To all us Stovies, who know, and appreciate the best of the old stuff, our treasure, is now the new one's junk, it seems....! I'm glad I have a ton of 111 stoves, and will cherish them for as long as I can continue using them!! Take care, and God Bless!

Every Good Wish,
Doc