1973 MSR #9, with original instructions!

Howdy, Håkon, @HaakonJ ,

Thank you, very much, Sir! Much appreciated! Any of the stoves in the X-GK family are good, solid, and reliable performers. Each has it's own personality, though, as some are for Coleman Fuel, only, and some for two fuels, and some for just about anything you want to try!! If I were to choose just one, for backpacking, it would be a hard choice!! But, I don't think you can go wrong with most any of them. The newest one, X-GK EX is a gem, too!! Packs down smaller, and can have all it's goodies, including a maintenance kit, in the same small bag. That would be an excellent choice, too!! Too bad we don't live closer, or I could loan you a few models to try, and see how you like them. Good luck, if you decide to find and buy one, and if you have any questions, please do ask here. Either I, or any of the other MSR users, will do our best to answer them! Thanks, again, and God Bless!

Every Good Wish,
Doc

 

Thanks for the fascinating read and history lesson on the interesting path this particular stove has followed!

And as seen here, I love how these old stoves keep generating new stories and friends that go with them.

 

I stuffed the XGK and XGK II into a pack for climbs. In all sorts of weather and conditions I never had one not work. They melt snow. Their only job is to melt snow.
Whisperlite fail, yes, canisters fail, yes, a lot of stoves have failed at some point. Not this line of stove.
My experience may differ from yours.

 

I have also used the XGK for winter climbing. As Ken states, it is primarily a snow-melting machine. I always carry a spare pump in my second fuel bottle. It's nice to have a backup, plus it's easier to change fuel bottles that way. The only thing I consider them hard on is the o-ring where the stove connects with the pump. I've always kept this lubricated, and at least lick the stove connection before inserting it into the pump, but cold temperatures plus friction are hard on o-rings. I always carry extras. The stove's straight fuel line (made flexible on the XGK-EX) makes it a pain to pack, but I've never bent or broken it.

....Arch

 

I'm just a lowland perambulator compared to youse guys....

 

Yeah, right. A lowland perambulator on skis who hauls canvas and woodstoves to set up camp.

....Arch

 

I would not use the word 'just' in any description of you, Ed.