Let’s Dive into Kelly Kettle Small Cookset
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset promises to transform your trusty Trekker Kelly Kettle into a full-fledged, fuel-free cooking system. Made by Kelly Kettle, this stainless-steel set includes a pot, lid (doubling as a frying pan), grill pieces, and a pot holder, all designed to nest neatly for compact storage. It’s marketed as a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to prepare meals outdoors without relying on traditional fuel sources.
My search for the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset stemmed from a growing frustration with carrying bulky fuel canisters on backpacking trips. I longed for a lightweight, self-sufficient cooking solution that would minimize my pack weight and environmental impact, while maximizing cooking versatility. The promise of leveraging the Kelly Kettle’s efficient wood-burning design for cooking intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the compact, well-organized nature of the kit. The stainless steel components felt robust and durable, despite their lightweight design. The way the pot, grill, and lid nested together was ingenious, minimizing wasted space.
I considered other options, such as lightweight titanium cookware sets paired with small backpacking stoves, but the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset offered a unique advantage: fuel independence. The Trangia alcohol stove was another contender, but its fuel adds weight and complexity. The Kelly Kettle system, especially with the cookset, seemed like a more self-contained and sustainable solution.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for fuel-free cooking, but also wondered how practical the small cookset would be in real-world scenarios. Would it truly be versatile enough for preparing diverse meals, or would I be limited to simple boiled foods?
Real-World Testing: Putting Kelly Kettle Small Cookset to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset was a weekend fishing trip to a remote mountain lake. I primarily planned to use it for boiling water for coffee and rehydrating meals, but I packed some eggs and bacon to test out the frying pan lid. The weather was cool and damp, typical for the high country, but conditions were otherwise favorable.
The cookset proved surprisingly effective, even in slightly windy conditions. Using the Kelly Kettle’s fire base to get hot coals going was efficient, and placing the grill pieces on the base provided a stable platform for cooking. The lid worked decently as a small frying pan, though it’s shallow depth made cooking the bacon a bit challenging; eggs were simple to scramble in it.
I discovered that even with the potholder, the metal handle can get quite hot, so be careful.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset on various camping, hiking, and even survival training excursions, its durability has impressed me. The stainless-steel construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust or significant wear. The only noticeable issue is some minor discoloration from prolonged exposure to high heat.
Cleaning the cookset after use is relatively straightforward. A simple scrub with biodegradable soap and water usually does the trick. Burnt food can sometimes be stubborn, but soaking the pot and lid makes removal easier.
Compared to other cooking systems I’ve used, the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset excels in its fuel independence and packability. It requires more active management of the fire, but the trade-off in weight savings and self-sufficiency is worth it. However, larger meals become challenging, as the cookset is small.
Breaking Down the Features of Kelly Kettle Small Cookset
Specifications
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset, manufactured by Kelly Kettle, is designed specifically for their Trekker model. Its all stainless-steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion. The set includes a 16 fl oz (0.454 L) pot, a lid that doubles as a small frying pan, grill pieces for cooking over coals, and a pot holder for safe handling.
The cookset weighs just 5.76 oz, making it extremely lightweight and ideal for backpacking. The pot has a diameter of 4 inches, providing a compact cooking space. Its small size and weight are crucial for minimizing pack weight during extended trips.
Performance & Functionality
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset performs admirably for its intended purpose: cooking small meals and boiling water. The pot heats up quickly, thanks to its stainless-steel construction and proximity to the heat source. The grill pieces provide a stable surface for cooking over coals, offering more versatility than simply boiling water.
The cookset’s strengths lie in its simplicity, fuel independence, and lightweight design. However, its small size is a limitation, making it unsuitable for cooking larger meals or feeding multiple people. The shallow lid/frying pan is also less than ideal for cooking items that require more depth or even heat distribution.
The product meets expectations for a compact, fuel-free cooking solution, but its limitations should be considered.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset’s design is simple, functional, and well-thought-out. The stainless-steel construction feels robust and durable, and the nesting design minimizes wasted space. The pot holder provides a secure grip on the hot pot, preventing burns.
The cookset is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. However, some practice is required to master the art of building a small, efficient fire for cooking.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset is built to last. The stainless-steel construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, the cookset should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning the cookset after use is straightforward, requiring only soap and water. The stainless steel resists staining and is easy to scrub clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset comes with a pot, lid/frying pan, grill pieces, and a pot holder. The product description mentions pairing with a Kelly Kettle HOBO STOVE for easier cooking. This is NOT included with the cookset.
Beyond the optional HOBO STOVE, there are limited customization options for the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset. Its primary function is as a companion to the Kelly Kettle Trekker, and its design is optimized for that purpose. The Pot Support is another key accessory that is sold separately.
Pros and Cons of Kelly Kettle Small Cookset
Pros
- Fuel Independence: No need to carry fuel canisters.
- Lightweight & Compact: Minimizes pack weight and space.
- Durable Stainless-Steel Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Allows for boiling, grilling, and frying.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Cons
- Small Cooking Capacity: Limited to small meals or single servings.
- Shallow Frying Pan Lid: Restricts cooking options.
- Requires Active Fire Management: Demands more attention than traditional stoves.
Who Should Buy Kelly Kettle Small Cookset?
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset is perfect for solo backpackers, minimalist campers, and survival enthusiasts who prioritize fuel independence and pack weight reduction. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of cooking with natural resources.
This product is not ideal for larger groups or those who prefer the convenience of traditional stoves. Individuals who require precise temperature control or more elaborate cooking options may also find the cookset limiting.
Must-have accessories include the Kelly Kettle Pot Support, which provides a stable platform for the pot, and a reliable fire starter. A small, lightweight spatula is also recommended for cooking in the shallow frying pan lid.
Conclusion on Kelly Kettle Small Cookset
The Kelly Kettle Small Cookset is a well-designed, durable, and fuel-efficient cooking solution for outdoor enthusiasts who value self-sufficiency and minimalist packing. While its small cooking capacity and shallow frying pan lid may be limitations for some, its overall performance and versatility are impressive.
At a price of $15.89, the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset offers excellent value for money. It’s a cost-effective alternative to traditional stoves and fuel canisters, and its durable construction ensures long-term savings.
I would personally recommend the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset to anyone seeking a lightweight, fuel-free cooking solution for their outdoor adventures. Embrace the challenge of cooking with nature, reduce your pack weight, and enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious meal prepared with the Kelly Kettle Small Cookset! Give it a try and experience the freedom of fuel-free cooking on your next adventure!