Let’s Talk About Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove is Coleman’s answer to the ultralight backpacking community’s demand for a compact and reliable cooking solution. This stove promises to deliver a powerful flame in a small package, compatible with both butane and propane fuel sources. It is designed for those who prioritize minimal weight and pack size without sacrificing cooking performance.
I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect backpacking stove; one that balances weight, packability, and cooking power. My old liquid fuel stove was great for car camping, but it was too bulky and heavy for solo backcountry adventures. I needed something truly compact and light, but also capable of quickly boiling water and simmering meals, leading me to explore options like the Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove.
Upon unboxing, the diminutive size of the stove was immediately apparent. The stove felt surprisingly sturdy for its weight, with well-defined serrated supports designed for pots and pans. The burner assembly feels solid and the ability to separate it from the fuel canister is a smart design.
I considered other options like the MSR PocketRocket 2 and the Optimus Crux. I chose the Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove because it offered a slightly wider burner for better heat distribution and the dual-fuel capability provided more flexibility. The included fuel regulation system was also a draw.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove seemed to embody everything I was looking for in a backpacking stove: lightweight, compact, and versatile. I was excited to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove on a three-day backpacking trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I set up camp near a stream and used the stove to boil water for dehydrated meals and coffee. The conditions were mild, with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F and occasional light rain.
The stove was incredibly easy to set up and use. I attached a butane canister, turned the control knob, and the burner ignited immediately with my lighter. It boiled one liter of water in about 3 minutes and 45 seconds, which was a tad slower than the claimed 3.25 minutes, but still respectable.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the serrated pot supports were a little slick when wet. This caused my pot to slide slightly until it heated up and dried.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The control knob still operates smoothly, and the burner remains clean and efficient.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. I’ve used it on over a dozen trips, ranging from weekend hikes to week-long camping excursions. It outperforms my old stove in terms of weight, packability, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove
Specifications
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove boasts several key specifications. First, it features PerfectFlow technology, which is designed to provide consistent performance even in cold weather. It also has PerfectHeat technology aiming for more efficient cooking.
- Weight: A mere 6.7 ounces (189.9 g) without fuel. This is a crucial factor for backpackers looking to minimize pack weight.
- BTU Output: A respectable 10,000 BTUs. This is sufficient for quickly boiling water and cooking simple meals.
- Fuel Type: Compatible with both butane and propane fuel canisters. This provides flexibility depending on availability and weather conditions.
- Boil Time: 3.25 minutes to boil 1 liter of water (claimed). My real-world tests showed slightly longer times.
- Pan Size: Designed to accommodate a 6-inch pan. This is adequate for solo or duo cooking.
- Adjustable Burner: Allows for precise temperature control from simmer to full boil. This is crucial for cooking a variety of dishes.
- Generated Fuel System: Designed to minimize flare-ups.
These specifications directly impact the user experience. The low weight and compact size make it easy to carry. The 10,000 BTU output enables quick and efficient cooking. The adjustable burner allows for greater culinary versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove excels at its primary function: efficiently cooking food in the outdoors. It boils water quickly, simmers sauces effectively, and provides reliable heat output. Its strengths lie in its simplicity, lightweight design, and ease of use.
One minor weakness is its stability with larger pots. A wider base would improve stability. It meets and generally exceeds expectations for a stove in this class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove’s design prioritizes functionality and portability. The materials used are lightweight yet durable. The build quality is solid, and the stove feels well-constructed.
The design is extremely user-friendly, with no real learning curve. Anyone familiar with canister stoves will be able to use it immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove is built to last. The metal components are resistant to corrosion, and the burner assembly is well-protected. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it clean after each use and store it in a dry place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing on core functionality. The burner detaches from the fuel adapter to save space during transport. There aren’t many customization options available.
It is compatible with standard butane and propane fuel canisters from various brands. You could also use a windscreen to improve efficiency in windy conditions, but this is not included.
Pros and Cons of Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove
Pros
- Lightweight and Compact: Perfect for backpacking and situations where weight is a concern.
- Easy to Use: Simple setup and operation, even for beginners.
- Adjustable Flame Control: Precise temperature control for a variety of cooking needs.
- Dual Fuel Compatibility: Works with both butane and propane canisters.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent heat output and minimal flare-ups.
Cons
- Pot Supports: Serrated pot supports can be a little slick when wet.
- Stability: Could be more stable with larger pots.
Who Should Buy Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove?
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove is perfect for backpackers, solo campers, and anyone who values lightweight and compact gear. It is also a good choice for those who want a simple and reliable stove for emergency preparedness.
This product may not be ideal for large groups or those who frequently cook complex meals in the outdoors. You might want a larger, more powerful stove.
A must-have accessory is a lightweight windscreen to improve fuel efficiency in windy conditions.
Conclusion on Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove
The Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of lightweight, compact, and reliable cooking. It’s easy to use, provides consistent heat, and offers the flexibility of dual-fuel compatibility. It is a great option for anyone looking to lighten their load without sacrificing cooking capability.
At its price point, the value proposition is excellent. This stove provides features and performance comparable to more expensive models.
I would definitely recommend the Coleman Butane/Propane Peak 1 Camp Stove to anyone looking for a reliable backpacking stove. If you’re ready to upgrade your cooking game, this little stove is a great place to start!