Coleman Portable Propane Lantern Review

Let’s Dive into Coleman Portable Propane Lantern

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern offers a simple, reliable light source for any campsite. Coleman has been a trusted name in outdoor gear for generations, and this lantern aims to uphold that legacy. Its ease of use and dependable performance are key selling points, especially for those new to propane lanterns.

My need for a dependable light source during frequent camping trips led me to the Coleman Portable Propane Lantern. I had grown tired of finicky battery-powered lanterns that always seemed to die at the most inopportune moments. I wanted something brighter and more consistent.

Unboxing the lantern revealed a no-frills, utilitarian design. The lantern feels sturdy, and the included carry case is a nice touch for protecting the glass globe. The pre-installed mantles were a pleasant surprise, eliminating a fiddly initial setup step.

I considered the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern (LED, compact) and the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 (USB rechargeable). The Coleman lantern won out due to its higher lumen output and longer runtime on a single propane cylinder. The promise of consistent brightness without worrying about battery life sealed the deal.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern seemed well-built, but I was eager to see how it performed in a real-world camping scenario. Would it live up to the Coleman name, or would it be another piece of gear destined for the storage bin?

Real-World Testing: Putting Coleman Portable Propane Lantern to the Test

First Use Experience

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern was tested during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The weather was mild, but the dense tree cover created deep shadows around the campsite. This was the perfect environment to evaluate its illumination capabilities.

The lantern performed admirably, providing a bright, warm light that easily illuminated the entire campsite. Setting it up was a breeze; simply attach a propane cylinder and ignite. The adjustable light output allowed for both ambient lighting and focused task lighting.

Using the lantern was straightforward. It was easier to use than expected. There were no issues after the first time using the lantern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use on various camping trips, the Coleman Portable Propane Lantern has proven to be a reliable and durable light source. It has withstood being jostled around in the back of my truck and exposed to moderate rain without any noticeable damage. The build quality is commendable.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, aside from some minor scuffs on the carry case. The porcelain-coated ventilator has held up well against heat and the elements. The glass globe remains clear and undamaged.

Maintenance is simple, primarily involving occasional wiping down the exterior. The mantles are relatively easy to replace when needed. It is important to handle the mantles with care.

Compared to my previous experience with battery-powered lanterns, the Coleman Portable Propane Lantern is a significant upgrade. It provides a brighter, more consistent light and requires less frequent maintenance. The Coleman outperforms my old gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Coleman Portable Propane Lantern

Specifications

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Light Output: 810 Lumens offer ample illumination for a campsite or other outdoor setting. This is a bright light!
• Runtime: 7 hours on high, 13 hours on low using a 16.4 oz propane cylinder. This provides plenty of light for an overnight trip.
• Mantle Type: Uses #21 replacement mantles. These are commonly available.
• Fuel Source: Propane (16.4 oz cylinder). Propane is reliable and easy to find.
• Construction: Durable, porcelain-coated ventilator with a clear, high-temperature glass globe. This is a durable lantern.

These specifications are important because they dictate the lantern’s overall effectiveness and usability. The high lumen output ensures ample light. The long runtime means less frequent fuel changes.

Performance & Functionality

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern performs its primary function – providing light – exceptionally well. The 810 lumens are more than adequate for most camping situations. The adjustable light output allows for flexibility in different scenarios.

The lantern’s strengths lie in its reliability and ease of use. It consistently ignites on the first try and provides a stable, flicker-free light. A weak point is the noise.

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern largely meets expectations. It is a bright, dependable light source.

Design & Ergonomics

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern features a simple, functional design. The materials used are durable and feel well-made. The lantern is reasonably lightweight.

The lantern’s user-friendliness is a major plus. There is virtually no learning curve. It’s a pretty simple setup.

Durability & Maintenance

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern is built to last. The porcelain-coated ventilator and high-temperature glass globe are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The rugged case protects the globe during transport.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning and mantle replacement. Repairing the lantern may be possible, but some parts are difficult to source.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coleman Portable Propane Lantern comes with a protective carry case. There aren’t many customization options for this product. Coleman sells replacement globes and mantles, which are essential accessories.

While the lantern is not directly compatible with accessories from other brands, some generic propane cylinder adapters may work. Users need to verify compatibility.

Pros and Cons of Coleman Portable Propane Lantern