First Impressions of Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit promises a revolutionary way to boil water outdoors. This camping kit, manufactured by Kelly Kettle, piqued my interest with its promise of rapid boiling times and reliance on natural fuels. My decade of experience in the outdoor gear world has made me skeptical of overly hyped products, but the Kelly Kettle‘s unique design and established reputation were enough to warrant a closer look.
My primary need was a reliable, fuel-efficient method for heating water on extended backcountry trips. Carrying fuel canisters adds weight and creates waste, so a natural fuel solution was appealing. I’ve tried similar twig stoves, but they often lack the speed and efficiency needed for a quick brew during a demanding trek.
Unboxing the Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit revealed a well-organized package. The stainless steel kettle felt sturdy, and the included accessories nested neatly inside. The two-piece Pot/Fire-Base Support flat packs, highlighting a thoughtful design for easy packing. My initial impression was positive; the kit seemed well-made and cleverly designed.
Compared to other portable boiling solutions like Jetboil or traditional camp stoves, the Kelly Kettle offered a unique proposition. While Jetboil is faster, it requires fuel. Camp stoves are versatile, but heavier and more complex. The Kelly Kettle seemed to strike a balance between portability, fuel efficiency, and simplicity.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit looked promising, but only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype and become a staple in my backcountry kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit during a three-day backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The diverse terrain and unpredictable weather provided an ideal testing ground. The first test was during a light drizzle, with readily available damp twigs.
To my surprise, the Kelly Kettle performed admirably even with less-than-ideal fuel. I quickly had boiling water for a much-needed cup of coffee after a long morning of hiking. The ease of use was noteworthy; gathering fuel was simple, and the kettle ignited quickly.
The only minor issue was a slight learning curve in managing the fire. Over-stoking resulted in excessive smoke, while under-stoking slowed the boiling process. However, after a few attempts, I quickly found the sweet spot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit has proven to be a reliable companion. It’s accompanied me on numerous hiking and fishing trips, consistently delivering boiling water with minimal fuss. The stainless steel construction has held up well, with no signs of rust or corrosion.
Durability has been impressive. Despite being tossed around in my pack, the kettle has maintained its shape and functionality. The only noticeable wear and tear is some soot buildup on the exterior, which is easily cleaned.
Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse after each use is usually sufficient. Periodically, I use a wire brush to remove stubborn soot deposits. Overall, the Kelly Kettle is remarkably easy to maintain, especially compared to more complex stoves.
Compared to my previous experiences with canister stoves, the Kelly Kettle offers a significant advantage in terms of fuel independence. While canister stoves are convenient, they can leave you stranded if you run out of fuel. The Kelly Kettle‘s reliance on natural fuel ensures you’ll always have a way to boil water, no matter where you are.
Breaking Down the Features of Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit
Specifications
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit boasts several key specifications. The kettle itself is made from Food Grade 304 Stainless Steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. It weighs in at 2.57 lb, making it relatively lightweight for backpacking.
The kettle holds approximately 20 ozs of water, sufficient for a couple of hot drinks or a small meal. The included 12oz cup features silicone-coated fold-able handles and interior measurements.
The kit also includes a Pot/Fire-Base Support, Hobo Stove, and a 2-piece grill set. All components nest within the kettle for compact storage. These specifications are important because they directly affect the kit’s portability, durability, and functionality in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit excels at rapidly boiling water using readily available natural fuels. It consistently boils water in approximately 3 minutes, as advertised. The included accessories, such as the pot support and hobo stove, add versatility.
The pot support allows for cooking small meals over the chimney, while the hobo stove provides a stable platform for larger pots and pans. The grill set allows you to cook directly over an open flame. The kettle’s strengths lie in its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and versatility.
One minor weakness is the need to keep the kettle full of water when cooking over the chimney. Failure to do so can damage the inner chimney. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the kit’s overall performance. It certainly meets expectations for field use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit features a clever and well-thought-out design. The nesting components maximize space efficiency. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
The silicone-coated cup handles provide a comfortable and secure grip. The kit has a slight learning curve, mastering the fire-starting and fuel management techniques requires some practice. However, once mastered, the Kelly Kettle is incredibly user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit is built to last. The stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion and damage. With proper care, this kit should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with soap and water is usually sufficient. Periodic scrubbing with a wire brush can remove stubborn soot deposits.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit includes a variety of useful accessories. These include the Pot/Fire-Base Support, Hobo Stove, and a 2-piece grill set. While there are no readily available third-party customization options, the kit’s modular design allows for some degree of personalization.
For example, you could use your own cookware with the hobo stove. The provided accessories are generally sufficient for most backcountry cooking needs.
Pros and Cons of Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit
Pros
- Boils water incredibly fast using natural fuels.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity.
- The nesting design makes it highly portable.
- Versatile cooking options with included accessories.
- Environmentally friendly alternative to fuel canisters.
Cons
- Requires practice to master fire-starting and fuel management.
- The kettle must be kept full when cooking over the chimney.
Who Should Buy Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit?
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit is perfect for backpackers, hikers, campers, survivalists, and anyone who spends time outdoors and needs a reliable way to boil water. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who prioritize fuel independence and self-reliance.
This product might not be ideal for users who prioritize speed and convenience above all else. Canister stoves like Jetboil offer faster boiling times, but at the cost of fuel dependence. Anyone who is unwilling to gather or manage fuel should also avoid this product.
A must-have accessory is a reliable fire starter, such as a ferro rod or waterproof matches. A small hatchet or saw can also be helpful for processing firewood.
Conclusion on Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit
The Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit is a well-designed and highly functional piece of outdoor gear. It delivers on its promise of rapidly boiling water using natural fuels. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the nesting design maximizes portability.
At $109.99, the price is justified by the kit’s quality, versatility, and long-term value. The fuel independence it provides is invaluable in backcountry settings.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kelly Kettle Trekker & Kit to anyone seeking a reliable and environmentally friendly way to boil water outdoors. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your outdoor experiences for years to come. So, ditch the fuel canisters and embrace the simplicity and self-reliance of the Kelly Kettle.