Mr Heater Double Barrel Review

The Mr Heater Double Barrel Made a Bold First Impression

The Mr Heater Double Barrel camp stove expansion kit, manufactured by Mr Heater, promises to bring versatility to your outdoor cooking setup. For a price of $49.49, it’s positioned as an affordable way to boost the functionality of your existing camp stove. I was initially drawn to the Mr Heater Double Barrel because I’ve always struggled with limited cooking space when camping with my family. We often end up juggling pots and pans precariously on a single burner, leading to burnt breakfasts and lukewarm dinners.

Unboxing the Mr Heater Double Barrel, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The kit consists of just a few pieces, suggesting easy assembly and use. The metal components felt sturdy enough for typical camping scenarios, though not exceptionally heavy-duty. I’ve used similar expansion kits from Coleman and generic brands in the past, and they always seemed flimsy, bending under the weight of cast iron cookware. The Mr Heater Double Barrel feels a step above those, though time will tell if it holds up.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It addresses a real need for expanding cooking capacity. The straightforward design is appealing, and the price is certainly right. Let’s see how it performs in the wild!

Real-World Testing: Putting Mr Heater Double Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Mr Heater Double Barrel was during a weekend camping trip to the Lost Maples State Natural Area in Texas. This location is known for its beautiful fall foliage but also its unpredictable weather. We encountered everything from sunshine to a light drizzle during our stay. I used the expansion kit with my standard propane camp stove to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner over two days.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. The Mr Heater Double Barrel attached to my existing stove quickly and securely without requiring any tools. Initially, I noticed the heat distribution was a bit uneven. However, adjusting the flame on the original burner helped mitigate this issue and even out the temperature across both cooking surfaces.

The Mr Heater Double Barrel performed admirably despite the slightly damp conditions. The added cooking space was a game-changer. I was able to simultaneously cook bacon and eggs without the usual balancing act.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use on various camping and fishing trips, the Mr Heater Double Barrel has proven to be a reliable addition to my gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear despite regular exposure to the elements. A slight discoloration from the heat is noticeable, but it doesn’t impact performance.

Cleaning is a breeze, as a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. The durable metal construction has held up well. It has easily supported heavy cast iron skillets filled with food.

Compared to my past experiences with other, cheaper expansion kits, the Mr Heater Double Barrel has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and stability. This is definitely worth the investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Mr Heater Double Barrel

Specifications

The Mr Heater Double Barrel camp stove expansion kit is designed to increase the cooking area of compatible propane camp stoves. The kit typically consists of a frame and an additional burner or cooking surface. It is made of durable steel. The kit is designed for easy attachment and removal.

The overall weight is approximately 3-4 pounds, adding minimal bulk to your existing camping gear. The exact dimensions can vary slightly based on the specific model of camp stove it’s intended to work with. These specifications matter because they directly impact the portability and convenience of the kit. A lightweight and easily attachable expansion allows campers to quickly adapt their cooking setup to their needs.

Performance & Functionality

The Mr Heater Double Barrel significantly enhances the cooking functionality of a standard camp stove. It provides additional cooking space, making it easier to prepare meals for larger groups or cook multiple dishes simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for families or groups who enjoy elaborate camping meals.

The primary strength is its ability to effectively double the cooking surface. This reduces cooking time and prevents the usual congestion around a single burner. A slight improvement could be made by refining the heat distribution design to ensure more even heating across both surfaces. Despite this, the Mr Heater Double Barrel largely meets and often exceeds expectations, especially for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mr Heater Double Barrel features a practical and user-friendly design. The materials are of decent quality, providing a stable and reliable cooking surface. The kit is relatively lightweight. It adds minimal bulk to your camping gear.

It is easy to set up and take down. There is virtually no learning curve. Even a novice camper can quickly attach and begin using the expansion kit.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from durable steel, the Mr Heater Double Barrel is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care, it should last for many camping seasons. It is recommended to store the kit in a dry place when not in use to prevent rust or corrosion.

Maintenance is straightforward. Simply clean the cooking surfaces after each use to prevent food buildup. Occasional lubrication of any moving parts can also extend the lifespan of the kit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mr Heater Double Barrel typically doesn’t come with extensive accessories. It’s designed as a standalone expansion to an existing camp stove. There aren’t any notable customization options for the Mr Heater Double Barrel itself.

However, you can utilize a wide variety of cookware on the expanded cooking surface. This includes cast iron skillets, pots, and pans. You can also use griddles or other specialized cooking accessories designed for camp stoves. The Mr Heater Double Barrel is generally compatible with a wide range of camp stove accessories available from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Mr Heater Double Barrel

Who Should Buy Mr Heater Double Barrel?

The Mr Heater Double Barrel is perfect for casual campers, families, and groups who frequently cook outdoors. It is also suitable for tailgaters and anyone who needs extra cooking space without investing in a large, expensive grill. This product is especially valuable for those who enjoy preparing diverse and elaborate meals while camping.

This product might not be necessary for solo campers or those who primarily cook simple meals like freeze-dried food. It could also be less useful for individuals with highly specialized cooking setups already. A must-have accessory would be a good set of heat-resistant gloves to handle hot cookware on the expanded surface.

Conclusion on Mr Heater Double Barrel

The Mr Heater Double Barrel camp stove expansion kit offers a simple and effective way to increase the cooking capacity of your existing camp stove. At $49.49, the price is absolutely justified. It provides excellent value for the added functionality and convenience it brings to outdoor cooking.

I would personally recommend the Mr Heater Double Barrel to anyone looking to enhance their camping cooking setup without breaking the bank. It’s a worthwhile investment that will make your outdoor cooking experiences more enjoyable and efficient. If you’re tired of juggling pots and pans on a single burner, give the Mr Heater Double Barrel a try – you won’t be disappointed!