MSR New Dragonfly Stove Review

What Makes MSR New Dragonfly Stove Stand Out?

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove isn’t just another camp stove; it’s a testament to precision engineering and user-centric design from MSR. Its defining feature is its unparalleled flame control, allowing for simmering delicacies one moment and melting snow the next.

I was tired of camp stoves that were either full blast or off, leading to scorched meals and wasted fuel. I needed a stove that could adapt to my cooking style, from slow-cooked stews to rapid boils for hot drinks on frigid mornings, and the MSR New Dragonfly Stove promised just that.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The steel and aluminum components felt solid and well-machined, inspiring confidence in its durability for demanding outdoor conditions.

While I considered the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System for its integrated design and the Primus Kinjia for its portable grilling capabilities, the MSR New Dragonfly Stove‘s multi-fuel capability and simmer control ultimately swayed me. I wasn’t just looking for a convenient cooking solution but a reliable tool that could perform in diverse environments.

Initially, I was excited but also slightly intimidated by the separate fuel bottle and pump system; I wondered if it would be more hassle than it was worth. However, the promise of superior performance and fuel efficiency kept my hopes high, and my experiences ultimately proved my excitement warranted.

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Real-World Testing: Putting MSR New Dragonfly Stove to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the MSR New Dragonfly Stove was during a three-day backpacking trip in the High Uintas Wilderness. The terrain was varied, and the weather fluctuated between sunny afternoons and chilly, damp evenings.

The stove performed admirably, even in a light drizzle, thanks to the included windscreen; the flame remained strong and consistent. Getting the hang of the dual-valve system took a few tries, but once I understood the interplay between the fuel valve and the flame adjuster, I was able to achieve a truly impressive range of flame control.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight learning curve with the pump; I initially over-pressurized the fuel bottle, which caused a brief flare-up upon ignition, but I quickly adjusted the pressure and continued cooking without further incident. The shaker jet is a must.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple backpacking trips and weekend camping excursions, the MSR New Dragonfly Stove has proven to be remarkably reliable. The stove shows some cosmetic wear, like minor scratches on the pot supports, but no functional issues have surfaced.

Cleaning the stove is relatively straightforward; the shaker jet effectively clears any clogs, and the parts kit provides everything needed for basic field maintenance. Compared to my previous canister stove, which often struggled in cold weather, the MSR New Dragonfly Stove offers consistent performance regardless of the temperature.

I no longer worry about depleting fuel canisters unexpectedly; instead, I can easily gauge fuel levels and refill the bottle as needed. The efficiency and reliability of the stove have given me a newfound sense of confidence in the backcountry.

Breaking Down the Features of MSR New Dragonfly Stove

Specifications

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove weighs in at 18 ounces, making it reasonably lightweight for a liquid fuel stove. It boasts multi-fuel capability, burning white gas, kerosene, and unleaded auto fuel, offering versatility in fuel sourcing.

• Field Maintainable: One of the most important specifications is that this stove is field maintainable. The inclusion of a small parts kit, coupled with the ability to clean the jet, means that you aren’t dead in the water if you are far from civilization.
• Boil Time: The stove can boil 1 liter of water in approximately 3.5 minutes, which is competitive with other high-performance stoves. This is especially useful on cold mornings.
• Steel and Aluminum Construction: It is built with steel and aluminum, balancing durability and weight.

These specifications are important because they contribute directly to the stove’s performance, reliability, and versatility, making it a valuable tool for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The ability to use multiple fuel types ensures that you can always find a fuel source, even in remote locations.

Performance & Functionality

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and controllable heat source for cooking. The simmer control is truly exceptional, allowing me to cook delicate sauces and slowly simmer stews without burning.

• CoolFuel Valve: The dual-valve design offers a range of flame control that rivals home stovetops. It allows you to go from simmer to boil, which is very useful.
• Shaker Jet: Self-cleaning shaker jet clears out jet debris with a flick of the wrist. This is critical for performance.

While the initial setup can be slightly more involved than with a canister stove, the superior performance and fuel efficiency more than compensate. The included windscreen effectively blocks wind, maintaining a strong and consistent flame even in breezy conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove features a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and packability. It folds down to a compact size for easy storage, and the included carry bag keeps all the components organized.

• Extra Wide Pot Supports: The three wide pot supports provide a stable cooking platform, even for larger pots and fry pans. You can cook virtually anything on this platform.
• Remote Burner: Pioneered by MSR, the separate fuel bottle and pump keep the flame away from the fuel, which allows the use of a windscreen to make the stove burn hotter and more efficiently. This maximizes the efficiency of the stove, and mitigates wasted fuel.

The stove is relatively lightweight, considering its capabilities, and the remote burner design keeps the fuel bottle away from the heat source, enhancing safety. The learning curve associated with the pump and dual-valve system is minimal, and once mastered, the stove is intuitive and easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, with durable steel and aluminum components. The stove is designed for easy field maintenance, with a shaker jet for clearing clogs and a small parts kit for replacing worn components.

• Suspended Burner Cup: The suspended burner cup enables the stove to burn hot and strong while reducing heat lost to the ground. This maximizes heat and energy output.

With proper care and maintenance, the MSR New Dragonfly Stove should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the pump are essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MSR New Dragonfly Stove includes a fuel pump, a small parts kit, a windscreen, a heat reflector, a carry bag, and instructions. While the stove itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the ability to use different fuels provides a degree of flexibility.

• Fuel Bottle: Fuel bottle sold separately. It is highly recommended you get one.

The stove is compatible with a wide range of cookware, and the stable pot supports can accommodate most pots and pans. Third-party windscreens and heat reflectors can further enhance performance in extreme conditions.

Pros and Cons of MSR New Dragonfly Stove