MSR New WindPro II Stove Review

What Makes MSR New WindPro II Stove Stand Out?

The MSR New WindPro II Stove isn’t just another canister stove; it’s a versatile cooking system designed to excel in challenging conditions. MSR, a name synonymous with quality outdoor gear, has packed years of stove innovation into this compact package. What sets it apart is its ability to run in both upright and inverted canister modes, granting enhanced cold-weather performance and consistent output. This feature, coupled with its lightweight design and effective windscreen compatibility, immediately piqued my interest.

I’ve spent countless nights shivering over underperforming stoves, desperately trying to boil water for a lukewarm meal. I needed a stove that could deliver reliable heat, regardless of the altitude or temperature, without adding excessive weight to my pack. The MSR New WindPro II Stove promised to solve these problems, and its reputation preceded it.

Upon unboxing, the stove felt solid and well-constructed. The materials, a blend of steel and aluminum, felt durable without being overly heavy. The compact design was immediately apparent, promising easy packability.

Compared to my old Coleman canister stove and a heavier, bulkier white gas stove, the MSR New WindPro II Stove stood out for its balance of weight, versatility, and packability. While the Coleman was simple and cheap, it lacked cold-weather performance. The white gas stove, although powerful, was cumbersome and required more maintenance. The WindPro II seemed to offer the best of both worlds.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test its capabilities, particularly the inverted canister mode, but also wary of whether it could live up to the hype.

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

First Use Experience

My first test of the MSR New WindPro II Stove was on a late-autumn backpacking trip in the Adirondack Mountains. The temperature dipped below freezing overnight, presenting a perfect opportunity to test its cold-weather performance. I set up the stove on a rocky outcrop, using a small windscreen for added protection against the gusty wind.

Even in the chilly conditions, the stove fired up quickly and consistently. I used the upright canister mode initially to boil water for coffee. Then, I switched to the inverted mode to simmer some chili. The inverted mode definitely provided a noticeable boost in output and maintained a steadier flame as the canister emptied.

The stove was intuitive to use, requiring minimal setup. The flame control was precise, allowing me to easily adjust the heat. I encountered no issues during this first outing, and I was impressed with its performance in challenging conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the MSR New WindPro II Stove has become my go-to stove for backpacking, camping, and even some emergency preparedness scenarios. It has seen use in various conditions, from rainy days in the Pacific Northwest to windy summits in the Rockies. The stove continues to perform reliably, with no noticeable degradation in performance.

Durability has been excellent. There are some minor scratches on the burner, but otherwise, it shows little sign of wear and tear. I clean the stove after each use, which involves simply wiping down the burner and fuel line. The maintenance is minimal and straightforward.

Compared to my previous stoves, the MSR New WindPro II Stove outperforms them in almost every aspect. The inverted canister mode is a game-changer for cold-weather cooking, and the lightweight design makes it a joy to carry on long backpacking trips. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability, performance, and versatility.

Breaking Down the Features of MSR New WindPro II Stove

Specifications

The MSR New WindPro II Stove boasts impressive specifications for its size and weight:

• Weight: 6.6 oz (187 g) – Impressively lightweight for a remote canister stove.
• Fuel Type: Isobutane Mixed, Canister – Designed for convenient canister fuel.
• Application: Backpacking – Ideal for lightweight backcountry adventures.
• Fabric/Material: Steel And Aluminum – Durable construction for long-lasting use.
• Auto Igniter: No – Requires an external ignition source (lighter or matches).
• Boil Time: 3.6 min (1 liter) – Fast boiling time for efficient cooking.
• Field Maintainable: Yes – Allows for easy repairs in the field.
• Stove Type: Canister Stoves – Specifically designed for canister fuel systems.

These specifications translate to a stove that is both lightweight and durable, perfect for backpackers who need to minimize weight without sacrificing performance. The fast boil time ensures efficient cooking, while the field maintainability adds peace of mind on extended trips. The canister fuel system is convenient and easy to use, but the lack of an auto-igniter means you’ll need to carry a lighter or matches.

Performance & Functionality

The MSR New WindPro II Stove excels at its primary job: efficiently and reliably cooking food in the outdoors. Its strengths lie in its consistent output, even in cold weather, and its versatility. The inverted canister mode truly sets it apart, allowing for optimal fuel usage and performance in challenging conditions.

One minor weakness is the lack of an auto-igniter, which some users might find inconvenient. Another area for improvement might be the pot supports, which could be slightly wider for better stability with larger pots. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent stove.

Overall, the MSR New WindPro II Stove meets and often exceeds expectations. Its consistent performance, lightweight design, and innovative features make it a top contender in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The MSR New WindPro II Stove features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and durability. The use of steel and aluminum ensures that the stove can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry in a backpack, and the compact size allows it to fit easily into a one-liter pot.

The stove is relatively user-friendly, but it does require some familiarity with canister stoves. The instructions are clear and concise, but it’s always a good idea to practice setting up and using the stove before heading out into the field. The remote burner design allows for easy use of a windscreen, maximizing efficiency.

Durability & Maintenance

The MSR New WindPro II Stove is built to last, with durable materials and a robust design. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide many years of reliable service. The stove is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional wiping down of the burner and fuel line.

The fact that it’s field maintainable is also a huge plus, allowing you to perform minor repairs on the go. This is especially important on longer trips where access to replacement parts may be limited.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MSR New WindPro II Stove comes with a few essential accessories, including a canister stand for inverted use. This stand provides stability when using the stove in inverted mode, preventing the canister from tipping over. The stove is also compatible with a variety of windscreens, which can significantly improve its efficiency in windy conditions.

While there aren’t many customization options available for the MSR New WindPro II Stove, it is compatible with a wide range of pots and pans. It also works well with bake ovens, further expanding its versatility. The support for pots up to 10″ in diameter is generous and accommodates most common cookware.

Pros and Cons of MSR New WindPro II Stove