Brunton Optimus vs. MRS Dragonfly stoves
 

Looking ot purchase a camping stove that will run on petrol (89-91 octane). I've narrowed it down to either of the above.

Anyone have experience with either of these? They both claim 'multi-fuel'.

Hi,

We've been using an MSR Dragonfly for a number of years. Took it on our year-long trip through Europe so it got used lots!

It is a really noisy unit, akin to a jet plane taking off, so don't expect to quietly make a cup of coffee in the morning to surprise your tentmate. Overall the unit was quite reliable just needing a fuel line filter replaced after using some bad gas in Tunisia. The biggest advantage of the Dragonfly is that it simmers very well but still boils water quite quickly.

What I really like though is the MSR customer service. A while ago I broke the tip of my walking stick and didn't bother with it. Then the summer before last the cup of the Dragonfly broke loose from its mount. I contacted MSR and told them of the two problems and they said to ship both items to them for repair. After waiting a few weeks I was about to send an e-mail asking for the status of the repair when a parcel arrived. The Dragonfly had a whole new burner assembly and the stick a new and updated tip. And the best part? Free! http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif

By the way, we got my folks to send a new fuel line filter from MEC in Calgary to us in Morocco. While it arrived just fine (along with a couple of other items from home) the duties were astronomical; double the value of the goods! So, lesson learned, take a spare filter.

Sorry, I have no experience with the other stove. I hope you enjoy your cross-Canada trip this summer!

------------------
Ekke Kok
'89 R100GS
'03 R1150GS Adventure

Thanks Ekke.
I think I'll go with the Dragonfly, based on your satisfaction.

Good choice IMHO!

Had one for years, even works well at 4800m, just don't try to cook rice or pasta at that height, boiling point of water is too low... use brakefluid to cook in???

Can't go wrong with MSR, I have the whisperlite international and its worked great for me. You can't bring it down to a simmer as well as the dragonfly but it will if I don't pump the tank up as high and I can still hear after I'm done cooking. The dragonfly is a real good stove but it does sound like a jet fighter taking off.

Optimus Nova for me... even burns diesel.

http://www.optimus.se/