PocketRocket 2

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a classic for a reason: it's incredibly compact, feathery light, and remarkably effective for its size. This miniature canister stove is an ideal choice for ultralight backpackers, fast-and-light adventures, or anyone prioritizing pack space and minimal weight. It folds down to practically nothing, easily disappearing into even the smallest cook pots or packs. Despite its diminutive size, it puts out a respectable amount of heat, boiling a liter of water in a reasonable timeframe, assuming calm conditions. The design is straightforward: screw it onto a standard threaded fuel canister, unfold the pot supports, and light it. There are no finicky hoses or pumps to deal with. The pot supports are surprisingly sturdy for such a small stove, accommodating pots up to a reasonable size without feeling precariously balanced (though care is always advised). Flame control is decent for a regulated canister stove, allowing for some simmering, but it's undoubtedly better at wide-open boiling. Its main Achilles' heel, like many open-flame canister stoves, is wind. A strong breeze will significantly impact boil time and fuel efficiency, so finding a sheltered spot or using a robust windscreen (carefully, to avoid overheating the canister) is crucial. Still, for its weight and simplicity, the PocketRocket 2 is tough to beat for its target user. ### Highlights * Extremely lightweight and compact, excellent for ultralight backpacking * Simple and fast setup; no priming required * Strong heat output for its size, decent boil times in calm conditions * Relatively sturdy pot supports for a minimalist stove * Affordable and widely available ### Watch-outs * Very susceptible to wind, significantly impacting boil times and fuel efficiency * Canister-only operation, limited in extreme cold or at very high altitudes * Pot stability, while decent for its class, requires caution with larger or heavier pots * No integrated igniter, requiring a separate lighter or matches.