Bushwalk Australia

Hi there, I'm hoping for some recommendations on a remote canister gas stove for use by Scouts. Looking to replace Kovea Moonwalker, and considering the same, or Fire Maple FMS-118 or similar. Small folded size is a plus, as is stability and modest cost. Weight is less important, so doesn't need to be titanium. (Gear is spread amongst 6-8 people).

We add adapters to allow use of tall butane canisters. Most hiking is in summer and shoulder months around Sydney, so low temperature performance not so important.

Thanks in advance for suggestions.

I have the Firemaple FMS117T, the FMS117H (aka Blade II) and the FMS118. Also an older FMS105. If you don't need the preheat tube on the FMS118 or FMS117H or titanium like the FMS117T go with the older FMS105 but they are about 100g heavier .

Be aware that some have had issues with the valve on the FMS117/T. I got given one with a valve issue and I have cannibalised it for the working parts.

For cheaper options I reviewed a copy of the FMS117 called a Dpower stove back in 2015 and it's still going strong although the steel mesh on the hose has some sharp bits now viewtopic.php?f=63&t=20780

Thanks keithy, much appreciated.

Don't forget to check your state branch policies on requiring certification of the stove. In Victoria, a camping stove is considered a gas appliance, and it needs to be certified and carry the certificate number (see https://esv.vic.gov.au/technical-inform ... nd-hiring/)

I tend to be a scofflaw for this for my personal stove. I use a Kovea Spider which does not have certification as I imported direct via eBay (it is an excellent stove by the way). And the tags with the certificate number tend to be large relative to the size of the stove.

But I would be much more cautious buying for my Group, and would restrict myself to certified stoves - you don't want to invest in a set of stoves and find you are not allowed to use them, as well as the potential liability issues.

TML MHz wrote:Don't forget to check your state branch policies on requiring certification of the stove.

Good point, thanks.

I have a Kovea 4. Lucky price secondhand on gumtree.

The three leg design is prone to tipping off a frypan. Otherwise really like it as my current carcamping stove.