Light & sturdy - Optimus VEGA

Compared to some of the other light remote canister stoves, the Vega is sturdy, stable, and puts out a lot of heat. I have not timed it, but I am positive that it boils water more quickly than the Olicamp remote canister stove I used before, and more quickly than my old MSR pocket rocket. Having the pre-heat tube to enable inverted canister/liquid fuel use only adds to its speed and versatility. I was also happy that it seems to be sturdy and stable despite being very light. The burner seems to operate smoothly at all settings, which allows it to simmer reasonably well and avoids flaring or pulsing when you invert the canister (you do still need to start it on vapor with the canister upright, so you need to warm the canister at least enough to get the stove going before inverting the canister).

I plan to use this as my primary stove, and will only use a liquid fuel stove on very cold high altitude trips. The Vega is light enough that I don't feel the need to have a separate summer stove.

Great value!

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.