Quote:
Originally Posted by 1der
Quote:
Originally Posted by BogusBlake
If we were to buy one today it would be a Camp Chef Everest with ability to run off portable propane tank. This stove is powerful, compact but is not free standing.
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How does that thing simmer? 20k BTU seems like a lot, but they're probably lying.
Not-free-standing is perfect for my application.
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We have an Everest. They are NOT lying about the heat output, either -- that thing can get hotter than my "pro-style" gas cooktop at home. Works great for stir frying, only stove I've ever used with a wok where I didn't have to turn it up as high as it would go!
That said, the gas valve allows for a pretty low simmer flame, unless there is a lot of wind blowing; then if you turn it down that low, it risks blowing out. I have a square of heavy scrap copper plate I use as a heat diffuser that solves the problem completely.
Construction is only so-so; it's no Partner Steel stove in that regard. The burner heads are steel, unlike some of the other Camp Chef stoves that have cast iron or cast aluminum, so they rust. Fasteners are plain steel, also rust. I had to replace the cylinder fitting/regulator after about a year as it started leaking at the o-ring where it plugs into the stove, unless the screw fitting was cranked down very hard. $9 bucks plus shipping from Camp Chef, so not too bad. New one works fine again.
I use it with both disposable cylinders and with high-pressure bbq tap on our coach. Running off a big cylinder, I think I could use it as a forge, in a pinch
Bottom line -- love it as a cooking appliance, versatile, plenty of heat, controllable, and space for full-sized pans. Not too heavy to haul around; we had considered buying a Weekender model (aka Sport Utility) and decided in favor of the Everest for lighter weight and smaller size. Down sides are cheap construction, and probably won't last for years. OTOH, we only paid about $80 for it on sale at Gander Mountain.
We'll probably use it until it rusts away, then buy another one assuming they still make them.