MSR Windburner A Versatile Companion for Backcountry Adventures
Gear Reviews 2024 – The summer of 2024 offered a golden opportunity to experiment with new gear and backpacking practices. Our group decided to ditch the processed, sodium-laden meals for more home-cooked fare, using backpacking stoves to prepare our meals. This shift also gave us a chance to test out different cooking methods. We wanted more than just a quick boil.
I was introduced to the MSR Windburner system in February and acquired both the Duo and Group systems before the season began. One of the standout features that initially drew me to the Windburner was its impressive wind resistance. The integrated wind protection, designed to shield the burner from gusts, provided me with confidence that it would perform reliably in the often-windy Sierra. And indeed, it proved its worth during several blustery nights in the high country.
Throughout the summer, we experimented with a variety of dishes, from hearty burritos and rice and beans to elegant stroganoff and comforting homemade chili. The Windburner’s versatile pot and pan options made it easy to prepare these meals. We also enjoyed brewing delicious camp coffee using the included coffee press attachment. The larger pot size in the Duo system allowed us to brew enough coffee for four to five people at once.
However, two specific features of the Windburner truly stood out to me and have made it my preferred cooking method for backcountry adventures.
First, the detachable pot system (No Lock) is a game-changer. Unlike other stoves where the pot must lock into place, the Windburner’s pot simply rests securely in the burner box. This feature made handling our meals much safer and more intuitive. We could easily lift the pots to stir, serve, or pour, then place them back on the burner for continued heating or resting.
Second, the detached fuel canister and hose attachment is a safety-enhancing design. With previous stoves that had the canister attached directly to the top, I always felt a bit uneasy about placing my fingers near the flame during adjustments. The Windburner’s detached canister system eliminates this risk, allowing for safer and more confident temperature control.
While the Windburner system adds a few extra ounces to my pack, I’ve found that it’s well worth the weight when hiking as a group. We can easily share the pots among ourselves, balancing the weight distribution. The slightly larger size of the Windburner compared to some other stoves is a minor trade-off for the added versatility and safety features it offers.
Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with my new Windburner system and the diverse cooking options it provides. I can’t wait to explore even more incredible recipes on my future backcountry adventures.
