Vargo Ultralight Triad XE Titanium Stove is a Dual Fuel (alcohol and esbit heaxmine fuel tab) stove that is perfect for 4 season use. One of the lightest, most versatile stoves available. Features: * Titanium Construction - Only 1.5 oz. * Burn either ESBIT tabs or alcohol. * Burn Time ~ 15- 20 Minutes * Retractable top and bottom legs * Removeable Inner alcohol burner
The XE was designed for weight-conscious backpackers that recognize the advantages and disadvantages of burning denatured alcohol. Specifically, denatured alcohol does not burn as well in high altitude (generally over 11,000 feet) or very cold temperatures (below 20 degrees F). In these situations burning ESBIT fuel tabs is recommended.
Characteristics of burning alcohol in the XE include intense heat during the priming stage and moderate heat once primed. Once primed the stove is very fuel efficient, using very little alcohol. The XE can be used effectively in any condition, making it a stove that we believe sets a higher standard in ultralight hiking.
Below is a demo (without windscreen) - stove still boils water, but performance is improved with windscreen.
NOTE: It is beneficial to have a windscreen.
Below is a diagram of how to make a lightweight, low cost, simple windscreen for your Stove. The windscreen will maintain the intensity and efficiency of the flame.
FEATURES:
* Removable inner alchohol burner /container
* Compact design
* Retractable top and bottom legs
* Easy to fill
* Burn time: approx 25 minutes
* Boils two cups of water in approximately 6 minutes
* Fits any size pot (If you use a small diameter pot for cooking, such as a mug, simply fold the top legs in so that they rest against the top of the inner container)
WEIGHT: 1.5 oz.
INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Fully extend the top and bottom legs and press stove legs into ground to create a stable surface (do not light on a rock or picnic table, etc).
2) Remove lid from inner container and carefully pour denatured alcohol inside container to desired level.
3) Lightly press on lid to create a seal (do not over press or lid will become difficult to remove).
4) Prime stove by squirting 5~6 drops of alcohol between the outer and inner container then light.
NOTE -If burning ESBIT fuel tabs - simply remove inner container and place fuel tab in center of outer base. Let Esbit tabs burn uncovered (as pictured)
WARNING!!!!
* Attempting to burn fuels other than denatured alcohol or fuel tabs could result in explosion and possible injury.
* Add alcohol only after the stove has cooled thoroughly to prevent injury. Please use caution with alchohol it burns clean and the flames can be hard to see. Wipe any reside from your hands or clothing before lighting and keep children, tents, clothing, packs, and sleeping bags away from your burner
* ONLY USE OUTSIDE IN WELL VENTILATED AREA.
* NEVER USE THE XE INDOORS !!!
Tip: A ready source of fuel is a product called "Heet" (see additional pictures link above). It is used to protect fuel systems in automobiles. it is found at auto parts stores and in the auto parts ailses at Department Stores. The Yellow Bottle Heet is 99% methanol, which burns with a clean, blue flame, similar to that seen with most denatured alcohols. A 12 fluid ounce bottle currently costs around $2, and would be enough for 4-5 days. Try to avoid the RED HEET bottle - it is a different formulation with isopropyl alcohol which burns a yellow flame, lower temperature and tends to leave black residue on the stove and your pots and pans. It can be used in an absolute emergency, but try to get the YELLOW HEET. The HEET factory bottle is made for ONE TIME use. It is not suited to trail storage and measured pouring into a stove. Get a special bottle for alcohol, such as those sold in the sidebar on this webpage