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Review of MSR Simmerlite Backpacking Stove
By Matt Smith
I make it no secret that for general backpacking use, my choice would usually be a liquid fuel stove. The ability to use inexpensive fuel, refillable containers (that can be emptied for storage, transportation etc.) and pressurized at high altitudes or cold temperatures make it an easy choice for me.
Unfortunately, liquid fuel stoves also have some significant drawbacks, such as limited flame control, potential for fuel spills, and slightly increased weight and volume compared to current ultralight stoves. Fortunately, Mountain Safety Research (MSR) has been making great strides to overcome these limitations.
For years MSR has been making quality stoves. The Dragonfly has been a standard of excellence when it comes to simmering liquid fuel stoves. But it was bulky, heavy, and sometimes just not worth the weight. Now there is a choice that stands firmly on middle ground. 
The Simmerlite is a nice balance between the bulk, weight and funcitonality of a traditional liquid fuel stove, and the compact versatility of butane stoves. With a minimum weight of 8.5 oz., the Simmerlite is significantly lighter than most liquid fuel stoves, and packs down quite small.
The secret to the Simmerlite's ability to simmer is the long slender vaporizing tube, which allows more time for the liquid fuel to be exposed to heat from the burner. Flame control is better than average, but begins to fade at lower levels, or in windy conditions.
Summary: Costing $90, the Simmerlite is on the expensive side for liquid fuel stoves, but offers reduced weight and increased flame control. If you can't swing a stove for ultralight trips, and a stove for everything else, the Simmerlite might be a good fit.
For more information contact:
Mountain Safety Research
www.mountainsafetyresearch.com
PO Box 24547
Seattle, WA 98124
(800) 531-9531
info@msrcorp.com
Matt Smith is the canyoneering specialist at GearReview.com, and loves steep, cold canyons.
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