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Camp Chef DB-60 stove
By Steve Mann
Our next item isn't for the backpacking crowd, looking for a lightweight stove (or is it?).
Camp Chef stoves, from Outdoor Cooking Specialties, are full-sized propane stoves. We tested
the DB-60D Deluxe Folding Leg Double Burner Package (that's a mouthful) with 2 low pressure
30,000 BTU/hr burners. The complete deluxe package also includes 2 side shelves and 3-sided
folding windscreen for $199.99. A near-essential accessory is the Camp Bag CB-60, a quality
carry bag for easy transport and storage with strong nylon strap handles and inside pockets
for $29.99.
Other options on this palatial stove include a steel griddle (SG-30) great for breakfasts,
stir fry and more. This polished steel griddle with heavy duty carry handle and welded heat
diffusion plate retails for $42.99. If you get a griddle, you should make sure
to also get a griddle bag, made of Tuff-Doc fabric with light waterproof coating on the inside,
which retail for $18.99 to $21.99, depending on the size.
Camp Chef stoves are perfect for the car campers, base camps, or for group outings. For
example, Camp Chef stoves are widely used by scout groups and by river running outfitters in
the Grand Canyon.
Back to the opening statement about backpackers–we tested this stove on
a December day hike in Canyonlands National Park. Although we planned to day hike, we spent
a night in a park campground and set up the Deluxe stove for breakfast. And what a breakfast
it was! So, maybe backpackers should consider the Camp Chef if they have a base camp.
The Camp Chef Deluxe dual burner model sets up quickly and easily. Lighting it is a
breeze. The heat output brings large pots to a boil in just minutes. The griddles are
fantastic for breakfasts. With the cold weather of our test, the stove's simple controls
made it easy to set the flame on simmer to keep a hot beverage warm all evening. With the
dual burner model you can keep the coffee or hot chocolate hot and cook a great breakfast
on the griddle over the second burner.
Summary: For car campers or group outings (even a large family), the Camp Chef is
a great buy. I highly recommend this stove.
Contact Outdoor Cooking Specialties at www.campchef.com
or 800-650-CHEF (2433)
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