Fly Your Tent Down the Freeway

Jul 3, 2023

The original Mountain Safety Research Newsletter (1969-1982), written by MSR founder Larry Penberthy, is a fascinating read. The newsletters are filled with extensive and technical product testing and mountain safety information. However, Larry and his team were also known to have some fun. One of our favorite features in this vast newsletter archive is the makeshift “wind tunnel” testing report in Issue 7 (April 1973) for the new MSR Mountain Tent. Important performance features of the tent are profiled under the headings “More Room,” “Condensation,” “Doors,” “Ease of Erection,” “Wind Stability,” “Cookholes,” “Materials” and “Weight.” Within the “Wind Stability” description, the reader is given this glimpse into MSR’s rigorous and fun DIY testing methods. Larry was never satisfied until he personally put gear through the ultimate paces. The original color…

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Liquid Fuel Stoves 101: How to Choose the Right Fuel for Your Liquid Fuel Stove

Jun 28, 2023

Despite the popularity of small, canister-fuel stoves, liquid fuel stoves are still the best option for many people due to their unrivaled cold weather performance, low cost, (arguably) lower environmental impact, and worldwide fuel availability. Their exceptional field maintainability, legendary durability and in some cases, multi-fuel compatibility are also why liquid fuel stoves are an excellent choice for emergency preparedness kits. But which of the many liquid fuels should you use? If you have a multi-fuel stove like the MSR XGK-EX, Dragonfly, or WhisperLite Universal, you have several fuel options to choose from. Depending on where in the world you plan to use your stove, the options may vary from what you’re used to at home. Pros & Cons of the Common Liquid Fuels White Gas (Naphtha) White gas (aka…

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The Ins and Outs of Canister Fuels

Jun 26, 2023

What is in those fuel canisters, anyway? Is Brand X’s fuel really any different from Brand Y’s? In this article, I’ll discuss what makes up MSR’s IsoPro™ fuel and why it’s some of the best canister fuel on the market.

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Canister Stoves vs. Liquid Fuel Backpacking Stoves – Which is Right for You?

Jun 21, 2023

The question of canister stoves vs. liquid fuel stoves, each with their own pros and cons, mostly comes down to the trips you’re planning and your personal preference. Canister stoves have significant advantages in some situations and new, more efficient designs have made the performance differences less distinct than they once were. Liquid fuel stoves remain the leaders on long trips, winter conditions and travel where canisters may not be available. They are also an excellent choice for emergency preparedness kits thanks to their exceptional field maintainability, legendary durability and in some cases, multi-fuel compatibility. Let’s take a closer look at canister stoves vs. liquid fuel backpacking stoves to help you determine which is right for you. Canister Stoves vs. Liquid Fuel Backpacking Stoves—Specs to Consider Depending on what’s most…

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Why & How: Using the MSR® Tent Footprint

May 29, 2023

Who needs a tent footprint? You do. MSR® tent footprints are one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your tent, adding an extra layer of protection between floor and ground. A footprint will not only help reduce wear and tear when sleeping on rough surfaces, but it will also add a layer of waterproof protection if things get miserable out there. How to Choose a Tent Footprint While it’s true that just about anything between your tent’s floor and the ground is a good thing, using MSR Tent Footprints with MSR tents is the best choice for overall efficiency. Our custom sizing assures you get the coverage you need without any wasted weight or space in your pack, and they’ll do exactly what you need them to…

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