Are the Fire-lite 550’s any different?

I have the Firelite 550 (with handles). The handles look like they're attached pretty well to the very thin walls. I'd hate to ruin a pot trying to save $9!

OTOH, each to his or her own of course, but IMO, having the handles makes this pot so much easier to use! The benefit of saving a fraction of an ounce seems to be mainly — if not mostly — psychological in this case. I would recommend buying the one with handles — and getting yourself a truly usable mug/pot and save $9.

But if those handles are just too much to handle (pun) — then buy the SUL version. Don't be cheap and risk ruining a brand new pot.

Aaron,

Here’s a link to details on how I removed the handles and how much they weigh (on a snow peak 700 mug, though):

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/xdpy/forum_thread/3393/

No, I don't want to remove the handles. I like mine with, it's just that it obvioously cost more money to add the handles yet costs less.

It's the epitome of U/L.

If I recall correctly, pricing something in direct relation to the cost of production is 'communist'.

When it comes to capitalism, the whole idea is the charge what the market will bear. I think BPL once explained that the SUL costs more because they are made in smaller batches… I have no proof or anything, but somehow, I don't buy it. If the SUL required a different mold, etc. — OK, fine — but in this case, the SUL version is identical to the UL version — just without the added step of attaching the handles.

I think the SUL is more expensive simply because BPL — or Firelite — or both believe that they can get away with charging more.

I know it's annoying asking these questions, but is there a timeframe at all on the Firelite 550's? I just gotta have one. It's an insatiable desire.

Hey all!
Sorry for the long delay – I don't moderate the forums much.

We expect a big batch of titanium in late spring (late March/early April). Yes, the 550s should be part of that. Thanks for your patience!

Best,
Addie

Any update on the availability of these? It looks like the late mar/ early april timeframe ran out, unless these all sold out right away when I was on vacation for a week…

I´m also waiting for these to arrive. I want to try a Caldera Cone and want to combine it with the Firelite 550.

Any update?

I recently ordered Titanium Goats Tri Ti Caldera Cone/ 550 equivalent combo that seemed just like Firelite to me if you are tired of waiting.

Tri Ti Caldera Cone 550 with floor ($125) 550 ml pot w/lid (75 gm) + cone (36gm) + stakes ( 2@ 6gm ea)+ storage bag (7gm – not included) + floor (15gm) = 4.5X7" package 139gms w/o bag total

Just wondering if there was a new update as to availability of the 550 or SUL 550 pots?

Thank you BPL!

Hi Ben

> I think BPL once explained that the SUL costs more because they are made in smaller batches…
Said with a gentle tone and kind regards:

Obviously you have never had to look after a production line. Very often the set-up time is as long as the production time. Since setting up one of these large presses (or whatever machinery is used) costs real dollars, short production runs do cost significantly more per unit.

By way of examples:
It takes me as long to create the physical pattern for a fleece top as it does to cut one out and sew it up.
It took me weeks of work to create the tooling needed to make one pack frame.
It took weeks of work to make the jigs needed to make the poles for one of my tents.

Hi Robert –

Unfortunately, we don't have a hard date for re-stocking the 550 or other Firelite products right now. We're doing everything possible to get a complete update of our Firelite line back in stock. I'll post as soon as we have a solid date.

Don

I bought the discontinued 550 Caldera Cone that was (still is) on sale expecting to get the compatible SUL 550 pot when it becomes available (the 550 w/handles apparently is not compatible with this cone). Always anxious to try new gear and tired of waiting for the SUL 550 to materialize, I fortuitously discovered that my Snow Peak Mini Solo pot will work with the help of a silicone ring to hold it at the right height, as it's just about the right diameter but too tall. I'm really impressed with how well the cone works! Previously I used a Triad and found it to work only so so. Anyway, this might help BPL sell more of its discontinued cones!

Monty – Thanks for the heads up. The adaptation of the Mini-solo for use with your caldera is an excellent one. As much as its frustrating everyone we are patiently awaiting the manufacture of our next batch of titanium products and they will be available.