Super Cat Stove Question

[Robert Patton]

Has anyone used or experimented with the super cat at altitudes in the area from 10,000 to 14,000 ft elevation? If so how do the burn times compare to the test times at sea level the reason for this question is i will be setting out on a journey in Estes Park and RMNP Colorado in May and the elevations range varries from 10-14,000 +? Im looking heavily at the super cat and all testing ive done here in the great (flat-land) state of Florida have impressed me greatly. Any info or advice would be helpful.

Rob

P.S. this question is also posted on other forum boards

[Ryan Faulkner]

I havent used one at that high of altitudes, but if it helps, I have boiled 16oz of water at temps under 30 degrees with one. It works better at lower temps than other alc. stoves I have used

[Robert Patton]

Thanks Ryan that does help some due to the poss of low temps and storms early in may

Thanks again
Rob

[Robert Miller]

Rob,

I have used alcohol stoves many times in altitudes of 10,000-12,000 ft.

The most important piece of advice for using any alcohol stove at any altitude is to warm your fuel before use in the morning. Alcohol is difficult to light when it is cold. You can test this in Florida by putting your alcohol in the freezer for several hours before attempting to light it.

To facilitate warming I use a small flask (2 oz) that I either put in the foot end of my sleeping bag overnight or, if you find that annoying, hold it close to your body to warm it before use. For longer hikes I carry an additional container for capacity. I think it’s silly to prewarm a whole 8 oz if you are only going to burn 1/2 oz at a time.

Also don’t set your stove directly on snow or ice, it will cool the alcohol. I also carry a small piece of cardboard to place between the stove and the ground to act as insulation.

My other piece of advice for altitude is to ditch the butane lighter and use matches.

Enjoy your trip,
Robert

[Robert Patton]

Thank for the advice i will definately do that So there were no prob’s with them at that altitude?maybe just a lil bit longer boiling time? thanks for the advice again Rob

Thanks for the help

Rob

[Robert Miller]

Rob,

I’ve heard those complaints before and believe they are caused by cold alcohol and / or stoves set directly on cold ground. One other factor that contributes to this perception is that the water is colder at altitude. In May you are going to see plenty of snow and your water will be freshly melted snow.

Don’t worry, it will work just fine. When you are gasping for air at 13k, boil times will be the least of your concerns. ;-)

Robert

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