Gas Camping Stove

Coleman

The Coleman Gas Camping Stove delivers reliable outdoor cooking with up to 20,000 BTUs across two independently adjustable burners. Built with practical wind-blocking panels and pressure regulation technology, it maintains consistent performance in challenging conditions. The portable design accommodates both 12-inch and 10-inch pans simultaneously, making it ideal for camp cooking. This no-nonsense stove balances functionality with field-tested durability for years of outdoor meals.

Product Specifications

Dimensions:13.7"L x 4.1"W x 21.9"H
Lifespan:10+ years
Material:N/A
Country of Origin:China
Manufacturing:Most Coleman gas camping stoves, including the popular Classic 2-Burner Propane Camp Stove, are manufactured in China. Some liquid fuel models may be made in the USA, but gas stoves are primarily made in China.

Research Summary

Coleman gas stoves present a tale of two products: vintage models are BIFL legends that span generations, while modern versions suffer from quality decline. With excellent repairability and decent warranty coverage, these stoves remain functional camp essentials despite temperature control frustrations. They're best suited for occasional campers and emergency preparedness, though serious outdoor enthusiasts should consider higher-end alternatives or hunt for vintage Coleman models. The value proposition hinges on reasonable pricing against mediocre build quality in current production units.

  • Modern Coleman stoves lack the heirloom-quality construction of vintage models, showing deteriorating materials and assembly quality
  • Outstanding repairability with simple mechanical design allows DIY fixes with minimal tools; replacement parts remain widely available
  • 3-5 year limited warranty is respectable for the category, though the claim process requires authorization and original proof of purchase
  • Affordable price point justifies purchase for occasional use, but serious campers should invest in premium alternatives or vintage Coleman models
  • Temperature control limitations frustrate users across forums, with many describing it as having 'only two settings: Blow Torch & Off

Repairability Notes

8.5

Coleman gas stoves have great repairability with minimal tools required, especially the vintage models.

  • DIY Fixes: Common flame control issues can be fixed with a simple valve cleaning procedure users frequently share. Users expect these stoves to last decades with proper maintenance.
  • Parts Access: Basic components like valves, tubes and knobs are replaceable, though users note modern parts feel cheaper than vintage ones. Replacement parts are widely available.
  • Maintenance: Design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning. Some users report successfully restoring decades-old models, with one noting their previous stove lasted 25 years.

Bottom line: Straightforward mechanical construction with no electronic parts makes these stoves exceptionally fixable for the average user, though modern versions have somewhat declined in build quality compared to the legendary durability of vintage models.

Durability Notes

7.5

Coleman's propane stove is a tale of two generations — vintage models are heirloom-grade legends, but modern ones are solid workhorses with frustrating quirks.

  • Built to last: Users report 25+ year lifespans, with one expecting it to outlast me and likely be handed down in my estate. Simple mechanical design avoids failure-prone electronics.
  • Quality decline: Reddit users note modern versions feel flimsier with thin metal casing that dents easily, while older models were built like tanks. The community is split between nostalgia for vintage and frustration with new.
  • DIY fixes required: The blow torch & off flame control needs valve cleaning to work properly — an easy fix, but shouldn't be necessary out-of-box. Slippery grate causes pots to slide off.

Bottom line: Still earns its keep for decades of car camping and emergency prep, but needs babying compared to grandpa's indestructible version. Worth the $99 if you're handy with basic maintenance.

Warranty Notes

6.5

Coleman offers a standard 3-year limited warranty on most gas camping stoves, with 5-year coverage on Guide Series Dual Fuel models. Coverage is for defects in materials and workmanship but excludes normal wear and tear.

  • Coverage Duration: 3-year limited warranty is above average for camping equipment, with premium models getting 5 years
  • Claim Process: Requires contacting customer service for authorization before returning, with proof of purchase and original ownership required
  • User Experience: Reviews suggest Coleman honors warranty claims consistently, though the process isn't seamless

Bottom line: A solid mid-range warranty with reasonable duration and fairly good follow-through, but not exceptionally generous or hassle-free in its implementation.

Social Analysis

7.5

Coleman stoves spark passionate debate between vintage enthusiasts and modern users. Reddit's camping communities praise the brand's heritage but criticize newer models for quality decline.

  • Vintage worship: Users fondly recall decades-old white gas models lasting generations - one expects their stove will outlast me and likely be handed down in my estate
  • Temperature control issues: The most common complaint across forums is poor simmer control - many describe it as having only two settings: Blow Torch & Off
  • Mixed on modern quality: While preppers trust Coleman for emergencies, BIFL purists say they lost their good reputation after being bought and made in China

Bottom line: Coleman rides on legendary brand equity from vintage models, but modern propane stoves get lukewarm reception for finicky controls and perceived quality decline compared to the bulletproof classics.

BIFL Total Score:
7.5Good
Gas Camping Stove
Repair Friendly
Amazon
$99

Product Scorecard

BIFL TOTAL SCORE
7.5
Durability Score
7.5
Repairability Score
8.5
Social Score
7.5
Warranty Score
6.5

Based on 199 reviews

We rate products using a 10-point scoring system focused on what matters most: durability, reliability, and repairability. Our scores are built from a wide net of sources: Amazon reviews, Reddit threads, expert opinions, brand sites, Google reviews, and what people are actually saying online.

Pros and Cons

What Users Love

Easy to repair with minimal tools

Durable with decades-long potential lifespan

Replacement parts widely available

Performs well in outdoor conditions

Areas for Improvement

Poor simmer control functionality

Modern models have declining build quality

Disposable propane canisters create waste

Temperature control often inconsistent

Based on our comprehensive product research and scoring methodology

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Frequently Asked Questions

Product Care & Maintenance Guide

Recommended: Seasonally / As NeededClean gently after each trip and perform a thorough wipe-down before long-term storage. Additional maintenance steps are recommended if you notice reduced performance.

Step 1

Clean

Wipe the stove with warm water and mild dishwashing soap; avoid strong chemicals or abrasives that damage paint or aluminum. Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent rust or corrosion.

Recommended Products

  • Dishwashing Soap$3
Step 2

Condition / Maintain

For liquid fuel stoves, drain fuel from the tank before storage to prevent lacquer buildup. Lubricate the pump cup on the tank’s pump plunger with a light machine oil twice per year for smooth operation.

Recommended Products

  • Light Machine Oil$5
Step 3

Protect / Store

Store the stove (and propane tank, if applicable) in a dry, cool place. Place the stove in a sealed plastic bag to keep out dust and pests. For propane stoves, always disconnect and store tanks outdoors in a ventilated area.

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