Jetboil SOL VS MSR Reactor

Nice. I was looking at the smaller MSR already. I like that it is totally wind proof. Im also running a pocket rocket right now but im considering upgrading to something more windproof and that will use the whole canister rather than petering out with a 1/4 left.

Also I am a big fan of MSR. They make very durable stuff in my experience. Nothing iv ever bought of thiers has let me down.

Looking forward to hearing more.

I was already considering replacing my pocket rocket with the new whisperlite as well. I need something that works all the time. The PR just gets fussy when the weather is anything but perfect.
 
Would you give us what your scale shows for weights on the two different stoves. Also your stove failures you mention in the video were they all Ti models that failed and have you ever had the normal Sol fail?

Thanks for the review and as always causing more considerations of gear upgrades = $$$$$ :)
 
Awsome video. Been running my jetboil ti for two years now and love it, but I am always looking for better things. I would also be curious on the actual wieghts of the two compared.
 
Snyd- You're points helped me make my decision with the 1.7L. I see the perspective of saving the ounces and not really needing to boil more than what the 1L allows you to when solo, but I feel like I have more versatility this way considering I rarely hunt alone. I could tell whomever else I'm with not to bring their stove since I have the ability to make both our meals from one boil (this way they can pack something for the both of us too). I also like the fact that with the 1.7 L, I can carry a larger than 3.9 tank in my pot. Thanks for the insight bud...

This will be interesting. Try sticking them in front of a fan also.

The Reactor 1L pot is only 3ozs lighter than the 1.7L. I don't see that has any real world advantage over the 1.7L pot. Mud on my boots weighs more than that :D MSR specs say longer boil times to. I think the 1L is an afterthought attempt to sell more stoves to a backpacking world obsessed with an extra ounce in their pack being too heavy....

I see the Jetboils as more of a solo unit and the Reactor as a 2 or 3 man stove. I think the 1L pot is a step backwards for the Reactor and takes away from it's capability and intended use. Turns it into a "heavy" solo unit.

I've had the Reactor with the 1.7L pot for a few years now. The pot and stove only weigh 17ozs. For a 2 man water boiler the thing rocks. It will boil 1L+ of water in about 3 mins. That's 2 mtns houses or coffee and oatmeal water for 2 etc. in one boil. It's not the uber light weight 3 day solo-hunt unit but for 2 guys on a 10 day hunt it's the bomb. Not affected by wind and boil time is the same with full or dang near empty fuel can. It works well for what it was intended for.
 
Has any further testing or use been done with these ? I got a chance to handle (not light) the new reactor today and it looks like a nice little unit.
 
Has any further testing or use been done with these ? I got a chance to handle (not light) the new reactor today and it looks like a nice little unit.

Testing like crazy.

It's bomb proof!

Only downfall is the weight.


In wilderness now, but will do a follow up video soon
 
I love the jet boil sol titanium, but after seeing Aron's review I bought the smaller reactor. Man this thing is crazy fast boiling water. Can't wait to get it in the field for a real test.
 
Nice info. I have the TSOL and am very happy with it. It was a bit of expense, but I think it is worth it. If I have learned one thing in life it is determine what will meet your needs and upgrade.. N+1 is always the way to go if you can afford it.
 
I've got an Esbit with me right now! I gotta look out for guys on a budget!

Reactor is definitely better for heating the hands and feet!
 
I've got an Esbit with me right now! I gotta look out for guys on a budget!
.....

You will be OK Aron ( just try to keep the ADD in check). I kind of like the Espit- quiet and it does the job. I usually set it up and start a boil either while setting up camp, or changing clothes etc.

You definitely do not have to worry about your water boiling over, and don't sit there and watch it work- it will drive you crazy. I have learned more than once. Just relax and go with the flow. :D
 
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