[pct-l] Esbit vs. Alcohol

[dsaufley at sprynet.com]

Yes -- the trioxane really stinks.  And it makes a mess on whatever you burn it on, so don't burn them inside your alcohol stove, use the bottom of the stove instead.  

Long Trail donated a chest full of trioxane tabs to Hiker Heaven.  I haven't looked at the supply lately, but you're all welcome to grab them when you come through! 

L-Rod

-----Original Message-----
>From: Pea Hicks <phix at optigan.com>
>Sent: Jan 24, 2007 2:22 PM
>To: Paul Magnanti <pmags at yahoo.com>
>Cc: PCT MailingList <pct-l at backcountry.net>
>Subject: Re: [pct-l] Esbit vs. Alcohol
>
>
>
>Paul Magnanti wrote:
>
>>  Trioxane
>>  
>> 
>> As with Esbit, do not need a special stove. Trioaxne can usually be
>> found at Army surplus stores (online and local). The fumes are toxic,
>> but not usually a problem unless you use in a poorly ventilated space
>> (you should not use ANY stove in a poorly ventilated space!). About the
>> same weight as Esbit for a quarter the full retail price. Because it is
>> surplus, quality can differ. Trioxane burns hot, but not very
>> efficiently. Not really suggested for general use. May not be bad as a
>> backup to another stove. 
>
>but the thing about trioxane is that it can be bought CHEAP. i got a box 
>of 125, which covered my entire thru-hike, for $24.00 online.
>
>as far as the ventilation issue goes, it's definitely true that you want 
>to be careful. it was a bit tough to make these work in my tent's 
>vestibule because of this. the fumes can cause a sharp stinging/burning 
>sensation in your eyes!!
>
>girlscout
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