[pct-l] Different types of Alcohol Stoves

[aandg at telusplanet.net (Alistair and Gail Des Moulins)]

When Gail and I thru hiked the PCT in 2003 we used an MSR XGK white gas 
stove the whole way and used about a quart of fuel a week. For suppers we 
used to boil about 6 cups of water for our evening meal and sometimes have a 
hot drink too. For breakfasts we we'd often make oatmeal and have a hot 
drink, heating maybe another 6 cups of water.
On our weekend and 3 day trips this past year we've been using an alcohol 
stove, a pressurised pepsi can stove design using two can bottoms taped 
together, and a pot stand of chicken wire. We've had some success with this 
although the stove does seem to lose pressure sometimes.
I've been reading about the Cat Stove and other types of alcohol stoves on 
the internet. There are some claims that certain kinds are hotter or more 
economcal than others.
For our next long trip, probably the CDT this year, I want to reduce our 
base weight a bit and use an alcohol stove rather than carry the 1+ pounds 
of MSR stove and spare parts.
Have any of you compared different types of alcohol stoves and can recommend 
one variety over another one?
Maybe when cooking for 2 people the lower heat output of alcohol compared to 
white gas could offset the weight advantage of the alcohol stove option when 
carrying fuel for 10 days also?

Alistair