Primus Firestick £80

New for 2020, the sleek and cylindrical Firestick is an innovative re-thinking of the canister-top stove. Most canister top stoves struggle in wind and are unstable, but Primus has effectively tackled these problems. Three wide, curved pan supports double as a windscreen and the powerful 2500W burner is protected by an integrated lip. For a screw-on stove this is best-inclass wind protection. In terms of stability, the three pan supports have a 10cm diameter, serrated grips and slope towards the burner to prevent pan slippage. The result is a pretty stable base for your pot. All this functionality comes in a tiny, pocket-friendly package, about the size of a pack of polo mints. The pan supports cleverly click into place around the burner, ensuring snag-free, compact storage in a buttoned wool pouch. You also get an external piezo lighter and a control valve for precise flame adjustment. A titanium version is £30 dearer and 16g lighter.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY

It’s quite heavy for a canister-top stove and the small burner may cremate food to a pan’s bottom if you don’t stir regularly. The support arms seem overly long, compromising pan stability. And despite the protective design, performance in wind still isn’t perfect.

■ BURNER DIAMETER 3cm

■ PAN SUPPORT DIAMETER 10cm

■ PACKED SIZE (LxWxH) 12x4x5cm

■ WEIGHT 105g

■ BOIL TIME

3 mins 30 secs for 1L

■ OUTPUT 2500W

Verdict

An innovative canister-top stove that is lightweight, compact and high-performing.

“Best wind protection for a screw-on stove”