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Curry and SonsTrading Company · Est. 1995
MSR WhisperLite Universal Stove

A hybrid backpacking stove that runs on canister gas, white gas, kerosene or unleaded gasoline. People pick it for long trips, cold weather, travel and emergency kits where fuel choice matters.

Specs

  • Weight: 11.2 oz minimum, 14.9 oz packaged (maker)
  • Boil time per liter: 3.5 min white gas, 4.4 min kerosene, 3.75 min MSR IsoPro
  • Burn time: about 110 min per 20 oz white gas; 155 min per 20 oz kerosene; 75 min per 8 oz canister
  • Fuels: canister, white gas, kerosene, unleaded gasoline
  • Features: AirControl fuel/air tuning, canister liquid feed for cold, self-cleaning Shaker Jet, field-maintainable
  • Included: fuel pump, windscreen, heat reflector, small-parts kit, canister stand, stuff sack (fuel bottle not included)
  • Ignition: none; use a lighter
  • Made in USA of US and imported materials (maker)
  • Price: $199.95 (maker showed out of stock with a waitlist on 2026-10-19)

What reviewers say

OutdoorGearLab calls it very versatile and notes simmering is easiest in canister mode. An owner review says it puts out a lot of heat with an even hotspot, but liquid fuel won't turn down as low as gas. Reviewers warn it has small parts that need regular care, and some users have had to replace jets or hoses over time. There is no igniter. Maker-site owners rate it about 4.6 of 5.

Good

  • Burns almost any fuel
  • Strong in cold weather
  • Can be fixed in the field

Not so good

  • Needs maintenance and priming on liquid fuel
  • Liquid fuel simmering is limited
  • No igniter

Who it's for

Long-trip, winter and international travelers, plus anyone building an emergency kit. Weekend canister users will find a small canister stove simpler.

Sources

Last checked 2026-10-19. Specs from the maker; review notes summarized in our own words.