User Review: Brunton Optimus Nova

Brunton Optimus Nova
Above: The current Optimus Nova, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 26, 2007 by Canoe Tripper

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Price Paid: Retail @ REI

I purchased 2 of these stoves when they first came out years ago, and I am looking to buy a third. I mainly use the stoves on canoe trips around the US and Canada, for up to two weeks in length, but I have used them also at 9000+ feet in winter conditions on hunting trips.

Even though it is a multi-fuel stove, I have only used white gas in mine. The only problem I have ever had, is a small fuel leak, because of "my" error. I hadn't checked the connections in awhile, and one had come loose. The solution was to just tighten it, and the problem was solved. These stoves are so easy to use, and nothing ever goes wrong with them, that it is easy to forget they should get a little attention every now and then. Because of heavy use, I will completely strip down my two stoves each year to give them a cleaning, and to replace O-rings, gaskets and filters if needed. It is quick and easy to do with the multi-tool that comes with each stove.

Weight and fuel consumption are of no concern to me because of the type of tripping that I do, but over-all the Nova is very good with these. My main concern for a true rock solid reliable wilderness stove is that it is built tough, is simple in design and function, is easily field repairable, and not only has a very high heat out put, but will simmer down to almost nothing. I cook for a minimum of 4 people and up on each trip, and we eat real food, not just boil water for freeze dried backpacking meals. We have cooked and baked just about everything you could think of with these stoves, and they have worked flawlessly over the years.

I give this stove a top rating in every aspect; I wouldn't dream of using any other stove, especially in remote wilderness areas. Other than getting a bad stove (lemon), which is always possible with anything; I think the bulk of the negative reviews on this stove would have to be from people who do not read the special operating instructions for the stove, or are to afraid to take the stove apart and clean or replace worn/problem items. This stove is pure simplicity to use, and should work in any backcountry environment or weather condition.

Canoe Tripper

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