User Review: Brunton Optimus Svea

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

Reviewed September 20, 2005 by Doug Weise

Rating:
Price Paid: $68

The Brunton/Optimus/Svea 123R stove has a great history spanning more than half a century. My first 123R has served me well since 1984. I now have two operating 123R stoves used for kayak camping.

I rated 4 stars because of the weight compared to modern liquid fuel stoves, but aside from that, the stove rates a 5 for functionality, nice simmer, ability to work in wind, and low fuel consumption, especially if a wind screeen is used.

In 2003 I started a collection of over 60 stoves of this type stove realizing they won't be around forever, and now have many examples of all three types (Sievert Svea 123, Optimus Svea 123, Optimus Svea 123R). The Optimus/Brunton 123R has a self cleaning needle which operates automatically when the flame control key is used to adjust the stove.

I recommend buying one just as a collectible, but you will find that it will not quit and it will amaze those who have not seen one. It will increase in value if you take good care of it, and especially if the original box is preserved in new condition. They will not sell these beautiful brass stoves forever, so the flea market rule applies "buy one now, or come back later and it will be gone."

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