User Review: Coleman 2 Mantle Propane Lantern

Coleman 2 Mantle Propane Lantern
Above: The current 2 Mantle Propane Lantern, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 4, 2008 by cayoung

Rating:
Price Paid: $19.97

Years ago we had a power cut in my neighborhood. One thing I remember was the guys down the street with a propane lantern, laughing and drinking beer.

While cleaning out a cellar, I found a Coleman two burner propane lantern. Brought it home (with permission) and it sat for a couple months. A friend had a power cut, in the winter time. I brought it to him, not sure how it would work. Turn the valve, flick a lighter into the hole under the mantle. The lantern lit up the entire first floor of his house, and provided heat too.

Runs about eight hours on full light. The heat was a big help, it was near zero F that night. He really froze butt, however the lamp was a big help. Both psychologically, as it drove away the darkness. And the heat helped warm his hands.

These are also great, outdoors. Will light an entire camp site, easily.

Not as great for hurricanes, when it's already hot and humd.

I've only used Coleman mantles. And haven't needed many of them. They last for several uses, if you're gentle. Light the lantern outdoors with a new mantle, it smokes. Don't touch the mantle after it's been "flamed" as it gets very fragile and brittle. However, if you leave the glass globe on, and just relight it with a flame, it should last for a long time.

The optional spark lighter sold in the camping section is a good idea. Mine works very nicely. Worth the three bucks, not to have to look for your matches when it's getting dark.

Propane bottles are (usually) available in most stores. Except during power cuts when you need them the most. Buy a couple extras before hand.

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