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Jetboil Helios Guide

User Reviews

I have had the opportunity to use the Helios on a…

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars

I have had the opportunity to use the Helios on a few trips now. While heavier than most cylinder, it is extremely useful for guiding groups of 3-6 people. I have used it for car camping in Joshua Tree, backpacking in the Green Mountains of Vermont, and, most recently, a winter training backpacking in the Adirondacks.

That was the stove's only downfall. As might be expected, performance at sub-freezing temperatures was mediocre at best. Even with the fuel stored warmed inside a belay parka, and chemical heat packs insulated against the fuel canister with ensolite foam, the melting / boiling times were extremely slow (12-15 minutes) to melt enough snow for 1 liter of water brought not quite to a boil, compared to 6-7 minutes with an MSR XGK.

The simmering ability in 3 seasons is great, the fuel efficiency and speed are great.

Overall - A great 3 season guiding stove, but not so in winter.

About me:
20 years backpacking in 4 seasons
High altitude experience in Alaska and South America
Professional staff in a college outdoor environment

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Specs

Specs

2011
Weight 48 oz / 1,349 g
Volume 2 L and 3 L pots included
Boil Time 3 min for 1L at 68°F
Average Efficiency 72% (24 1L boils per 230g / 8 oz canister)
Boil Time Consistency 23 sequential 3-min 1L boils
Useable Temperature Range -10°F to 100°F (measured range)
Height 5.1 in / 130 mm (packed)
Width 9.5 in / 240 mm (packed)

Description

The Helios Guide is a compressed fuel canister stove made by Jetboil. It has an average rating of 4 stars (out of 5), based on 1 user review

MSRP: $199.95

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