User Review: Primus EtaExpress

Primus EtaExpress
Above: The current EtaExpress, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 9, 2008 by inquilabi

Rating:
Price Paid: $90

I picked this up after having fallen in love with the EtaPower EF. Except my backpacking buddy ran off to Scotland so I've been stuck heading out by myself. I purchased the EtaExpress soon after it came out and just took it out for a solo weekend adventure to Point Reyes.

Initially I was surprised by how small it was. The frying pan seemed tiny and I didn't know if it would even be functional. However I was able to make pancakes on my last day out. I was impressed with how much space and weight I saved over the EtaPower. It's definitely not as efficient but it does the trick. A 110 g canister of fuel lasted me three days and two nights with plenty of fuel to spare.

What I don't like: the nylon case (especially the smaller case holding the stove) doesn't seem very durable and the mesh lining the outside seems useless. I had issues with the piezo automatic lighter. Sometimes it didn't work. The little thing that blocks the wind doesn't do a good job of blocking the wind.

I am happy with this product. I'll definitely be using it for 1-2 person outdoor adventures.