Introduction

When it comes to camping stoves, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a name that stands out. As outdoor enthusiasts, we know how important it is to have a reliable, compact, and efficient stove while out in the wilderness. MSR, a brand known for its high-quality outdoor gear, delivers just that with the Pocket Rocket Deluxe.

The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is an upgraded version of the popular MSR Pocket Rocket, with added features and improved performance. It is designed for backpackers, hikers, and campers who prioritize weight and space efficiency without compromising functionality.

In this review, we will explore the design, performance, fuel efficiency, wind resistance, simmering capability, durability, ease of use, and overall value of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or a group of friends planning a camping trip, this stove might just become your new favorite outdoor companion.

So, let’s dive into the details and find out why the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is worth considering for your next adventure.

 

Design and Construction

The design and construction of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe are compact and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and minimalist campers. The stove weighs just 2.9 ounces (82 grams) and measures 4.2 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches when packed, making it extremely portable and easy to carry. The stove is built with high-quality materials, including durable stainless steel and brass, ensuring long-lasting performance even in rugged and demanding environments.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe features a folding pot support and a robust three-legged design that provides stability and prevents tipping over while cooking. The sturdy pot support can accommodate a variety of cookware sizes, from small cups to medium-sized pots. The stove also comes with a windscreen, which helps to maintain heat efficiency in breezy conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor cooking.

The ignition mechanism of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is another highlight of its design. It features a piezo igniter, allowing for easy and reliable ignition without the need for matches or a lighter. Simply turn on the gas and press the ignition button, and you’re ready to cook in seconds. This feature is especially convenient when dealing with windy or wet conditions, as it eliminates the need for external ignition sources.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe also comes with a durable and heat-resistant carry case, ensuring that it remains secure and protected during transport. The case not only keeps your stove safe but also helps to prevent any accidental leaks or spills while in your backpack.

In terms of aesthetics, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe has a sleek and modern look. With its compact size and polished finish, it is an attractive addition to your camping gear collection.

In summary, the design and construction of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is designed with portability, durability, and convenience in mind. It offers a compact and lightweight solution for outdoor cooking without compromising on stability and performance.

 

Performance

The performance of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is impressive, making it a reliable and efficient stove for outdoor cooking. With a powerful heat output of up to 10,000 BTUs, this stove quickly boils water and cooks food in no time. Whether you need a hot cup of coffee to kickstart your morning or a piping hot meal after a long day of hiking, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe delivers.

One of the standout features of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe is its excellent flame control. The stove offers precise flame adjustment, allowing you to simmer your meals with ease. This feature is especially valuable for recipes that require delicate heat control, such as sauces or soups. Whether you need a gentle simmer or a roaring flame, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe has got you covered.

Another performance advantage of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is its efficient and consistent heat distribution. The optimized burner design ensures an even flame across the cooking surface, resulting in evenly cooked meals without hot spots. This is especially important when cooking in the outdoors, as uneven heat distribution can lead to undercooked or burnt food.

The stove also performs exceptionally well in different weather conditions. It is designed to withstand winds up to 12 mph, thanks to its integrated windscreen and simmer control. The windscreen not only protects the flame from gusts of wind but also helps to maintain a steady heat output, ensuring efficient cooking even in challenging outdoor environments.

Furthermore, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe boasts a fast boil time, allowing you to conserve fuel and save time. In optimal conditions, it can bring a liter of water to a rolling boil in just under four minutes. This is a significant advantage when you’re on the go and need quick access to hot water for drinking or cooking.

In summary, the performance of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is impressive, providing a powerful heat output, precise flame control, efficient heat distribution, and excellent performance in various weather conditions. Whether you’re boiling water or cooking a meal, this stove delivers consistent and reliable performance for all your outdoor cooking needs.

 

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a camping stove, as it directly affects the weight of your backpack and the duration of your outdoor adventure. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe excels in this area, offering impressive fuel efficiency that allows you to maximize your cooking time without carrying excessive fuel.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe is designed to work with a variety of fuel canisters, including MSR IsoPro and other compatible isobutane-propane mixtures. These fuel canisters are known for their high energy density and clean-burning properties, ensuring efficient combustion and minimal waste.

One of the reasons for the stove’s fuel efficiency is its efficient burner design. The Pocket Rocket Deluxe features a tri-sectional burner head, which helps to enhance heat transfer and combustion efficiency. This means that the stove uses fuel more efficiently, resulting in longer burn times and fewer fuel canister replacements.

The stove also has excellent heat distribution, ensuring that a significant portion of the heat produced is transferred to the cookware rather than being lost to the surrounding air. This efficiency minimizes wasted heat and helps to maximize the use of available fuel.

Additionally, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s flame control feature plays a role in fuel efficiency. By providing precise flame adjustment, the stove allows for optimal heat output, reducing the need to use excessive heat for cooking. This not only helps to conserve fuel but also ensures that your meals are cooked to perfection without any unnecessary heat loss.

It’s worth noting that the fuel efficiency of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, altitude, and cooking habits. However, in general, users have reported excellent fuel efficiency with this stove, allowing them to cook multiple meals and boil water throughout their outdoor trips without running out of fuel.

In summary, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is highly fuel-efficient, allowing you to minimize fuel consumption and extend your cooking time in the outdoors. Its efficient burner design, heat distribution, and precise flame control contribute to its impressive fuel efficiency, making it a reliable choice for extended outdoor adventures.

 

Wind Resistance

When camping or hiking in the outdoors, dealing with windy conditions is inevitable. That’s why having a camping stove with good wind resistance is crucial, as it ensures stable and efficient cooking even in gusty environments. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is designed to withstand windy conditions, making it a dependable option for outdoor cooking in less-than-ideal weather.

One of the key features that contribute to the stove’s wind resistance is its integrated windscreen. The windscreen surrounds the burner, creating a barrier that blocks gusts of wind from directly hitting the flame. This not only protects the flame from being extinguished but also helps to maintain a steady heat output, ensuring consistent and efficient cooking.

In addition to the windscreen, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe has built-in wind baffles on the burner head. These baffles further protect the flame from any wind coming from different directions, minimizing the risk of flame flutters or uneven heating. This feature is especially beneficial in mountainous or exposed terrains where wind conditions can change frequently.

The stove’s three-legged design also contributes to its wind resistance. The sturdy and robust legs provide stability, preventing the stove from toppling over even in windy conditions. This ensures that your cooking surface remains level, reducing the risk of spills and accidents.

It’s important to note that while the Pocket Rocket Deluxe offers excellent wind resistance, extremely windy conditions can still affect the stove’s performance. In such situations, it’s advisable to find a sheltered spot or use natural windbreaks to further protect the stove from strong gusts of wind.

Overall, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s wind resistance features make it a reliable choice for outdoor cooking in windy conditions. Its integrated windscreen, wind baffles, and sturdy construction work together to keep the flame steady and ensure efficient cooking even when faced with challenging wind conditions.

 

Simmering Capability

When it comes to outdoor cooking, having the ability to simmer your meals is essential for preparing a wide range of dishes, from delicate sauces to simmered stews. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe excels in this regard, providing precise flame control and a reliable simmering capability.

The stove features a wide range of flame adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune the heat output to achieve the perfect simmer. This is particularly important when cooking recipes that require gentle heat, as even the slightest variation can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your dish.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s precise flame control is made possible by the stove’s valve design and regulator. The valve allows you to adjust the flame intensity smoothly, providing consistent and controlled heat for simmering. The regulator helps maintain a steady and consistent flow of fuel, ensuring a reliable simmering experience.

The stove’s burner design also plays a role in its simmering capability. The tri-sectional burner head evenly distributes the heat across the cooking surface, allowing for even and controlled simmering. This means that whether you’re simmering a delicate sauce or slowly cooking a flavorful stew, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe provides the necessary heat control to achieve your desired results.

Furthermore, the integrated windscreen of the stove contributes to its simmering capability. By protecting the flame from gusts of wind, the windscreen ensures a stable heat source, minimizing the chance of fluctuations and maintaining a consistent simmer. This is especially valuable when cooking in exposed or windy environments.

Thanks to its precise flame control, even heat distribution, and reliable simmering capability, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe allows you to cook a wide variety of meals with ease. Whether you’re a gourmet outdoor chef or simply appreciate the ability to prepare flavorful and complex dishes while on your camping trip, this stove delivers the simmering functionality you need.

 

Specifications

Here are the specifications of the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe:

• Weight: 2.9 ounces (82 grams)
• Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches
• Power Output: 10,000 BTUs
• Ignition: Push-button piezo igniter
• Compatible Fuel: MSR IsoPro and other isobutane-propane mixtures
• Burn Time: Up to 60 minutes on a 227g fuel canister
• Boil Time: Approximately 3.5 minutes per liter (optimal conditions)
• Simmer Control: Yes
• Wind Resistance: Withstands winds up to 12 mph (approx. 19 km/h)
• Construction: Stainless steel, brass, and high-temperature thermoplastic
• Packed Size: Fits into a durable carry case (included)

The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is designed with a focus on lightweight and compactness, making it an excellent choice for backpackers and minimalist campers. Despite its portable size, it offers a powerful 10,000 BTU output, allowing for fast boiling and efficient cooking.

The push-button piezo igniter eliminates the need for matches or lighters, making it easy and convenient to ignite the stove. The stove is compatible with MSR IsoPro fuel canisters, which are known for their reliability and clean-burning properties.

With a burn time of up to 60 minutes on a 227g fuel canister, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe offers enough cooking time for multiple meals and extended outdoor trips. It has a remarkable boil time of approximately 3.5 minutes per liter in optimal conditions, ensuring you won’t have to wait long for a hot meal or drink.

The stove’s wind resistance feature allows it to withstand winds up to 12 mph, ensuring stable cooking even in breezy conditions. The stainless steel, brass, and high-temperature thermoplastic construction of the stove ensures durability and reliability throughout your outdoor adventures.

Overall, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s specifications highlight its lightweight design, powerful heat output, efficient fuel consumption, and reliable performance in various outdoor conditions. These features make it an excellent option for backpackers, hikers, and campers in need of a compact and efficient camping stove.

 

Durability and Reliability

When it comes to outdoor gear, durability and reliability are of utmost importance. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is built with high-quality materials and designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, ensuring its longevity and dependability.

The stove’s construction features stainless steel and brass components, which are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. These materials can withstand the demands of outdoor use, including exposure to moisture, heat, and rugged terrain. The high-temperature thermoplastic used in certain parts of the stove adds an extra layer of durability, ensuring that it can withstand high heat without compromising its structural integrity.

In addition to its robust construction, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe undergoes rigorous testing and quality control measures to ensure its reliability. MSR is renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality outdoor equipment, and the Pocket Rocket Deluxe is no exception. It is designed and manufactured to meet the high standards set by the brand, providing users with a stove they can rely on in various outdoor conditions.

Furthermore, the stove’s compact and foldable design adds to its durability. The folding pot support and the integrated windscreen are designed to be sturdy and secure, ensuring stability during use. The legs of the stove are strong and well-built, preventing tipping or wobbling, even with heavy pots and uneven terrain.

MSR provides excellent customer support and offers a warranty on their products, including the Pocket Rocket Deluxe. This warranty provides added assurance to users, knowing that they can reach out and receive support or replacement parts if any issues arise.

Overall, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a durable and reliable camping stove that can accompany you on many outdoor adventures. Its high-quality materials, rigorous testing, and commitment to customer satisfaction make it a trustworthy option for backpackers, hikers, and campers seeking a stove that will withstand the test of time.

 

Ease of Use

The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is designed with user-friendliness in mind, making it incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. From setup to cooking and clean-up, this stove offers convenience and simplicity during your outdoor adventures.

Setting up the Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a breeze. The stove features a compact and foldable design, allowing for effortless assembly and disassembly. The folding pot support and integrated windscreen can be easily unfolded and locked into place, providing a stable cooking surface and protection from the wind.

Igniting the stove is hassle-free, thanks to its push-button piezo igniter. Simply turn on the gas and press the ignition button, and the stove will ignite instantly without the need for matches or lighters. This feature is especially valuable in challenging weather conditions, such as wind or rain, where external ignition sources may fail.

The flame control of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe is precise and easy to adjust. The valve allows you to dial in the desired flame intensity, whether you’re boiling water or simmering a delicate sauce. This level of control ensures that your food is cooked to perfection and prevents any accidental burning or undercooking.

Clean-up is a breeze with the Pocket Rocket Deluxe. The stainless steel and brass construction make it easy to wipe off any food debris or spills after use. The stove’s minimalist design also means there are no complicated parts or excessive crevices that can trap dirt or grime.

The compact size and lightweight nature of the stove make it effortless to pack and carry. It fits into the included durable carry case, which not only protects the stove during transport but also prevents any leaks or spills in your backpack.

Overall, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe offers exceptional ease of use. From setup to ignition, heat control, and clean-up, this stove streamlines the cooking process during your outdoor adventures, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meals and the great outdoors.

 

Price and Value

When considering a camping stove, it’s important to assess its price in relation to the value it provides. The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe delivers excellent value for its price, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts.

While the Pocket Rocket Deluxe may have a slightly higher price point compared to some other camping stoves on the market, its performance, durability, and reliability justify the cost. MSR is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, and the Pocket Rocket Deluxe lives up to the brand’s reputation.

What sets the Pocket Rocket Deluxe apart is its combination of portability, efficiency, and ease of use. The lightweight and compact design make it an ideal choice for backpackers and minimalist campers who prioritize weight and space efficiency. With a powerful heat output, precise flame control, and excellent wind resistance, this stove performs exceptionally well in various outdoor conditions.

In terms of durability, the stainless steel and brass construction, as well as the high-temperature thermoplastic parts, ensure long-lasting performance even in rugged environments. The stove’s reliability is further supported by MSR’s commitment to quality and their warranty coverage, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind for users.

When compared to the value it provides, the price of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe is justified. Its efficient fuel consumption, fast boil times, reliable heat distribution, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for outdoor cooking. The convenience and time-saving features it offers, such as the push-button ignition and hassle-free clean-up, further add to its overall value.

Investing in the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe means investing in a reliable and versatile camping stove that will enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Its excellent performance, durability, and ease of use make it worth the investment for campers, hikers, and backpackers who prioritize high-quality gear that will last for many adventures to come.

 

Pros and Cons

Like any camping stove, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are the pros and cons of this popular stove:

Pros:

• Compact and Lightweight: The Pocket Rocket Deluxe is highly portable, making it ideal for backpackers and minimalist campers who prioritize weight and space efficiency.
• Powerful Heat Output: With a heating capacity of up to 10,000 BTUs, this stove can quickly boil water and cook meals in no time.
• Precise Flame Control: The stove offers excellent flame adjustment, allowing for simmering and delicate heat control, making it versatile for various cooking needs.
• Wind Resistant: The integrated windscreen and wind baffles protect the flame from gusts of wind, ensuring stable heat output even in windy conditions.
• Efficient Fuel Consumption: The Pocket Rocket Deluxe is fuel-efficient, maximizing burn time and reducing the need for frequent fuel canister replacements.
• Durable Construction: Built with stainless steel, brass, and high-temperature thermoplastic, this stove is designed to withstand the demands of outdoor use.
• Easy to Use: The push-button ignition, precise flame adjustment, and user-friendly design make the Pocket Rocket Deluxe incredibly easy to set up, ignite, and clean.

Cons:

• Single Burner: The Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a single burner stove, limiting the capacity for simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes.
• Lack of Built-in Ignition Protection: Unlike some other models, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe does not have a built-in protective mechanism to prevent accidental ignitions.
• Requirement for MSR Canisters: Although the stove is compatible with other isobutane-propane mixtures, it is recommended to use MSR IsoPro fuel canisters for optimal performance.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe offers a fantastic balance of portability, performance, and reliability. Its compact design, powerful heat output, precise flame control, durability, and ease of use make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable camping stove.

 

Conclusion

The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a standout camping stove that offers a remarkable combination of portability, performance, and reliability. With its compact and lightweight design, powerful heat output, precise flame control, and durable construction, this stove is an excellent companion for backpackers, hikers, and campers seeking a reliable and efficient cooking solution in the great outdoors.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s compact size and lightweight nature make it easy to pack and carry, without compromising its performance. Its powerful heat output of up to 10,000 BTUs ensures quick boil times and efficient cooking, while the precise flame control allows for simmering and delicate heat adjustment.

Wind resistance is a notable feature of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe, thanks to its integrated windscreen and wind baffles. This stove can withstand gusty conditions, ensuring stable heat output and consistent cooking performance.

Fuel efficiency is another advantage of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe. It maximizes the use of fuel, allowing for extended burn times and reducing the need for frequent fuel canister replacements. This efficiency is especially beneficial for longer outdoor trips and for those looking to minimize their pack weight.

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe’s durable construction, made from stainless steel, brass, and high-temperature thermoplastic, ensures long-lasting performance even in rugged environments. Its user-friendly design, including the push-button ignition and easy-to-clean features, enhances the overall outdoor cooking experience.

While the Pocket Rocket Deluxe has a few minor limitations, such as being a single burner stove and its preference for MSR fuel canisters, the pros far outweigh the cons. It offers exceptional value for its price, providing campers with a reliable and versatile cooking solution.

In conclusion, if you’re in need of a compact, efficient, and reliable camping stove, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a top choice. Its performance, durability, ease of use, and overall value make it a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking and adventure.