Snow Peak GigaPower Stove

The Snow Peak GigaPower camping stove is another popular option for backpackers concerned with weight. The GigaPower weighs 3.75 ounces, not including the pot or fuel canister, which are sold separately. It folds compactly into an included plastic case, and it has an automatic piezo igniter. Reviewers say the Snow Peak GigaPower is surprisingly sturdy and stable for such a small stove, and few report any problems with stability -- a common problem for small canister stoves. The pot supports are also described as sturdy and capable of supporting large pots. Testing shows the Snow Peak GigaPower performs well in bad weather, including wind and rain. In fact, one reviewer at Backcountry.com is so impressed with the stove's performance in rain that he claims "a garden hose probably wouldn't even put it out." The GigaPower also gets favorable reviews from owners, but a few report problems with temperature control. If you're looking to trim even more weight, the Snow Peak LiteMax (*Est. $60) also gets good reviews and weighs less than 2 ounces.

Both Gorp.com and Backcountry.com test the Snow Peak GigaPower, and their testing is scientific and detailed. These tests are undated, though, so they may not include the newest camping stoves. Several owners write detailed reviews of the GigaPower on BackpackGearTest.org, and the stove also receives a good number of owner-written reviews on Buzzillions.com.