I chose this camp stove specifically because of my need for simmering ability. Some propane stoves/burners can't do a low-heat simmer. I'm happy to report this Coleman Cascade 18 can. The lowest heat setting is so low that some people might find it can be used for warming...perfect. Tiny blue flames come out of the burner at low setting.
On maximum setting, its 8000 BTUs of heat might not be enough for authentic wok cooking, or for boiling big pots of water. But it's plenty enough for most cooking; 8000 BTUs equals about 2300 watts which is approximately the heat output of a large burner on an electric range. During daytime the flames are pretty much invisible - a sign of good burner design. But...like most other camp stoves, if you're cooking in windy conditions, a lot of that heat will be wafted away, and it might extinguish the flame on the lowest heat settings. So you might need to find a way to screen the wind.
The control knob gives good heat control, but it requires lots of turning...about 2.5 revolutions from off to full blast. You get maximum heat once the knob is turned up about halfway, any further turning doesn't do anything. Still, I'm happy for the good control at low heat, which was my reason for purchase.
Higher and lower heat is indicated by small + and - signs next to the knob which is not as clear as a tapered line that most burners use. It's important to be easy to see because on this stove (like most other propane stoves), higher = counterclockwise turn, which is opposite of what you might expect. The rotary click igniter is a good design and works well, and is not as loud as most push-type barbecue igniters.
The stove is fairly light construction but not flimsy. It's about the size and weight of an electric hot plate. It's not a tiny backpacking stove, it's for camping and backyard use. The chrome-plated steel grate is decently thick and sturdy, it can hold quite a lot of weight. The stove's light green color is pleasant and unobtrusive but I'd prefer the classic Coleman darker green, which epitomizes Coleman and camping to me.
| Product Dimensions | 37.49 x 37.49 x 14.99 cm; 453.59 g |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 2157355 |
| Age Range | unisex |
| Colour | Multi |
| Size | One Size |
| Style | Cascade 1 Burner Stove |
| Fuel Type | Propane |
| Height | 6 inches |
| Length | 16 inches |
| Weight | 2.86 kg |
| Width | 15 inches |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Pieces | 1 |
| Power Source | Gas Powered |
| Special Features | Manual |
| Included Components | Stove, Detached Grate |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Brand | Coleman |
| Item Weight | 454 g |
