MSR Pocket Rocket 2

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May 2023

Justin edits the Wilderness Daily newsletter and writes trips, gear and feature stories. He’s a tramper, thru-hiker and trail runner.

By Justin Sprecher

MSR Pocket Rocket 2 $149.99

Used by: Newsletter editor Justin Sprecher

Used for: 12 months

A tramping stove needs to do two basic things: be reliable and efficiently boil water. Optional extras include flame adjustment, being lightweight, and packing down small.

The 73g PocketRocket 2 does all of these. I’ve used it from snow to desert climates and it lights up every time. I can get 500ml up to a rolling boil in under two minutes. That’s impressive. The arms are initially a little confusing to fold in correctly, but after a few uses, it’s intuitive. And it folds down small, easily fitting inside my cook pot. The simple, solid construction should last a long time, mitigating the premium price tag.

The flame control allows for simmering if you’re cooking. In windy conditions, I pair it with a DIY aluminium foil windscreen.

The name is apt. When going full tilt, it’s really loud – possibly not the best option for late-night cooking in a crowded hut.

Verdict: The premium price is worth the upfront investment for a top performer.

About the author

Justin Sprecher

Wilderness newsletter editor and contributor Justin Sprecher is a tramper, thru-hiker and trail runner with a passion for wild backcountry. He has been writing and photographing for outdoor publications for more than a decade and holds a degree in film studies and communications from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His writing has featured in publications in New Zealand and North America and his films have screened at festivals worldwide.