Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, including links to the MSR
Pocket Rocket 2 and MSR fuel canisters. As an Amazon Associate I earn from
qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually
use on the trail — hygge is non-negotiable and so is honesty! 🌲By Shannon | Mindfully Minnesotan
If you’re looking for the perfect backpacking stove, look no further — let me introduce you to my trail sidekick, the MSR Pocket Rocket 2. But before we go any further, let’s be clear: this is NOT to be confused with that “other” pocket rocket. 😉 Trust me, this one is way more functional and a whole lot more appropriate for the backcountry!
What Is the MSR Pocket Rocket 2?
Simply put, the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 is a compact, lightweight backpacking stove that screws directly onto a fuel canister. In fact, I’ve taken this little jewel on every single backpacking trip I’ve ever been on — and it has never once let me down.
Assembly: Easy as a Minnesota Sunrise
First of all, one of my favorite things about the Pocket Rocket 2 is how incredibly simple it is to set up. It unfolds, screws onto the fuel canister and just like that, you’re ready to cook. No tools, no complicated instructions, no frustration whatsoever.
The only exception? Putting it away. The legs fold back up in a specific way that takes a minute to figure out. However, as I always say — “Ya gotta be smarter than the tool!” 😂 Once you figure it out, it quickly becomes second nature.
Lightweight Backpacker’s Dream 🎒
When it comes to backpacking, weight matters — especially when you’re carrying everything on your back through the Boundary Waters or a Minnesota state park. That’s why it’s worth noting that the Pocket Rocket 2 weighs just 2.6 ounces. As a result, you barely know it’s even in your pack!
Power That Sounds Like a Jet Engine 🔥
When you fire this thing up for the first time, you might do a double take. It ROARS to life — seriously, it sounds like a jet engine! Moreover, that power is exactly what you want when you’re hungry after a long day on the trail.
As a matter of fact, it heats enough water for:
- Two backpacking meals
- Two cups of coffee AND instant oatmeal simultaneously
- The most important camp beverage known to mankind — sugar free apple cider with a shot of Fireball on a cold fall night 🍎🔥
Fuel Efficiency: A Good Problem to Have
Here’s a problem I never expected — we never run out of fuel. In other words, I have half-used fuel canisters all over the place because this stove is just THAT efficient!
To put it simply, for a long weekend backpacking trip, one canister is more than enough for two people.
Wind Performance ⛺
As every Minnesotan knows, our weather is completely unpredictable. Nevertheless, the Pocket Rocket 2 performs surprisingly well in the wind for its size. While it’s not completely windproof, it holds its own better than you’d expect from such a compact stove.
A Few Things to Know
It’s sturdy but be careful: Overall, despite its small size it’s relatively solid. That said, just don’t bump it when it’s loaded with a pot of boiling water. Ask me how I know. 😬
Use MSR fuel canisters: Above all, this is the most important thing I can tell you! On my very first backpacking trip with the Pocket Rocket 2, I used a Coleman fuel canister and the stove stopped working for no apparent reason. As soon as I switched to MSR fuel canisters, I never had a problem again. For that reason, I haven’t felt the need to experiment with other brands. In short — stick with MSR fuel and thank me later.
The Verdict: A True North Woods Essential ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
All things considered, the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 has more than earned its permanent spot in my pack. It’s lightweight, powerful, fuel efficient, and most importantly, reliable when you need it most. Whether you’re boiling water for your morning coffee in the Boundary Waters or warming up apple cider on a cold fall night deep in the north woods — this little stove delivers every single time.
In conclusion, ya gotta be smarter than the tool — but once you are, it’s pure magic. 😄
👉 Grab your MSR Pocket Rocket 2 on Amazon here! https://amzn.to/4tMy1Vv
👉 Grab your MSR Fuel Canisters on Amazon here! https://amzn.to/4nEhSA1
Have you used the MSR Pocket Rocket 2? Drop your experience in the comments below! And if you have a secret camp beverage recipe, I definitely need to know about it! 🔥⛺