This review explores the Stanley Adventure Cook Set, assessing its suitability as the ultimate hunting companion. We delve into the set's functionality, focusing on its durability, compact design, and 20-ounce capacity – perfect for solo hunts. The included vented lid with strainer and folding handle are highlighted, emphasizing ease of use and storage. Beyond its cooking capabilities, we detail how this versatile system can be adapted into a personalized survival kit, showcasing practical modifications for enhanced preparedness in remote locations.The review covers the integration of essential survival gear, including fire starting methods, a can opener, and space-saving techniques. We demonstrate how the author maximizes the cook set's storage capacity, utilizing additional items like a specialized spork and a Walmart Ozark Trail cup. The overall assessment evaluates the balance between affordability and durability, comparing the stainless steel Stanley set against more expensive titanium or aluminum alternatives, ultimately concluding on its value for hunters seeking a practical and cost-effective solution.
Pros And Cons
- All stainless steel construction
- Well-made
- Has graduations on the side (20 ounces)
- Simple handle that flips down and locks
- Vented lid with strainer
- Good capacity (around 24 ounces)
- Plastic tab on the lid may melt over time
Read more: 5 Ultralight Camping Cookware Sets for Backpacking
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Stanley Adventure Cook Set is a compact, all-stainless steel cooking system ideal for outdoor adventures. Its robust construction promises durability, a crucial factor for hunting trips. The set includes a pot with graduated markings, allowing for precise measurements of liquids. The simple, yet effective design makes it easy to pack and use.
The 20-ounce capacity is sufficient for most single-person meals and has additional space if needed. The inclusion of a vented lid with a strainer is a thoughtful detail that enhances usability. The convenient handle folds down and locks securely for compact storage and transport.
What's Inside My Hunting Kit?
Beyond its primary function, I've customized my Stanley Adventure Cook Set to serve as a compact survival kit. Essential items like cordage (approximately 30 feet), a carabiner, and basic first-aid supplies (Tylenol, Allegra) are neatly stored inside. This ensures I have immediate access to these necessities in remote hunting locations.
Additional contents include instant coffee, gum, a CRKT spork (a versatile tool for both eating and cutting), and tea. These small additions make the kit even more practical and comfortable during outdoor adventures.
Cooking and Fire Starting Essentials
The Pocket Rocket 2 stove, powered by isobutane fuel, is a reliable and efficient option for heating water or cooking small meals. It's lightweight and easy to use, simply screwing onto the fuel canister and unfolding the stands. The inclusion of waterproof matches (made by dipping wooden matches in candle wax) ensures a reliable method of fire starting.
These waterproof matches, combined with vaseline-soaked cotton balls, provide backup fire starting options for any situation. A P38 can opener is another practical addition, useful for opening canned food in the field. The overall arrangement of the stove, matches, and other essentials optimizes the kit for efficiency.
Customization and Compact Storage
While the Stanley Adventure Cook Set originally came with two nesting cups, I opted to remove them to maximize storage space for my survival kit. A simple piece of Scotch-Brite, strategically placed inside a Walmart Ozark Trail cup with foldable handles, prevents the Stanley pot from shifting inside.
This clever adaptation allows the pot and the Ozark Trail cup to nest together compactly, providing a secure and space-saving solution. The fuel canister, though not stored directly in the cook set, is easily carried separately in a hunting backpack.
Additional Gear and Final Thoughts
To complete my hunting setup, I always carry a Smith & Wesson Oasis knife, a robust all-steel knife known for its durability and sharpness. While not part of the cook set, this essential tool is always within reach. The overall kit, including the Stanley Adventure Cook Set and additional items, is surprisingly compact and lightweight.
The Stanley Adventure Cook Set is exceptionally valuable for hunters, offering a compact, durable solution for cooking and carrying essential survival items. The affordable price point of $15 makes it an excellent investment. While other more expensive titanium or aluminum sets exist, this stainless steel option strikes a perfect balance between affordability, durability, and practicality.
