For those starting out with winter camping, the first thing you'll need is a heating device.
Among them, kerosene heaters are ideal for camping because they don't require electricity and provide ample warmth.
When using a kerosene heater inside a tent, you must take sufficient care to ensure adequate ventilation.
This time, I'll be introducing the latest version (2020 edition) of the "New Alpaca Stove TS-77-JS-C Compact" kerosene stove.
This article summarizes the differences between this new Alpaca stove and the older model, as well as the results of a review based on actual use inside a tent.
Why is the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact TS-77-JS-C so popular?
Its compact size, strong heat output, and simple yet stylish design have made it popular.
With a heat output of 3.0KW, it's quite powerful for a camping kerosene stove.
It has enough power to raise the temperature of an 8-tatami mat room from 5 degrees to nearly 15 degrees in about 20 minutes.
The design is simple, with all-black plating, so it's easy to match with any website.
Basic performance
Alpaca stoves are made by a Korean manufacturer, and the main difference from the old Alpaca stove is that it has been made to Japanese specifications.
This kerosene heater now bears the PSC mark, which indicates that it meets Japanese safety standards.
The fact that it's a JHIA-certified product, meaning it's inspected by a third-party organization in Japan, is another reason to feel confident about it.
It comes with a one-year manufacturer's warranty from the official distributor in Japan.
The stove will automatically shut off if it tips over, and the fuel cap is now designed to prevent leaks.
Even when the car was shaking with the kerosene tank about half full, it didn't leak.
The fuel is kerosene, and a full 3.7L tank provides approximately 10 hours of continuous use.
It's easy to use: simply lift the handle upwards to light it, and adjust the flame intensity with the dial.
You can light it with a lighter or matches, but a gas lighter is the safest way to light it.
Appearance and size
The material is entirely plated, and it is only available in black.
It's compact at 405mm high x 350mm wide x 350mm deep, but at 6.6kg it's a bit heavy, so it might be a little difficult for a woman to carry around.
It comes with a dedicated case (red), which is convenient for loading it into your car or storing it when not in use.
You can cook directly on the top surface, and with the addition of a trivet, you can also use heavy pots and pans.
Reasons for choosing the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
First of all, I liked the simple and stylish design.
This is a natural convection type heater, which releases heat both upwards and to the sides, and it's great because you can warm your hands and feet even while sitting in a chair.
This is a lifesaver during winter camping, as my hands and feet always get cold.
How to use the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
I always bring this with me when the forecast for winter camping is below 0 degrees Celsius.
When using a kerosene stove inside a tent, if there is no proper ventilation, you risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
When using it inside a tent, we also use a carbon monoxide poisoning checker that sounds an alarm when the concentration reaches a dangerous level.
In a two-room tent designed for 2-3 people, when the outside temperature was around -5 degrees Celsius, the inside temperature was able to be maintained at around 10 degrees Celsius.
I left it on at a medium setting from around 6 PM to 4 AM, for about 10 hours, and the kerosene lasted the whole time.
It's a win-win situation, as it warms the inside of the tent while also allowing you to place it directly on the top plate to heat water when boiling it.
Things I'm concerned about while using the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
I'm concerned about the small size of the fuel filler opening and the fact that the underside of the reflector is prone to tearing.
The kerosene tank is integrated into the main unit, and the fuel inlet is small, making it difficult to refuel.
The hose that came with the fuel tank I bought for camping didn't fit, so I needed a separate funnel.
Dust tends to accumulate in the gaps, and when cleaning, the sharp edges on the back of the reflector underneath can easily cut your skin, making it dangerous.
Because children might accidentally touch it, this product is not recommended for those with children.
Things I like about the new Alpaca Stove Compact
I like that it's compact and doesn't get in the way, and that it's simple and easy to match with other things, so I can use it at home too.
Unlike heating, it doesn't dry out the air, so I'm happy that it stays warm for a while even after I turn it off.
In summary, the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact meets Japanese safety standards, so you can use it with peace of mind.
When using a kerosene heater inside a tent, be sure to ventilate the area and keep objects away from it to prevent fires.
The model I introduced this time is the 2020 version of the Alpaca stove TS-77-JS-C, but its performance is the same as the 2021 version.
The 2021 model comes with stylish stickers and is available in two body colors: black and olive.
The dedicated case has been changed from red vinyl to black denim, making it even more stylish.
The Alpaca Stove TS-77-JS-C is a kerosene stove recommended for those who want to use it both while camping and at home.
The popular Alpaca stove sometimes sells out, so be sure to check it out early.
