For those starting out winter camping, the first thing you'll need is a heater.
Among them, a kerosene stove is suitable for camping because it doesn't require electricity and provides good warmth.
When using a kerosene stove inside a tent, it's crucial to ensure adequate ventilation.
This time, I'd like to introduce the latest version (2020) of the "New Alpaca Stove TS-77-JS-C Compact" kerosene stove.
I've summarized the differences from the old Alpaca stove and the results of my review after actually using it in a tent.
Why the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact TS-77-JS-C is so popular
It's compact, but with strong heating power and a simple yet stylish design, making it popular.
Its heat output is 3.0KW, which is powerful among camping kerosene stoves.
It has enough power to raise the temperature of an 8-tatami room from 5 degrees to nearly 15 degrees in about 20 minutes.
The design is also simple and stylish, all black with chrome accents, making it easy to match with any campsite.
Basic performance
The Alpaca stove is made by a Korean manufacturer, and the biggest difference from the old Alpaca stove is that it's now a Japan-spec model.
It now has the PSC mark, which is affixed to kerosene stoves that meet Japan's safety standards.
Another reason for its reliability is that it's a JHIA certified product, meaning a third-party organization in Japan has inspected it.
A one-year manufacturer's warranty is included from the authorized dealer in Japan.
The stove automatically extinguishes in case it tips over, and the fuel cap is now more resistant to leaks.
Even with about half a tank of kerosene, it didn't leak when shaken in the car.
It uses kerosene as fuel, and when fully fueled with 3.7L, it can run continuously for about 10 hours.
It's easy to use: lift the handle, light it, and adjust the flame with the power control dial.
You can light it with a lighter or matches, but a long-handled lighter is the safest way.
Appearance and Size
The material is all chrome, and the color is black only.
At 405mm high x 350mm wide x 350mm deep, it's compact, but at 6.6kg, it's a bit heavy, so it might be a little difficult for women to carry.
A dedicated case (red) is included, which is convenient for loading into a car or for storage when not in use.
You can cook directly on the top plate, and with a trivet, you can even use heavy pots.
Why I Chose the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
First, I liked its simple and stylish design.
It's a natural convection type, meaning heat is radiated both upwards and sideways, which is great for warming your hands and feet while sitting in a chair.
This is really helpful as my hands and feet tend to get cold during winter camping.
How to use the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
I always bring it when the winter camping forecast is 0 degrees or below.
When using a kerosene stove inside a tent, proper ventilation is essential to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
When using it in a tent, I also use a carbon monoxide detector that alarms if the concentration becomes dangerous.
In a 2-3 person two-room tent, when the outside temperature was around -5 degrees Celsius, the inside of the tent was able to maintain around 10 degrees Celsius.
I kept it on medium strength for 10 hours, from around 6 PM to 4 AM, and the kerosene lasted.
It warms the tent and can also be used to boil water directly on the top plate, killing two birds with one stone.
Concerns when using the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
The small fuel inlet and the fact that the back of the lower reflector can easily cut me are concerns.
The kerosene tank is integrated with the main unit, and the fuel inlet is small, making refueling difficult.
The included hose for 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 edge on the back of the lower reflector can easily cut skin, which is dangerous.
It's not recommended for households with children, as they might accidentally touch it.
What I like about the NEW Alpaca Stove Compact
I like that it's compact and not in the way, and its simple, versatile design makes it suitable for home use too.
Unlike other heaters, it doesn't dry out the air, and the warmth lingers for a while even after it's turned off, which is a nice bonus.
Summary: The NEW Alpaca Stove Compact is safe as it meets Japanese safety standards.
When using a kerosene stove inside a tent, always ensure ventilation and keep objects away to prevent fires.
The Alpaca Stove TS-77-JS-C introduced this time is the 2020 version, 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 also been upgraded from a red vinyl fabric to a black denim fabric, making it even more stylish.
The Alpaca Stove TS-77-JS-C is a recommended kerosene stove for those who want to use it for both camping and at home.
Popular Alpaca stoves can sell out quickly, so be sure to check them out soon.
