Review of the Camp Chef EX60LW Explorer 2-Burner Outdoor Camping Modular Cooking Stove

The Camp Chef EX60LW Explorer 2-Burner Outdoor Camping Modular Cooking Stove is a versatile, rugged, and reliable piece of equipment designed for outdoor cooking, camping, and emergency situations. Whether you're tailgating, grilling in your backyard, or preparing meals off the grid during a power outage, this stove provides the kind of performance and portability that outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preppers alike will appreciate.

Key Features

• Dual Burners: The Camp Chef EX60LW features two high-performance, adjustable burners that can produce up to 30,000 BTUs of cooking power each. This gives you the ability to cook multiple meals at once, whether you're boiling water, frying, or simmering.
• Modular Design: One of the standout features of this stove is its modular cooking system. The 60,000 BTU output from two burners allows you to add various accessories to enhance your cooking experience. You can attach grills, griddles, pizza ovens, and more, making this stove adaptable to any outdoor cooking style.
• Durability and Construction: Built with a powder-coated steel frame and robust stainless steel burners, this stove is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It is weather-resistant, easy to clean, and made to last through harsh environments.
• Portable Design: Despite its heavy-duty construction, the Camp Chef EX60LW is relatively easy to transport, thanks to its compact size and removable legs. It’s designed for portability, with enough cooking space for large groups but still small enough to pack into a car for camping trips or emergency situations.
• Versatile Fuel Options: The stove uses propane fuel, with an easy-to-attach propane tank connection (typically a 20-pound tank). This makes it a reliable option in emergencies where gas may be the most available or only option for cooking.

Performance

The stove offers excellent heat control thanks to the adjustable dials on each burner, which allow you to fine-tune your cooking temperature. Whether you’re searing a steak over high heat or simmering a pot of soup, the burners provide enough power to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

The burners have wind guards to minimize the impact of wind on your cooking. This makes it more reliable in outdoor settings where conditions can change quickly, especially in a camping or emergency situation.

Emergency Use: A Lifesaver During Power Outages

The Camp Chef EX60LW Explorer 2-Burner Stove is especially valuable in emergency situations. If you live in an area prone to power outages due to storms, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events, this stove could be a lifesaver when you need to prepare hot meals.

1. Reliable Cooking When the Power Goes Out: In situations where your kitchen appliances are rendered useless due to a power failure, the EX60LW can take over the cooking duties. It runs on propane, which can be stored for long periods, making it a great backup for power outages. You won’t have to rely on canned or pre-packaged food alone—you can still cook fresh meals on this stove as long as you have a supply of propane.

2. Flexibility for Emergency Meals: Because of the stove’s dual burners, you can cook multiple dishes at once, which is helpful when you're trying to feed a family during a stressful situation. Whether you need to boil water for sterilization, cook soup, or fry food, the EX60LW provides ample space and power to get it all done in a relatively short time.

3. Cooking Outdoors to Avoid Hazards Indoors: In cases of house fires, smoke damage, or hazardous gas leaks, cooking indoors may not be an option. The Camp Chef stove can be used outdoors in such emergencies, keeping your family safe while still being able to prepare hot meals.

4. Portable and Ready for Use: In case of evacuation, you can easily take the stove with you. Its compact design, portability, and the ability to hook up to a standard propane tank mean you can set it up virtually anywhere, whether you’re in a shelter, a campsite, or even a temporary outdoor setup in your backyard.

Pros

• High cooking power (60,000 BTU) allows for efficient cooking in emergency situations.
• Versatile modular design lets you customize the stove with other Camp Chef accessories.
• Portable and easy to store, making it a great choice for both camping and emergency use.
• Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance in tough conditions.
• Wind guards ensure more consistent heat output when cooking outdoors.

Cons

• Size and weight: While portable for a stove of its power, it is still a bit bulky compared to smaller camping stoves, so it may not be ideal for those looking for ultra-compact gear.
• Propane dependency: The stove requires propane, so you’ll need to have an adequate supply on hand, which may require additional space for storage in preparation for emergencies.

Conclusion

The Camp Chef EX60LW Explorer 2-Burner Outdoor Camping Modular Cooking Stove is a highly versatile and powerful stove that excels in both outdoor and emergency situations. Its high output, modular design, and portability make it a great choice for campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone preparing for emergencies. In times of need—whether it’s during a power outage or natural disaster—this stove ensures that you won’t go hungry and can still cook hot, nutritious meals. Its reliability and flexibility make it an excellent addition to your emergency preparedness kit, offering peace of mind in challenging situations.

For those who enjoy outdoor cooking or simply want a dependable, emergency-ready stove, the Camp Chef EX60LW Explorer is an excellent investment.

Get Your Camp Chef Explorer On Amazon!

Book Review: The Disaster-Ready Home: A Step-by-Step Emergency Preparedness Manual for Sheltering in Place by Creek Stewart

The Disaster-Ready Home by Creek Stewart is a highly practical and comprehensive guide that equips readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to prepare for a wide range of emergency situations, particularly those where sheltering in place is required. In a world increasingly prone to natural disasters, pandemics, civil unrest, and unforeseen emergencies, Stewart's book serves as both a precautionary measure and a survival guide, helping homeowners turn their living spaces into fortified sanctuaries that can sustain them during times of crisis.

Overview

Published in January 2022, The Disaster-Ready Home is designed to help individuals and families transform their homes into safe and self-sufficient environments. The book is divided into clear, actionable sections that cover everything from understanding potential threats to designing and implementing a shelter-in-place strategy. Stewart, who is a seasoned survival expert, leads readers through the process of making informed decisions about the materials, tools, and supplies needed to create a resilient living space.

The book emphasizes preparedness over panic, providing readers with a calm, methodical approach to emergency planning. Stewart's tone is reassuring and non-alarmist, ensuring that even beginners in emergency preparedness will feel empowered to take the necessary steps toward securing their homes and their safety.

Content and Structure

The structure of the book is straightforward and user-friendly. It opens with an overview of the various types of emergencies one might face, ranging from natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes to societal disruptions such as power grid failures or pandemics. Stewart takes great care to explain not only the risks but also how those risks can manifest in everyday life.

The core sections of the book delve into the specifics of sheltering in place, offering practical guidance on several fronts:

• Home Fortification: Stewart outlines the critical areas of a home that need fortification, including windows, doors, and emergency escape routes. His advice is detailed, showing readers how to make their homes safer without resorting to expensive or complicated solutions. For example, he suggests simple and cost-effective measures, such as reinforcing entry points with plywood or securing loose items that could pose hazards in a disaster.

• Supplies and Storage: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to building a stockpile of essential supplies. Stewart covers food, water, medical kits, sanitation, and even personal defense tools. His approach emphasizes versatility, advising readers on how to store supplies that will have multiple uses, and he provides guidance on how to rotate stock to prevent spoilage.

• Energy and Water Solutions: Power outages are a common byproduct of many emergencies, and Stewart provides insight into alternative energy sources such as solar panels, backup generators, and hand-powered devices. He also discusses ways to secure clean drinking water, from simple filtration methods to rainwater harvesting.

• Mental and Emotional Well-being: One of the most valuable aspects of Stewart’s guide is his inclusion of strategies to address the psychological challenges of prolonged sheltering. He acknowledges the emotional toll that isolation, uncertainty, and danger can take on individuals and families. The book includes advice on staying connected with loved ones, managing stress, and maintaining a sense of normalcy in a crisis.

• Family Safety and Community Considerations: Stewart stresses the importance of communication and planning for families, including creating evacuation plans, establishing meeting points, and ensuring that children are prepared for emergencies. He also discusses the importance of building a community network of like-minded individuals who can help one another during a disaster.

Strengths

One of the standout features of The Disaster-Ready Home is its approachability. Stewart’s writing is clear and concise, and he uses plenty of illustrations and charts to make complex ideas easier to grasp. Each chapter ends with a checklist that readers can follow to ensure they’ve completed all necessary steps in their preparedness journey. This step-by-step approach is incredibly helpful, as it breaks down what could be an overwhelming task into manageable portions.

The practical nature of the book is another strength. Stewart doesn't just theorize about emergency preparedness—he provides specific tools, product recommendations, and even DIY projects that readers can implement in their homes. Whether it's building a simple solar oven or learning how to properly filter water, the book is filled with hands-on ideas that will help readers feel more confident in their ability to respond to disasters.

Moreover, the book is not alarmist, which is a refreshing change in the genre of emergency preparedness literature. While it acknowledges the possibility of catastrophic events, it also offers hope and optimism by focusing on what people can control. Stewart’s tone encourages a mindset of self-reliance without inducing fear or panic.

Weaknesses

While The Disaster-Ready Home is an excellent resource for homeowners looking to prepare for emergencies, it does have a few limitations. For one, its focus is primarily on sheltering in place, which might not be applicable in all emergency situations. For example, the book does not provide as much information on how to plan for evacuation or surviving in scenarios where one is unable to remain in their home. This is understandable given the book’s emphasis on preparedness for home-based emergencies, but readers seeking guidance on evacuations or survival in other environments might need to supplement this book with other resources.

Additionally, some readers might find the advice on fortifying the home to be more geared toward a suburban or rural setting. Those living in apartments or urban environments with limited space might need to adapt the suggestions in the book to fit their specific living situations.

Conclusion

The Disaster-Ready Home by Creek Stewart is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to take proactive steps toward securing their home and family in the face of disaster. Its practical advice, step-by-step instructions, and focus on preparedness make it an essential guide for anyone interested in becoming more self-sufficient and less vulnerable in times of crisis. Stewart's calm, methodical approach to emergency planning is both reassuring and empowering, offering readers the tools they need to face unexpected challenges with confidence.

This book is highly recommended for homeowners, renters, and anyone seeking to understand the logistics and mindset of disaster readiness. With its thorough coverage of all aspects of emergency preparedness, The Disaster-Ready Home is more than just a manual—it's a comprehensive survival guide that can help turn any home into a safe haven during uncertain times.

Get Your Copy On Amazon!

In-Depth Review of the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness

In the world of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and travel, access to clean drinking water is often one of the most pressing concerns. Whether you're embarking on a long trek through the wilderness or navigating an unfamiliar country, having a reliable water filtration system can mean the difference between staying healthy or facing serious illness. One of the most popular, portable, and affordable options for ensuring safe drinking water in such situations is the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. But how well does it live up to the hype? Let's take a closer look.

Overview of the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a compact, lightweight, and user-friendly device designed to remove harmful bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens from water, allowing you to drink directly from streams, rivers, lakes, and even puddles. It was originally developed for humanitarian use in disaster zones and emergency situations, but its popularity quickly spread to the outdoor recreation community.

Key Features

• Filter Type: Hollow fiber membrane technology
• Water Filter Capacity: Filters up to 1,000 liters (264 gallons) of water
• Removes: 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella), 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
• Size: 8.75 inches long, 1 inch wide
• Weight: 2 ounces (57 grams)
• Flow Rate: 3 liters per minute
• Material: BPA-free plastic
• Usage: No need for pumps, batteries, or chemicals

Performance

Filtration Effectiveness

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is highly effective at removing bacteria and parasites, making it an excellent option for backcountry hikers, travelers, or anyone venturing into areas where clean water is scarce. The filter uses hollow fiber membrane technology, which creates a series of microscopic pores (typically around 0.2 microns in diameter) that trap harmful microorganisms, including bacteria and protozoan parasites. This level of filtration is sufficient to make water from natural sources like streams and lakes safe for drinking.

While the LifeStraw does an excellent job with bacteria and protozoa, it does not remove viruses. This can be a limitation if you're traveling in areas with known viral contamination, such as regions affected by cholera or hepatitis. For viral protection, additional water purification methods, like iodine tablets, ultraviolet (UV) purifiers, or chemical treatments, would need to be used in conjunction with the LifeStraw.

Ease of Use

The design of the LifeStraw is simple and intuitive. To use it, all you need to do is dip the straw into a water source and suck the water through the filter. The process is similar to drinking from a straw, and it doesn’t require any pumping or additional gear, making it one of the most convenient personal water filters available. It's essentially a "sip and go" solution for hydration on the move.

The flow rate of 3 liters per minute is more than adequate for quick sips, though it’s not as fast as some larger filters or pump systems. However, considering the LifeStraw’s size and weight, this trade-off is acceptable for most users, especially when you're relying on it for occasional hydration rather than continuous use.

Durability and Longevity

The LifeStraw is built to last, with a solid design and robust construction. It’s made from BPA-free plastic, which is durable enough for extended use in rugged environments. The filter itself is capable of purifying up to 1,000 liters of water, which is a substantial amount considering its compact size.

However, longevity can be impacted by the water quality you’re filtering. If you're drinking from very murky water, the filter may clog faster, reducing its effectiveness and lifespan. It’s important to avoid drawing water with large particles or debris into the filter, as this could cause it to fail prematurely.

In areas with high sediment levels, using a cloth pre-filter (often recommended in combination with the LifeStraw) can help prolong the lifespan of the filter by preventing larger particles from clogging the pores of the hollow fiber membrane.

Portability

One of the standout features of the LifeStraw is its portability. Weighing just 2 ounces (57 grams) and measuring only 8.75 inches in length, the LifeStraw is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. It can easily fit into a backpack, daypack, or even a pocket, making it an ideal choice for long hikes, travel, or emergency kits.

It’s a significant advantage over bulkier filtration systems like pump filters or gravity-fed systems, which can weigh several pounds and require more space. For those looking to minimize pack weight or maximize space, the LifeStraw is a no-brainer.

Maintenance and Cleaning

While the LifeStraw is low-maintenance, proper care is essential to ensure that it continues to function effectively. After each use, it’s important to blow air through the straw to clear out any remaining water from the filter, which helps prevent mold or bacterial growth. Cleaning the LifeStraw is a relatively simple process that requires rinsing it thoroughly with clean water. It’s also advisable to store the LifeStraw in a dry place to avoid contamination when not in use.

One consideration is that the LifeStraw is not easily cleaned beyond basic rinsing. Over time, if the filter becomes clogged or contaminated with debris, its effectiveness may decrease. However, this can be mitigated by using pre-filtering methods, especially in areas with heavy sediment or turbid water.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable: At just 2 ounces, it’s easy to carry for long distances.
• Effective: Removes 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, making it a reliable option for most outdoor adventures.
• Affordable: One of the most cost-effective personal water filters on the market.
• Simple and intuitive: No complicated setup, just sip from the water source.
• Durable: Long-lasting, capable of filtering up to 1,000 liters of water.

Cons:

• Not effective against viruses: Does not filter out viruses, which means you may need to use additional water purification methods in certain areas.
• Flow rate is moderate: While sufficient for most users, the flow rate is slower compared to larger, pump-based filters.
• Can clog in dirty or turbid water: The filter may become less effective if used with highly contaminated water that contains debris or large particles, requiring occasional maintenance.
• Limited filtration capacity: While it lasts for 1,000 liters, this may not be enough for large groups or long trips without refills or additional filters.

Ideal Use Cases

The LifeStraw is best suited for individual use during short to medium-term outdoor activities such as:

• Hiking and Backpacking: A lifesaver for outdoor adventurers in need of a compact, lightweight filtration solution.
• Camping: Perfect for solo campers or small groups looking for an easy way to obtain clean water.
• Travel: Great for international travel, especially in regions where tap water quality is questionable.
• Emergency Preparedness: An essential item for disaster kits or bug-out bags, where access to clean water may be cut off.

Conclusion

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable, convenient, and affordable personal water filtration devices available today. Its ease of use, portability, and effectiveness in filtering out harmful bacteria and protozoa make it an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. While it does have some limitations—such as its inability to filter out viruses and its relatively moderate flow rate—it remains an excellent choice for most casual hikers, campers, and those in need of a reliable emergency water filter. If you're looking for a lightweight, straightforward solution for safe drinking water in the wilderness or during travel, the LifeStraw is hard to beat.

See The LifeStraw On Amazon!