Is this the best budget heat exchanger pot for ultralight backpackers in 2025?
Overview
The Fire Maple Petrel Ultralight Pot is a compact, high-efficiency cookpot designed for solo hikers, fastpackers, and minimalist campers. Available in 600ml (G3) and 750ml (G2) versions, it features a built-in heat exchanger, locking lid, and nesting compatibility with small gas canisters and stoves.
At under £25 and weighing just 162–184g, the Petrel punches well above its price point—offering Jetboil-style performance at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re boiling water for freeze-dried meals or melting snow in the hills, this pot delivers fast, fuel-efficient results in a compact package.
Key Specs
| Feature | Petrel G3 (600ml) | Petrel G2 (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~162g (pot only) | ~184g (pot only) |
| Capacity | 600ml (max fill ~500ml) | 750ml (max fill ~600ml) |
| Material | Hard-anodized aluminum | Hard-anodized aluminum |
| Lid | Tritan plastic w/ flip handle | Tritan plastic w/ flip handle |
| Heat Exchanger | Yes (3-slot HX ring) | Yes (wider HX base) |
| Handle | Silicone-coated folding arms | Silicone-coated folding arms |
| Nesting | Fits 100g canister + stove | Fits 100g canister or stove |
| MSRP | ~£23.95 | ~£25.95 |
Boil Time & Fuel Efficiency
The integrated heat exchanger dramatically improves boil times and fuel economy:
- Boil Time (500ml): ~1:15–1:30 min (with Soto WindMaster or BRS-3000T)
- Fuel Savings: Up to 30% less gas used compared to flat-bottom pots
- Wind Resistance: HX fins shield flame and reduce flicker in breezy conditions
In side-by-side tests, the Petrel G3 boiled 2 cups of water nearly 50 seconds faster than a standard aluminum pot using the same stove. The HX ring also helps stabilize the pot on narrow burners, especially with the G3’s integrated notches that cradle stove arms.
Build Quality & Design
- Construction: Lightweight but sturdy anodized aluminum
- Lid: Tritan plastic with steam vent and flip-up handle (locks lid in place)
- Handle: Silicone-coated arms fold over lid for secure transport
- Heat Exchanger: Corrugated aluminum ring welded to base for efficient heat transfer
- Extras: Internal volume markings, strainer holes, and nesting compatibility
The G3 model includes notches in the HX ring to accommodate stove arms (e.g. BRS-3000T), improving stability and flame contact. The G2 has a wider base and better simmer control, making it more versatile for actual cooking—not just boiling.
Packability & Nesting
- G3 (600ml): Nests a 100g gas canister + small stove (e.g. BRS-3000T)
- G2 (750ml): Nests either a 100g canister or stove—not both
- Packed Size: ~12 cm diameter × 10 cm height
- Weight with Lid & Handle: ~184g (G2), ~162g (G3)
The compact footprint makes it ideal for ultralight setups, summit packs, or minimalist overnighters. The lid locks securely, and the handle folds neatly over the top, making it easy to stash in a side pocket or dry bag.
Field Performance
G3 (600ml) Highlights:
- Best for solo hikers who only boil water
- Narrower base fits smaller burners
- Notched HX ring improves flame contact
- Ideal for fastpacking, thru-hiking, and alpine missions
G2 (750ml) Highlights:
- Better for cooking meals (e.g. ramen, couscous, oats)
- Wider base improves simmer control
- Slightly heavier but more versatile
- Great for 1–2 person use or longer trips
Durability & Maintenance
- Material: Hard-anodized aluminum resists scratches and corrosion
- Lid: Tritan plastic is tough but not heatproof—avoid direct flame
- Cleaning: Easy to wipe clean; no nonstick coating to scratch
- Storage: Handle folds flat; lid locks in place for secure transport
After months of use, the Petrel showed minimal wear. The HX fins are solidly attached, and the pot resists warping even after repeated heating and cooling cycles.
Use Case Scenarios
| Scenario | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Ultralight backpacking | G3 (600ml) | Minimal weight, fits in palm, nests full kit |
| Cooking real meals | G2 (750ml) | Wider base, better for stirring and simmering |
| Boiling water for freeze-dried | G3 or G2 | Both excel at fast boils with low fuel use |
| Melting snow or cold weather use | G2 | Larger volume and better flame coverage |
| Budget Jetboil alternative | G3 | Similar performance at 1/4 the price |
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | Fire Maple Petrel G3 | Jetboil Stash | Toaks 750ml Pot | Olicamp XTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~162g | ~200g | ~95g | ~170g |
| Heat Exchanger | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Boil Time (500ml) | ~1:15–1:30 min | ~1:40 min | ~2:00+ min | ~1:30 min |
| Price | ~£23.95 | ~£130 | ~£35 | ~£45 |
| Nesting | 100g canister + stove | 100g canister + stove | 100g canister only | 100g canister only |
Verdict: The Petrel G3 offers Jetboil-like performance at a third of the price, with better packability than most HX pots.
Sustainability Notes
- Durable construction = longer lifespan
- No coatings = easier to recycle at end of life
- Minimal packaging from Fire Maple
- Modular compatibility = works with existing stoves and fuel
While not marketed as eco gear, the Petrel’s long-term durability and fuel efficiency make it a smart choice for low-impact adventuring.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent boil times and fuel efficiency
- Lightweight and compact
- Great value for money
- Compatible with most canister stoves
- Lid locks securely for transport
- Durable enough for regular use
Cons
- Lid can rattle or warp slightly when boiling
- Not compatible with all stove arms (e.g. MSR PocketRocket 2)
- Narrow diameter limits heat transfer compared to wider pots
- No cozy or insulation sleeve included (sold separately)
Final Verdict
The Fire Maple Petrel Ultralight Pot is one of the best-value heat exchanger pots on the market in 2025. It’s lightweight, efficient, and compact, making it ideal for solo hikers, fastpackers, and anyone looking to streamline their cook system without sacrificing performance.
If you’re tired of slow boils and fuel waste—but don’t want to spend £100+ on a Jetboil—the Petrel G3 or G2 is a smart, budget-friendly upgrade. It’s not just a cheap pot—it’s a well-engineered tool that delivers real-world performance where it counts.
