The GSI Pinnacle Camper made by GSI Outdoors offers a lot of bang for the buck in this backcountry cook set. GSI is known for offering quality products at good prices. The Pinnacle Camper set is no exception. This set of cookware can be used for anything from a 2 person backpacking trip to a 4 person car camping outing. Simply select the pieces that will be required, to dial in just what needs to be taken along.
With the GSI Pinnacle Camper you get a 3 liter pot, 2 liter pot, and frying pan. Both pots come with strainer lids, and the larger lid fits the frying pan as well. A folding metal handle or gripper is provided to be used with the pots and pan. This handle easily detaches and locks firmly onto the cookware so there is no problem switching from pot to pot. If you prefer, additional grippers can be bought separately. For dinnerware, four durable BPA-free plates, triangular shaped bowls, and insulated mugs nestle tightly into the pots for storage. All of the dinnerware is all color coded so everyone can keep track of their own. The whole setup packs into a single unit and is carried in a convenient stuff sack which has welded seams, so it can double as a sink. At 3 pounds, 10 ounces, the full set is probably a bit more than most people would want to carry on a multi-day outing, but you can simply choose to carry only the ones you’ll use.
GSI Pinnacle CamperEach of the plates in the GSI Pinnacle Camper measure 7.5 inches across so they are not huge, but they will handle most outdoor meals just fine. I haven‘t gone out of my way to test this, but the plates seem to be just about unbreakable. The 14 ounce bowls and the insulated cups have graduated measurements inside which can be really handy. The shape makes them easy to hold and less prone to tipping over. The kids love to choose their own color, but somehow at least two seem to always want the blue setup.
All the cookware in the GSI Pinnacle Camper works great. Heat distribution is good, and the non-stick surface really works. I prepared some huevos rancheros, oatmeal and other sticky meals with no trouble. Cleanup was easy. Grooved rings are on the bottoms of the cookware to keep it on top of a stove. These grooves work great and I‘ve had no problems, but they are a bit sharp. The lightweight aluminum pots and pan are hard anodized for durability and are treated with Teflon® with Radiance. This coating was developed by Dupont to be non-stick, and actually heat faster. The lids have a silicone ring to provide a good seal, and a small series of holes on one side for easy draining/straining. A little orange tab or handle pops up for easy lifting.
The way this cookset packs up makes it super convenient, and all of the components work as they should. The GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper set has an MSRP of $129.95. Check it out at www.gsioutdoors.com.
– Mark