I accidentally became a lantern collector. Pre Pandemic I enjoyed weekend antiquing and lanterns were inexpensive and easy to learn about with a deep rich history. So in a nutshell this is some of what I've learned. 1. There are three primary fuel types for lanterns. White gas, propane, and kerosene. The majority of old lanterns used kerosene. Of the three fuels kerosene is the least expensive, easiest and safest to store and use. This is a case where you can look to the Amish community to understand that kerosene might be your best choice. 2. If you're looking for an emergency / camping light source and you're not being nostalgic the clear winners for cost, ease of use, and durability are electronic / LED lanterns. Sorry, I'm into the nostalgia and I already own more than 200 liquid fuel lanterns but You'd be foolish not to use LED lanterns in an emergency. 3. Both of the lanterns reviewed in this video are pressure lanterns illuminating using a fragile "ash" mantle that need regular replacement. Although they are not as bright, I prefer the much less expensive, incredibly durable "Deitz" style non-pressurised cold and hot blast lanterns. Lanterns and portable stoves are fun to clean up and restore as a fun hobby. 4. For me the most fun part is finding old dirty lanterns and stoves at garage sales and flea markets. Old Coleman stoves and lanterns can usually be purchased in dirty but serviceable condition for under $10. It's a screaming deal because after a good cleaning and perhaps a few dollars worth of parts they can run for another 50 years. And at night sitting out on the back deck illuminated by flame light harkens back to 1900 of the last 2000 years of human history.
i dont say they are better. but huher you go it will work easier as outer pressure wil go down. it will not work at lets say tank is 10 atm and you are at under ocean therefore outer pressure is 10 atm so no pressure difference :P but that probably is not a problem if you are not on a submarine that air pressure regulation systems are malfunctionning :D well still may be the case from time to time anyway. :P
30-some years ago, I was in K-Mart looking at propane lanterns, and the salesman was a classmate at school. He talked me out of the 2-mantle lantern and into the 1-mantle lantern. Said it gave as good of light, stretched my fuel, and was just bulletproof. I still have that propane lantern, and it still works a treat.
I have a duel mantle model that I've used for coming up on fifty years now. I use a 5 ft. adapter hose, instead of the little green cylinders, so I keep my site well lit, all night for about a gallon of propane per trip.
I agree. Our Coleman gas lantern is a single mantle and is just as bright as our newer dual mantle propane lanterns. I still love the old school white gas lanterns and stoves. It just brings back good memories and feels so much more like camping to me. They’re well over 50 years old and they still run great every time. 👍
I love Coleman liquid fuel lanterns. I have been using mine for many years and they're still working fine. Just need a little TLC from time to time - like cleaning your rifle.
I am currently 72 and still have my original I bought when I was 15, I use mainly for fishing and have changed the generator three times and the cork piston cup, twice. I also bought a Duel Fuel three years ago. Both throw light 250 around from center.
I love them both. I have my father's Coleman 220J that he used when I was a kid and still have maintained it and use it. I also have the same Dual Fuel model you showed here which is a great lantern. I have a Coleman "North Star" propane lantern which is the brightest I have ever used. Liquid fuel is just classic and brings back memories from the past while propane is just quick and easy. I think everyone should get one of each :) Great presentation.
I have a single mantle Coleman Lantern my father got back in the '60's, it still works like it was new, the fuel we have here is called white spirit or Shellite and is quite expensive at $8 AU for 1/2 litre the mantles are also expensive at $6 AU each but I will never get rid of it because it still works and was my fathers, never found a better lantern than the Coleman
@@JarradDRS True, but greedy companies buy it bulk and cheap the charge the public up to 4 or 5 times the price but at least I know it will work at altitudes that gas won't
Excellent, concise comparison and overview of the operations. I've used both and tend to prefer the multi-fuel types because they're more adaptable in that I can siphon some fuel out of my truck if needed. They're a little more fiddly but up here in Wisconsin, it gets pretty cold and the propane can have trouble evaporating in the cylinder fast enough to feed the fire. So the multi-fuel is not only more versatile for fuel sources but it operates over a larger temp range.
"a little safer"???!!! have you ever seen what happens when a coleman lantern springs a leak indoors??? pressurized/atomized liquad fuel.NEVER USE A GAS LANTERN INSIDE OR STOVE
You can get a cheap oil lantern from wally world. Almost no parts to break, runs on almost any lamp or cooking oil, not pressurized. The exhaust is comparable to a large candle, not much carbon monoxide.
I agree with you I like the liquid fuel option myself, maybe it stems back from when my dad used to take me fishing and camping, the sort of an ambience to it, you could always tell when the running low on fuel just shake it gives you an idea of how much you have left. There's just something about the Coleman lanterns and camp stoves.
OK a pretty decent analysis BUT the use of Regular Unleaded Gasoline (RUG) also bringswith it the additional additives that were added to the gasoline when it was refined. These additives are prone to leaving residue in the generator and requires periodic replacement or extensive repair - although not very expensive. Murphys Law says it will happen at the least convenient time . I have both gas & propane lanterns and I use them both. I also have gas stoves that will operate on propane also. AND I use a 2nd gas tank for my stoves that is used strictly for RUG.. I dont want my gas tank contaminated by additives contained in RUG... RUG is used ONLY when all other fuel options are exhausted.
G P gasoline is way cheaper. Liquid fuel is much more expensive now than it was 12 years ago. Prior to about 2008 -2009 you could buy a gallon of Coleman fuel for about three and a half dollars. Then it started rising. Even so you can still buy a gallon of Crown brand for $7.99. A gallon of liquid fuel is about the equivalent of 4-5 propane cylinders. Furthermore, it has a bit more btu than propane.. it is true however that more modern propane lanterns often do burn brighter than liquid fuel ones. This was not the case 15-20 years ago. Propane lanterns had much less light output than LF ones do. Times have changed. I have quite an extensive collection of liquid fuel lanterns, some dating as far back as the 1930’s. Most date to the 1950’s and 60’s. My nicer ones I only use naphtha aka Camp fuel or Coleman fuel. My modern Coleman dual fuel and some of my lesser quality vintage ones I run on non-ethanol RUG. (Regular Unleaded Gasoline). RUG is far cheaper than propane at only $2.50 / gallon. As mentioned earlier it is equivalent to 4-5 propane cylinders. I also have several 500cp kerosene presume lanterns Colman 237’s, 639’s and Petromax lanterns.. I pay about six bucks per gallon for kerosene. Yes, it is slightly less convenient than LF because of the preheating process. Yet, it produces far more light. Those things are extremely bright! Especially the Petromax, no propane lantern is brighter than that. Furthermore, there is a nostalgia factor to liquid fuel lanterns especially the old ones. I can light up one of my 1951 Coleman 252’s and say; “This lantern is nearly 70 years old, and yes it does look like the lanterns seen in the old M.A.S.H. TV show reruns.” Or light up a ‘40s era Coleman 242 or a Petromax* and say; “Why yes, it does look like the Lanterns in the Indiana Jones movies.” ^ (I use 1960’s era Petromaxes. They look like the 1930’s and 1940’s era ones. I would not use a Petromax from that era because it was built by Jewish slave labor. Many of these were built intentionally substandard, as Jews built them to explode, with as a way to sabotage the NAZI military.) Also, by using RUG or Kerosene in refillable containers from the pump, I don’t have the rubish of disposable containers
@@BigLewBBQ You typed a whole bunch words for nothing. I refill my 1 lb tanks from 20 lb bbq tanks. Cost to me is about .50 cents so still way cheaper than gasoline and no trash created from disposable containers. This is not even mentioning the initial cost of the gas lantern vs propane. Nostalgia certainly is an intangible factor, but imo does not outweigh all the negatives. Is it really worth it going through all that trouble for nostalgia?
I've had my Coleman lantern since 1973, the smartest thing I did, I bought hard plastic Coleman carrying case for it. The only that I've ever had to replace, were mantle's Thank You Coleman, for making Great Outdoors camping equipment for generations !
great breakdown on the this video. I personally have a liquid fueled lantern and stove. I never leave the lantern running more than 4 hours so i do not fill the tank full of fuel. The advantage to this is you can pump more air into the tank, and it extends the time you can let it run without pumping it up again.
So glad YT recommended your video! Very well done. I've been using Coleman liquid fuel lanterns (and stoves) for over fifty years. I'm hard pressed to try anything else. I will say though, I've had a handful of VERY SCARY incidents with both the stoves and lanterns. I'm a little gun shy every year when I break them out for camping. Anybody else scared the crap out of themselves and their fellow campers?
I've seen quite a few gear videos for camping, fishing and hunting. This was one of the most concise and informative ones I've come across. Liked and subscribed. Keep up the good work.
Over the years (55 years) The liquid fuel lantern is the best at the hunting cabin, it never fails ! My Coleman white gas lantern is over 65 years old and retired (but it still works) Back packing on the other hand (canoe trips etc) the propane lantern is the best by far. Stay away from any type of battery operated lantern, they just don't come close to the liquid gas or propane lanterns but I'll say they do come in handy inside a small tent. Great video ! Thanks.
I have some of each they're both handy, but the propane one provided me with a good laugh once. A know it all about every thing friend of mine was checking it out having never seen one, he turned on the gas, sparked the piezo lighter and nothing happened, (gas still flowing), I was about suggest maybe he should shut the gas off, let it clear, then try it again, nope, he didn't, he got his face up real close so he could see if the piezo was actually sparking, and WHOOMP. It lit up real good, the look on his face was priceless , a cross between embarrassed and suprised. At that moment he realized that he really should have know that would or could happen, he wasn't hurt, except his ego, and I still get a giggle remembering that look on his face. And of cource we never very spoke of it again.
We used the old gas lantern in the Boy Scouts. I was a 14-year-old kid, and my job was to keep it properly maintained. And I did! It's not all that hard to make sure the "generator" is clean and the pump's seal is in good shape.
I've been using the liquid fuel lanterns for years and now have four of them. Only one of which works. Not the lantern's faults - just a lack of proper maintenance and repair. Put away cold and wet so to speak. Now it's time to repair at least one so I have a spare. The coolest one is a little red single mantle one. Cute as hell. Nice video. I've watched others of yours and you're knowledgeable and have a great personality for passing on information.
Raven Feather if you need help with repair work, look up LantenLab on here. He has several videos about taking one apart and putting it together. I think there’s one especially on the red one (200A). If you need parts, eBay and oldcolemanparts.com are both good places.
@@jamespruitt6718 Thanks, James. I'm back here because I need to repair the one working one I had because it no longer works and no spare! I think it just needs a generator. Maybe this winter I'll get ambitious enough to fix up the red one.
I have a duel mantle propane model that I've used for 40+ years. I also have a 5 foot adapter hose and a small 1 gallon lp bottle, as well as my 5, and 7.5 gallon lp bottles to run, so I never fool around with the little green cylinders. My one gallon bottle is equivalent to 8 one pound cylinders, and light my entire camp site all night for the entire trip, with no maintenance.
I much prefer liquid fuel for camping kit. I have a WWII US army petrol stove that my uncle gave me in the 1970s. It still works faultlessly. Used it many times in below freezing conditions, frying bacon for breakfast!
@Orwic1 I appreciate the fact that LF items are definitely for more dependable, and they are very likely to last another hundred years or better. I certainly wouldn't fault anyone that prefers them I've enjoyed my same propane lantern & stoves for going on fifty years, and have yet to encounter a single problem. I really enjoy the convenience of leaving my lantern on high overnight. That way predators aren't as likely to enter my campsite, and the light is already on when I exit the RV to investigate a suspicious noise, and I can quickly see if it needs shot. As a grandfather, my trips are now strictly pleasure getaways with my young grandchildren, and often my now adult children. I'm not likely to camp where below temperatures are expected. Arizona has some unique geography. It's really easy to play in the snow, or enjoy seventy degree winter weather, all within an easy two hour drive! Many people are shocked to find out Arizona isn't all desert, and has three busy ski resorts.
@@azpapa9347 I have to admit that I don’t camp in really cold conditions now (not as young as I was!). I do have propane kit too, and it’s certainly convenient. I’m based in the UK, so the weather conditions are usually mild here - no extremes of hot and cold. And it’s often fairly wet, both winter and summer. I’ve been flooded out camping more than once. I didn’t know about Arizona’s geography - I must make a trip there one day!
thank your for a thorough review by side by side comparison, growing up in India I had a kerosene stove, so I am familiar with the mechanism, besides it is more nostalgic .
Great video, enjoyable to watch. I have three propane lanterns and two Coleman lanterns. Now with these propane refill tools and buying a large refill of propane at Walmart , I can keep refilling those little containers at very little cost. However, there is just something special about having a liquid fuel Coleman lantern. If I had to use an analogy, its like the joy of driving a standard shift transmission even though an automatic is so much easier.
Good comparison. I have been using a dual fuel for four years now and it was my first lantern. From my research I knew I wanted to go white gas (over battery and propane) and I am glad I did because to me the WG lantern has so much character. It is a cornerstone of the Coleman brand. It takes work to manage and keep running, plus it has that distinctive hiss while lit that is very nice. I do not run it inside the tent, for that I have a Dietz #80 Blizzard oil lantern which I recommend as well. One other thing that should have been mentioned. When you buy the dual fuel lantern new, it does come with a Coleman vented filtered fuel funnel in a nice thick resealable plastic bag. Filling it is super easy.
Great video! I love my propane Coleman lantern. I use it quite a bit fishing for flathead catfish at night, and I find it to be much easier to carry, along with a tackle box, 3 big rods, chair, cooler, etc, and I prefer not to have to bring along stinky fuel or worry about spilling it. I can easily throw a spare propane cylinder right in the cooler, too. Partials aren't a problem if you refill your cylinders. Both certainly have their places.
Good video. With my camping gear I bought a 4 foot propane-tree. You screwed lantern at the top of tree you then connected your stove with a 3’ fixable gas connector to the tree then to your stove. The tree was connected to a large propane tank like the one you use for your barbeque.
food for thought for this, as of this message, Costco refills tanks at 1.69 USD per gallon (not per LB), so in a 20lb bbq tank there's roughly 4-5 gallons of fuel, well say 5 gallons at 1.69 is 8.45 to fill up, factoring in that you already own the old 1 lb tanks, refill cost would be 42 cents per LB bottle, assuming 100% efficiency of all 20lbs used.
I've learned so much both from this video and from the comments. Thank you all. Please pray that I, old 🇨🇦 girl, make the best buying decision for safety, shhh(poop)htf scenarios, etc. I'm trying to be wise, somewhat portable, and useful fur the purposes to which I'm called.
The issue with refilling propane pounders was that the valves can go bad. 20 bottles refilled, and 3 went empty by themselves, so I really don't trust throw-aways anymore unless I refill them to re-use them the same day. Outside of that I typically use the white gas appliances with Crown fuel. I also am fond of the hiss and smell of the gas lantern.
My last lantern went bad and I’m looking at some for the fall. I for now use my portable shop lights but they dont throw the same yellow light that I prefer when camping I camp/hunt from early may to early november in canada. Good video sir
I do recall the mention of refilling disposable propane bottles makes them illegal if transported. "Federal law forbids transportation if refilled. Penalty up to $500,000 fine & five years imprisonment. (49 U.S.C. 5124)." I have had mixed results when trying to refill disposable propane bottles; the ability of the valve to seal properly & completely post-refilling was hit&miss. Considering all you've mentioned, my choice would be, despite the greater weight & initial cost, the camp fuel lantern. In an emergency, I would usually be able to more readily find a substitute fuel such as unleaded pump gasoline. Plus, it is more readily repairable if needed. Thanks for your informative video!
Great summary, like anything it depends on your needs. If you're a regular outdoors person or setting up a fairly solid emergency kit I'd be inclined to go for the liquid fuel option. The fuel keeps well, can be substituted for a lot more than camp fuel/gas and of course is refillable. For the weekend warrior, camper or light duty emergency preparedness kit the propane option will work fine and be simple & reliable. The big downside is that it requires you to think ahead regarding adapters if you get the coleman brand. Good luck finding tanks after a major incident. Either option is better than no option.
i love my coleman dual fuel lantern. its priceless to me. i have never tried to run it on gasoline though. usually i fill it before my camping trip and it lasts all weekend.
In the UK post war and for the first four years of my life, before we had electricity on the farm in 1962, we ran very very similar liquid fuel lamps with the Tilley brand. Pretty sure they ran on kerosene rather than petrol/gas. I distinctly remember the noise they made and the fuel being either Esso Blue or Pink Paraffin brands. We also had taller mantle oil lamps with mantles, called Alladin. Alladin was not pressurise but had a wick. Bare in mind that these were only experienced by me up to around my fourth birthday and even then we lived in the village at that time where we already had electricity.
Yes, Tilley lamps run on paraffin, not petrol. They need to be pre-heated with a meths soaked device which clipped onto the central tube. Good light and heat, bt they can be a pain to light on a windy beach, this is why I bought a petrol Coleman, much easier to light
@@Frightningman I don't remember that part of lighting the Tilley at all. It is 59 years since I last saw one lit after all, and I was only four years of age. I remember being able to make a den out of small conventional hay bales with an entrance only one bale high and wide. That's about 18"x18" at most. Those were the days. Not a care in the world.
Really insightful video. Have been *on the fence* regarding getting an 'oil lamp' for camping/reenactment purposes. This has pretty much swayed me towards the dual fuel Coleman, as it will last longer and give a much warmer "campsite glow" when lit. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I have both, and on boat use gas, in camper use propane. I wanted to add to your great review - I refill my coleman propane bottles when my large tanks are low just before refilling tank. Around here, 15lb tank charges for 15lbs whether you get 10 lbs 2 lbs or 15. That way I used 100% vs giving the propane company money back for usable fuel I already had. And the other value to the coleman bottle is that I have torch attachment for braising if needed. And the gas lantern gets that who knows how old fuel from equipment I buy with fuel in it that I drain out. That's the real "Camp Fuel" for me instead of paying for fuel. Both are great, but both kick heat and need exhausting air.
@@goldenglowladore3842 Both require air exhaust to exchange carbon monoxide for oxygen in controlled space. I don't know the how to help you calculate that, but an example for me on boat is used for light and is open air. In camper, also for light with heat benefit near, and all windows open and door open with screens in each. But in the camper is nearly never done, usually is posted on tall pole or tree outside of for light for whole camp area. Again, never used indoors where can accumulate CO as it is deadly and I am not recommending any unsafe use. I do love my lights as they are "free fuel" in my world since I find bad gas often and end of propane tanks from grill to get last of from. Thats the real advantage of these tools. So it left on and uses all the fuel, no need to get upset. Stay calm, enjoy camping.
I use a Dietz #2000 that burns paraffin/kerosene/several other alternative oils. Not only does it rin as a lamp but it has a removable top plate that doubles as a stove so you can heat water, make coffee, and heat food, etc. Paraffin is the more expensive of the multiple oils although you can technically burn olive oil which could be more costly. I found in general that Paraffin is the cleanest brightest and least odor of the fuels. K-1 kerosene or even diesel can be used in a pinch but it burns dirty and you have the sulfur content which varies based on the amount of refinement/quality of the fuel. PS: Most manufacturers do not recommend using kerosene/diesel in their oil lamps so keep that in mind and use it at your own risk.
I have been using Coleman liquid fuel lanterns and stoves since the 1970’s. My uncle was the first to show me how to fill, pump, light and use a Coleman camp stove and lantern. They were the same stove and lantern that his Dad had taken him camping with when he was a child. Now when I camp I take a duel fuel lantern and stove. I burn white gas in them. I find it way more convenient to manage the liquid fuel appliances, a fuel can and a funnel than to mess with the throw away bottles and refilling them.
@@wisico640 all burned things create waste. it is debatable which fuel is healthier for you to be around but it usually comes down to ventilation or lamp design. there is a legendary kerosene lamp that is supposed to burn cleaner than any other fuel, whereas most kerosene lamps are very dangerous
The thing is... if you get a refill adapter for the 1lb tanks, you can get a good 15 1lb tank refills out of a 20lb tank...sometimes more....for the cost of a 20lb refill, which is usually between 9 and 12 bucks around here depending on the time of year. That makes the propane WAY more economical than just using and chucking the 1lb tanks per use.
Both have their uses. The propane lantern running off a stalk from a 20 lb tank (which can also feed a stove) is generally safer around kids and less hassle but I greatly prefer the white gas or dual fuel lanterns when I’m with adults or even teens, especially for fall or winter camping. Inside my tent, I use LED lanterns. As has been mentioned by others, there’s a noticeable smell from the liquid fuel lanterns but it’s fine as long as you have decent ventilation.
I know this is an older video, but these days it is really hard to justify buying either of these things, given the advances in LEDs and batteries. There is something weirdly soothing about the hiss of those old style lanterns, they make me think of camping as a boy. But the reality is you can now get something that is smaller, lighter, much easier to use, can go inside your tent, doesn't emit noxious fumes in operation, and throws off more light.
...true, but LEDs have their time and place, and in the woods around the campfire isnt it. But thats just me--in order to enjoy camping, I need the full effect. The only light that should be present is the orange glow of the campfire and the hissing lantern's gas glow. The cold, sterile light of an LED , though brilliant, just doesnt fit here.
A quick note about the 1lb green cans. During a snow storm in Oregon last year (2019) a nearby city, Oakridge lost power for 3 weeks and you could not find a green can within 200 miles making the multi fuel option the only option. I have two, one single mantle and one dual. The single is brighter.
I like the liquid fueled. We used them in my earliest camping experiences, where for several summers as a teen I camped with friends of the family. Occasionally the mantles would partially burn up before the fuel ignited them fully, probably from getting the match too close.
Another thing is ease of clean up after a spill. If you get a leaky propane tank you can let the place air out. A leaking container of liquid fuel is another story. That being said I inherited my propane lantern which is the main reason I use it. If it had been a liquid fuel lantern I would have used that. I'm not partial. I also have an adapter that lets me attach it to a big propane tank like a torch and run a line to my stove as well which is super cool and convenient.
Camping as a teen in the '60s, campfires and flashlights sufficed. With friends in the mid 1970s, friend had problems w/ a borrowed Coleman stove. Took him a 1/2 hr. to troubleshoot, fix , and we had hot coffee on a cold early morning. Convinced me to opt for propane and did fine for the next 40-50 yrs. I also refill my 9 propane bottles from a 20# tank, maybe < $1/ refill. Full new tank is approx. 29 oz., I refill to 24 - 27 oz. makes it pretty inexpensive and kind to the planet. Just got a free 425e stove and twin mantle White Gas lantern. Research a lot of stove you tube videos, cleaned, reassembled, and learned how to operate the tank, generator & pump, will continue and go thru the rest of the stove. Lantern will be the next project. White gas seems to be a pretty good back up (power blackouts on occasion in the rural areas) and in spite of the learning curve white gas would be a cheap fuel for emergency. I'll use white gas at camp when I camp. Extreme emergency I'll do unleaded gas. I did buy a 'propane converter' so my wife might use the stove. Propane is OK, white gas might discourage her. Maybe I'll get my own private stove out of this adventure. I am not the extreme cold kind of camper, so either fuel / equipment will be fine for me.
Great tutorial, grew up camping with the classic Coleman fuel lantern . Tried and true,! The liquid fuel is Lantern is without a doubt ,, the way. To go.
Have both . Just thankful to have them for camping and power outages. They do give of so heat for warming up camper or tent. Never sleep with them on. Just a good sleeping bag.
Propane's boiling point is -44F (or -42C) so it should work fine in all but EXTREME freezing weather. It is butane that has the high boiling point and won't work below freezing.
Nice job! Years ago, I had the old red single mantle liquid fuel Coleman. It had a big knob, like the one here, but for regulating the brightness, it had a little tiny lever opposite the big knob (more/less ON/OFF), that you could turn to make it go real low, like barely on to super white bright! Full dimmer! I didn't see that feature on either of these examples. Also, I never had to pump up again once it got hot. The heat alone kept the tank pressurized! I used to use White Gas over genuine Coleman fuel, since it was about $0.50/gal in the 1960's. Now, I got a replica of the same red lantern except it has a CFL spiral bulb and a 12 volt rechargeable battery in the "fuel tank". LOL. Easy to light, no heat, fumes, flickering, AND it dims! Also the fuel tank fill cap has a night light in it! LOL.
🏕 I was going to ask my dad which he suggests, he has always used propane, and due to your very informative review, I now know everything I need to know.👍Thanks. Being able to use gasoline is a very appealing feature but propane is just so much easier, duel fuel I guess if your going high up in the mountains🏞 and is still a good thing to have around. One time while camping I fully grabbed the glass globe and burned the crap out of my hand ✋🔥. Ouch!! Ill never do that again and I will for sure slap a warning label on mine. lol
I grew up on the 60s liquid Coleman and always liked it. Pumping isnt a big deal either. Propane, I have some propane gear and just never really accepted it. Its all pretty much like you said. Given that its frequently unsafe and illegal to re-fill propane, Id stick with the dual fuel so that as long as the car has gas I have a supply of lantern gas, nothing to worry about. But new people coming up, they likely go for propane and thats ok. I think it comes out to 50-50, and for me dual fuel is cheaper per hour so i go with that.
Nice video. One thing maybe worth mentioning, these should not be used indoors. I know, a test lighting in a garage isn't gonna hurt anyone, but still worth mentioning.. A friend of mine kept a coleman propane stove on low in tent on a winter backpacking trip in Shenandoah NP in the 90's. He fell asleep & I awoke (in separate tent) to Horrible Screams. I had to pack all his remaining stuff & even tie his shoes just so we could walk out. Luckily his dog escaped without injury. My overall comment though is Nice Video :)
Good ol Coleman were made in WICHITA Kansas, there used to be a Coleman store and Museum downtown area that repaired them. But the Bean Counters shut that store, museum, and repair depot down. Now they hawk Chinese stuff at another location in a closed down office supply building .
Well done! Thank you. If you leave the propane tank attached, the propane mayery slowly leak out, I believe. Nice that cheaper unleaded gasoline can be used.
In a bug out situation which fuel are you more likely to find readily available when needed? Gas. That dual fuel lantern and a dual fuel stove are the way to go. Also, camp fuel seems to never go bad. I have some that is easily 10 years old and still good. Proper storage is key.
The majority of lanterns I have and use are liquid fuel, but propane always has it's place. About the only ones I don't have much of a use for is Kerosene pressure lanterns. They burn hot enough that after years of use they mess up their own vents and they're not adjustable. Takes forever to light them too since they have to preheat.
Good to know, I am literally looking at a kero light as I keep many gallons on hand for backup kero heaters. Appreciate your input. I got the dual fuel last year and I can't believe the light this puts out. I am curious - do you think there's truth to the statement that using unleaded fuel with ethanol (vs 91/93 octane) can foul the generator or rubber seals?
Theo Ciba ethanol will definitely mess up anything rubber You may can go on Coleman website and see if they mention this I know gasoline carburetors have problems with ethanol
Ah I used those Coleman (non propane)lanterns a lot when camping. they were reliable, and I only had to replace the wicks every 2 yrs or so. The pressure tank parts (rubber seals) wore out in about 4 yrs., but you could buy replacement parts with no problem. I only used their fuel because it ALAWYS burned clean. I had bad experiences with cheaper fuels smelling and sooting up the mantel. I'm not a fan of any pressurized system for indoors. I have seen a couple of lantern and stove failures, leaks that could have caused a potential fire except we wee right there to release the pressure and avoid a fire. For inside I use a Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern, it's German Made ( not a china knockoff) and works fantastic as a light source. No not as bright as a Coleman, but very adequate for indoor use or outdoor if a very bright light isn't needed. ps. great informative video... Thank You :)
Good video! You guys in the States certainly pay less money for pretty much everything than us in the UK, the twin lantern is around $133 and 1 litre (roughly 2 pints) of unleaded is around $1.62 in England. Happy camping mate! :-)
The vapor pressure problem is a big deal in Alaska. A friend and I have an off-grid cabin in the hills outside Fairbanks, where it goes well below 0 in the Winter. The propane units, if they light at all, will be quite a bit dimmer than the dual fuel units. I use the dual fuel lamps as well as dual fuel stoves for everything up here.
Coleman naphtha pump style lantern, Coleman naphtha pump style stove, Coleman naphtha tent heater. And an old style campfire coffee pot. These are the things that camping is all about.
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I accidentally became a lantern collector. Pre Pandemic I enjoyed weekend antiquing and lanterns were inexpensive and easy to learn about with a deep rich history. So in a nutshell this is some of what I've learned.
1. There are three primary fuel types for lanterns. White gas, propane, and kerosene. The majority of old lanterns used kerosene. Of the three fuels kerosene is the least expensive, easiest and safest to store and use. This is a case where you can look to the Amish community to understand that kerosene might be your best choice.
2. If you're looking for an emergency / camping light source and you're not being nostalgic the clear winners for cost, ease of use, and durability are electronic / LED lanterns. Sorry, I'm into the nostalgia and I already own more than 200 liquid fuel lanterns but You'd be foolish not to use LED lanterns in an emergency.
3. Both of the lanterns reviewed in this video are pressure lanterns illuminating using a fragile "ash" mantle that need regular replacement. Although they are not as bright, I prefer the much less expensive, incredibly durable "Deitz" style non-pressurised cold and hot blast lanterns. Lanterns and portable stoves are fun to clean up and restore as a fun hobby.
4. For me the most fun part is finding old dirty lanterns and stoves at garage sales and flea markets. Old Coleman stoves and lanterns can usually be purchased in dirty but serviceable condition for under $10. It's a screaming deal because after a good cleaning and perhaps a few dollars worth of parts they can run for another 50 years. And at night sitting out on the back deck illuminated by flame light harkens back to 1900 of the last 2000 years of human history.
This is the greatest comment in TH-cam history. Thank you for your service.
Also liquid fuel will work at ANY Altitude. Good luck with lighting propane at 10k+ ft in and 20-30 deg temps
Learned this one the hard way years ago.
9:53
i dont say they are better. but huher you go it will work easier as outer pressure wil go down. it will not work at lets say tank is 10 atm and you are at under ocean therefore outer pressure is 10 atm so no pressure difference :P but that probably is not a problem if you are not on a submarine that air pressure regulation systems are malfunctionning :D well still may be the case from time to time anyway. :P
You mean outside the jet?
Yes! Propane not so good when it starts to really get cold outside
30-some years ago, I was in K-Mart looking at propane lanterns, and the salesman was a classmate at school. He talked me out of the 2-mantle lantern and into the 1-mantle lantern. Said it gave as good of light, stretched my fuel, and was just bulletproof. I still have that propane lantern, and it still works a treat.
I have a duel mantle model that I've used for coming up on fifty years now. I use a 5 ft. adapter hose, instead of the little green cylinders, so I keep my site well lit, all night for about a gallon of propane per trip.
I agree. Our Coleman gas lantern is a single mantle and is just as bright as our newer dual mantle propane lanterns. I still love the old school white gas lanterns and stoves. It just brings back good memories and feels so much more like camping to me. They’re well over 50 years old and they still run great every time. 👍
@@jdisdetermined prep for both.
Same goes with light bulbs. One bright bulb tends to do the job most efficiently vs. 3 or 4.
I love Coleman liquid fuel lanterns. I have been using mine for many years and they're still working fine. Just need a little TLC from time to time - like cleaning your rifle.
Lighting a gas Coleman lantern is a summertime rite of passage.
100%. I wish the brand hadn’t gotten so thin. Sad
@@DougLarsenMN Thin? They still sell parts for lanterns they made 80 years ago.
Amen. It's what I learned to use as a kid, and it's all I'll use today.
@@josephastier7421 That's not true. I have a Coleman lantern made in the 198ps and parts are NOT available even 10 years ago.
@@pieterweatherall2826 They sell the pumps, the globes, the mantles, even the fuel cap....what are you looking for?
I remember very well the sounds of a Coleman gas lantern.
It hisss
I am currently 72 and still have my original I bought when I was 15, I use mainly for fishing and have changed the generator three times and the cork piston cup, twice. I also bought a Duel Fuel three years ago. Both throw light 250 around from center.
Boy, what a good video, no TH-cam annoying music. Nothing I didn't know but a good, a very good summary of the twos' pros and cons.
Good job explaining the differences and the pros and cons of each.
I love them both. I have my father's Coleman 220J that he used when I was a kid and still have maintained it and use it. I also have the same Dual Fuel model you showed here which is a great lantern. I have a Coleman "North Star" propane lantern which is the brightest I have ever used. Liquid fuel is just classic and brings back memories from the past while propane is just quick and easy. I think everyone should get one of each :) Great presentation.
You're right about these dual fuel lanterns bringing back memories!
I got mine out of the trash and it works great.
Just ordered a 220J and metal case from ebay; so excited for this camping season.
I have a single mantle Coleman Lantern my father got back in the '60's, it still works like it was new, the fuel we have here is called white spirit or Shellite and is quite expensive at $8 AU for 1/2 litre the mantles are also expensive at $6 AU each but I will never get rid of it because it still works and was my fathers, never found a better lantern than the Coleman
Well said Laurie mate. I’m in Australia too, and remember when we could still buy the Coleman camp fuel at $25 for a 3.6Lt can!
@@JarradDRS True, but greedy companies buy it bulk and cheap the charge the public up to 4 or 5 times the price but at least I know it will work at altitudes that gas won't
@@lauriewatkins8522 You can still buy the coleman fuel (3.78L) in Australia if you shop around, on average AUD $29 with free shipping if over $60.
@@wefukthenwo Thanks for that I will look around and see what's the go and who has it
Excellent, concise comparison and overview of the operations.
I've used both and tend to prefer the multi-fuel types because they're more adaptable in that I can siphon some fuel out of my truck if needed. They're a little more fiddly but up here in Wisconsin, it gets pretty cold and the propane can have trouble evaporating in the cylinder fast enough to feed the fire. So the multi-fuel is not only more versatile for fuel sources but it operates over a larger temp range.
I like the dual fuel for outdoor purposes. For inside the cabin, the propane is pretty much odorless and a little safer if you knock it over.
USMC SCOUT
The carbon monoxide is what you need to be concerned about.
"a little safer"???!!! have you ever seen what happens when a coleman lantern springs a leak indoors??? pressurized/atomized liquad fuel.NEVER USE A GAS LANTERN INSIDE OR STOVE
You can get a cheap oil lantern from wally world. Almost no parts to break, runs on almost any lamp or cooking oil, not pressurized. The exhaust is comparable to a large candle, not much carbon monoxide.
@@xc8487 And not to mention the oil lamp is not very bright either.. Not my 1st, 2nd, or even 8th choice..
@@ronh5422 If you want one that makes bright reading quality light, you need an old kerosene lamp with the round wick.
Great explanation, fair and unbiased. However I am I like the liquid fuel.
I agree with you I like the liquid fuel option myself, maybe it stems back from when my dad used to take me fishing and camping, the sort of an ambience to it, you could always tell when the running low on fuel just shake it gives you an idea of how much you have left. There's just something about the Coleman lanterns and camp stoves.
OK a pretty decent analysis BUT the use of Regular Unleaded Gasoline (RUG) also bringswith it the additional additives that were added to the gasoline when it was refined. These additives are prone to leaving residue in the generator and requires periodic replacement or extensive repair - although not very expensive. Murphys Law says it will happen at the least convenient time . I have both gas & propane lanterns and I use them both. I also have gas stoves that will operate on propane also. AND I use a 2nd gas tank for my stoves that is used strictly for RUG.. I dont want my gas tank contaminated by additives contained in RUG... RUG is used ONLY when all other fuel options are exhausted.
Lol liquid fuel sucks and clearly has no advantages over the propane lantern. It's more expensive to buy, harder to operate, has a lower light output.
G P gasoline is way cheaper. Liquid fuel is much more expensive now than it was 12 years ago. Prior to about 2008 -2009 you could buy a gallon of Coleman fuel for about three and a half dollars. Then it started rising. Even so you can still buy a gallon of Crown brand for $7.99. A gallon of liquid fuel is about the equivalent of 4-5 propane cylinders. Furthermore, it has a bit more btu than propane.. it is true however that more modern propane lanterns often do burn brighter than liquid fuel ones. This was not the case 15-20 years ago. Propane lanterns had much less light output than LF ones do. Times have changed.
I have quite an extensive collection of liquid fuel lanterns, some dating as far back as the 1930’s. Most date to the 1950’s and 60’s. My nicer ones I only use naphtha aka Camp fuel or Coleman fuel. My modern Coleman dual fuel and some of my lesser quality vintage ones I run on non-ethanol RUG. (Regular Unleaded Gasoline). RUG is far cheaper than propane at only $2.50 / gallon. As mentioned earlier it is equivalent to 4-5 propane cylinders. I also have several 500cp kerosene presume lanterns Colman 237’s, 639’s and Petromax lanterns.. I pay about six bucks per gallon for kerosene. Yes, it is slightly less convenient than LF because of the preheating process. Yet, it produces far more light. Those things are extremely bright! Especially the Petromax, no propane lantern is brighter than that.
Furthermore, there is a nostalgia factor to liquid fuel lanterns especially the old ones. I can light up one of my 1951 Coleman 252’s and say; “This lantern is nearly 70 years old, and yes it does look like the lanterns seen in the old M.A.S.H. TV show reruns.” Or light up a ‘40s era Coleman 242 or a Petromax* and say; “Why yes, it does look like the Lanterns in the Indiana Jones movies.”
^ (I use 1960’s era Petromaxes. They look like the 1930’s and 1940’s era ones. I would not use a Petromax from that era because it was built by Jewish slave labor. Many of these were built intentionally substandard, as Jews built them to explode, with as a way to sabotage the NAZI military.)
Also, by using RUG or Kerosene in refillable containers from the pump, I don’t have the rubish of disposable containers
@@BigLewBBQ You typed a whole bunch words for nothing. I refill my 1 lb tanks from 20 lb bbq tanks. Cost to me is about .50 cents so still way cheaper than gasoline and no trash created from disposable containers. This is not even mentioning the initial cost of the gas lantern vs propane.
Nostalgia certainly is an intangible factor, but imo does not outweigh all the negatives. Is it really worth it going through all that trouble for nostalgia?
I've had my Coleman lantern since 1973, the smartest thing I did, I bought hard plastic Coleman carrying case for it.
The only that I've ever had to replace, were mantle's
Thank You Coleman, for making Great Outdoors camping equipment for generations !
great breakdown on the this video.
I personally have a liquid fueled lantern and stove.
I never leave the lantern running more than 4 hours so i do not fill the tank full of fuel.
The advantage to this is you can pump more air into the tank, and it extends the time you can let it run without pumping it up again.
So glad YT recommended your video! Very well done. I've been using Coleman liquid fuel lanterns (and stoves) for over fifty years. I'm hard pressed to try anything else. I will say though, I've had a handful of VERY SCARY incidents with both the stoves and lanterns. I'm a little gun shy every year when I break them out for camping.
Anybody else scared the crap out of themselves and their fellow campers?
I've seen quite a few gear videos for camping, fishing and hunting. This was one of the most concise and informative ones I've come across. Liked and subscribed. Keep up the good work.
Over the years (55 years) The liquid fuel lantern is the best at the hunting cabin, it never fails ! My Coleman white gas lantern is over 65 years old and retired (but it still works) Back packing on the other hand (canoe trips etc) the propane lantern is the best by far.
Stay away from any type of battery operated lantern, they just don't come close to the liquid gas or propane lanterns but I'll say they do come in handy inside a small tent.
Great video ! Thanks.
My backpacking preference is a white gas stove and lantern. Why pack the extra weight of a throw away propane bottle?
I have some of each they're both handy, but the propane one provided me with a good laugh once.
A know it all about every thing friend of mine was checking it out having never seen one, he turned on the gas, sparked the piezo lighter and nothing happened, (gas still flowing), I was about suggest maybe he should shut the gas off, let it clear, then try it again, nope, he didn't, he got his face up real close so he could see if the piezo was actually sparking, and WHOOMP.
It lit up real good, the look on his face was priceless , a cross between embarrassed and suprised.
At that moment he realized that he really should have know that would or could happen, he wasn't hurt, except his ego, and I still get a giggle remembering that look on his face.
And of cource we never very spoke of it again.
Thanks for your review. I decided to buy Coleman dual fuel lamp.
Great review. I resolved the dilemma of which to buy, much like you did, by buying both. :)
We used the old gas lantern in the Boy Scouts. I was a 14-year-old kid, and my job was to keep it properly maintained. And I did! It's not all that hard to make sure the "generator" is clean and the pump's seal is in good shape.
I've been using the liquid fuel lanterns for years and now have four of them. Only one of which works. Not the lantern's faults - just a lack of proper maintenance and repair. Put away cold and wet so to speak. Now it's time to repair at least one so I have a spare. The coolest one is a little red single mantle one. Cute as hell.
Nice video. I've watched others of yours and you're knowledgeable and have a great personality for passing on information.
Raven Feather if you need help with repair work, look up LantenLab on here. He has several videos about taking one apart and putting it together. I think there’s one especially on the red one (200A). If you need parts, eBay and oldcolemanparts.com are both good places.
@@jamespruitt6718 Thanks, James. I'm back here because I need to repair the one working one I had because it no longer works and no spare! I think it just needs a generator. Maybe this winter I'll get ambitious enough to fix up the red one.
I found 2 of these by the road in someone trash...they look barely used. Score for me!
i was replacing siding on my old shed and one fell out, didn't even know i had it lol
That would be a score indeed.
They probably tried to light them and didn’t light...many people forget about the pump!!
One man's trash, another man's Treasure.
Great video, I have owned both for decades and only now found out the comparisons between the two. Subscribed!
Thanks for the comparison! the clencher for me is the noise level! the propane is definitely the choice..
I love the hiss of the old gas lanterns, it drowns out the noise of the Bigfoot plundering around outside my tent.
I mean this as a compliment, your voice and narration reminds me of the “Red Green Show.” Great video!
Lol, I used to love that show.
Hopefully without the 'Duct Tape' . . . . ? ?
Liquid Fuel For Me Longevity’s What I’m About 😀😊👨🏼🔧 Have Had Mine For Over 30 Years
I have a duel mantle propane model that I've used for 40+ years.
I also have a 5 foot adapter hose and a small 1 gallon lp bottle, as well as my 5, and 7.5 gallon lp bottles to run, so I never fool around with the little green cylinders.
My one gallon bottle is equivalent to 8 one pound cylinders, and light my entire camp site all night for the entire trip, with no maintenance.
I much prefer liquid fuel for camping kit. I have a WWII US army petrol stove that my uncle gave me in the 1970s. It still works faultlessly. Used it many times in below freezing conditions, frying bacon for breakfast!
@@Orwic1 I Agree 100% 😀
@Orwic1 I appreciate the fact that LF items are definitely for more dependable, and they are very likely to last another hundred years or better. I certainly wouldn't fault anyone that prefers them
I've enjoyed my same propane lantern & stoves for going on fifty years, and have yet to encounter a single problem. I really enjoy the convenience of leaving my lantern on high overnight. That way predators aren't as likely to enter my campsite, and the light is already on when I exit the RV to investigate a suspicious noise, and I can quickly see if it needs shot.
As a grandfather, my trips are now strictly pleasure getaways with my young grandchildren, and often my now adult children. I'm not likely to camp where below temperatures are expected. Arizona has some unique geography. It's really easy to play in the snow, or enjoy seventy degree winter weather, all within an easy two hour drive! Many people are shocked to find out Arizona isn't all desert, and has three busy ski resorts.
@@azpapa9347 I have to admit that I don’t camp in really cold conditions now (not as young as I was!). I do have propane kit too, and it’s certainly convenient. I’m based in the UK, so the weather conditions are usually mild here - no extremes of hot and cold. And it’s often fairly wet, both winter and summer. I’ve been flooded out camping more than once. I didn’t know about Arizona’s geography - I must make a trip there one day!
thank your for a thorough review by side by side comparison, growing up in India I had a kerosene stove, so I am familiar with the mechanism, besides it is more nostalgic .
I hear those kinds of stoves or lanterns can be very bad for your health when used indoors over many days.
I just bought a kerosene lamp!
Great video, enjoyable to watch. I have three propane lanterns and two Coleman lanterns. Now with these propane refill tools and buying a large refill of propane at Walmart , I can keep refilling those little containers at very little cost. However, there is just something special about having a liquid fuel Coleman lantern. If I had to use an analogy, its like the joy of driving a standard shift transmission even though an automatic is so much easier.
That's a fun analogy! I miss my 'standard'. I like the idea of having both; white gas/camping fuel and propane. Decisions... :)
Good comparison. I have been using a dual fuel for four years now and it was my first lantern. From my research I knew I wanted to go white gas (over battery and propane) and I am glad I did because to me the WG lantern has so much character. It is a cornerstone of the Coleman brand. It takes work to manage and keep running, plus it has that distinctive hiss while lit that is very nice. I do not run it inside the tent, for that I have a Dietz #80 Blizzard oil lantern which I recommend as well.
One other thing that should have been mentioned. When you buy the dual fuel lantern new, it does come with a Coleman vented filtered fuel funnel in a nice thick resealable plastic bag. Filling it is super easy.
Great explanation of these two types of lanterns, good video !
I own a two mantle Colman
White gas lantern, I bought in
The middle 1980's that still works today.great lantern.
I have it in the carrying case.
I often come back here .. great memories ... i like these kind of lanterns ! stay safe out there.
Excellent information, much needed and completely useful thank you
Great video! I love my propane Coleman lantern. I use it quite a bit fishing for flathead catfish at night, and I find it to be much easier to carry, along with a tackle box, 3 big rods, chair, cooler, etc, and I prefer not to have to bring along stinky fuel or worry about spilling it. I can easily throw a spare propane cylinder right in the cooler, too. Partials aren't a problem if you refill your cylinders. Both certainly have their places.
Good video. With my camping gear I bought a 4 foot propane-tree. You screwed lantern at the top of tree you then connected your stove with a 3’ fixable gas connector to the tree then to your stove. The tree was connected to a large propane tank like the one you use for your barbeque.
I'm looking at one such tree.
I have a Coleman stove and lantern using white gas. The smell of white gas and the sound will always remind me of great times out in the woods.
Great video, clear explanation and careful considerations given. Thanks for making and uploading!
Great review. Brings back memories of my dad trying to light the liquid fuel lanterns 😏
food for thought for this, as of this message, Costco refills tanks at 1.69 USD per gallon (not per LB), so in a 20lb bbq tank there's roughly 4-5 gallons of fuel, well say 5 gallons at 1.69 is 8.45 to fill up, factoring in that you already own the old 1 lb tanks, refill cost would be 42 cents per LB bottle, assuming 100% efficiency of all 20lbs used.
And the LP refill adaptor is less than $5 bucks on Amazon.
If you want to ensure complete safety make sure to buy the FlameKing DOT approved 1lb tanks
I'm glad I ran across this video. This was very useful and informative
"They may say bad things about your momma" = Instant LIKE
I've learned so much both from this video and from the comments. Thank you all. Please pray that I, old 🇨🇦 girl, make the best buying decision for safety, shhh(poop)htf scenarios, etc. I'm trying to be wise, somewhat portable, and useful fur the purposes to which I'm called.
The issue with refilling propane pounders was that the valves can go bad. 20 bottles refilled, and 3 went empty by themselves, so I really don't trust throw-aways anymore unless I refill them to re-use them the same day. Outside of that I typically use the white gas appliances with Crown fuel. I also am fond of the hiss and smell of the gas lantern.
Awesome video. Very thorough and informative. Thanks!
My last lantern went bad and I’m looking at some for the fall. I for now use my portable shop lights but they dont throw the same yellow light that I prefer when camping I camp/hunt from early may to early november in canada. Good video sir
Informative and succinct video, great job!! I guess in a crisis situation it might be handy to have both! Thanks I learned a lot!
I do recall the mention of refilling disposable propane bottles makes them illegal if transported. "Federal law forbids transportation if refilled. Penalty up to $500,000 fine & five years imprisonment. (49 U.S.C. 5124)." I have had mixed results when trying to refill disposable propane bottles; the ability of the valve to seal properly & completely post-refilling was hit&miss. Considering all you've mentioned, my choice would be, despite the greater weight & initial cost, the camp fuel lantern. In an emergency, I would usually be able to more readily find a substitute fuel such as unleaded pump gasoline. Plus, it is more readily repairable if needed. Thanks for your informative video!
I have one of each. And i love them both! Damn i want to go camping!
I have a small 1 gallon lp bottle, and a 5ft. adapter hose. I get the equivalent of 8 green cylinders per gallon, and no pumping!
That was great .... exactly info I was looking for! In a SHTF situation, I am thinking the dual fuel lantern would be the best.
One more note for the propane lantern is you can use it with a 25lb propane tank either directly on the tank or on a hose.
Thank you that's the question I've been searching for the answer for!
Great summary, like anything it depends on your needs. If you're a regular outdoors person or setting up a fairly solid emergency kit I'd be inclined to go for the liquid fuel option. The fuel keeps well, can be substituted for a lot more than camp fuel/gas and of course is refillable. For the weekend warrior, camper or light duty emergency preparedness kit the propane option will work fine and be simple & reliable. The big downside is that it requires you to think ahead regarding adapters if you get the coleman brand. Good luck finding tanks after a major incident.
Either option is better than no option.
Enjoyed your presentation👍🏻👍🏻
i love my coleman dual fuel lantern. its priceless to me. i have never tried to run it on gasoline though. usually i fill it before my camping trip and it lasts all weekend.
In the UK post war and for the first four years of my life, before we had electricity on the farm in 1962, we ran very very similar liquid fuel lamps with the Tilley brand. Pretty sure they ran on kerosene rather than petrol/gas. I distinctly remember the noise they made and the fuel being either Esso Blue or Pink Paraffin brands. We also had taller mantle oil lamps with mantles, called Alladin. Alladin was not pressurise but had a wick. Bare in mind that these were only experienced by me up to around my fourth birthday and even then we lived in the village at that time where we already had electricity.
Yes, Tilley lamps run on paraffin, not petrol. They need to be pre-heated with a meths soaked device which clipped onto the central tube.
Good light and heat, bt they can be a pain to light on a windy beach, this is why I bought a petrol Coleman, much easier to light
@@Frightningman
I don't remember that part of lighting the Tilley at all. It is 59 years since I last saw one lit after all, and I was only four years of age. I remember being able to make a den out of small conventional hay bales with an entrance only one bale high and wide. That's about 18"x18" at most. Those were the days. Not a care in the world.
@@hedydd2 I bought mine for beach fishing at night when I was 18 - I'm 74 now and I still have it.
The Tilly Storm Lantern is an excellent product, still made, in Ireland I think.
Excellent comparison.
Really insightful video. Have been *on the fence* regarding getting an 'oil lamp' for camping/reenactment purposes. This has pretty much swayed me towards the dual fuel Coleman, as it will last longer and give a much warmer "campsite glow" when lit. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I have the propane version but I've been using mine on a propane distribution tree on a 5lb or 5 gallon tank when I go camping.
I have both, and on boat use gas, in camper use propane. I wanted to add to your great review - I refill my coleman propane bottles when my large tanks are low just before refilling tank. Around here, 15lb tank charges for 15lbs whether you get 10 lbs 2 lbs or 15. That way I used 100% vs giving the propane company money back for usable fuel I already had. And the other value to the coleman bottle is that I have torch attachment for braising if needed. And the gas lantern gets that who knows how old fuel from equipment I buy with fuel in it that I drain out. That's the real "Camp Fuel" for me instead of paying for fuel. Both are great, but both kick heat and need exhausting air.
How much exhaust air needed in a camper for propane? All windows open? Is this as needed for the gas lantern also?
@@goldenglowladore3842 Both require air exhaust to exchange carbon monoxide for oxygen in controlled space. I don't know the how to help you calculate that, but an example for me on boat is used for light and is open air. In camper, also for light with heat benefit near, and all windows open and door open with screens in each. But in the camper is nearly never done, usually is posted on tall pole or tree outside of for light for whole camp area. Again, never used indoors where can accumulate CO as it is deadly and I am not recommending any unsafe use. I do love my lights as they are "free fuel" in my world since I find bad gas often and end of propane tanks from grill to get last of from. Thats the real advantage of these tools. So it left on and uses all the fuel, no need to get upset. Stay calm, enjoy camping.
I use a Dietz #2000 that burns paraffin/kerosene/several other alternative oils. Not only does it rin as a lamp but it has a removable top plate that doubles as a stove so you can heat water, make coffee, and heat food, etc. Paraffin is the more expensive of the multiple oils although you can technically burn olive oil which could be more costly. I found in general that Paraffin is the cleanest brightest and least odor of the fuels. K-1 kerosene or even diesel can be used in a pinch but it burns dirty and you have the sulfur content which varies based on the amount of refinement/quality of the fuel.
PS: Most manufacturers do not recommend using kerosene/diesel in their oil lamps so keep that in mind and use it at your own risk.
I have been using Coleman liquid fuel lanterns and stoves since the 1970’s. My uncle was the first to show me how to fill, pump, light and use a Coleman camp stove and lantern. They were the same stove and lantern that his Dad had taken him camping with when he was a child. Now when I camp I take a duel fuel lantern and stove. I burn white gas in them. I find it way more convenient to manage the liquid fuel appliances, a fuel can and a funnel than to mess with the throw away bottles and refilling them.
Propane doesn't stink up indoors, liquid does.
But most harmfull gas it emits once burnt are ordorless if I remember correctly. So you don't even know you are getting poisoned
@@wisico640 all burned things create waste. it is debatable which fuel is healthier for you to be around but it usually comes down to ventilation or lamp design. there is a legendary kerosene lamp that is supposed to burn cleaner than any other fuel, whereas most kerosene lamps are very dangerous
Combustion devices produce carbon monoxide an should NEVER be used indoors..
@@charlesward8196 unless you crack a door or window to allow some oxygen in.
The thing is...
if you get a refill adapter for the 1lb tanks, you can get a good 15 1lb tank refills out of a 20lb tank...sometimes more....for the cost of a 20lb refill, which is usually between 9 and 12 bucks around here depending on the time of year. That makes the propane WAY more economical than just using and chucking the 1lb tanks per use.
I'm new. No problem refilling them safety-wise using the refill adapter?
Keeping in mind the prepping adage that 'one is none', he makes a great argument for having one of each.
Both have their uses. The propane lantern running off a stalk from a 20 lb tank (which can also feed a stove) is generally safer around kids and less hassle but I greatly prefer the white gas or dual fuel lanterns when I’m with adults or even teens, especially for fall or winter camping. Inside my tent, I use LED lanterns. As has been mentioned by others, there’s a noticeable smell from the liquid fuel lanterns but it’s fine as long as you have decent ventilation.
I know this is an older video, but these days it is really hard to justify buying either of these things, given the advances in LEDs and batteries. There is something weirdly soothing about the hiss of those old style lanterns, they make me think of camping as a boy. But the reality is you can now get something that is smaller, lighter, much easier to use, can go inside your tent, doesn't emit noxious fumes in operation, and throws off more light.
I've found i prefer the warm glow of a propane lantern when compared to white light from an led lantern, i feel like it's a little easier on the eyes
...true, but LEDs have their time and place, and in the woods around the campfire isnt it. But thats just me--in order to enjoy camping, I need the full effect. The only light that should be present is the orange glow of the campfire and the hissing lantern's gas glow.
The cold, sterile light of an LED , though brilliant, just doesnt fit here.
Leds look like crap at night. Convenient. But ugly
A quick note about the 1lb green cans. During a snow storm in Oregon last year (2019) a nearby city, Oakridge lost power for 3 weeks and you could not find a green can within 200 miles making the multi fuel option the only option. I have two, one single mantle and one dual. The single is brighter.
I like the liquid fueled. We used them in my earliest camping experiences, where for several summers as a teen I camped with friends of the family. Occasionally the mantles would partially burn up before the fuel ignited them fully, probably from getting the match too close.
Ive never known anyone to find lanterns to be so hilarious
not if it was dark lol.
Yes he cracks himself up 🤣🤣
I can't hold a couple of nervous laughs against him in a 12 minute video! LOL
Another thing is ease of clean up after a spill. If you get a leaky propane tank you can let the place air out. A leaking container of liquid fuel is another story. That being said I inherited my propane lantern which is the main reason I use it. If it had been a liquid fuel lantern I would have used that. I'm not partial.
I also have an adapter that lets me attach it to a big propane tank like a torch and run a line to my stove as well which is super cool and convenient.
Camping as a teen in the '60s, campfires and flashlights sufficed. With friends in the mid 1970s, friend had problems w/ a borrowed Coleman stove. Took him a 1/2 hr. to troubleshoot, fix , and we had hot coffee on a cold early morning. Convinced me to opt for propane and did fine for the next 40-50 yrs. I also refill my 9 propane bottles from a 20# tank, maybe < $1/ refill. Full new tank is approx. 29 oz., I refill to 24 - 27 oz. makes it pretty inexpensive and kind to the planet. Just got a free 425e stove and twin mantle White Gas lantern. Research a lot of stove you tube videos, cleaned, reassembled, and learned how to operate the tank, generator & pump, will continue and go thru the rest of the stove. Lantern will be the next project. White gas seems to be a pretty good back up (power blackouts on occasion in the rural areas) and in spite of the learning curve white gas would be a cheap fuel for emergency. I'll use white gas at camp when I camp. Extreme emergency I'll do unleaded gas. I did buy a 'propane converter' so my wife might use the stove. Propane is OK, white gas might discourage her. Maybe I'll get my own private stove out of this adventure. I am not the extreme cold kind of camper, so either fuel / equipment will be fine for me.
Great tutorial, grew up camping with the classic Coleman fuel lantern . Tried and true,! The liquid fuel is
Lantern is without a doubt ,, the way. To go.
How can you watch that and say liquid fuel is the way to go? lol
Have both . Just thankful to have them for camping and power outages. They do give of so heat for warming up camper or tent. Never sleep with them on. Just a good sleeping bag.
Excellent logical analysis. 👍😁
Propane's boiling point is -44F (or -42C) so it should work fine in all but EXTREME freezing weather. It is butane that has the high boiling point and won't work below freezing.
Nice job! Years ago, I had the old red single mantle liquid fuel Coleman. It had a big knob, like the one here, but for regulating the brightness, it had a little tiny lever opposite the big knob (more/less ON/OFF), that you could turn to make it go real low, like barely on to super white bright! Full dimmer! I didn't see that feature on either of these examples. Also, I never had to pump up again once it got hot. The heat alone kept the tank pressurized! I used to use White Gas over genuine Coleman fuel, since it was about $0.50/gal in the 1960's. Now, I got a replica of the same red lantern except it has a CFL spiral bulb and a 12 volt rechargeable battery in the "fuel tank". LOL. Easy to light, no heat, fumes, flickering, AND it dims! Also the fuel tank fill cap has a night light in it! LOL.
🏕 I was going to ask my dad which he suggests, he has always used propane, and due to your very informative review, I now know everything I need to know.👍Thanks.
Being able to use gasoline is a very appealing feature but propane is just so much easier, duel fuel I guess if your going high up in the mountains🏞 and is still a good thing to have around. One time while camping I fully grabbed the glass globe and burned the crap out of my hand ✋🔥. Ouch!! Ill never do that again and I will for sure slap a warning label on mine. lol
I grew up on the 60s liquid Coleman and always liked it. Pumping isnt a big deal either. Propane, I have some propane gear and just never really accepted it. Its all pretty much like you said. Given that its frequently unsafe and illegal to re-fill propane, Id stick with the dual fuel so that as long as the car has gas I have a supply of lantern gas, nothing to worry about. But new people coming up, they likely go for propane and thats ok. I think it comes out to 50-50, and for me dual fuel is cheaper per hour so i go with that.
Nice video. One thing maybe worth mentioning, these should not be used indoors. I know, a test lighting in a garage isn't gonna hurt anyone, but still worth mentioning.. A friend of mine kept a coleman propane stove on low in tent on a winter backpacking trip in Shenandoah NP in the 90's. He fell asleep & I awoke (in separate tent) to Horrible Screams. I had to pack all his remaining stuff & even tie his shoes just so we could walk out. Luckily his dog escaped without injury. My overall comment though is Nice Video :)
I don't even know what you are getting at with your little story lol
@@kaotikdave LOL
Got a duel fuel at garage sale for $15,, totally love it when camping
$8 but needed two mantles.
Good ol Coleman were made in WICHITA Kansas, there used to be a Coleman store and Museum downtown area that repaired them. But the Bean Counters shut that store, museum, and repair depot down. Now they hawk Chinese stuff at another location in a closed down office supply building .
I got my Colman propane lantern at Goodwill for six dollars! What a find!
Well done! Thank you.
If you leave the propane tank attached, the propane mayery slowly leak out, I believe. Nice that cheaper unleaded gasoline can be used.
In a bug out situation which fuel are you more likely to find readily available when needed? Gas. That dual fuel lantern and a dual fuel stove are the way to go. Also, camp fuel seems to never go bad. I have some that is easily 10 years old and still good. Proper storage is key.
In a bug out situation, cranking up a gas lantern is like ringing a dinner bell...
@@MikeB3542 Is it because it gives off scent or the hiss?
@@goldenglowladore3842 gas lanterns are very loud and very bright...not good if you are trying to avoid being seen or heard.
Very thorough - covered just want we needed to know. Have dual fuel and will get the propane.
The majority of lanterns I have and use are liquid fuel, but propane always has it's place. About the only ones I don't have much of a use for is Kerosene pressure lanterns. They burn hot enough that after years of use they mess up their own vents and they're not adjustable. Takes forever to light them too since they have to preheat.
Good to know, I am literally looking at a kero light as I keep many gallons on hand for backup kero heaters. Appreciate your input. I got the dual fuel last year and I can't believe the light this puts out. I am curious - do you think there's truth to the statement that using unleaded fuel with ethanol (vs 91/93 octane) can foul the generator or rubber seals?
Theo Ciba ethanol will definitely mess up anything rubber
You may can go on Coleman website and see if they mention this
I know gasoline carburetors have problems with ethanol
@@theociba2781 o
Found one (propane) today at the thrift store for 6 bucks! What a deal!
Fantastic comparison
What a perfect comparison. Thank you! fuel lantern it is!
Ah I used those Coleman (non propane)lanterns a lot when camping. they were reliable, and I only had to replace the wicks every 2 yrs or so. The pressure tank parts (rubber seals) wore out in about 4 yrs., but you could buy replacement parts with no problem. I only used their fuel because it ALAWYS burned clean. I had bad experiences with cheaper fuels smelling and sooting up the mantel.
I'm not a fan of any pressurized system for indoors. I have seen a couple of lantern and stove failures, leaks that could have caused a potential fire except we wee right there to release the pressure and avoid a fire.
For inside I use a Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern, it's German Made ( not a china knockoff) and works fantastic as a light source. No not as bright as a Coleman, but very adequate for indoor use or outdoor if a very bright light isn't needed.
ps. great informative video... Thank You :)
Agree
Good video! You guys in the States certainly pay less money for pretty much everything than us in the UK, the twin lantern is around $133 and 1 litre (roughly 2 pints) of unleaded is around $1.62 in England.
Happy camping mate! :-)
Great informative video! Thank you!
really appreciate the video this is exactly what i was looking for. Happy holidays.
The vapor pressure problem is a big deal in Alaska. A friend and I have an off-grid cabin in the hills outside Fairbanks, where it goes well below 0 in the Winter. The propane units, if they light at all, will be quite a bit dimmer than the dual fuel units. I use the dual fuel lamps as well as dual fuel stoves for everything up here.
Spot on this video from the uk very good information Thankyou c
Good video. My dual fuel came today and I’m clueless on how to light it👍🏻
Excellent video! You covered everything i could think of to ask. I wonder if the propane unit could be connected to a grill tank....
Really great and informative video!
Coleman naphtha pump style lantern, Coleman naphtha pump style stove, Coleman naphtha tent heater. And an old style campfire coffee pot. These are the things that camping is all about.