Dave Canterbury's PFM40 Swedish Mess Kit Reproduction FIRST BURN & REVIEW

We took the Pathfinder PFM40 out in 50kph winds to see how good it is. It is a full 304 stainless steel version of the old M44 Swedish mess kit. As it turns out it is really good, and the stainless steel pans can be non-stick with proper oil and heat control, using a Trangia burner with simmer ring, for example. In strong winds a flexible foil windscreen will be useful. Always bring some gloves with you as the pans do get very hot!

Overall, we really recommend this steel version of the antique Swedish mess kits, as it costs just over $40 when on sale, instead of the 100s of dollars commanded by the original versions, even the aluminum version. The steel windshield means that this version can also hold a wood or twig fire without issue, as even the antique stainless steel M40 from Sweden was only ever issued with an aluminum windshield, and that would melt or soften at woodfire temperatures. The modern Trangia B25 spirit burner with simmer ring also works great with this set.