Primus Micron Lantern

I really like this lantern. Plenty of light for a campsite. The light weight makes perfect for backpacking. Gives off a lot of heat too...so it doubles as a hand warmer.

An ingenious twist on a small, lightweight, functional fuel-powered backpacking lantern! The Primus Micron Lantern - Steel Mesh is a durable option for backcountry illumination.

The Primus Micron Lantern - Steel Mesh is a great lightweight option for backcountry hikers seeking more illumination.

As a member of another website, on occasion I am given products to test and evaluate in exchange for a review. The Primus Micron Lantern - Steel Mesh falls into that category. 

I recently had opportunity to put the Primus Micron Lantern to a three-week test on an extended backcountry trip and base camping to and from.

As with any "techincal" gear, I force myself to exercise a smidgeon of humility and wisdom to read the instructions provided and watch a youtube video or two. This helps me avoid "hamfisting" and potentially damaging items before I hit the trails with it.

Along with provided instructions, the steel mesh Micron Lantern, a black ripstop/polycotton stuff sack and one double-opening mantle was included in the box.

One helpful hint: when looking over the lantern itself and contemplating removing the stainless steel mesh screen to install the double-opening mantle...observe the lower metal rim of the screen. You will find two symbols stamped into that metal rim...one symbol of an unclasped lock and the other next to it of a clasped lock.

On the actual steel mesh, you will see a small pointed metal tab...this tab will likely be directly behind the clasped lock symbol, thus indicating the screen is safely locked in place. If you twist the screen mesh from the top, so the small pointed metal tab moves in the direction from the clasped lock symbol to the unclasped lock symbol...you will then be able to remove the screen mesh lid from the lower rimmed Lantern base. It doesn't take much effort...and like riding a bike...after you've done it once...you don't forget.

Important Note: I know you are all very wise...but do not under any circumstances attempt this manuever when the lantern is hot...or you will be self-administering first aid to third degree burns.

Installation steps: Once the steel mesh screen is removed...slide the mantle (large opening on the bottom, so it goes on first) over the fuel post. Take your time and use care to slide the piezo electric metal wire through one of the small mantle holes so the metal wire is enclosed on the inside of the mantle.

The mantle openings fit snug on the rimmed sections of the fuel post. Form the mantle to look like a globe, the best you can. I prefer to do this while the lantern is screwed onto a butane cannister...provides for me a more stable platform.

I prefer to use a grill lighter (to keep my hands further from the flame). Use the lighter to set fire to the mantle, making sure the entire mantle is burning (preferrably from the bottom upwards). When the mantle is almost entirely burned, turn the fuel adjustment knob on low to allow the mantle to ignite uniformily. Allow to burn on low for a few minutes. Turn off, allow to cool, then reinstall the Steel Mesh housing.

As you reattach the housing...search for the metal tab on the lower portion of the steel mesh...then line that up with the stamped unclasped lock symbol on the base rim. Twist to the clasped lock symbol and you are ready to use.

The entire process takes minutes. Now instead of the necessity of using a lighter to light the lantern, simply turn on the fuel flow with the fuel adjustment knob and press the "easy trigger" integrated piezo electric ignition...and the lantern will light. I also recommend holding the cannister when engaging the "easy trigger" ignition for stability and safety.

**Again, I will remind you to allow the lantern to cool before removing from the fuel cannister and placing back into the included stuff sack.

The Primus Micron Lantern - Steel Mesh is crazy light and small. It uses the same fuel cannister as your stove (most likely), so you already have the fuel source packed. A no-brainer in my book. It takes up about the same real estate as a rolled pair of socks in my backpack...and weighs almost the same.

I had no issues, problems or difficulties during usage. Operation was simple, straightforward and dependable. I also appreciated the extra light around the campsite. As fragile as the burned mantles appear, I had no issues of tearing or breaking apart during my tramping around the backcountry (however, I did buy a two pack of double opening mantles for a few bucks at a local big box store for insurance).

My recommendation? Buy one...you will wonder why you waited so long to own one.

Sidenote and disclaimer: Though not approved, suggested or recommended by the manufacturer...use of a Lindal valve to Propane gas adapter (LPG) while at base camp, permits you to use cheaper "green style" propane cannisters...and works flawlessly.

Light, compact, great lil unit.

It was bright enough to light up under an awning. My only concern was this was not a fast setup device. You have to burn the mantle until it's all white which can take a few minutes. Definitely start assembly before it gets dark if this is your only means of light for the night.

The mantle appears to be brittle after use and I'm not sure it will withstand being in my hiking pack for another trip.

Overall it is great for heat and light and is light enough to pack in a backpack.