I m thinking of getting one of those Coleman 2-mantle lanterns with the 16+ oz bottle and am wondering about how long one of those bottles last (approximately). Any comments appreciated.
WayfarerChuck, there are different models to choose from, and a lot depends on if you run the lantern on a low or high setting. So there is a lot of room for play in how long it lasts. But as a ballpark figure... I d say 8-12 hours, minimum. We ususally get 3-4 nights out of our old Coleman 2 mantle lantern. Now, our new Coleman " Northstar" model can suck one of those small tanks dry in about 5-6 hours when set on high, but it puts out a LOT of light.
WayfarerI have several lanterns and even have one of the two mantle lanterns that use the 16oz tanks...... .but I ve never used it. I always seem to use the old standard Coleman lantern first. I have two heaters that use the 16oz tanks and they use a tank about every 4 hours or so (if that s any help).
WayfarerYou re probably not interested, but the dual tube rechargeable Coleman Fluorescent lanterns last forever on a charge, we probably only charge once a season and use it all season long.
WayfarerWayfarer,
Here s some info on the Coleman lanterns (high setting hours/low setting hours and cp=candlepower):
2002 model propane (w/o electric ignition) 7/18 175 cp
2002 model propane (w/ electric ignition) 6/14 200 cp
2003 model propane 7/18 175 cp
model 285 dual fuel (1.26 pints Coleman fuel) 7/14 220cp
model 295 powerhouse (2 pints Coleman fuel) 7/14 300cp
I ve never made it to rated times on either hi or low with either propane or dual fuel. How you use the lanterns determines what you really get from them. We ll use them on high while cooking, eating & cleaning up but at their minimum levels or off afterwards. We typically get about 10 hours use from both the propane and powerhouse.
The dual fuel lanterns function properly at all altitudes and temperatures. Propane likes lower altitudes and higher temperatures; you may not be able to light them in extreme cold or high altitude locations and, if you get them going, your operating time will be greatly diminished. I consider our propane devices to be fair weather items while the dual fuel are anywhere items.
When the settings are very low, the mantles on both will pop holes in their sides, so carry a bunch of them with you. Because we have lower lighting more than bright lighting, I prefer to use " Old Stinky" , our kerosene lantern which will work at all altitudes and temperatures. These are infinately adjustable while the dual fuel & propane models need to be " touched" periodically.
WayfarerThanks, guys! Lots of good information. Thanks for your input.
Chuck
aka Wayfarer