Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator Coffee Pot Review

Recommended Accessories:

• JavaPresse Manual Grinder for fresh-ground coffee
• Coleman Camp Mug for serving
• Heat-resistant gloves for safe handling
• Airtight container for storing coffee grounds

The Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator isn’t just another camp coffee maker - it’s a testament to practical design that’s stood the test of time. Let me break down what makes this percolator tick:

Core Specs:

• Capacity: 12 cups (realistically serves 9-10)
• Weight: 1,025g (36.2 oz)
• Dimensions: 24.1 x 21.8 x 16.3 cm (9.5 x 8.6 x 6.4 inches)
• Material: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
• Heat Sources: Campfire, stove, home stovetop

Key Features:

• Glass perking knob for brew monitoring
• Wide, stable base
• Comfortable side handle
• Permanent filter basket
• Notched lid that aligns with spout

The first thing you’ll notice is the solid feel - this isn’t some flimsy knockoff. The stainless steel construction gives it a reassuring heft while keeping the overall weight reasonable for camping. What I particularly appreciate is the attention to stability - the wide base means less worry about tippy situations on uneven surfaces.

One design choice worth mentioning: they’ve kept it simple. No unnecessary parts to break or lose in the woods. Just the essentials done right.

Let’s walk through brewing coffee in this percolator, step by step:

1. Fill & Assemble:

• Pour cold water up to just below the spout
• Insert the pump tube through the basket
• Add coarse grounds to the basket (about 2 tablespoons per cup)
• Secure the basket lid and main lid

2. Heat & Monitor:

• Place on heat source
• Watch for bubbling in glass knob
• Reduce heat once perking starts
• Let perk 7-10 minutes depending on desired strength

3. Finish & Serve:

• Remove from heat when coffee reaches desired color
• Let sit 1-2 minutes for grounds to settle
• Remove basket before pouring

The beauty of percolation is its simplicity - no power needed, no paper filters required. The trade-off is that it demands your attention. Leave it too long and you’ll end up with bitter coffee that could strip paint. But nail the timing and you’ll get a rich, full-bodied brew that puts fancy machines to shame.

Think of it like cooking over a campfire versus using a microwave. Sure, the microwave is easier, but there’s something satisfying about the hands-on process.

After extensive testing in various conditions, here’s what stands out:

The Good:

• Built like a tank - drops and dings just add character
• Brews enough for a small army (or a few coffee addicts)
• Works on any heat source you can find
• Zero power needed - reliable in any situation
• Simple design means fewer failure points
• Makes rich, full-bodied coffee
• Easy to clean in the field

The Not-So-Good:

• Handle gets uncomfortably hot
• Real capacity closer to 9-10 cups, not 12
• Requires attention while brewing
• Takes practice to nail the perfect strength
• No water level markings inside
• Glass knob vulnerable to breakage

Real-World Performance I’ve used this percolator in conditions ranging from peaceful backyard mornings to rainy mountain campsites. It’s not perfect, but its flaws are manageable once you know them. The hot handle? Grab a pot holder. Inconsistent brewing? Pay attention to timing and heat level. These aren’t deal-breakers - they’re just part of the percolator experience.

When it comes to packing and traveling with the Coleman Percolator, here’s what you need to know:

Travel-Friendly Features:

• Compact design fits standard camp kitchen boxes
• No breakable glass carafe
• Durable enough for rough transport
• Stable shape for packing
• All parts stay together when packed

Space Considerations: At just over 9 inches tall, it’s not tiny, but it’s reasonable for car camping or RV use. The cylindrical shape packs efficiently with other gear. For backpacking? At over 2 pounds, you might want something lighter unless you’re brewing for a group.

Durability: I’ve bounced this thing around in the back of my truck on rough forest roads - it takes the abuse in stride. Just wrap the glass knob with a bandana or sock for extra protection during transport.

This percolator is perfect for:

• Car Campers: Ideal for base camp coffee brewing
• Large Groups: Can serve 8+ people in one go
• Off-Grid Living: No electricity needed
• Emergency Prep: Works when power fails
• Traditional Coffee Lovers: Appreciate percolator taste
• Durability Seekers: Want something that lasts years
• Tailgaters: Great for parking lot brew sessions

If you regularly make coffee for multiple people outdoors and value reliability over convenience, this percolator will serve you well. It particularly shines at established campsites where weight isn’t a major concern.

This might not be your best choice if you’re:

• Ultralight Backpacker: There are much lighter options
• Solo Camper: Too big for single servings
• Impatient Brewer: Takes time and attention
• Precision Coffee Nerd: Temperature control is basic
• Weak Coffee Drinker: Makes naturally strong brew

Consider the AeroPress Go for solo travelers or the GSI Ultralight Java Drip for weight-conscious hikers.

After a year of regular use, here’s how the Coleman Percolator holds up:

Durability:

• Stainless steel body shows minimal wear
• Basket remains intact and functional
• Handle attachment points stay solid
• Glass knob survives with careful handling

Performance Changes:

• Slight darkening of interior (normal for percolators)
• No impact on coffee taste
• Lid fit remains snug
• Basket continues filtering effectively

Common Wear Points:

• Some scratching on base from stove/grate contact
• Minor denting possible from drops
• Handle may loosen slightly but remains functional

Overall, it ages gracefully and maintains performance with basic care.

Keeping your percolator in top shape isn’t complicated, but it does require regular attention:

Daily Cleaning:

1. Disassemble while warm
2. Dump grounds (great for composting)
3. Rinse all parts thoroughly
4. Wipe dry to prevent spots

Deep Clean (Monthly):

1. Fill with equal parts water and vinegar
2. Percolate solution for 5 minutes
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Run one cycle with plain water

Storage Tips:

• Store disassembled if space allows
• Keep lid slightly open to prevent mustiness
• Protect glass knob during storage
• Store in dry location

Preventive Care:

• Check seal points regularly
• Tighten handle if needed
• Inspect basket for damage
• Clean after every use

The Coleman Percolator’s environmental footprint breaks down interesting ways:

Positive Aspects:

• No paper filters needed
• Long lifespan reduces waste
• Fully recyclable materials
• No electricity required
• Repairable design

Considerations:

• Stainless steel production energy-intensive
• No eco-certified materials
• Shipping weight impacts transport emissions

Usage Impact: Lower than electric brewers when used with renewable heat sources like campfire wood that would be burned anyway. The lack of disposable filters particularly stands out - you could save thousands over the product’s life.

Let’s evaluate the Coleman Percolator’s value proposition:

Long-Term Investment:

• Durable construction suggests years of service
• No ongoing filter costs
• Simple design means fewer replacement parts
• Versatile use cases increase utility

Cost Efficiency:

• Price comparable to quality electric makers
• Lower than specialty camping brewers
• Saves money on filters and electricity
• Group capacity reduces per-cup cost

When you factor in durability and versatility, it offers solid value for outdoor coffee brewing. The initial investment pays off through years of reliable service and reduced ongoing costs.

Here are some field-tested tips to get the most from your percolator:

1. Perfect Timing:

• Start counting perk time when bubbles first appear
• Lighter roasts: 8-10 minutes
• Dark roasts: 6-8 minutes

2. Temperature Control:

• Start high until perking begins
• Reduce to medium-low for brewing
• Remove from heat immediately when done

3. Grind Matters:

• Use coarse ground coffee
• Avoid fine grounds that slip through basket
• Grind just before brewing when possible

4. Cleaning Hacks:

• Rinse while warm for easier cleaning
• Use bottle brush for tube
• Baking soda paste removes tough stains

5. Taste Tweaks:

• Pre-heat with hot water for better extraction
• Add pinch of salt to reduce bitterness
• Let grounds settle before pouring

Q: How many actual cups does it brew? A: While rated for 12 cups, expect 9-10 actual servings. Remember, percolator “cups” are smaller than typical coffee mugs.

Q: Can I use it on my home stove? A: Yes - works great on gas, electric, or induction stovetops. Just watch the heat level.

Q: How do I prevent grounds in my coffee? A: Use coarse ground coffee, don’t overfill the basket, and let the coffee settle for 1-2 minutes before pouring.

Q: Is the handle actually too hot to touch? A: Yes, it can get quite hot. Keep a potholder or glove handy.

Q: How do I know when the coffee’s ready? A: Watch the glass knob - when the coffee color looks right and has been perking 7-10 minutes, it’s done.

Q: Can I use it for tea? A: Yes, though you’ll want to clean it thoroughly to prevent coffee taste transfer.

Q: What’s the best way to pack it? A: Wrap the glass knob with a bandana or sock, and pack it with soft items around it.

The Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator hits a sweet spot between durability and functionality that’s hard to find in camp coffee makers. Sure, it has quirks - the hot handle comes to mind - but they’re minor compared to its strengths. After months of testing in various conditions, it’s clear this percolator isn’t just surviving outdoors; it’s thriving.

What really stands out is its reliability. No batteries to die, no complex parts to fail, just solid construction that delivers consistent results. The learning curve might deter some, but mastering this percolator is part of its charm. For group camping, car camping, or off-grid situations, it’s become my go-to recommendation.

While it won’t replace your fancy home espresso machine, it wasn’t meant to. This is a purpose-built tool for outdoor coffee brewing, and at that task, it excels.