GSI Outdoors Enamelware Percolator Coffee Pot Review

If you’re considering the GSI Outdoors Percolator, you might want to check out these alternatives:

Helpful Accessories:

• Coarse-ground coffee beans (essential for percolator brewing)
• Heat-resistant gloves for safe handling
• Long-handled spoon for stirring
• Camp stove or grill grate if using over fire

Ever since pulling this percolator out of its box, I knew it meant business. The GSI Outdoors Enamelware Percolator carries the soul of classic camp coffee makers with modern durability baked right in. Let me break down what makes this pot special.

Build Quality: The heavy-gauge steel construction feels substantial in hand, with a kiln-hardened enamel finish that’s fired twice at 1000°F. This isn’t your grandma’s delicate enamelware – it’s built for the rigors of outdoor life. The speckled blue finish not only looks classic but helps hide the inevitable scuffs of campsite use.

Specifications:

• Available sizes: 8-cup (40 oz/1.2L) or 12-cup (60 oz/1.8L)
• Dimensions:
• 8-cup: 8” × 5.9” × 9” (20.3 × 15 × 22.9 cm)
• 12-cup: 8.7” × 7” × 10.2” (22.1 × 17.8 × 25.9 cm)
• Weight:
• 8-cup: 21.3 oz (604g)
• 12-cup: 26.3 oz (746g)

Key Features:

• Three-ply construction for even heat distribution
• Unbreakable resin perking knob for brew monitoring
• Stainless steel rim adds durability
• Traditional bail handle for easy pouring
• Perforated basket for optimal extraction

The design strikes a perfect balance between traditional appeal and practical functionality. You can feel the thought that went into details like the wide-mouth opening for easy cleaning and the sturdy bail handle that stays cool enough to grip.

Making coffee in the GSI Outdoors Percolator isn’t rocket science, but there’s definitely an art to it. Here’s the process I’ve refined over countless camping trips:

Setup (2-3 minutes):

1. Fill with cold water just below the basket support
2. Load the basket with coarse grounds (1-2 tablespoons per cup)
3. Insert the pump tube through the basket
4. Snap on the lid with the clear knob

Brewing (7-10 minutes):

1. Place over heat source (campfire, stove, etc.)
2. Watch for the first “perk” through the knob
3. Adjust heat to maintain steady perking
4. Let it work its magic for 7-10 minutes
5. Remove from heat and let settle

The perking action is mesmerizing – watching the coffee bubble up through that clear knob takes me back to mornings at my grandparents’ cabin. The three-ply construction helps prevent hot spots, so you get even extraction instead of burnt coffee.

Pro Tip: I’ve found that backing off the heat once perking starts gives better results than letting it boil away. You want a gentle “blup-blup” rhythm, not a volcanic eruption.

After extensive use in various settings, here’s my honest take on where this percolator shines and where it could use some improvement.

The Good Stuff:

• Built like a tank with thick enamel coating
• Works on any heat source (campfire to stovetop)
• Makes seriously good coffee once you nail the technique
• Easy to clean with no hard-to-reach spots
• Large capacity perfect for groups
• Classic look that ages gracefully
• Zero plastic taste in your coffee

Room for Improvement:

• Handle gets hot – keep the pot holder handy
• Learning curve steeper than instant coffee
• No water level markings inside
• Lid could fit more snugly
• Occasional grounds in the last cup
• Not ideal for ultralight backpacking

From what other campers tell me, these pros and cons align with their experiences too. The build quality consistently earns praise, while the learning curve is a common initial frustration.

Real-World Performance: Last summer, I brought this to a week-long camping trip with six friends. Every morning, the 12-cup model served us all with plenty left over. Even after getting knocked off a picnic table (my fault entirely), it just got a small ding and kept on brewing. Try that with a glass French press!

The GSI Outdoors Percolator isn’t the lightest coffee maker out there, but it’s built for life on the road. Here’s my take on its travel credentials:

Transport Considerations:

• Sturdy enough to pack without babying it
• Nests inside larger cookware to save space
• Handle folds flat against the body
• No fragile parts to worry about

Size Impact: Perfect for car camping or RV life, but might be overkill for backpacking. The 8-cup model fits nicely in a milk crate with other camp kitchen gear, while the 12-cup version needs a bit more real estate.

On my last cross-country road trip, this percolator lived in our camp kitchen box for three months. Despite constant jostling and the occasional rough forest service road, it handled the journey like a champ.

This percolator is your perfect match if you:

• Love car camping or RV adventures
• Enjoy the ritual of traditional coffee making
• Need to brew coffee for groups
• Want gear that’ll last for years
• Like the classic look of enamelware
• Often cook over campfires or camp stoves

I especially recommend it for family campers and outdoor hosts. Nothing beats serving up fresh percolator coffee to a crowd of sleepy campers on a crisp morning.

Skip this percolator if you:

• Are counting every ounce for backpacking
• Need immediate coffee gratification
• Prefer precise temperature control
• Want push-button convenience
• Have limited storage space
• Only make coffee for one

For ultralight backpackers, I’d suggest looking at the AeroPress or a simple pour-over setup instead. Those needing quick caffeine fixes might be happier with instant coffee options.

After three years of regular use, here’s how my GSI percolator has held up:

Durability Notes:

• Enamel shows minor chips but no rust
• Basket still perfectly functional
• Resin knob remains clear despite flames
• Handle attachment solid as day one
• No leaks or structural issues

The finish has developed character marks that tell stories of countless campfires and early mornings. While not as pristine as new, it’s aged gracefully and performs just as well as when I first got it.

Keep your percolator brewing great coffee with these care tips:

Daily Cleaning:

1. Let it cool completely
2. Hand wash with mild soap
3. Dry thoroughly before storing
4. Check and clean basket holes

Deep Cleaning:

• Run vinegar solution monthly
• Gently scrub mineral deposits
• Clear pump tube with bottle brush
• Check gaskets and seals

Storage:

• Store completely dry
• Keep lid loose for airflow
• Avoid stacking heavy items on it

These simple steps have kept my percolator in top shape through years of camping adventures.

The GSI Outdoors Percolator’s environmental footprint is relatively small:

Positive Aspects:

• No disposable filters needed
• Built to last decades
• Recyclable materials
• No electricity required
• Repairable design

Considerations:

• Steel and enamel production energy intensive
• Shipping weight impacts transport emissions
• Limited repair parts availability

Overall, its durability and filter-free operation make it a solid choice for eco-conscious campers.

While not the cheapest camp coffee maker, the GSI Outdoors Percolator delivers solid value:

Value Factors:

• Built to last generations
• No ongoing filter costs
• Multi-purpose capability
• Reliable performance
• Strong warranty support

Think of it as buying a piece of camp kitchen heritage rather than just another coffee maker. The initial investment pays off through years of reliable service.

Some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Perfect Grounds:

• Use coarse, uniform grounds
• Slightly wet the basket first
• Don’t overfill past basket rim

2. Heat Management:

• Start with medium-high heat
• Reduce once perking starts
• Keep perking gentle, not violent

3. Flavor Enhancement:

• Pre-heat with hot water rinse
• Add pinch of salt to grounds
• Let coffee rest 1 minute before pouring

4. Maintenance Tricks:

• Store with lid ajar
• Use bottle brush for stem
• Pack with soft items

5. Camping Hacks:

• Use as backup water boiler
• Mark water levels with scratch
• Pack grounds in basket for storage

Q: How long does it take to brew coffee? A: About 7-10 minutes once water starts perking.

Q: Can I use it on an electric stove? A: Yes, works on any heat source including electric stoves.

Q: How do I prevent grounds in my cup? A: Use coarse grounds and let coffee settle before pouring.

Q: Is it dishwasher safe? A: No, hand wash only to protect the enamel finish.

Q: What’s the best grind size? A: Coarse grind, similar to chunky sea salt.

Q: Can I use it to heat water for tea? A: Yes, just remove the coffee basket first.

Q: How do I clean the pump stem? A: Use a bottle brush and warm, soapy water.

Q: Will it work on induction cooktops? A: No, enamelware isn’t compatible with induction.

After countless camping trips and morning brew sessions, the GSI Outdoors Enamelware Percolator has earned its place as a reliable camp kitchen staple. Sure, it’s not the fastest way to make coffee, and it takes some practice to master. But there’s something special about gathering around a campfire, watching coffee perk through that clear knob, and sharing a hot cup of traditionally brewed coffee in the great outdoors.

The build quality is exceptional – this isn’t some flimsy knock-off, but a serious piece of gear that can handle years of campfire duty. While the price might seem steep compared to basic camp coffee makers, the durability and performance justify the investment.

For car campers, RV enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the ritual of traditional coffee making, this percolator hits the sweet spot between classic charm and modern reliability. Just remember – it’s not for ultralight backpackers or those seeking instant gratification.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a camp coffee maker that’ll become a cherished part of your outdoor traditions, the GSI Outdoors Enamelware Percolator delivers the goods. It’s become my go-to recommendation for friends setting up their camp kitchens, and it hasn’t let anyone down yet.