Stansport Enamel Percolator Coffee Pot Review

Recommended Accessories:

• Coarse ground coffee (vital for percolator brewing)
• Planetary Design Airscape Storage Canister (keeps coffee fresh)
• Heat-resistant gloves
• Collapsible coffee filters (optional, for easier cleanup)

The Stansport Enamel Percolator Coffee Pot carries forward the time-tested design that’s been a campsite staple for generations. Here’s what makes it tick:

Core Features:

• Kiln-hardened blue enamel finish that resists chipping
• Available in 8-cup and 20-cup sizes
• Four 12-oz enamel mugs included with 8-cup model
• Sturdy pour handle and cool-touch bail
• Heavy-gauge steel core with stainless steel rim
• Traditional glass percolator knob

Specifications:

The percolator’s design strikes a balance between traditional charm and practical functionality. The blue enamel finish isn’t just for looks - it’s kiln-hardened to handle the rough and tumble of outdoor use. The stainless steel rim adds extra protection against chips while giving the pot a finished look that wouldn’t be out of place in a vintage catalog.

Brewing with the Stansport percolator follows a straightforward process that’s been refined over decades of campfire coffee making:

1. Fill: Pour cold water into the main chamber
2. Load: Place coarsely ground coffee in the basket (about 2 tablespoons per cup)
3. Assemble: Set the stem and basket in place
4. Heat: Place over your heat source
5. Watch: Keep an eye on the glass knob - you’ll see coffee start to bubble up
6. Time: Let it percolate 7-10 minutes, depending on desired strength
7. Remove: Take it off the heat once it reaches your preferred color
8. Serve: Let it settle for a minute, then pour

The beauty of percolator coffee lies in its simplicity - no filters, no electricity, just coffee and hot water doing what they’ve done for generations. The process creates a rich, full-bodied brew that’s especially satisfying in the crisp morning air of a campsite.

A friend at the campground demonstrated how the glass knob acts as your brewing gauge - when the bubbling coffee matches your preferred strength, it’s ready to serve. It’s a bit like watching coffee make itself, with the satisfying perk-perk-perk sound as background music to your morning campsite routine.

Pros:

• Built Camp-Tough: The kiln-hardened enamel finish handles campsite knocks without flinching
• Complete Kit: 8-cup model includes matching mugs, saving packing space
• Versatile Heating: Works on campfires, camp stoves, or grills
• No Power Needed: Perfect for off-grid brewing
• Easy to Clean: Smooth enamel surface wipes clean easily
• Good Heat Retention: Keeps coffee hot longer than aluminum percolators
• Classic Look: Brings a touch of nostalgia to your camp kitchen

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Takes practice to nail the perfect strength
• Brew Time: 7-10 minutes might feel long if you’re used to instant
• Weight: Heavier than ultralight alternatives
• Temperature Control: Requires attention to avoid bitter coffee
• Size: Bulky for backpacking

Real User Insights:

The campers I met had been using theirs for three seasons. They praised its durability but mentioned the importance of packing it carefully - while tough, enamel can chip if it bangs against other metal gear. They’d developed a routine of wrapping it in a camp towel during transport.

The husband shared a useful tip about using the graduated marks inside the pot as rough guides rather than exact measures, as percolator coffee tends to reduce slightly during brewing.

Let’s be real about carrying the Stansport percolator - it’s not winning any ultralight awards, but it earns its keep for car camping and base camp setups.

Travel Considerations:

• Dimensions make it packable in camp kitchen boxes
• Mugs nest inside for efficient packing
• Sturdy construction handles transport well
• Works with multiple heat sources
• No extra equipment needed

At 21.3 oz (604g) for the 8-cup model, it’s definitely in the “worth the weight” category for group camping. The included mugs actually save space compared to packing separate cups, and the whole kit tucks neatly into a camp kitchen box.

A fellow camper showed me how they’d rigged a simple padded storage bag using an old fleece beanie - smart thinking for protecting the enamel finish during transport. They mentioned it’s traveled in their RV for years without any storage issues.

This percolator shines for several types of outdoor enthusiasts:

Car Campers: The weight and size are no issue when you’re driving to your campsite, and the durability means it’ll handle rough roads just fine.

Family Campers: The 8-cup capacity hits the sweet spot for family camping, and those included mugs mean everyone gets their morning coffee without extra packing.

Group Leaders: Scout leaders and outdoor group coordinators will appreciate the larger 20-cup option for serving crowds.

RV Enthusiasts: Perfect for RV life - it works on propane stoves and stores easily in cabinet space.

Off-Grid Cabin Owners: Reliable coffee making without electricity makes it ideal for cabin life.

The couple I met camping used theirs primarily for weekend camping trips but mentioned it had become their backup coffee maker at home during power outages - an unexpected bonus they’d come to appreciate during storm season.

While the Stansport percolator has its strengths, it’s not the best choice for everyone:

Ultralight Backpackers: At 21.3 oz empty, you’re better off with the AeroPress Go or a collapsible pour-over setup.

Speed Demons: If you need your coffee in under 5 minutes, look at the Wacaco Nanopresso or instant coffee options.

Solo Travelers: The 8-cup capacity might be overkill - consider the Primula Brew Buddy for single-serve simplicity.

Precision Brewers: Those who need exact temperature control should explore portable electric kettles.

Espresso Lovers: If you’re after true espresso, check out the Flair Espresso Maker instead.

From talking with experienced users, those who value quick, precise brewing or travel ultra-light tend to prefer other methods. The percolator’s charm lies in its simplicity and durability, not speed or precision.

The camping family I met had some valuable insights from three years of regular use:

Durability Highlights:

• Enamel finish held up well, just a few minor chips near the rim
• Internal percolator mechanism showed no signs of rust
• Handle and bail remained sturdy
• Glass knob survived multiple camping seasons

Performance Over Time:

• No degradation in coffee flavor
• Maintained heat retention properties
• Percolator basket stayed firmly in place
• Pour spout kept its drip-free performance

They noted that the blue enamel developed a subtle patina of campfire use that, if anything, added character without affecting function. The only part they’d needed to replace was a small rubber gasket around the glass knob, easily found at hardware stores.

Their experience suggests that with basic care, this percolator could easily become a piece of camping gear that gets passed down through generations.

Keep your Stansport percolator brewing strong with these care tips:

Daily Cleaning:

• Let it cool completely
• Hand wash with warm, soapy water
• Use soft cloths or sponges only
• Pay extra attention to the basket and stem
• Dry thoroughly before storing

Deep Cleaning:

• Monthly descaling with vinegar solution
• Gentle scrubbing of mineral deposits
• Check and clean percolator holes

Storage Tips:

• Store completely dry
• Keep lid slightly loose for airflow
• Use padded storage if possible
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top

Preventive Care:

• Inspect gaskets regularly
• Check glass knob security
• Monitor handle attachment points
• Look for any enamel damage

The experienced users I met wrapped their percolator in an old towel during transport and stored it in their camping tote’s side pocket - smart thinking for protecting the enamel finish.

The Stansport percolator offers several eco-friendly advantages:

Sustainable Features:

• No disposable filters needed
• Built for multi-decade use
• Recyclable steel core
• No electricity required
• Repairable design

Waste Reduction:

• Eliminates single-serve pod waste
• Reduces paper filter usage
• Durable construction minimizes replacement need
• Included mugs reduce disposable cup use

The campers I met mentioned how their percolator had replaced their pod-based camping coffee maker, significantly reducing their campsite waste. They estimated saving hundreds of coffee pods and paper filters over their three camping seasons.

While the enamel coating does make eventual recycling more complex, the decades-long lifespan more than offsets this consideration.

The Stansport percolator’s value proposition stacks up well against other camping coffee makers:

Value Factors:

• Includes matching mugs (8-cup model)
• Multi-decade lifespan potential
• No ongoing filter costs
• Works across heat sources
• Serves groups efficiently

Long-Term Benefits:

• Reduced replacement needs
• No electricity costs
• Minimal maintenance expenses
• Versatile camping usage

The camping family pointed out how their percolator had outlasted two cheaper aluminum models they’d used previously. While the initial cost sits higher than basic alternatives, the durability and included mugs make it a solid value for regular campers.

Some clever insights gathered from experienced users:

1. Perfect Ratio: Start with 2 tablespoons of coarse ground coffee per cup, adjusting to taste

2. Heat Management: Keep it just hot enough to percolate gently - rapid bubbling leads to bitter coffee

3. Preheat Trick: Warm the pot with a bit of hot water before brewing for better temperature control

4. Settling Solution: Let the coffee rest 1-2 minutes after brewing for clearer cups

5. Clean Pour: Use the spout’s angle to your advantage - pour slowly at first to avoid grounds

6. Camp Hack: Use it to heat water for other camp meals when not making coffee

7. Storage Smart: Wrap a bandana around the glass knob during transport for extra protection

The campers shared a neat trick for windy days - they’d create a windbreak for the percolator using their camp chairs, helping maintain steady heat for better brewing.

Q: How many actual cups of coffee does it make? A: The 8-cup model brews about 40-48 oz (5-6 standard coffee cups), while the 20-cup makes 100-120 oz.

Q: Can I put it directly on a campfire? A: Yes, but use a grate for stability and even heating. Direct flames can cause hot spots.

Q: Is it dishwasher safe? A: Hand washing is recommended to preserve the enamel finish and prevent damage to the percolator mechanism.

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

Q: Will it work on my camp stove? A: Yes, it’s compatible with any heat source that can support its weight.

Q: What’s the best grind size to use? A: Coarse ground coffee works best - think rough sea salt texture.

Q: Can I make tea in it? A: Yes, just remove the coffee basket and use it as a hot water pot.

Q: Does the handle get hot? A: The bail handle stays relatively cool, but using a potholder is recommended.

Q: How do I prevent grounds in my coffee? A: Use coarse ground coffee and let it settle for 1-2 minutes before pouring.

Q: Can I use it at high altitude? A: Yes, but brewing time might need adjustment due to lower boiling temperatures.

The Stansport Enamel Percolator Coffee Pot embodies what good camping gear should be - simple, reliable, and built to last. While it might take a few tries to master the perfect brew, the reward is rich, hot coffee that tastes especially good in the great outdoors.

Its biggest strengths lie in its durability and all-in-one design, particularly the 8-cup model with included mugs. The kiln-hardened enamel finish proves its worth through years of campfire duty, while the classic blue color adds a touch of style to your camp kitchen.

Sure, it’s heavier than some alternatives and requires a bit of patience to brew, but these trade-offs feel worth it for the reliable performance and complete coffee solution it provides. For car campers, RV enthusiasts, and anyone who values durability over ultralight design, this percolator makes a trustworthy companion for outdoor coffee brewing.