Czech 3 Piece Mess Kit - HD Aluminum, Czech Military Surplus

I've used quite a few mess kits over the years, some store bought, some cobbled together from containers and plates. But this one is going to be with me for a long time.With my alcohol stove and pot holder inside the entire setup weighs 1.5lb. Even with all that there's still plenty of space to stuff, I usually stick a few small bags of condiments, salt, pepper, oregano etc. The rest of the space I fill with paper towels, napkins and a packet or two of grits, it takes up less space in my pack and makes the cook kit not rattle around at all (it doesn't rattle at all when empty, but the stove inside can make a real racket if it's not padded).The handles are amazing, especially the outer pot, it maks a seal so tight I bet I could throw it at a wall and it still wouldn't open, not that I'm going to try it. With bad mess kits a lot of weight in the pot can be a problem, it'll sag or even bend the handle. Not so in this case, once there's about 5oz of weight in the pot the handle is solid as a rockI use the lid for a couple things, if I'm cooking on a wood surface I'll place it under the stove so it doesn't leave a scorch mark, as a sanitary spot to put my stirring stick/spork and occasionally as a plate. My only complaint about the lid is that there's no way to use it as a pan without carrying a small pair of tongs, I might try and drill a few small holes so I can jerry rig a stick for a handle when I need it.The best way to put it in your pack without cleaning the exterior is putting it inside a bandann andOther than that, it arrived in excellent condition, plenty of minor scratch marks but nothing that made a difference, it's easy to clean, could easily cook for 1-5 people and will always have a place in my pack.The verdict: If you don't mind a short, fat, slightly heavy mess kit that will outlive you, buy it, you won't regret it.

Item arrived with a lot of exterior wear and scratches from use (to be expected on used surplus,) but nothing that would effect performance. All surfaces had been scrubbed spotless before shipping and the inside surfaces were gleaming. Folding handles solid and in excellent condition. When closed, the kit still has enough room inside to store more items such as spices or a freeze-dried meal. Small enough to fit in a large backpack for camping, but takes up enough room that you'd probably want to tie it up on the outside of the bag to save space. Note that the handle that rests on top of the kit when it is folded unfolds easily, so it can't be used as an attachment point for that. As long as you don't mind the existing cosmetic wear that comes with used items, This is a solid piece to add to your camping kit or bug-out bag. Just took it camping in Ocala National Forest, it held up great. Even filled with soup the handle didn't bend, and was safe to touch after sitting in the fire. Brewed coffee quickly heated on an esbit stove, even in 50 degree wet weather.

Let me start by saying I love military surplus gear and especially old east-block communist surplus. I really like the size of these pots, but the aluminum isn't the greatest quality. I have other communist block mess kits that are just simply better constructed. The aluminum is not real strong, but it will get the job done. It's not horrible, but don't expect too much. This would be great for training kids in the back yard, but would not want it to be my primary mess kit while in the field. Good back up and that's all I'll use it for. Mine was also heavy used prior to me getting and not in best of shape. However, that's the risk you take when buying military surplus online.

very nice quality, heavy-duty and pretty much bulletproof.....somewhat similar to the MSR stowaways in the way that they lock down, but obviously you're trading stainless steel for heavy gauge aluminum.....I'm good with that.....unfortunately my set was missing the smaller pot and when I tried to get an exchange, I was told there was no more inventory......the reason I'm only taking off one star is because at the end of the day Amazon stepped up and made it right and I still walked away with a very solid piece of gear.

I PURCHASED A "NEW" MESS KIT. WHAT I RECEIVED IS A PIECE OF JUNK. I BOUGHT A USED ONE IN BETTER SHAPE THAN THIS ONE. IT LOOKS LIKE IT WAS TOSSED FROM AN AIRPLANE INTO A GRAVEL PIT,ONE BIG SERIES OF SCRATCHES,ALSO BENT UP. THE BRADED ON CLIPS BENT AND UNUSABLE. IF THIS IS YOUR IDEA OF NEW, I WILL NOT BE BUYING ANYTHING ELSE FROM YOU. I PURCHASED THIS FOR MY GREAT GRANDSON, BUT IT ISN'T FIT FOR A HOBO. I AM VERY UPSET AT BEING MISLED THIS WAY. I ONLY GAVE ONE STAR BECAUSE I COULDN'T GIVE ZERO. I AM ON A FIXED INCOME AND DON'T NORMALLY THROW MONEY AWAY, BUT THIS IS A COMPLETE LOSS.

I bought this to keep in my cars emergency kit. Mine appears to be new. All I need is a couple cups to fin inside.

Heck for the price you can't go wrong. Sure it's used and not the most modern ultra lite kinda thing but I like it

The kit I recieved was brand-new. It did have a small ding in the main pot but it doesn't effect its usefulness.