I picked out 7 of my favorite lanterns to rehab and light over the last couple of days. I am planning on going camping in my Vintage 1956 Rainbow travel trailer and can't decide which of these lanterns I want to bring along. I have limited space and can only take two. From far left clockwise: Col-max 555 Made in USA 1950, 228D Apr 1949, 228C Aug 1945, 200A Jul 1953, QL327 Quicklite 1923, 242B 1940, and a 200A (black collar) Jun 1952. In the center is a Max Sievert Svea 115 stove 1915 (this one goes!). I'd love to take them all but have to choose two.So many lanterns and so little space! Which ones do I take with me? I don't think I can go wrong with any of them!
I would pick the Col-Max for powerful outside lighting and the 242B for instant and odor-free inside lighting. My first choice would have been a Coleman 339 as it has a very good power to weight/size ratio. Positive shut-off means it can travel without leaking, even if pressurized. My second choice would be a Coleman 288 for the same reasons plus instant lighting. If fuel leaks can be avoided and instant lighting is not essential, definitely a Bialaddin 315 or similar.
My pick of the ones shown would be the 242B and the 228D. I know very little about Coleman so the choice is made because they have nickel tanks so are more scratch resistant etc.
Great ideas guys. I did notice that the kerosine burning Col-max does have an odor that I'm kind of allergic to if it is burning in the trailer. It's a very good outdoor lantern. The little 242B is real nice and has vintage Coleman "Handy Pail" to hold it in. I might use the Ql327 while using my 1936 teardrop. Both oldies!
Hello, For reliability i would choose the Quick-Lite as they never give you any trouble, especially if you run it with a R55 generator. also the mica globe will not break, and then i would bring the Col-Max for light output, ( dont' have one myself but if it puts out light like an Petromax 500cp, thats nice to have ) Fred.
Hey Fred. Nice choices! I want to use the Ql327 but I am afraid to break or damage the Mica globe (a Fred Kuntz special). I need to make a box for it I guess. It is very reliable. I changed out the r55 for an original used Q99 just to try out the original design. I use two matches twice to preheat and haven't had any problems with firing. It has a very mellow light that it casts. The Col-max runs well and lights up outdoor areas nicely. Good outdoor dinner dish lighting!
