WhatStove?

Review of Westfire 16 stove

Looks great - works well

Paul 15 years ago

Form before function but It looks great - the glass stays clean if you stick to dry wood. I have the fresh air kit so I really only have control over the secondary air. That said it does light in as little as 30 seconds (I cheat and crack the ash drawer open and it goes like a gas torch) and I could watch the rolling boiling gasification flame for hours. The soapstone top retains the heat for about an hour after it goes out and the stove heats up quickly. If using the soapstone all the convected heat has to exit through the side and back - so think about that before deciding.

The firebox is not that big but if you fill it it will get too hot so it is probably the right size.

No regrets about it - it is not as good mechanically as our Hwam but it is still very good.

Overall rating:

3.5 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4.6)
Value for money 2 flames (avg 3.5)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 3.9)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 3.9)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 3.6)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 3.6)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4 flames (avg 4.6)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 4.3)