Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern Review

Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern Review: A Reliable Lighting Solution for Outdoor Adventures

When it comes to outdoor adventures, whether you're camping, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, reliable lighting is essential. The Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern has become a go-to choice for many outdoor enthusiasts due to its powerful performance, ease of use, and rugged design. If you're considering adding a lantern to your gear list, this review will give you a deep dive into its features, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition.

Design and Build Quality

The Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern comes with a sleek and functional design. Made from durable materials, this lantern is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its rugged construction ensures it can handle being jostled around in your pack or exposed to the elements without breaking down. The lantern stands tall at just the right height for use around camp, giving off a powerful light to brighten up your campsite without being cumbersome.

One of the most attractive features of the design is the use of propane as the fuel source, which makes the Northern Nova more efficient compared to traditional lanterns that use liquid fuel or batteries. The lantern runs on a 16.4 oz. propane cylinder, which is easy to find and replace at most outdoor retailers. This makes it a convenient option for those who want no-fuss fueling.

Brightness and Performance

When it comes to brightness, the Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern excels. It produces an impressive 1000 lumens, which is more than enough to light up a large campsite. The lantern is equipped with a radiant steel mantle that helps distribute light evenly, making sure no part of your camp is left in the dark. Whether you're cooking, reading a book, or playing cards with friends, this lantern provides a steady and bright light source.

One of the best features of this lantern is its adjustable brightness. You can easily control the intensity of the light, making it perfect for a wide variety of activities. Whether you want a soft glow to create a cozy ambiance or a powerful beam to light up your entire campsite, the Northern Nova can do it all. With just a quick turn of the control knob, you can go from a soft, flickering light to full brightness in seconds.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern is incredibly straightforward. Simply screw the propane cylinder into the bottom of the lantern, and you’re good to go. The matchless ignition system ensures you don’t have to deal with the hassle of lighting it with a match or lighter – just turn the knob, and the lantern lights up instantly.

The propane cylinder is easy to replace and lasts quite a while, giving you hours of reliable lighting. You won’t have to worry about running out of power unexpectedly, as the propane tank is easy to swap out when needed.

Additionally, the adjustable dial allows for fine-tuned control over the brightness, so you can customize it to your exact needs. Whether you're sitting by the fire or need a more intense light for working, this lantern adapts with ease.

Fuel Efficiency and Longevity

One of the standout features of the Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern is its fuel efficiency. The 16.4 oz. propane cylinder lasts for several hours depending on the brightness level. On high, you can expect about 7 to 8 hours of light, while running it at a lower setting can extend the burn time even further.

This is a big advantage over traditional battery-powered lanterns, which may require frequent battery changes, especially with extended use. The propane fuel system is also easy to carry and replace, which makes it a practical option for longer trips where you might not have easy access to recharging.

Portability and Storage

Weighing in at just under 2 lbs, the Northern Nova is portable and lightweight enough to take on any outdoor adventure. It’s compact enough to fit easily into a backpack or be clipped to your gear without taking up too much space. However, it’s not as compact as some battery-powered lanterns, so you’ll need to consider the extra space taken up by the propane cylinder.

The propane tank itself is small and easy to carry, so this lantern won’t add excessive weight to your gear. But if you’re planning to pack light for a quick overnight trip, it’s something to keep in mind.

Durability and Weather Resistance

As with most Coleman products, the Northern Nova Propane Lantern is built to endure. Its sturdy metal construction ensures it can take the bumps and bruises of outdoor use. Additionally, this lantern is designed to be weather-resistant, making it ideal for camping in various conditions, whether it’s raining, windy, or cold. The wind-resistant design means the lantern will stay lit even when faced with strong gusts of wind, providing peace of mind on stormy nights.

It’s also easy to maintain, requiring little more than occasional cleaning of the mantle and glass parts to ensure optimal performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Impressive brightness (1000 lumens) to light up any campsite
• Adjustable light output to suit different activities and moods
• Matchless ignition system for hassle-free lighting
• Long-lasting fuel efficiency with a 16.4 oz. propane cylinder
• Durable and weather-resistant design
• Easy to use and maintain

Cons:

• Slightly bulkier and heavier compared to battery-powered lanterns
• Propane fuel adds extra weight and needs to be replaced
• May not be ideal for ultra-light backpacking trips where every ounce counts

Conclusion

The Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern is a solid choice for campers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for reliable, bright, and efficient lighting. Its durability, ease of use, and impressive brightness make it a top contender in the propane lantern category. Whether you're embarking on a weekend camping trip or spending a week in the wilderness, this lantern is sure to keep your campsite well-lit and cozy. Its fuel efficiency, rugged design, and adjustability provide great value for the price.

If you're in the market for a powerful and dependable lighting solution that can withstand the elements, the Coleman Northern Nova Propane Lantern is a fantastic option worth considering.