Petromax Lanterns - Half off

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Petromax lanterns are "Coleman' type lanterns but are 4 times brighter with the same output as a 400 watt bulb. They burn diesel, gas, kerosene, just about anything but kerosene is best. They retail for 100 + 25-30.00 for an optional reflector (which you really need).

They used to be made in Germany but production switched to China a few years ago (hey, those kids need a job, too). The parts have not changed in over 80 years and are available (search the web for petromax)

Now they are available at Sams Club for 59.99 under the Wenzel Brand. I doubt Sams will sell them again next year. The Amish use them as well as folks with out electric, not to mention the German military. They are well made of Nickel plated Brass, in a neat wooden case.

For those that don't know you should be aware that they are more difficult to start than a Coleman.

-- Marc (toymeister@hotmail.com), March 12, 2002

Answers

are the identical to the german made ones? chinese ones, never seem to hold up

-- Stan (sopal@net-port.coms), March 12, 2002.

Petromax lanterns are made in Germany, they are sold in N America as Rivertrail as well. 50 USD or so is what the 500cp Rivertrail sells for regularly. Check Lehmans for the US price on Petromax brand!! The Chinese versions might be as good or better, I've never seen one. Deitz sent thier tooling over to China and sells Chinese made lanterns that are the same quality as they were when US made. Maybe I should pick up one of the Chinese versions to compare (I sorta collect lanterns) but I just blew my penny jar budget buying a Rivertrail!

-- Ross (amulet@istar.ca), March 13, 2002.

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