My Most Important Piece of Outdoor Gear [PICTURES]

Picking just one piece of gear that I couldn't do without in the outdoors is not easy. So, I'll be highlighting several.

The one I'm featuring this time is essential. It accomplishes many things, and is light and easy to carry. It is my butane powered camp stove.

This thing is a worker. I bought it more than 20 years ago, and while there are lighter versions that look a bit cooler, this one packs easy and it still does its job.

It's pretty a very simple flame making device. Plug it into the fuel, light it, voila! Instant heat.

It is good for:

• Cooking
• Boiling and therefore making random water safe for consumption
• Help starting fires
• Creating heat in a small space (in emergency situation)
• Saving money - heating up a dehydrated meal or other cheaper food source can save big money versus eating out on all kinds of trips. Below you can see how I save money at ski resorts.

You'll find these kinds of stoves and all other types of great outdoor gear at the Great Colorado Outdoors Show at CSU's B.W. Pickett Equine Center from 9am to 5pm on Saturday August 3, 2013.