I am really not knowledgeable about outdoor craft and prepping, but I would like to put together some bits of kit. I live in a small apt outside DC, so I am unable to store much of anything.

I have been thinking about getting a small spirit stove. Looking to keep it small/cheap (<$50) since it would only be used in an emergency situation.

So what are your thoughts/suggestions.

Make your own from soda cans. Google penny stove. Or get an emberlit http://www.emberlit.com/ not a spirit stove but a twig stove. I love mine!

I use those dry fuel tablets. Less of a chance of spillage in my bag, drawer or where ever. Just use some rocks or something to prop up your pan/pot. An actual twig stove like Seth uses is better for long term, but tablets are easier for emergency or planned camping in my opinion.

Another vote for tabs instead of liquid fuel.

Oh yeah, get one of the folding East German Esbit stoves, it is about the size of a deck of cards. The stove holds a couple tabs, can hold a can, and is easy to pack/carry.

Sethro,

Muchas gracias for the info on the Emberlit. I'm not quite sure why wrx was looking for a spirit stove for a crap/fan situation when natural fuel is the logical choice, maybe he can clarify. Nevertheless, this is what I've been looking for. If anyone has other alternatives, I would love to hear them.

Same here
I also made a buddy burner out of a quart can

They have gone up a few bucks lately. He has gotten them in stores and need to raise the price so retailers could make something from them. Mikhail is a standup guy and makes a great product. Goes out of his way to make customers happy. The Ti model weighs in at under 6oz and can hold a cast iron double boiler, full! The stove takes up no room and is easy to assemble. I slip mine next to my water bladder in my hiking pack. Makes a great enclosed fire for roasting marshmallows with the kid in no burn areas! I really should do a full review here.

I will have to do a quick search later
There are at least two similar products that I know of, one is made in Britain and another site gives you simple plans to make your own

http://www.nimblewillnomad.com/stove.htm
Here are the directions on how to make a small stove

http://zenstoves.net/Wood.htm
More stove plans

Two reasons, cost and I have no idea what I should be considering. I'm really thinking short term, few days of power outage. Maybe fuel tablets is what I should get.

Thanks for suggestions everyone!