What about a Handle on the side of the Kettle?

Several years ago we asked our customers which handle they would prefer....
First Option: The current bail type handle (like a bucket) over the top? or,
Second Option: A Jug type handle on the side?

Certainly there are pros and cons to each style of handle. However when asked, the overwhelming majority of users chose the existing bail style handle for the following reasons:

1. The Bail handle allows the Kettle to be carried comfortably by your side to either a) easily transport cold water from a nearby water source or, b) bring boiling water safely around the campsite to where it may be needed.
2. A jug type handle requires more wrist strength and dexterity which many younger and older users may not have! A full SST 'Base Camp' kettle will weigh approximately 2.6kg and would require the user to stoop/bend over much lower to get a safe grip on the handle for lifting off the fire-base. That is simply not comfortable or even possible for some elderly and young kettle users. Such exaggerated bending also brings the users face over the chimney and smoke - which is definitely not a good thing!


Our smaller 'Trekker' Kettle holds less water (0.6 ltrs) and therefore is lighter. So, it would be possible (from a weight and safety perspective) to put a handle on the side of the Trekker kettle for pouring. But, we still have issues 1 & 2 above which customers were quick to highlight.

Therefore for now at least, the traditional and more comfortable Bail handle design remains! ;-)

Using, Lifting and Pouring the Kelly Kettle