A well-designed insulated flask that keeps your libations cold—or hot
High Camp Flasks makes a line of insulated flasks that vary in size and color. The High Camp Firelight Flask 750 is made of high quality 18/8 grade stainless steel and holds a 750ml (25.4 oz.) bottle of liquor, wine, or a premade cocktail (get it? the 750 holds 750ml). Two magnetically-held insulated cups or tumblers that pop onto the top and bottom are included. A smaller version, the Firelight Flask 375, holds one half bottle and comes with one magnetically attached cup. Both are available in four sharp, distinguishing colors: Onyx (black), Copper (vibrant and shiny), Gunmetal (dark grey with a sophisticated sheen), and Stainless Steel (classic, clean look). All have a matte finish except the shiny stainless steel model. Each flask comes with a draw string fabric bag. In addition to the standard version of these flasks, the company offers optional custom text or simple image engraving.
Temperature Tests
The flasks are well insulated to keep your libations at the desired temperature. The interior lining of the flask is made of an alloy that does not impart a taste to the contents, a problem with some metals. High Camp calls this “sommelier grade,” but we’re not sure what exactly that means. In any case, I pre-chilled the flask with cold tap water for about an hour, as you might do with any thermos when preparing to store something chilled. I filled the flask again with cold tap water and some small ice cubes, shook it for 5 seconds, and the water read at 37°F (2.7°C) with my trusted ThermoWorks ThermaPen One. I left it indoors at room temperature for 30 hours with the cups attached. The room temperature was in the 70s Fahrenheit during the day and mid-60s at night. At the end of that test interval, the water had actually dropped to 35°F (1.6°C), surely because of the ice further chilling it. At the 48-hour mark, the water was still at a respectably chilled 41°F (5°C).
Repeating the test, this time with sunshine in the mix as most of us would probably experience in real-world use, I pre-chilled the Firelight with 50°F (10°C) tap water for about 10 minutes, then re-filled it with 33°F (0.5°C) water from an ice bath and left it for 16 hours inside and 8 hours outside in the sun on a 74°F (23°C) day until sunset. At the end of this second test period the water was a respectable 42°F (5.5°C), still colder than most tap water. More than enough insulating power for your adult beverages!
Built-In Tumblers
The tumblers, which hold 10.5 oz. (315 ml), are also vacuum-insulated for a sweat-proof grip when holding ice cold drinks. When filled with hot liquid they get noticeably warm to the touch but not uncomfortably so. They have the same exterior color and finish as the flask itself. With the tumblers attached at both ends, the assembly stands 12.25” (31 cm) tall and is 3.25” (8.25 cm) in diameter at the widest point. The flask capacity is spot on at 25 oz. (750 ml).
Quality Workmanship
The fit and finish of the High Camp Firelight Flask are excellent and I could not shake the tumblers off from their magnetic hold. Everything goes together nicely and has an elegant feel. Insulation is more than adequate. The opening to the flask is designed to accommodate ice cubes with a generous 1.25” (3.18 cm) width. Filling it from a bourbon or wine bottle is easy enough without using the tiny funnel that most flasks require.
The cap opens or closes with less than a half turn and does not leak when tightened. The mouth of the flask has a rim around it to prevent drips. A small instruction sheet comes with the assembly that gives basic information and refers the user to their website for more details and warranty registration.
Conclusion
High Camp flasks are sold in a limited number of outlets but purchasing from their website is easy enough. The product is pricey at $129, but it’s a bespoke product aimed at an upscale audience. Those who seek the Cadillac of flasks need look no further. Take it tailgating, in your RV, camping, or just on a hike. High Camp Flasks are excellent and merit our AmazingRibs.com Gold Medal.
We thank High Camp Flasks for providing a Firelight for this review.
