Installing mantles on gas coleman lantern

[sunnie boy]

When installing mantles on coleman lanterns, do you burn the new mantles before or after you turn the gas on? I have heard both ways. The instructions on the bag does not say

Thanx

S.B.

[gspman]

before

[hanson]

Burn them good before.

[Giant_Jackpot]

I have had good luck either way. Let's just say that if you install them after a few beers, you may not remember to burn them first! No biggie..........

[kslipsinker]

I always turn on the gas to burn mine in. It has worked for me.

[Surface Tension]

Its recommended to burn before but I've done it both ways and haven't noticed any difference in longevity in mantle life either way.

[Fergus Mor McErc]

Burn the mantles before lighting the lantern. Preferably outside the tent or fish house. The mantles smoke like crazy when burned the first time.