two canister questions

Trying to decide between alcohol and canister stoves for a southbound AT hike.

1. Will different manufacturers' canisters work on common stoves (e.g. pocket rocket)?

2. Are canisters generally available at resupply stops on the northern half of the AT (e.g., Maine, NH)?

Thanks.

(1) Yes. Despite all the claims from canister stove makers (especially Snow Peak) about not mixing brands, all canisters and stoves with the standard Lindal valve are interchangeable.

If nobody here can answer #2, you might try the Whiteblaze forum. I know that at some very small resupply stops in the Pacific Northwest, they are hard to find. If there's a gas station, you can almost always find HEET, one reason why alcohol stoves are more popular with thru-hikers.

Best bet for question two is like mouse said white blaze. Clik on 2010 2000 mile club and then hiker names and email a couple. Most will be happy to help out. Last years group will be more up to date!