That small model really limits what you can do with it. Directions clearly state to keep the wood below rim level. Bonfire model fits nearly all campfire wood easily below the rim and nearly smoke free. Living in AZ, with restrictions, the bonfire gives us an option in any campground. Contained fires are allowed.
I’ve used my Bonfire for 2 years and love it. The size of the firewood is only an issue for the ranger. My bonfire has zero problems with standard firewood. Also, I’ve used my bonfire 40-50 times and it looks nothing like yours. I do not leave in the rain, I will slide it under the pass through at night. I also store in the bag after simple wiping with paper towel. The true negative of the solo stove is the lack of conductive heat. But a simple cone on top solves our issues. We also cook on ours quite frequently with no issues. We use grill plate, cast iron pan and pots. Sorry it doesn’t work for you but we love ours.
Didn’t say we didn’t like it... simply pros and cons to them. Oddly enough this one has never been left in the weather. It’s only been used 6-7 times actually. Weird.
@@WanderingWeekends I would contact solo stove and inquire about the patina. That looks well used and weathered. Join my wife and I March 27 as we leave MD and travel to Unicoi SP. we are spending 5 nights visiting Helen and surrounding area. Can’t wait to add GA to our amping map.
We splurged and bought the Bonfire size as an anniversary gift to ourselves ☺️ The larger size definitely works better with regular size firewood and once the fire is hot the wood you add burns down below the rim and stays very hot. We have a 2400BH so the same size pass through and we’re able to store ours there with some creative packing. The big advantage we find with the Solo Stove is the ability to have a campfire even after a lot of rain. Too often fire pits or fire rings at campgrounds are too wet to start a fire easily after rains - with the Solo Stove just load with wood, light the fire starter and - Voila! - we have a campfire. Like I said, we treated ourselves and have loved ours. Your mileage may vary 😉 Thanks for the review!
We’ve had the Solo works amazing. It also fits in our pass through. I always get a sinus infection sitting by a campfire. After several years no sinus infections my clothes don’t smell like smoke. Love love love ours!
That was a great review. We use an Outland Fire bowl, propane, good heat, no smoke, & no smell. Small & lite weight. We save firewood for camp fire pit.
Good video. Just keep in mind if you go the stainless route: A brand new stainless steel fire pit still has its protective top layer. Ones you had a couple of fires in it you will get rust. Especially on the inside surfaces. No matter the brand. I am not living even near an ocean, always have my Breeo under a cover and it does not rain much where I live. I am religious about removing ashes. No water inside of course. Low humidity air. It sits on pavers. After not even 15 burns over a year the X in my 24 x-series is rusting like hell. In the Breeo and associate videos it often seems like "a little cleaning and it will shine like new because it is stainless". After a deep cleaning the outside surely looks better than before, but especially the inside will continue rusting. You cannot really get rid of that. Stainless steel will rust - because of the heat the metal is exposed to it can't really be prevented. I never thought much about that before. When I thought about stainless I had boat equipment and pool ladders in my mind. I thought they don't really rust. Those things might get a patina over time. Some oxidation marks, but that should be it. A fire pit however is exposed to extreme heat. So no way Breeo holds up a lifetime if that is what you think. Their limited lifetime warranty only covers the first 5 years against rusting through. So that is the life span they believe in. I checked that after my purchase. My fault. It does not mean yours will be unusable after 5 years, but according to the warranty chances are pretty high. Too high for Breeo and their warranty. Breeo's warranty is not like Leatherman's or Zippo's. I initially got attracted by all their well-made youtube ads and perfectly placed texts in forums. Don't get me wrong. A Breeo surely is nice, but to my mind they are overpriced. The overall quality is not as they tell in their videos. 304 stainless is the cheapest stainless you get, most bottom edges remain sharp, plenty of parts are just bent to form rather than being welded and the weldings look mediocre - some even really bad. It is made in the U.S. which should be good, but honestly...some of the Chinese weldings look better. Considering the price point I am not impressed. And you might be mistake if you believe it wouldn't rust. Any stainless fire pit will rust. I should have known or informed myself better. My initial euphoria is gone and I probably would not get myself another Breeo. I still like it, but considering they money I have spent, I expected more and found out that you can get similar for a lot less. Costco has a stainless steel pit for under 300. Solo Stove costs only half of a Breeo of the same size. And there are other brands popping up. I guess none of them is better than a Breeo, but also none of them really is worse. You surely get thinner materials, but for a fraction of the costs of a Breeo you still can get a new one after 5-8 years. No illusions, in the end Breeo will maybe last 2 or 3 years longer due to the thicker steel. But then even a Breeo most likely will need a replacement. That said, I don't want to talk Breeo down or Solo or whatever brand up. I just say I didn't do my homework before buying, paid big money and learned my lesson. Just be realistic with your expectations and you'll be okay. Anyway, enjoy your fires and the nights you spend with your loved ones.
I have the bonfire size, it works okay but not blown away. I do love the portability and always take it camping as some campgrounds have no fire ring or in a weird place. I like being able to place the fire where we want it.
We have the next size larger Bonfire and regular wood that we would buy fits inside very well. We have noticed this is hands down better than burning in public fire pits. No more smelling like smoke when thru for the night! As far as rusting out, I believe it has a lifetime guarantee... Thanks for the review!
For the rust: Try using Rust-Oleum specialty high heat BBQ aerosol paint. It's rust and corrosion resistant for durability. Wire brush/sand then apply paint.
Thanks for an honest review. You made it very easy for me to avoid the temptation to buy one of these fire pits. The choices seem to be: 1) you can pay $269 for a fire pit which is sometimes smokeless and sometimes not or use the one at the campground for free. 2) you can carry this thing around in the back of your truck as one more item you have to pack and unpack or just use the one at the campground which requires no transportation. 3) you can transport your own expensive, bulky fire pit to your campsite and then have to clean it afterward or just simply use the one at the campground and leave the ashes in the hole. This really does not seem to be a hard decision-making process in order to maybe not have smoke when you start a fire. The firestarter is an intriguing idea for, perhaps, an emergency fire out in the wilderness but at $26.99 for a three-pack it seems like a pretty expensive way to accomplish a pretty simple chore like starting a campfire. Whenever I split wood I generally just throw all of the splinters and bark into an old trashcan and then just pack some in a small box when I go camping. You put a pile of this in the bottom of your fire ring, squirt some charcoal lighter on it and pile your wood on top. You have then started your campfire just as reliably for a few pennies. Thanks again for the honest, extremely helpful review.
I understand not wanting to cut wood. I have small skill saw,and fairly easily,have nice collection.Fill bottom with larger round,add small to get it going,and walk away ( not really ,with fire!).Mine measures 18".
We picked this one up for some of the same reasons, storage being the big one. It works great for what we use it for, I knew going into it that smaller wood works better and I can cut enough up in 5 min that will last the evening. Even when the campground has a firepit we still use this as it's very simple just to put the cover on when we are done, don't have to wonder if we dowsed the campfire completely out when the wind picks up. They are definitely overpriced, but what isn't in the rv world. So far, no rusting on ours.
My bet about the rust is, its probably use over time with that pull start fire starter. I also saw a US made one called a “Breeo”. Very similar to the solo stove, but it seems they improved its ability slightly. Similar prices but they have a few more accessories.
We have the Bonfire version. I will say that it certainly works better with seasoned wood, but we have been very happy with it. I think the bonfire size is the best bet vs the ranger. Won’t fit in our pass through so we just put it in the back of the truck. Only thing I don’t like about it is when I dump the ashes out it comes out of the holes as well and I always get it everywhere. If you have any tips for that let me know.
How much heat does it generate compared to a normal fire pit? In other words will it still warm you and the family when it is cold outside or would you have to sit almost on top of it?
I’ve also heard these style fire pits go through wood faster, and don’t radiate heat horizontally to people sitting around it as well. Has that been your experience, if you own one?
They definitely block some heat. The fire itself is half blocked too when you’re using it correctly. Wood use probably depends mostly on the wood itself. Type, moisture content, ect. I know it does burn down to nearly nothing so whatever is placed in the pit gets used.
I see you posted this video 3 years ago.. how is the pit doing now? I recently saw one of these at a park, and I am really looking into getting one of these.
One aspect of the fire pit is they are still permissible in some fire ban areas. Not all. In those cases a propane cooking/heating device may be all that’s permitted.
Dude needs an electric chainsaw. I bought a Makita a few years ago and love it! Quiet, no fumes, no gas can in my hot car, starts every time. Cutting a few pieces of firewood in half is really no big deal if you have the right tool
Thanks for the review. Was close to getting one of these, but heard from quite a few that as a product of their design, they don't really allow a lot of heat to radiate from the fire like a typical fire pit. We enjoy sitting around a fire, not just for the novelty of it, but often for the heat. Thoughts or comments from anyone that has one?
Heat radiation is a big concern with Solo stoves. With their double wall construction, the don’t radiate heat as much as a normal campfire- mostly because the direct heat radiation is inside the stove. We have the Bonfire, Ranger, and Campfire. Bonfire is really nice, and regular wood fits at an angle, but is a bit too big for the camper. We really like our Ranger - the stand is a must if you want to be able to put it anywhere (like grass). Spark shield for Ranger - not so much, because wood sticks out a lot. Shield for Bonfire - I could see- but accessories are pricey! :-)
I feel like the secret to this design isn’t the design or holes but the fact that it’s in something. The only part of the breeze that touches the fire is the very tips of the flame where normal fires or fire pits are more open so they blow the smoke around on everyone where this one the smoke just goes straight up. 😊
Great vid! I appreciate your honest comments, I had thought about buying one, but you make some good points regarding the cons. For a fire starter, I fall back on an old reliable method, Cotton balls or tissues dipped into Vaseline or other petroleum jelly. Light that and it will burn for awhile, not thirty minutes, but always gets my fires started. Plus I always keep some Vaseline on hand and always have tissues.
Hey y'all, we are Shion and Matthew and found your channel through Facebook. We are currently looking for our RV to live in full time! We know that we want a portable fire pit and have heard a lot of great things about the solo stove and your video explained how it works really well from what we have seen so far. Still not sure if we are going to get one but we do like that it is portable! Thanks for sharing!
I bought a Chimnea to use in my backyard. Recreational fires are legal in my Democratic run city; however the neighbors still call the fire department and I get a visit from the fire department everytime we enjoy it. At that point we become subjected to the "safe use of fire and city rules talk"... but so far, no tickets. If these smoke less, do they also create less smoke smell to offend all of the sensitive noses in my neighborhood? I have also thought about a portable propane pit.
You must use dry clean hardwood to get the smokeless effect... basically clean oak burning in your chimnea would almost be smokeless with the right firewood. They're OK... just not for us.
I haven't heard of these smokeless fire pits before. Interesting concept but once you get a fire good and hot it doesn't belch much smoke anyway. I enjoy our pop up pit WHEN we get to use it, but AZ has so many fire restrictions we rarely get to. Cool fire starter too!
Of course smokeless fire pit are not entirely smokeless for reasons we know, but still their secondary burn allowed them to be less smoky. And about the side of the wood: you can just cut it to your convenienece. It is not the end of the world, specially if your some pit is smaller.
I think both are pretty pricey. Most campgrounds have fire 🔥 rings and I think the hole theory behind the smokeless pits is airflow. I usually put something under 3 points of the edge of the ring to lift it an inch or so and that seems to work well. Lots of inexpensive fire starters that do fine. Dryer lint, cotton balls mixed with candle wax. My son's scout troop mixed sawdust & melted candle scraps and poured into paper cup like you used to get in fast food restaurants for your condiments and put in a wick.
I appreciate the review! Definitely not worth $269, except maybe in an urban backyard where open fires aren't allowed... Pop a grate on top on this one and you're in compliance if the FD stops by to check, which has happened to me before. Then again, bottom of an old oil drum would work fine too
I think most fires without it being a smokeless pit does well when you state those parameters using nicely dried wood and once it gets going hot. I think the smokeless firepits are expensive and overrated. The pros as some users pointed out is the portability.
@@WanderingWeekends so do you think it would do a decent job of keeping people warm on an average 45-55 degree night? I understand it won't in extreme temps. But could people sit around it nice and cozy staying warm? Or is it purely for ambiance and fire watching if you're sitting in a camp chair?
Really appreciate all of your videos.........those Solo's lately seem to be seen and reviewed everywhere, but that has to be the smallest one I have seen yet lol......Thanks but No Thanks!
I actually have the same model that you do and so far we like it. There is no rust on ours so I suspect your fire starters are doing something. I’m not sure what but no rust on the bottom of ours. Yeah until the fire is fully going there will be some smoke but I really like the unit . I have a video up that I shot and I do cut my wood so it’s a little smaller so it’s close to the top holes in the unit but so it is about the length of the unit and it works really well. Thanks for the video! Bill
$269 for a fire pit that's not big enough and aren't acceptable at many RV Parks, especially in Florida (Must be at least 6" off the ground if they allow campfires at your site at all). For $269 I can buy one of those saucer style fire pits on legs that folds up nearly flat for transport and 2 face cords of firewood where I live.
Old wheel? Meh. Is it better than a wash tub out of a broken down washing machine? Biggest problem, out west are fire bans during camping season. This last year was so dry the fire bans extended from camping season into hunting season which I’d never seen before. I’ve deployed a propane fire pit for these reasons. Beware, however, just because the box says the propane fire is “campground approved” does not mean you won’t be talking to self appointed “fun police” regarding the work around. Folks just can’t seem to figure out it’s not the flame that’s the problem, rather the sparks. I also do not necessarily recommend a propane fire for staying warm. They are ambiance only items, and the meme from last hunting season was that it’s “better n nothin.”
People seem to buy stuff without fully researching. It is a Firepit, it doesn't solve the worlds problems. Not being "blown away"? Yeah it's a firepit. Not sure what people are looking for this thing to do.
Thanks for the great review always wondered about those you gave a honest great review. I loved the fire starter never seen those yet. Ill pass on it for that price right now plus carrying it around site to site. Max_Your_Journey (Alvin)
Those campground fire rings are the worst. It’s like the maximum smoke maker due to terrible/no air flow. The air has to go down and fight against the rising heat. The fire rings need air from the bottom. Air holes would improve them. I prop a side up to make the fire actually burn. I despise those metal rings though. Enough to pay $300 for a trash can with holes? Nope.
Cross hatch well seasoned wood (which is required for the Solo anyway) and you’ll have minimal smoke and good airflow. Once it’s nice and hot the smoke is minimal anyway
Buy an electric chain saw and clean your stove with a mr clean pad after it cools down mine still looks new after a year of use your lazy for not wanting to cut your wood or clean your stove dude
Congrats! Maybe I’m lazy… or maybe you’re stupid to invest so much energy into a product that isn’t very good in the first place… but since you spent way too much money on it you feel the need to keep it up as best you can. That’s fine. Enjoy lugging around your e-chainsaw and Mr Clean pads. 🤣😂 🍻
How about this… I’ll watch you bust your a$$ cutting firewood that’s already been cut once. Enjoy. I’ll be sitting back enjoying a fire from a pit that’s adequate in size. 🍻
Thanks for the review. I opted for the flatpack heavy duty Snowpeak Large firepit which is great for keeping your feet warm in winter and just picked up the camp chef sequoia for fireban season which is becoming all too common these days 🔥 🏕️
That small model really limits what you can do with it. Directions clearly state to keep the wood below rim level. Bonfire model fits nearly all campfire wood easily below the rim and nearly smoke free. Living in AZ, with restrictions, the bonfire gives us an option in any campground. Contained fires are allowed.
I’ve used my Bonfire for 2 years and love it. The size of the firewood is only an issue for the ranger. My bonfire has zero problems with standard firewood. Also, I’ve used my bonfire 40-50 times and it looks nothing like yours. I do not leave in the rain, I will slide it under the pass through at night. I also store in the bag after simple wiping with paper towel. The true negative of the solo stove is the lack of conductive heat. But a simple cone on top solves our issues. We also cook on ours quite frequently with no issues. We use grill plate, cast iron pan and pots. Sorry it doesn’t work for you but we love ours.
Didn’t say we didn’t like it... simply pros and cons to them. Oddly enough this one has never been left in the weather. It’s only been used 6-7 times actually. Weird.
@@WanderingWeekends I would contact solo stove and inquire about the patina. That looks well used and weathered. Join my wife and I March 27 as we leave MD and travel to Unicoi SP. we are spending 5 nights visiting Helen and surrounding area. Can’t wait to add GA to our amping map.
Oh fun! There is a lot to do around Helen. You should enjoy that trip!
We splurged and bought the Bonfire size as an anniversary gift to ourselves ☺️ The larger size definitely works better with regular size firewood and once the fire is hot the wood you add burns down below the rim and stays very hot. We have a 2400BH so the same size pass through and we’re able to store ours there with some creative packing. The big advantage we find with the Solo Stove is the ability to have a campfire even after a lot of rain. Too often fire pits or fire rings at campgrounds are too wet to start a fire easily after rains - with the Solo Stove just load with wood, light the fire starter and - Voila! - we have a campfire. Like I said, we treated ourselves and have loved ours. Your mileage may vary 😉 Thanks for the review!
We’ve had the Solo works amazing. It also fits in our pass through. I always get a sinus infection sitting by a campfire. After several years no sinus infections my clothes don’t smell like smoke. Love love love ours!
That was a great review. We use an Outland Fire bowl, propane, good heat, no smoke, & no smell. Small & lite weight. We save firewood for camp fire pit.
Good video.
Just keep in mind if you go the stainless route:
A brand new stainless steel fire pit still has its protective top layer. Ones you had a couple of fires in it you will get rust. Especially on the inside surfaces. No matter the brand.
I am not living even near an ocean, always have my Breeo under a cover and it does not rain much where I live. I am religious about removing ashes. No water inside of course. Low humidity air. It sits on pavers.
After not even 15 burns over a year the X in my 24 x-series is rusting like hell.
In the Breeo and associate videos it often seems like "a little cleaning and it will shine like new because it is stainless".
After a deep cleaning the outside surely looks better than before, but especially the inside will continue rusting. You cannot really get rid of that.
Stainless steel will rust - because of the heat the metal is exposed to it can't really be prevented. I never thought much about that before. When I thought about stainless I had boat equipment and pool ladders in my mind. I thought they don't really rust. Those things might get a patina over time. Some oxidation marks, but that should be it. A fire pit however is exposed to extreme heat.
So no way Breeo holds up a lifetime if that is what you think. Their limited lifetime warranty only covers the first 5 years against rusting through. So that is the life span they believe in. I checked that after my purchase. My fault.
It does not mean yours will be unusable after 5 years, but according to the warranty chances are pretty high. Too high for Breeo and their warranty.
Breeo's warranty is not like Leatherman's or Zippo's.
I initially got attracted by all their well-made youtube ads and perfectly placed texts in forums. Don't get me wrong. A Breeo surely is nice, but to my mind they are overpriced. The overall quality is not as they tell in their videos. 304 stainless is the cheapest stainless you get, most bottom edges remain sharp, plenty of parts are just bent to form rather than being welded and the weldings look mediocre - some even really bad. It is made in the U.S. which should be good, but honestly...some of the Chinese weldings look better. Considering the price point I am not impressed. And you might be mistake if you believe it wouldn't rust. Any stainless fire pit will rust. I should have known or informed myself better.
My initial euphoria is gone and I probably would not get myself another Breeo. I still like it, but considering they money I have spent, I expected more and found out that you can get similar for a lot less.
Costco has a stainless steel pit for under 300.
Solo Stove costs only half of a Breeo of the same size. And there are other brands popping up.
I guess none of them is better than a Breeo, but also none of them really is worse. You surely get thinner materials, but for a fraction of the costs of a Breeo you still can get a new one after 5-8 years. No illusions, in the end Breeo will maybe last 2 or 3 years longer due to the thicker steel. But then even a Breeo most likely will need a replacement.
That said, I don't want to talk Breeo down or Solo or whatever brand up. I just say I didn't do my homework before buying, paid big money and learned my lesson. Just be realistic with your expectations and you'll be okay.
Anyway, enjoy your fires and the nights you spend with your loved ones.
Thank you very informative how is the heat that radiates on the sides do you have to site very close to feel it on the legs ?
Enjoying my Solo Bonfire as I post this. Two years of heavy use and other than tarnishing still good as new. We really enjoy it.
"Probably better than an old wheel" I think that tells me all I need to know...lol
I’m just not that impressed with them.
I have the bonfire size, it works okay but not blown away. I do love the portability and always take it camping as some campgrounds have no fire ring or in a weird place. I like being able to place the fire where we want it.
We have the next size larger Bonfire and regular wood that we would buy fits inside very well. We have noticed this is hands down better than burning in public fire pits. No more smelling like smoke when thru for the night! As far as rusting out, I believe it has a lifetime guarantee... Thanks for the review!
We’re appreciative you watched!
Its not true, you still smell like smoke afterwards.
For the rust: Try using Rust-Oleum specialty high heat BBQ aerosol paint. It's rust and corrosion resistant for durability. Wire brush/sand then apply paint.
Good advice but for the what these cost I shouldn’t have to do that after 5-6 fires
Thanks for an honest review. You made it very easy for me to avoid the temptation to buy one of these fire pits. The choices seem to be: 1) you can pay $269 for a fire pit which is sometimes smokeless and sometimes not or use the one at the campground for free. 2) you can carry this thing around in the back of your truck as one more item you have to pack and unpack or just use the one at the campground which requires no transportation. 3) you can transport your own expensive, bulky fire pit to your campsite and then have to clean it afterward or just simply use the one at the campground and leave the ashes in the hole. This really does not seem to be a hard decision-making process in order to maybe not have smoke when you start a fire.
The firestarter is an intriguing idea for, perhaps, an emergency fire out in the wilderness but at $26.99 for a three-pack it seems like a pretty expensive way to accomplish a pretty simple chore like starting a campfire. Whenever I split wood I generally just throw all of the splinters and bark into an old trashcan and then just pack some in a small box when I go camping. You put a pile of this in the bottom of your fire ring, squirt some charcoal lighter on it and pile your wood on top. You have then started your campfire just as reliably for a few pennies.
Thanks again for the honest, extremely helpful review.
I understand not wanting to cut wood. I have small skill saw,and fairly easily,have nice collection.Fill bottom with larger round,add small to get it going,and walk away ( not really ,with fire!).Mine measures 18".
The next size up - bonfire- works well with the firewood we buy for camping. The smokeless feature has worked as advertised for us.
We picked this one up for some of the same reasons, storage being the big one. It works great for what we use it for, I knew going into it that smaller wood works better and I can cut enough up in 5 min that will last the evening. Even when the campground has a firepit we still use this as it's very simple just to put the cover on when we are done, don't have to wonder if we dowsed the campfire completely out when the wind picks up. They are definitely overpriced, but what isn't in the rv world. So far, no rusting on ours.
My bet about the rust is, its probably use over time with that pull start fire starter. I also saw a US made one called a “Breeo”. Very similar to the solo stove, but it seems they improved its ability slightly. Similar prices but they have a few more accessories.
We have the Bonfire version. I will say that it certainly works better with seasoned wood, but we have been very happy with it. I think the bonfire size is the best bet vs the ranger. Won’t fit in our pass through so we just put it in the back of the truck. Only thing I don’t like about it is when I dump the ashes out it comes out of the holes as well and I always get it everywhere. If you have any tips for that let me know.
How much heat does it generate compared to a normal fire pit? In other words will it still warm you and the family when it is cold outside or would you have to sit almost on top of it?
Definitely not as hot as an open fire but it does get warm.
I’ve also heard these style fire pits go through wood faster, and don’t radiate heat horizontally to people sitting around it as well. Has that been your experience, if you own one?
They definitely block some heat. The fire itself is half blocked too when you’re using it correctly.
Wood use probably depends mostly on the wood itself. Type, moisture content, ect. I know it does burn down to nearly nothing so whatever is placed in the pit gets used.
I see you posted this video 3 years ago.. how is the pit doing now? I recently saw one of these at a park, and I am really looking into getting one of these.
I believe I sold this one and acquired the large Yukon. It is much better, especially the 2.0 which allows for easier ash access for cleaning.
One aspect of the fire pit is they are still permissible in some fire ban areas. Not all. In those cases a propane cooking/heating device may be all that’s permitted.
Dude needs an electric chainsaw.
I bought a Makita a few years ago and love it! Quiet, no fumes, no gas can in my hot car, starts every time. Cutting a few pieces of firewood in half is really no big deal if you have the right tool
Agreed. Cutting logs in half is super simple and easy with an electric saw. I love just being able to pop on a charged battery and just go.
Thanks for the review. Was close to getting one of these, but heard from quite a few that as a product of their design, they don't really allow a lot of heat to radiate from the fire like a typical fire pit. We enjoy sitting around a fire, not just for the novelty of it, but often for the heat. Thoughts or comments from anyone that has one?
Definitely some truth in that. Pros and cons to it for sure.
Heat radiation is a big concern with Solo stoves. With their double wall construction, the don’t radiate heat as much as a normal campfire- mostly because the direct heat radiation is inside the stove. We have the Bonfire, Ranger, and Campfire. Bonfire is really nice, and regular wood fits at an angle, but is a bit too big for the camper. We really like our Ranger - the stand is a must if you want to be able to put it anywhere (like grass). Spark shield for Ranger - not so much, because wood sticks out a lot. Shield for Bonfire - I could see- but accessories are pricey! :-)
Just bought a Bonfire. Seriously considering using bio bricks. Cost are not that high and lots of convenience. Anyone have experience with them?
My friend has the bonfire and got wood seasoned delivered. Of course he can’t fit it in so we spent a few hours chopping it in half.
I feel like the secret to this design isn’t the design or holes but the fact that it’s in something. The only part of the breeze that touches the fire is the very tips of the flame where normal fires or fire pits are more open so they blow the smoke around on everyone where this one the smoke just goes straight up. 😊
I would like to ask if this can also be used as an outdoor heater?
I wouldn’t depend on it putting out much heat.
love the solo stove. I first bought the ranger and then the bonfire. your wood pieces will fit in the bonfire.
Great vid! I appreciate your honest comments, I had thought about buying one, but you make some good points regarding the cons. For a fire starter, I fall back on an old reliable method, Cotton balls or tissues dipped into Vaseline or other petroleum jelly. Light that and it will burn for awhile, not thirty minutes, but always gets my fires started. Plus I always keep some Vaseline on hand and always have tissues.
You and my 12 year old son have a lot in common
Hey y'all, we are Shion and Matthew and found your channel through Facebook. We are currently looking for our RV to live in full time! We know that we want a portable fire pit and have heard a lot of great things about the solo stove and your video explained how it works really well from what we have seen so far. Still not sure if we are going to get one but we do like that it is portable! Thanks for sharing!
Welcome guys! So glad you stopped in. We appreciate you watching!
I bought a Chimnea to use in my backyard. Recreational fires are legal in my Democratic run city; however the neighbors still call the fire department and I get a visit from the fire department everytime we enjoy it. At that point we become subjected to the "safe use of fire and city rules talk"... but so far, no tickets. If these smoke less, do they also create less smoke smell to offend all of the sensitive noses in my neighborhood? I have also thought about a portable propane pit.
You must use dry clean hardwood to get the smokeless effect... basically clean oak burning in your chimnea would almost be smokeless with the right firewood. They're OK... just not for us.
As always, thanks for an honest review. Most likely we will go with something like the little red campfire .
Thanks for the honest review Corey! You validated what we thought about these and helped our decision to purchase or not.
-Matt
Thanks for watching!!
I haven't heard of these smokeless fire pits before. Interesting concept but once you get a fire good and hot it doesn't belch much smoke anyway. I enjoy our pop up pit WHEN we get to use it, but AZ has so many fire restrictions we rarely get to. Cool fire starter too!
we have the big one and it works
Thanks for the review. Never had one. Looking for a new firepit and the idea of having a easy to transport one, for camping, is appealing.
Definitely get the Bonfire size.
Of course smokeless fire pit are not entirely smokeless for reasons we know, but still their secondary burn allowed them to be less smoky. And about the side of the wood: you can just cut it to your convenienece. It is not the end of the world, specially if your some pit is smaller.
Misconception is stainless is rustproof. It isn't, especially when exposed to high heat
Thanks, been looking at these and this gave me a lot to think about. The fire starters are way too pricey at 7.32 per fire.
Definitely pricey...
I think both are pretty pricey. Most campgrounds have fire 🔥 rings and I think the hole theory behind the smokeless pits is airflow. I usually put something under 3 points of the edge of the ring to lift it an inch or so and that seems to work well. Lots of inexpensive fire starters that do fine. Dryer lint, cotton balls mixed with candle wax. My son's scout troop mixed sawdust & melted candle scraps and poured into paper cup like you used to get in fast food restaurants for your condiments and put in a wick.
Looks like it would be good with wood pellets ???
I’m not sure. They may fall into the bottom easily.
I appreciate the review! Definitely not worth $269, except maybe in an urban backyard where open fires aren't allowed... Pop a grate on top on this one and you're in compliance if the FD stops by to check, which has happened to me before.
Then again, bottom of an old oil drum would work fine too
Good advice
Very informative and helpful! We’ve been thinking about getting one of these and this has been very enlightening. Thanks for sharing!
~ Greg and Jamie
I think most fires without it being a smokeless pit does well when you state those parameters using nicely dried wood and once it gets going hot. I think the smokeless firepits are expensive and overrated. The pros as some users pointed out is the portability.
Why don't any of these reviews discuss the radiated heat? Does it keep you warm in the sides?
Not as much as a regular fire. It’ll get warm but it takes a HOT fire.
@@WanderingWeekends so do you think it would do a decent job of keeping people warm on an average 45-55 degree night? I understand it won't in extreme temps. But could people sit around it nice and cozy staying warm? Or is it purely for ambiance and fire watching if you're sitting in a camp chair?
If you follow the instructions...it is awesome.
We love ours, but ours is not as small as this.
Really appreciate all of your videos.........those Solo's lately seem to be seen and reviewed everywhere, but that has to be the smallest one I have seen yet lol......Thanks but No Thanks!
Hey Cory! You always have some Great vid content. Really enjoyed your review. Ya'll take care and hope to see you soon.
Should be corrosion strong, but not sure with the heat.
I think that I will stick with the Outland firebowl.
I actually have the same model that you do and so far we like it. There is no rust on ours so I suspect your fire starters are doing something. I’m not sure what but no rust on the bottom of ours.
Yeah until the fire is fully going there will be some smoke but I really like the unit . I have a video up that I shot and I do cut my wood so it’s a little smaller so it’s close to the top holes in the unit but so it is about the length of the unit and it works really well.
Thanks for the video! Bill
Great video,thx
Thanks for the video, helped me to decide I'll pass for the price.
The bonfire will fit normal sized firewood
$269 for a fire pit that's not big enough and aren't acceptable at many RV Parks, especially in Florida (Must be at least 6" off the ground if they allow campfires at your site at all). For $269 I can buy one of those saucer style fire pits on legs that folds up nearly flat for transport and 2 face cords of firewood where I live.
Nice review, but I had to go and get my sunglasses, those legs got me. Nicely done ✅
Not everyone goes to the tanning bed like you Tim 😂🤣
Old wheel? Meh. Is it better than a wash tub out of a broken down washing machine? Biggest problem, out west are fire bans during camping season. This last year was so dry the fire bans extended from camping season into hunting season which I’d never seen before. I’ve deployed a propane fire pit for these reasons. Beware, however, just because the box says the propane fire is “campground approved” does not mean you won’t be talking to self appointed “fun police” regarding the work around. Folks just can’t seem to figure out it’s not the flame that’s the problem, rather the sparks. I also do not necessarily recommend a propane fire for staying warm. They are ambiance only items, and the meme from last hunting season was that it’s “better n nothin.”
Ecofuego is what you need❤
Really need closed captions, please. I liked, but I watch these at night.
I don't recall turning them off but hopefully I corrected this. Please let me know. TH-cam may need a few more minutes to get them situated.
Smokeless when you use pellets not wood. It says it in the manual....
People seem to buy stuff without fully researching. It is a Firepit, it doesn't solve the worlds problems. Not being "blown away"? Yeah it's a firepit. Not sure what people are looking for this thing to do.
Thanks for the great review always wondered about those you gave a honest great review. I loved the fire starter never seen those yet. Ill pass on it for that price right now plus carrying it around site to site.
Max_Your_Journey (Alvin)
They’re definitely pricey! Happy camping guys!!
Way too much money for what it is. You did a great job with this video. This one isn't for me. I'll make one out of an old washing machine drum.
Same, been doing that very thing for 40 years.
Add a properly sized wash tub, you have a ash free way to transport, and then support it when at camp...
I just can't be bothered to follow instructions and build a properly sized fire.
Take a washing machine tub and save money
It's stainless, it's going to look bad when heated up.
Those campground fire rings are the worst. It’s like the maximum smoke maker due to terrible/no air flow. The air has to go down and fight against the rising heat. The fire rings need air from the bottom. Air holes would improve them. I prop a side up to make the fire actually burn. I despise those metal rings though. Enough to pay $300 for a trash can with holes? Nope.
Cross hatch well seasoned wood (which is required for the Solo anyway) and you’ll have minimal smoke and good airflow. Once it’s nice and hot the smoke is minimal anyway
Let's get back to the good ole days when men were men.
I would use a saw to cut the wood in half
That gets old REAL quick
The cost is 20 dollars.
buy a saw and get over the lazy streak. Cut the wood the right size
I’ll watch you.
Sembra non conoscere la combustione pirolitica
Wood size issues only seem to bother city folk us country folk have no issue with size 🤣 good review though
Country folks don’t spend $300 on a fire pit… I can PROMISE you that… nice try though. 😊
@@WanderingWeekends yep we know how to do it, I was looking at one to use when we travel the solo brand is just way to much.
Buy an electric chain saw and clean your stove with a mr clean pad after it cools down mine still looks new after a year of use your lazy for not wanting to cut your wood or clean your stove dude
Congrats! Maybe I’m lazy… or maybe you’re stupid to invest so much energy into a product that isn’t very good in the first place… but since you spent way too much money on it you feel the need to keep it up as best you can. That’s fine. Enjoy lugging around your e-chainsaw and Mr Clean pads. 🤣😂 🍻
I don’t usually comment. I stopped watching when you said a piece of wood was too big. Cut it.
How about this… I’ll watch you bust your a$$ cutting firewood that’s already been cut once. Enjoy. I’ll be sitting back enjoying a fire from a pit that’s adequate in size. 🍻
Just cut the logs in half, no hardship, "you're just not gonna do that" 🙄
You can cut firewood in half all day… I’m gonna go play with my kids.
Boooooo !! First off get a bigger pit and stop putting the fire out with water..
Haha… go home you’re drunk.
Lot of whining over nothing.
... and then you whine some more... ah the irony of such comments
Thanks for the review. I opted for the flatpack heavy duty Snowpeak Large firepit which is great for keeping your feet warm in winter and just picked up the camp chef sequoia for fireban season which is becoming all too common these days 🔥 🏕️