What To Know
- Drill a hole in the top of the stove and insert the chimney.
- Cut a small rectangular piece of sheet metal and attach it to the chimney with a hinge.
- No, it is never safe to use a wood burning stove in a tent due to the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Embark on a journey of self-reliance and outdoor adventure by crafting your very own wood burning camp stove. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of creating a portable and efficient cooking companion for your camping expeditions.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Thin sheet metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel)
- Wire mesh or perforated metal
- 4-6 stove legs
- Rivets or bolts
- Drill
- Hacksaw or metal shears
- Measuring tape
- Marker or pencil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Base
Cut a rectangular piece of sheet metal for the base of your stove. The size will depend on the desired cooking surface.
2. Cut the Sides
Cut four rectangular pieces of sheet metal for the sides of the stove. They should be slightly taller than the base.
3. Attach the Sides to the Base
Mark and drill holes around the edges of the base and sides. Rivet or bolt the sides to the base, creating a box-like structure.
4. Make the Wire Mesh Grate
Cut a piece of wire mesh or perforated metal to fit inside the stove. This will serve as the grate for cooking.
5. Install the Grate
Place the grate inside the stove and secure it with rivets or bolts.
6. Attach the Stove Legs
Drill holes in the bottom corners of the stove and insert the stove legs. Secure them with rivets or bolts.
7. Create the Firebox
Cut a smaller rectangular piece of sheet metal to form the firebox. This will go inside the stove and contain the fire.
8. Install the Firebox
Place the firebox inside the stove and secure it to the base with rivets or bolts.
9. Make the Chimney
Cut a round or square piece of sheet metal for the chimney. The height and width will depend on your stove’s size.
10. Attach the Chimney
Drill a hole in the top of the stove and insert the chimney. Secure it with rivets or bolts.
11. Add a Damper (Optional)
To control airflow and heat, you can add a damper to the chimney. Cut a small rectangular piece of sheet metal and attach it to the chimney with a hinge.
Tips for Use:
- Use dry, seasoned firewood for optimal burning.
- Start the fire in the firebox and keep it well-ventilated.
- Adjust the damper to control the heat and smoke.
- Never leave the stove unattended while in use.
Safety Precautions:
- Always use the stove on a stable, non-flammable surface.
- Keep the stove away from tents and other flammable materials.
- Never move the stove while it is still hot.
- Allow the stove to cool completely before storing it.
Wrap-Up:
With a little effort and ingenuity, you can now enjoy the convenience and warmth of your very own wood burning camp stove. Embrace the spirit of adventure and create a self-reliant cooking experience that will enhance your camping memories for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best material for a wood burning camp stove?
A: Thin sheet metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, is a good choice due to its durability and heat resistance.
Q: How large should my camp stove be?
A: The size depends on your cooking needs. A small stove is suitable for solo campers, while a larger stove can accommodate group cooking.
Q: Can I use a wood burning camp stove in a tent?
A: No, it is never safe to use a wood burning stove in a tent due to the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
