Outdoor Blog

16.4 OZ Propane Cylinder – How Long Does It Last?

Published

4 years ago

January 13, 2021

16.4 oz. propane tanks are a common energy source for camping stoves and small portable propane heaters. Although they’re lightweight, convenient, and easy to use, these propane canisters frequently frustrate campers and hikers who can’t keep track of how much propane is left.

You can check how much propane is left in your tank in a couple of different ways. It’s essential to measure your current tank with one you know is full, though. If you want to keep track of your propane and avoid running out when you’re in the backcountry, understanding how long the tank lasts.

Read on to find out how much propane a 16.4 oz. tank holds, how long it lasts under certain conditions, and how you can make an educated guess about the amount left in your current tank!

A propane camping stove is a heater, coffeemaker, hand warmer, and cook station all in one.

1-pound vs 16.4 oz. propane tank

In case there’s any confusion: propane cylinders aren’t typically rated by the ounce, but rather by pounds. A 16.4 oz propane canister is more commonly referred to as a 1-pound propane tank. That ounce number is the net weight of the contents, so the propane inside the tank weighs about 16.4 ounces.

1-pound propane tanks are used to power camp stoves for grilling, frying, boiling, and pretty much anything else you could do on a conventional stovetop. You can also power portable heaters and propane lanterns with them.

How much propane is in a 1-pound propane tank?

Alright, so there’s 16.4 ounces of propane by weight inside one of these tanks, but how much is that? Thankfully, science is here to help us figure it out. Don’t worry, we won’t get into the complicated stuff.

The first thing you have to understand is a unit of measurement called BTUs, which stands for British Thermal Units. One BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. If that sounds familiar, it’s because this is the U.S. equivalent of the metric calorie, which is the amount of heat required to heat one gram of water by one degree Celsius. Although it’s kind of a historical relic as far as measurements go, the BTU is still used to measure the sale of natural gas in the USA.

Propane has a BTU per gallon of 91,500. One gallon weighs about 4.23 pounds, so if we divide these two numbers we should be able to find out the BTU of a one-pound propane tank.

91,500 / 4.23 = 21,631 BTU per 1-lb propane tank

Fantastic, you might be saying. But how does that BTU amount translate into burn time for a portable camping stove?

How long does 1 BTU of propane last?

Since the larger one-gallon tank has more BTUs and therefore more propane, it’s not rocket science to deduce that it lasts longer than the smaller tank. So what is the connection between BTUs and burn time?

Let’s try to find the most convenient way to connect the two. You can’t very well count backward from 21,631 to keep track of how much propane you have. What throws most people off is that the size of the grill greatly impacts how long the propane bottle will last.

Thankfully, camp stoves don’t burn propane gas as fast as a large grill. A medium gas grill can burn through a 20-pound propane tank in as little as 10 hours, but it usually lasts 18 – 20 hours. A 20-pound tank has 4.73 gallons of propane. From this information, we can try to calculate a rough estimate of a per-BTU burn rate:

91,500 * 4.73 = 432,795 BTUs per 20-pound propane tank

You can also take a shortcut: multiply the BTU of a 1-pound tank by 20 and you’re not far off. If you’re using a medium gas grill and it lasts 18 hours, you can divide 432,795 by 18 to discover that roughly 24,000 BTUs are burnt per hour.

Burn rate for different propane accessories

If you’re using a backpacking stove rather than a full-on propane grill, that tank won’t have the same burn rate. The medium grill might have a burn rate of 24,000 BTUs per hour, but the smaller portable tank doesn’t.

Even a larger camping stove will have a higher burn rate than a single-eye backpacking model. Understanding how long that tank will last depends on how you’re using it. Of course, we don’t need to figure out the burn rate of a specific stove down to the decimal point.

One-pound propane tanks are perfect for cooking delicious meals on the go.

Burn rate for backpacking stoves

If we were to assume that a backpacking stove was as powerful, the 21,631 BTUs would last about 90% of one hour or 54 minutes. Generally speaking, though, your grill would have to be working pretty hard to burn the whole canister at that speed.

Your grill should have its own burn rate in the information that came with it. You can use that burn rate to find out how long the tank will last according to the manufacturer.

Campers who really want to understand their own equipment sometimes measure how long it takes to boil a fixed amount of water, say one liter. You can use this information to calculate how much fuel you’ll need once you know the burn rate.

Since these tanks aren’t that expensive, you can measure how long it takes to boil water and keep it cooking for the ten or 15 minutes needed to fully cook your meals, measure how many meals you get in before you run out, and then you’ll have a rough per-meal burn rate. You can also measure how long each meal takes to make if you want a more illustrative number.

How long do most 1-pound propane tanks last?

From our experience, you can expect these little tanks to keep working for between 1 and 2 hours of total burn time. The more you use high heat, the more propane you’ll burn and the less time it will survive before needing to be refilled.

Most backpacking stoves and small campsite cooking equipment will last right in the middle, around 1.5 hours, operating on a mid-high heat for boiling water and slightly reduced to cook it for 10 – 15 minutes. As a concrete example, this is right on the money for a Coleman propane tank used at medium heat for reasonable lengths of time.

Bear in mind that you don’t have to spend an hour on your camping meals. The tank isn’t going to go out after a single day on the trail. In most cases, freeze-dried meals and prepped meals that only need heating can be prepared in as little as 5 or 10 minutes, so you should be able to get at least 8 and as many as 18 meals out of one tank.

How can I make my propane last longer?

Reduce the amount of time your propane torch, grill, or heater is on a high or medium setting and you’ll be able to stretch out the life of the tank. Here are a few more tips to make your propane cylinder last:

Use Fire When Possible: Depending on where you’re camping, it might be easy to bring a firestarter and build a small campfire for boiling water and staying warm. The propane tank can be used as a backup or for stops during the day when you’re on the move or can’t otherwise make a fire.

Eat Freeze-Dried Meals: These meals take a very small amount of water. All you have to do is boil the water, add the contents of the packet, let it heat up for a few minutes, and you’re ready to chow down. If you don’t have the cash for tons of these meals, cheaper dehydrated veggies and other foods work the same way as these entire meals. Bring some packets of BBQ sauce if you’re worried about bland food.

Go Easy On Hot Drinks: Everybody loves a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning, but if you can’t build a small fire to boil water for your coffee or carry a dedicated coffee machine, it would be best to try and avoid too many cups. Rather than skipping cups altogether, you can try other methods like leaving your water in the sun to warm up so the propane has less work to do. Instant cold brew and iced coffee that can be made with cold water is another option.

Weather Conditions Have An Effect: Wind can blow the heat away from your stove. Low temperature lowers the volume of propane, and frigid temperatures might affect how well your propane fuel cylinder continues to work. Water boils faster at higher temperatures but food takes more time to absorb water.

Boil Water at 85% Capacity: The full power output of a propane stove will cause lots of heat to escape the cylinder at once. Most of that is probably just going to dissipate without having any measurable effect. When you’re boiling water or trying to heat something quickly, set the dial about 15% lower than the full setting to get it working quickly without wasting too much fuel.

Does propane go bad?

Great news if you’re worried about using your propane before it disappears: propane doesn’t expire. If your tank has been sitting somewhere dry and relatively warm through the winter, it should be alright to use it whenever you want. In fact, the propane can probably last much longer than that. Steel tanks can rust through and allow propane to leak out through the side. If a tank shows rust, don’t use it. It could also be empty due to a leak, but testing it could be dangerous if the tank isn’t completely empty.

The most important thing you can do to keep your propane audible even if it’s going to be sitting around for a little while is to make sure you use any protective cap that came with the model when it isn’t in use. Ideally, these tanks should be stored outdoors and completely away from any water that could cause rust.

Can you refill propane tanks?

Some Coleman propane fuel cylinders and similar models from competing brands come in refillable models with a special adapter that allows them to take more propane. Even if you have a refillable tank, return it to a professional who can top it off for you.

There are many tips and tricks on the internet for refilling a disposable propane tank. Something about the small size of these tanks makes people think it’ll be alright to doctor them.

In some cases, that might be the case. But it’s a huge risk that’ll only save you a few bucks in the end. Plus, even if you do get the tank refilled without blowing yourself up, the law in many places makes it illegal to transport that tank on any public roadway. You’re better off with a brand new tank.

What should I do with old propane tanks?

Once the propane is out, these canisters are considered household hazardous waste and must be taken to an approved disposal center near you. A quick google search can tell you where that might be based on your location.

Don’t ever throw these things in the trash or leave them outside anywhere. They’re still pressurized and present a danger to people. Plus, it’s a pretty large piece of trash to just leave lying around.

How to measure how much propane is left

If you don’t know how much is left inside the canister and you really don’t want to burn the rest off, you can use one of the following tricks:

Weigh Your Propane Tank & An Empty One: The difference should be the weight of the remaining propane. Weigh the tank when you first get it so you can see what percentage of the full weight you have. If you don’t have an empty tank, the ‘tare weight,’ which is the weight of the tank itself, should be written on the tank or in the information pamphlet. The difference between the tare weight and what you see on the scale should be the weight of the remaining propane.

Place the Tank in Water: When a full tank is in water, it sinks lower down but it still floats. You can place your tank in water and watch how it floats to gauge how much propane is left. As the water line is lower on the tank (or the tank is higher in the water, however you want to look at it) you can see your propane supply decreasing. It might not give you a precise number, but it should give you a relative indication.

Safety tips for camping with propane tanks

The main safety tips we’ve already discussed is to never, ever try to refill a disposable propane tank and don’t throw them away in the trash can.

When you’re cooking with a small propane cooking stove, watch your sleeves, feet, sleeping bag, or anything else that might get burnt. The wind is another huge consideration. It’s probably not wise to leave a propane tank burning inside your tent unless it has the necessary safety features to do that without burning the whole place down.

If you’re in a tent with low ventilation, you might want to use the propane tank to heat up hand warmers or just take the edge off before your body heat can warm up the inside of your sleeping bag. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of propane tanks and without the right escape route, those fumes can have some terrible effects.

Safety is important when using a portable propane tank.

Final Verdict:

Propane is a great power source for cooking, heating, or lighting your way through the backcountry. Many campers can only rely on guesswork to plan on when their propane tanks will run out, though.

A one-pound propane tank should last for 1.5 hours of burn time. How you use the tank and the environmental conditions will affect how long this time truly is. It might be 2 hours or only one hour.

Now that you know how you can stretch out the life of your propane tanks and how to dispose of them once the fuel has run out, you can start to enjoy coffee and hot meals on the hiking trail or at a campsite without building a fire. We recommend a trustworthy refillable one so you can create less waste.

Bonus tip: Cook these 5 easy backpacking meal recipes on your propane stove on your next camping trip!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter