Outdoor Blog

5 Stupid-Simple Ways to Start a Fire Pit

Published

3 years ago

May 20, 2021

Whether you’re in the backyard or out in the sticks, starting a fire doesn’t have to be a painful process.

There are countless ways to get your fire pit going, from the extreme survivalist DIY approach to the simplicity of a propane-fueled backyard fire pit. Of course, there are also a lot of methods in between. And this list is going to zero in on the easiest options out there and how to get the most out of them.

Sit back, relax, and get ready for a pain-free fire pit experience. Whether you’re heading out on the trail or preparing for a summer barbeque, these fire pit tups will get your fire started in no time. One of the big things to keep in mind is that preparation is key.

Think through what your goals are and make sure you have all the right materials on hand. And of course, always consider safety measures and be ready to put out your fire pit at any time.

An extinguisher is a must-have for fire safety at home and outdoors.

Before You Start: Fire Pit Safety

The first step to a worry-free fire pit experience is to make sure to keep safety in mind the whole time. It can be surprisingly easy to get caught up in the fun and forget about common fire safety rules. But the quickest way to ruin a night around the fire pit is with a bad injury or a dangerous experience.

If you’re using a gas-fueled fire pit in particular, be careful to read any safety labeling and make sure there aren’t gas leaks or broken valves before you start. You should also be careful about flammable liquids around a fire pit. Whether unrelated liquids like bug spray, or accelerants like lighter fluid, care must be taken with flammable material around an open fire.

You should not use accelerants with a gas-powered fire and if you use them with a wood-burning fire, apply them sparingly and make sure the container is far away when you actually start your fire. Finally, you should always be ready to extinguish a fire. If you’re at home, you should have a fire extinguisher in the house.

Consider storing one outside for the fire pit as well, either in the shed or garage, so that it’s closer. Out in the woods, you should have water or sand on hand to smother the fire when needed. Some fire pits can also be extinguished with a dome or lid that cuts off airflow to the fire.

5 Ways to Start a Fire Pit

So let’s dig into a few different ways to start a fire pit. Some of these are going to require special equipment and setup. Those are listed first. So if you’re reading this as you stand over an unlit fire, maybe skip ahead to the later suggestions.

Another thing to consider is how you’re using the fire. Some of these options are going to be better for cooking, while others are ideal for providing warmth. Consider your goals before starting your fire. And remember: always keep fire safety in mind.

1. Remote Ignition

The ultimate in easy fire start-up, a remote ignition system can be installed in most backyard fire pits, but you should check local regulations and confer with your home owner’s association before installing one. Amazing simple to use, remote-controlled ignition systems make any natural gas or propane set up even more convenient.

This is a great idea for those who plan on using their backyard fire put often. Most remote ignition systems also have important safety features, such as a flame sensor that will turn off the gas if the flame goes out. Still, you should keep an eye on your fire pit while it’s lit, especially if you’re using gas or propane.

One thing to keep in mind is that gas-fueled fire pits, whether remote-controlled or otherwise, won’t be a great option for cooking. You can probably make s’mores on them, but a gas fire pit is not ideal for more extensive cooking.

Close up of an outdoor fireplace with a big yellow flame and black background

Gas fire pits are easy to use and don’t need much maintenance. They also pollute less than wood fire pits.

2. Gas-Fueled Fire Pits

Let’s talk more about gas-fueled fire pits. In addition to considering remote-controlled ignition systems, you’ll need to be choosing between natural gas, butane, and propane if you want to go with a gas-fueled fire. Deciding between these three fuel sources can be tricky, but there are a few main things to consider.

Propane and butane are similar and will both be stored in tanks that you can change out and refill. Natural gas on the other hand, which is mostly methane, will need to be connected to your fire pit from a natural gas line. One consideration is that natural gas is the cheapest of the three options per BTU, but keep in mind it comes with some more extensive setup.

Other than that, propane performs better than butane in cold weather and stores more easily. You won’t see much butane available these days but it’s popular in some regions. Whichever kind of fuel you choose, gas fire pits can be a great option for keeping you warm, lighting up an outdoor party, and more.

They’re very easy to use and can make entertaining easy. If you want something more portable you’re going to need a propane or butane set up but for camping, there’s an even more portable option than a full gas-powered fire pit: the burner pipe.

3. Using a Burner Pipe

A stainless-steel burner pipe can be used to light a fire quickly, without tinder, or in damp conditions. There are many different forms of burner pipe available on the market, so look out for camping-specific products if you’re planning to take one out into the wilderness.

Some are designed with extra safety features to prevent wildfires or are designed for easy portability. The way it works is that you build a fire as if you’re going to light it in a traditional way. If you don’t know how to do this, don’t worry, we’re about to cover that in the next section!

Next, place the log-lighter below your firewood, where you’d normally put tinder and kindling. Then you can light the fire in the same way you would a gas-fueled fire pit. Turn on the gas valve slowly, light it with a long-handled lighter, and wait for your logs to light.

The big difference here is that you should turn off a burner pipe as soon as your logs are lit. Remember, the gas isn’t there to be the main fule, just get you started. This is a great option for a more portable way to use gas to get your outdoor fire pit started.

4. Traditional Tinder & Kindling Fires

As you can probably tell, gas is a lot easier to use than traditional firewood, tinder, and kindling setup. That said, there are some surprisingly easy ways to light a wood-burning fire pit as well. It all starts with gathering the right materials and getting things set up correctly. You can save a lot of time and effort by thinking through how you build a fire before getting started.

Building a Traditional Wood Fire

The first step is to gather the proper materials. Ideally, you want to have this done long before you actually need to use a fire pit. However, in the right environment, you may be able to source these materials pretty quickly. Keep in mind, different states, parks, and regions have regulations about sourcing firewood from the woods around, or bringing in your own.

Make sure you know the local codes and regulations around firewood before you begin. You’ll need three main types of fuel. The pieces of firewood itself, which will be logs or larger pieces of slab wood. Then, you’ll need kindling, which is small sticks, twigs, and other wood pieces, up to about a 1” diameter.

Finally, you need tinder, which will be dry grass, dry leaves, very small pieces of wood or wood shavings, or even items like balled-up paper or cotton balls. There are two main ways to build a fire. With both, you want to start by piling tinder in the center of your fire pit.

You want a good-sized pile. The more tinder you have, the easier the fire will be to light. Just make sure it’s lightly piled and not packed in in order to maintain enough airflow. Then you can stack kindling on top of that, sort of in a pyramid shape, using smaller pieces first. Now, you can either light the kindling first and add logs as it gets going, or you can set up the logs on top.

Lighting Your Fire

Most people with a lot of fire-starting experience will start the fire here and then add firewood. It can be easier, though, to start out with some firewood already stacked up. If you’re going to add your firewood in advance, make sure it’s high enough off the kindling to let the air reach it and yet close enough that it can catch the flames from the burning tinder and kindling.

You want to arrange the logs wither in a “teepee” shape, with logs leaned together above the pile of kindling, or a “log cabin” shape. In the “log cabin,” you lay logs in a Crisscross pattern around and above the pile of tinder and kindling.

Make sure some of the logs cover the center of the fire where your tinder will be lit! Remember, fire burns from the bottom up, so you want each successive size of wood on top of the smaller pieces. And again, airflow is important.

With either shape, you want to have gaps between the large logs and lots of space beneath them. Then, reach into this space with a long-handled lighter or long-stemmed match and light the tinder at the center. If you’ve built the fire correctly, the kindling will catch from there, and then the logs.

5. Faster Fire-Starters for a Wood-Burning Fire Pit

Okay, take a deep breath! While this sounds like a lot, starting a traditional wood fire is not all that difficult. And it’s easier than ever now that three are tools like starter logs, lighter fluid, and seasoned firewood available. One very popular fast-burning option for tinder is to use pinecones.

You can find your own: make sure they are completely dry, and look for broad, fanned-out scales. Or, you can buy pinecone firestarters from outfitters and hardware stores. You can also play around with the type of wood you use to get better results. In particular, look into using “fatwood” for kindling.

Fatwood is made of split pine stumps with a ver thigh resin content. So, when dried, they provide especially flammable kindling and can keep a fire going quite easily. Just having a little fatwood on hand can make starting a wood fire much, much easier.

The final factor to consider if you’re trying to make starting a traditional wood fire simpler and easier is moisture content. Obviously, you want to use dry firewood. But in particular, try to get firewood that’s been seasoned in a kiln. Seasoned firewood is much drier than anything you’ll find on your own and is a lot easier to light and keep lit.

Exercise plenty of caution when using wood shavings to start a fire as it can spread out of control very quickly!

Additional DIY Fire Starters

In addition to the traditional tinder options, like dry leaves, pine needles, and small twigs, there are a few other materials you can use for a quicker and easier fire starter. One really popular alternative tinder option is dryer lint! Everyone has some around and it works really well to get a fire started quickly.

You can also use bark shavings and birch bark in particular is very flammable. Or, try using wood shavings to start a fire quickly and easily. If you use these options, however, please be very careful about containing your fire. Wood shavings can blow away easily and they’re very flammable, so have a bucket of water on hand and pay attention to where your tinder is and what it’s doing.

How to Put Out a Fire Safely

As you can see, fire safety is an integral part of making fire puts simple and easy. The same is true when it comes time to end the night and put out your fire. Gas fire pits are pretty straightforward. You just need to make sure the gas is entirely turned off.

If you’re burning wood though, especially out in the sticks, you need to be very careful about putting out your fire. The risk of wildfire will depend greatly on where you are, the season, and the surrounding conditions, but really fires can get out of hand anywhere at any time.

This is why Smokey the Bear became so well known to campers. So how do you put out a fire safely? The best option is to wait until it burns down to embers on its own. There’s less risk of collapsing logs shooting sparks or hot embers out this way, but it also means you’re not wasting firewood by dousing it in water.

If you need to stop a fire earlier though, just pour water or sand over top and mix it with the dirt until everything is smothered. If you still see smoke, your fire is not out.

Final Verdict:

Starting a fire pit doesn’t have to be an all-day event. With a couple of simple tips in mind, you can be the hero of your next family camping trip and stay sane while doing it. In particular, using more flammable materials like wood shavings or “fatwood” can cut down on the time it takes to light your fire pit significantly while still maintaining the traditional campfire feel.

Still, for backyard entertaining and similar applications, a gas fire pit can deliver what you want.

Bonus tip: Consider using “trick” birthday candles as an easy-to-use fire starter like in this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNKedISH2Hk

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month 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