For outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers, a DIY collapsible wood burning backpacking stove can be a valuable addition to your gear. In this article, we’ll provide a concise and clear technical guide for creating your own collapsible wood burning backpacking stove, suitable for both technical and non-technical readers.
1. Materials and Tools
To build your DIY stove, you’ll need the following materials:
- A small tin can, preferably made of steel.
- A can opener.
- A nail and hammer.
- A metal file or sandpaper.
- Wire mesh or a small grill grate.
- Pliers.
- A measuring tape or ruler.
2. Safety Precautions
Safety is paramount when working with metal and fire. Use gloves to protect your hands, and work in a well-ventilated area. Ensure you have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby in case of any mishaps.
3. Preparing the Tin Can
- Start by removing the lid from the tin can using the can opener. This will serve as the base of your stove.
- Use the nail and hammer to punch holes around the bottom of the can to allow for airflow. These holes will act as the air intake for your stove.
- Next, create a larger opening in the top of the can for adding fuel. Use the pliers and metal file to smooth any sharp edges to avoid cuts.
4. Building the Burn Chamber
- Cut a piece of wire mesh or grill grate to size and shape to fit inside the can, about an inch from the top. This will serve as the burn chamber for your wood.
- Ensure the mesh or grate sits securely inside the can without blocking the fuel opening.
5. Folding Mechanism
To make your stove collapsible, you’ll need to create a folding mechanism. This can be achieved by making two vertical cuts on opposite sides of the can, from the top down to just above the air intake holes. These cuts should be about an inch apart and directly opposite each other.
6. Assembling the Stove
- With the folding mechanism in place, you can collapse the can to a flat shape for easy packing in your backpack.
- When it’s time to use the stove, simply push the sides of the can outwards to create a stable, cylindrical shape. Ensure the bottom with the air intake holes is flat on the ground.
- Place dry twigs or small wood pieces into the burn chamber through the top opening.
- Ignite the wood through the opening and allow the stove to burn.
7. Adjusting Airflow
You can control the stove’s intensity by adjusting the size of the air intake holes at the bottom. Smaller openings will slow down combustion, while larger ones will increase the airflow and heat.
8. Extinguishing the Stove
When you’re done cooking or heating, let the stove burn down completely. Use caution, as the can will be hot. Once it has cooled down, you can collapse it back to its flat shape for easy transport.
Conclusion
A DIY collapsible wood burning backpacking stove is an excellent addition to your outdoor gear, offering a lightweight and eco-friendly way to cook and stay warm. By following the steps in this technical guide, you can create your stove for your next backpacking adventure. Remember to follow safety precautions and practice using your stove before heading into the wilderness to ensure a reliable and efficient outdoor cooking experience.