There are a lot of variables here. Liquid propane acts differently in different environments and how much you use at a time. Have you ever had a propane bottle freeze up? That’s a chemical reaction caused by the rapid consumption of the gasses. This can happen if you have the flame on at full blast for a long time, or if its extremely cold out. While this doesnt pose any harm to you, it will significantly slow down the amount of propane being let out of the bottle to then go into the burner making the flame. This tends to happen most on the small 1lb disposable tanks. However, it is possible to use those tanks, as I’ve done it in my backyard on a medium-ish flame for about an hour.

We recommend using a standard 20lb tank for the best results, this will give you the longest burn time and reduce the risk of the bottle freezing up. So to answer the question; I’ve used one of these fire pits with a 20lb tank while camping in the desert where the temperatures dropped into the high 40s at night. We had it running at a medium-high flame for 4-5 hours two straight nights, and a couple hours in the mornings and still have plenty of fuel left in the tank.

So, basically, while it depends on a lot of things, these things burn about a pound an hour.

We launched the site with the O.G. TactiCool Fire Pit. This is what we were founded on and has been the best seller. But overtime we realize there are other options out there. So, we’ve launched the sub-compact version. Its the same thing, expect smaller. Its only about 4” wide, 8” long, and 10” high. She still packs a punch, but made for the ultralight option. The sub-compact does not have any lava rocks included in it, just for space saving so you can fit the propane hose inside. If you decide you want some lava rocks inside, well, its your fire pit do what you want!

We’re also looking to start selling a less portable-but-just-as-bad-ass version that will come in old 20mm ammo cans. For those that dont know what that is, theyre monsters. These things will have a larger burner in it and put off a ton of heat. It’ll still have a sealable lid and handles, so who am I to say its not portable!?

Each purchase will come ready to go the day it arrives on your doorstep, as it should be. Each fire pit will come with the ammo can, the burner, lava rocks, and a propane hose. Now, the propane hose is ready to connect to a standard 20lb propane tank (the kind you use on your grill most likely). If you want to use a 1lb disposable tank you’ll need an adapter that is available in our online store for $25, and itll fit right inside your fire pit along with everything else. Just an option!

In short, yes.

While we are using real military ammo cans that were not painted originally to sustain those types of temperatures, we sand all that old paint off and repaint with high temp paint - much like you’d find on your grill or engine block. This stuff is rated to withstand temperatures over 600 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, like most things in life, the more you use the fire pit and depending on how much of the outside elements its exposed to, the paint may start to chip or fade at some point. This is easily fixed with a can of high heat spray paint you can find at your local hardware store for between $5-8.

I mean, you’re an adult and who am I to tell you no? But my insurance agent says I should tell you no. So… no.

But why?… Well, the cans are repurposed from military surplus stocks. They were never made or intended to be food grade.

Plus, right now we’re using whats called an inefficient flame. This means the propane isn’t mixing with air before it burns off. While this creates big, hot, dramatic flames; it will also produce some carbon soot. This isn’t an issue, except that you’ll get a layer of soot on the bottom of your steak that isn’t exactly worthy of a Michelin Star.

We’re working on producing another fire pit option with an upgraded burner that will double as a grilling surface should you want that. Stay tuned for updates.

Funny you should ask. I have three favorite types:

1. Free

2. Cold

3. Open

And it only needs to be two of the three!

Our TactiCooler would be perfect for all of these!

This is carbon, and its caused by the way we’re burning the propane. You may notice the big, hot dramatic flames… well this is because we have whats called an “inefficient burn” taking place. This happens when the propane isn’t getting enough oxygen before burning off. There’s a little give and take with this we realize, but we think the flame is worth the soot.

A simple suggestion would be to wrap the hose and anything else you want to store inside the fire pit in a shop rag to keep the components nice and clean.

We’re working on options to offer a burner with a built in air mixer to create a cleaner burning flame, and will let you know when that happens. In the meantime, enjoy those awesome flames!