How to Build a DIY Ammo Can Propane Fire Pit
If you have ever looked at an ammo can and thought, "That would make a great little fire pit," you are not wrong.
A 50 cal ammo can makes a compact base for a portable propane fire pit, and the basic FireCrateUSA build is intentionally simple. You need one main opening in the can, the burner mounts through that opening, and the propane hose connects on the outside.
This guide walks through the same basic installation used with our BYOC Ammo Can Fire Pit Kit, our Complete Ammo Can Fire Pit Kit, and our Burner Only option.
What You Need to Build an Ammo Can Fire Pit
For the basic FireCrateUSA setup, you need:
- A 50 cal ammo can
- A FireCrateUSA ammo can fire pit burner
- A propane regulator and hose
- A power drill
- A 13/16 inch or 21mm drill bit
- Appropriate safety gear for drilling metal
If you use the BYOC kit, the burner, 20 PSI regulator with propane hose, and lighter are included. You provide the 50 cal ammo can.
If you want everything in one purchase, the Complete Kit also includes the ammo can. A pre-drilled configuration is available if you would rather skip the drilling step.
If you already have the rest of your propane setup, the Burner Only uses a standard 3/8 flare regulator connection.
Step 1: Choose the Burner Location
Choose the location for the burner opening on the back of the ammo can. This is where the burner will pass through the can and connect to the propane hose on the outside.
Take a moment to look at how you want the burner to sit inside the can before you drill. The goal is a clean installation with the burner positioned straight and the burner holes facing upward when the assembly is complete.
Step 2: Drill the Main Opening
Using a power drill and a 13/16 inch or 21mm drill bit, carefully drill the opening at the location you selected.
Wear appropriate protective gear and take normal precautions when drilling metal.
If you plan to strip, repaint, or otherwise refinish the ammo can, this is a convenient point in the build to do that work before installing the burner.
Step 3: Install the Burner From Inside the Can
Slide the burner through the opening from the inside of the ammo can.
One washer goes on the inside of the can with the burner. The burner fitting then passes through the opening to the outside.
Step 4: Secure the Burner and Connect the Hose
Place the second washer on the outside of the ammo can and attach the propane hose fitting.
Make sure the components are properly aligned, then tighten the connection until snug. The burner should sit securely in the can without being twisted out of position.
Step 5: Keep the Burner Holes Facing Up
This part is easy to overlook.
Make sure the burner holes are oriented vertically and facing upward. That is the intended burner position for the FireCrateUSA setup.
You can add lava rock or your preferred fire pit stones around the burner, or leave the ammo can empty for a simple setup.
Before You Light It: Check Your Propane Connections
Before using any propane setup, inspect the connections for leaks.
The Propane Education & Research Council recommends a simple bubble test each time a cylinder and appliance are connected. Apply leak detector solution or thick soapy water around the valve and connection points, slowly open the cylinder valve, and watch for bubbles. If bubbles appear, close the valve and correct the connection before use.
Keep the propane cylinder upright and stable, and close the cylinder valve when the fire pit is not in use.
Read PERC's portable propane cylinder safety guide
Watch a Customer Build
Sometimes it is easier to see the idea come together than to read another paragraph about it. Here is one of the customer builds shared with us:
Which FireCrateUSA Kit Should You Start With?
Already have a 50 cal ammo can?
Start with the BYOC Ammo Can Fire Pit Kit. It includes the FireCrateUSA handmade burner, 20 PSI regulator with propane hose, and a lighter.
Want the whole setup?
The Complete Ammo Can Fire Pit Kit includes the burner, 50 cal ammo can, 20 PSI regulator with propane hose, and lighter.
Already have a regulator and hose?
The Burner Only gives you the FireCrateUSA handmade burner with its standard 3/8 flare regulator connection.
The FireCrateUSA handmade burner is backed by a lifetime warranty on the burner.
See All FireCrateUSA Ammo Can Fire Pit Kits
Check Fire Conditions Before You Head Out
Building the fire pit is the easy part. Knowing whether you should use it on a particular trip takes a little more planning.
Fire restrictions vary by location and can change quickly. A propane fire device may be permitted in some places where wood fires are restricted, while other areas may prohibit open flame entirely. Always check the current rules for the land you are visiting.
Before your next camping or overlanding trip, check current wildfire activity with the FireCrateUSA Live U.S. Wildfire Tracker and review our Wildfire Safety for Camping and Overlanding guide.
Build it yourself. Pack it small. Check the conditions before you light it.