Quick Take: The FireCan Elite is a quick-to-deploy and easy-to-use solution for a propane fire pit in the backcountry. Even though it’s relatively compact and packable, it produces an incredible 50,000 BTU/Hr heat output.
For a longtime I was a hold out for this particular category of gear. Admittedly I might be a more of a traditionalist with a healthy dose of nostalgia when it comes to crafting a campfire, and that’s probably the biggest reason I didn’t dive into the world of propane firepits long after the became popular. It’s also worth noting that most of my wanderings are near the Appalachian Mountains, where we rarely have to worry about burn bans and strict fire regulations.
I remember the first time that the Ignik Firecans really caught my eye. It was Overland Expo West 2023, and a deluge of tropical proportions had just rolled through Fort Tuthill Park. As the rain slackened and people emerged from wherever they had been seeking shelter, these compact ammo can-style firepits were everywhere. Based on how happy everyone was to dry off and soak up some propane-powered warmth, I realized there must be something to these packable powerhouses.
Fast forward to late this summer and I FINALLY picked up a Firecan Elite from Ignik. Emphasis on the time period because since the first time I fired it up I wish I had grabbed one before.
Convenience in a Can
For starters, if you’re pressed for time because you got into camp late, you don’t have to worry about starting your campfire in the dark. With the Ignik Firecan, you can warm your hands within a few minutes of getting out of your rig since you just need to hook up the propane, deploy the legs, and start the burner. You can easily dial in the flame from mild to wild, depending on if you’re chasing some ambiance or you really need to warm up.
Not only is the ease up set up and ignition a huge time saver, but with the Ignik Firecan I don’t have to worry about packing firewood. When I’m basecamping from one spot for a couple of nights this saves a ton of space. Likewise, I also don’t have to worry about scavenging for firewood around camp. Even in the heavily wooded eastern mountains, some popular sites are often picked clean of available firewood.
With an amazing 50,000 BTU/Hr heat output, you can expect the FireCan Elite to keep you and your camp companions warm with ease of use and set up. The FireCan Elite packs down to 12x6x7.5 inches. The optional fire moon rocks are made of blown-ceramic stone, which increases the warmth and heat retention of FireCan. You can leave them stored in the can for easy transport.
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Fuel Your FireCan
Obviously, the FireCan series of ammo-can firepits are powered by propane, but you have some options to suit your purposes and build. The FireCan series includes a 5-foot-long hose, but 12-foot-long hoses are available if you already have a hard-mounted propane tank. Ignik offers multiple sizes of tanks and carry cases, including 3.8-lb, 5-lb, and 10-lb options. They also offer “growler” cases that make it easy to carry each of these tank sizes. I opted for the 20lb Tank Case Seat for the tank that I already own. And after several weekend trips with several hours of use, I still have over half a tank left. Obviously, fuel use depends on the height of the flame, but without a doubt, the larger tank options could provide a reasonable campfire every night of a long weekend. The 20lb tank can most likely last a week as long you aren’t planning an all-night fighter or a raging inferno.
A FireCan for Everyone
Just like the tank options, FireCan offers several firepits to suit the needs of different adventurers. The regular FireCan is made from powder-coated steel, weighs a few pounds heavier than the test model, and has a bit more barebones than other models. However, I’ve seen plenty at events and in the backcountry, and if you’re just looking for a quick and convenient propane firepit, it’s more than up to the task.
The FireCan Elite is the model that we tested, and it’s crafted of Stainless Steel, tips the scales at just over 10 lbs, includes a 5 PSI Regulator, is CSA Certified and includes a Tank Stand.
Then you have the FireCan Deluxe. This model not only keeps you warm, but you can fire it up and toss a steak on the included removable grill insert. There’s a removable grease tray for easy cleanup, and there’s even a temperature control knob.
After only a couple of trips the FireCan has earned a place in my kit. It really only offers the pros of convenience, portability, and dependability, with the only con being the need to carry a larger propane tank, since I’m probably already carrying one to fuel my camp stove. And that con is definitely small compared to the benefits.
What to know:
- Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 7.5 in | 30.4 x 15.2 x 19 cm
- Weight: 9.2 lbs.
- Hose Compatibility: Inlet, QCC 1 | Outlet Quick Connect
- Heat Output: >50,000 BTU
- Construction: Stainless Steel and Anodized Aluminum
- MSRP: $249.95
