A fire pit is a wonderful versatile outdoor invention. You can use it for providing warmth on a cold winter’s evening while sitting out on your patio. Also, you can create a camping-style ambiance in your backyard while sharing a barbeque with friends. You can also take it with you on a road trip.
There is something magical about watching the flickering flames and feeling the warmth on your face, while you sip mulled wine, and roast marshmallows or potatoes in the glowing embers. So now that winter is here, and the Christmas/Holiday season is almost on our doorstep, it is the perfect time to buy one.
The 7 Best Fire Pits
- Patina Products Kokopelli Fire Pit
- Landmann Savannah Garden Light Fire Pit (Our Top Pick)
- Char-Broil Fire Bowl
- P&D Metal Works Fire Ring
- U-MAX Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table
- Outland Living Fire Bowl
- Best Choice Products Fire Pit Table
Our Top Pick for the Best Fire Pit
Our top pick for the best fire pit is the Landmann Savannah Garden Light Fire Pit.
This fire pit combines a strong steel construction with very attractive designs that are cut into the surface of the pit, therefore, allows the mellow glow of the fire to flicker through. As well as being the highlight of the conversation at your next camp-out or Christmas party under the stars, this pit can also be used as a mini barbeque.
Although the firepit is only ideal for small fires, you might find that you like it so much that you might decide to buy two!
Check the price on AmazonFire Pit Designs
There are so many different styles of fire pits for you to choose from. They can be made from a range of materials from stainless steel, 100% copper, or cast iron. They come in different designs: a steel bowl with an open basket-weave design that combines heating functionality with an attractive artistic pattern. A fire pit table with a ceramic tabletop. Or a more basic romanesque style pit that has a steel bowl that is mounted on legs.
Fire Pit Bowls
Firepit bowls offer you a source of light and warmth, but they can also be used for cooking. They come with a cooking grate or grill that you can place over the pit and you can then use the pit as a convenient barbeque area.
Fire Pit Table
These fire pit tables function in multiple ways. They will provide heat while you are relaxing in an outdoor area. They also give you a tabletop where you can conveniently place drinks during outdoor gatherings.
Fire Pit Art
There are a number of artistic-looking pits with an array of different patterns that also add to the overall style and ambiance of your garden. Some of these designs can portray various scenes like wildlife flames, or cross weave abstract design.
How to Choose a Fire Pit
1. Fire Pit Size
– Small
Small fire pits range from 22-24-inches. They are more lightweight and portable, so they are the ideal choice for a partly enclosed barbecue, patio, or deck area, or you can use them on a camping holiday. Some small-sized pits are designed with handles or a safety ring and carrying cases that make them easy to transport and store away.
– Medium
Medium-sized fire pits range in size from 30-36-inches. They can hold a generous amount of wood and also generate good flames and heat. Also, they work best in small to medium-sized yards. They are also relatively easy to maneuver. Like small-sized pits, the receptacle that holds the fire looks like a bowl that can be made out of stainless steel or cast iron.
The bowl comes with stands or sturdy legs, and a fire screen to protect you from any straying embers.
– Large
Large fire pits are ideal for medium-sized gardens or yards. They range in size from 40-45-inches in diameter. Large pits can resemble a low table where you can put your drinks, while others are made out of stone or copper in a round shape. They can also hold a large amount of wood and boast a lot of flames and generate a lot of heat.
If you are having a barbecue or just have some friends over for some drinks around the fire, a large fire pit is a great choice. Due to their size and weight, large pits can be bulky and heavier to move. So, many homesteaders leave them as an attractive permanent fixture in their garden and cover them over with special weather-resistant cover to protect them from the weather.
As well as the size and design of the pit, there are some other features to consider when you are looking for a fire pit that will be the perfect fit for your entertaining needs.
2. Wood-burning or Gas-powered
– Wood-burning Fire Pits
A wood-burning fire pit is generally less expensive than a gas-powered model. However, it creates a hotter fire and creates an authentic camping atmosphere. As well as the aesthetic appeal of the flames and the heat, you can use the embers to roast marshmallows or cook potatoes, or even barbeque meat.
The downside of using a wood-burning pit is that you have to buy the wood and have somewhere to store it. You have to think about how you are going to dispose of the ash that is left over, and the wood creates a lot of smoke. It can also be harder to start the fire as well: you will either have to use a newspaper and kindling to kick-start the fire or use firestarters. However, for a rip-roaring fire that gives you that feeling of the authentic outdoor camping experience, a wood-burning fire pit is the best choice.
– Gas-powered Fire Pits
Gas-powered fire pits give you the look of a traditional pit, with fake lava rocks and logs included.
Although the coals or logs are for decorative purposes only and are coated with a heat-resistant coating, the flames are real and are produced by the gas. Some gas-powered models have the propane tank attached to the fire pit on the outside.
However, if you do not want the gas fittings to show and detract from the overall aesthetic look of the fire pit, some table-designed pits have a painted steel or aluminum housing where the gas tank is hidden underneath the pit.
Gas-powered fire pits are also available in the decorative bowl design and they might include sand, gravel, or stones to add to their attractive artistic look. They will have a mesh cover over the burners to prevent any clogging, and there will be an ignition switch or a push-button ignition that can be adjusted to control the level of heat and height of the flames.
As opposed to wood-burning pits, gas-powered fire pits are easier to start. They do not require any wood or fire starters. They generate less smoke and are easier to clean. However, they cost more, and you will have to refill or replace the gas bottle. Some of the larger gas-powered fire pits use a lot of gas, so if you are going to be using the fire pit a lot during the winter months, you may have to purchase an additional tank.
3. Weather Resistant Coating
As well as being designed with heat-resistant coating, many fire pits have been constructed with a special powder-coated finish or rust-resistant coating to protect the fire pit from being corroded or destroyed by rain, snow, or hail damage.
4. Fire Pit Screen or Lid
Some fire pits come with a handy spark screen that can protect you from stray sparks or embers, as well as providing you with a cover to protect the fire pit or an elastic vinyl cover that fits over the entire pit when you are not using it for long periods.
A good tip for maintaining your fire pit: If you have a smaller pit, and even though it has rust-resistant paint, it is a good idea to move the pit into a storage shed if you are not going to be using it for long periods. This way you will be able to get long-term use out of the pit and also keep it in tip-top condition.
5. Other Handy Fire Pit Tools
Some fire pits can double as a mini barbeque with a cooking grate. Some pits also supply you with a very handy screen lift tool so that you can safely lift and replace the lid. For the smaller fire pits, some models have foldable legs and a carrying case, which is ideal for taking the fire pit away on camping holidays.
12 Tips for Outdoor Fire Pit Safety and Maintenance
Fire pits are a wonderful addition to your homestead. However, as they generate heat and flames, and as you may be using a gas-powered fire pit, it is best to keep some safety or maintenance tips in mind.
- Before you start to use the fire pit read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If you have a wood-burning fire pit, use the mesh spark cover, if available, as it will protect you from sparks and flying embers.
- Use a fire poker to adjust the logs in the fire pit.
- If you are using a gas-powered fire pit, always check the gas fittings and the gas tank before you start to use it.
- Clean out the ash leftovers regularly so that the fire will burn more effectively.
- Do not move the fire pit when it is hot, wait until it has cooled down.
- Once you have finished with the fire pit and the embers have died down, cover it with its lid. This is especially important if there are any high winds as any remaining embers could fly away and catch fire in any surrounding trees.
- Do not use your fire pit too close to low-hanging tree branches.
- Do not overfill your pit because you could damage it or cause a fire hazard.
- Place the fire pit on a level surface to avoid the pit from tipping over.
- Never leave the fire pit unattended and keep an eye out for children and pets while the fire pit is in use.
- If you are using a fire pit that is made from copper, add a shallow layer of sand to the base of the pit to protect the surface from extreme heat. The sand will also help to maintain the appearance of the copper surface.
7 Best Fire Pits – Reviews
1. Patina Products Kokopelli Fire Pit
The Patina Products Kokopelli Fire Pit features a unique collection of Anasazi cave-art cutouts as well as a natural rust-colored patina finish, which makes this pit an attractive showcase piece in your garden.
It has a width of 30-inches and the round steel bowl is 16-inches deep, so you will have plenty of room for a good size fire. You will be able to enjoy a longer-lasting fire as the decorative cutouts help the air to circulate and the fire to breathe, as well as allowing you to view the gold glow of the flames inside.
This fire pit is quite weighty at 45lbs. However, the safety rail around the top of the pit makes it easier to move the pit around your yard. The steel construction is very strong and the sturdy legs give the pit that extra stability.
A heavy-duty spark screen with a handle helps to contain the fire’s embers from escaping. The internal wire mesh lines also prevent sparks and embers from escaping through the cutout design. The fire pit comes with a barbecue cooking grate, a black vinyl protective cover, and a firewood log poker.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Plenty of space in the pit
- Ideal for a small to medium-sized fire
- Attractive design
- Handling rail
- Spark screen, protective cover, and log poker
Cons
- Needs to be placed on a level surface
- Cannot be left out in the rain
2. Landmann Savannah Garden Light Fire Pit
Whether you are sitting with friends in your backyard or holidaying on a camping site under a star-studded sky, the Landmann Savannah Garden Light Fire Pit is the ideal heating companion.
This pit has sturdy steel construction as well as an attractive matte black painted finish. Its round surface features stylish decorative cutouts that reflect the golden glow of the flames inside the pit as well as allowing for air circulation. It is quite lightweight and the 2 handles make it easier for you to move the pit around your backyard. Because it has a portable design, you can take the pit away with you on camping trips.
The Landmann pit will provide a cozy warm ambiance for all of your outdoor social gatherings as its generously sized 23½-inches interior gives you ample room for a small fire.
It is well balanced on study feet. It also comes with a long poker to turn the wood. The large spark screen with a handle will keep any stray embers away from you and your guests.
Pros
- Ideal for a small fire
- Affordable
- Solid construction
- Attractive black matte painted finish
- Portable: perfect for camping
- Stylish decorative cutouts
- Two handles
- Spark protective screen has a handle
Cons
- Not ideal for medium gardens
- Cover is not rust proof
3. Char-Broil Fire Bowl
This portable Char-Broil Fire Bowl is the ideal choice for a small garden. It is especially perfect for those camping trips where there are no barbeque facilities available.
Although it is very lightweight, the heat-resistant fire bowl is made from durable matte porcelain enamel. The stand is made from steel that is finished with black powder paint. Its sturdy legs can be folded and the pit fits inside the carry bag.
It can also be used as a grill as it comes with a cooking grate and fire poker. To protect you from any stray embers, the pit also comes with a screen and screen lifting tool, so that you can safely lift the lid.
Pros
- Ideal for a small garden
- Very good fire pit
- Designed for camping
- Lightweight
- Carrying bag and screen lifting tool
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not ideal for a large fire
- Firepit cover is not rust-proof
4. P&D Metal Works Fire Ring
This very stylish P&D Metal Works Fire Ring is the perfect addition to any outdoor setting.
It is made from heavy-duty 12-gauge steel. The beautiful intricately cut designs create a mesmerizing fire glow that will impress your guests. As this fire ring has an ample 37.5-inches internal space and 12-inches high sides, it can hold a medium-sized fire that will keep you warm during those long winter evenings under the stars.
Whether you are relaxing in your backyard or at the campsite, the fire ring is a 3-piece product that bolts together for quick assembly. It is very lightweight so you can move it around. It is also easy to dismantle when the winter season has finished.
Pros
- Ideal for a medium-sized fire
- Beautiful intricately cut designs
- Generates a lot of heat and light
- Easy to set up
- Lightweight
- Portable
Cons
- Expensive
- Not to be left outside
- No legs
- Panels have some sharp edges
5. U-MAX Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table
If you do not want to mess around with wood and coal and struggle to maintain a rip-roaring fire, then the U-MAX Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table is the ideal choice.
The U-MAX pit table not only provides you with the radiant heat and ambiance of a wood-burning pit, but this sturdy table boasts a beautiful brown handwoven rattan design and a tempered glass tabletop that will be the pride and joy of your patio.
The frame is made from durable powder-coated aluminum which is sturdy and rust-resistant. The heat-resistant and all-weather-resistant PE rattan is extremely strong. Even though this pit is powered by propane gas, you do not have to worry about an ugly gas tank spoiling the look of this elegant table as the tank can be stored inside the pit’s housing.
As the gas tank can produce up to 50,000 BTUs, the fire pit can pump out a lot of heat to keep you warm during the cold season. It is easy to light with push-button spark electronic ignition. There are various settings on the control panel to set the heating temperature. It also comes with blue glass fire stones, a lid, and height-adjustable feet.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Stylish design
- Beautiful hand-woven rattan and tempered glass top
- Generates good heat and flames
- Propane tank can be hidden inside the pit’s housing
Cons
- Expensive
- Hard to read instructions
- Takes time to assemble
6. Outland Living Fire Bowl
If you are looking for a fire pit that can replicate those idyllic holidays spent chilling out in front of a cozy campfire. However, you don’t want to worry about the mess and fuss of trying to start the fire, then the Outland Living Fire Bowl is your best choice.
You can use this fire bowl during those wintery nights while you curl up on the sofa on your patio. Or you can use it as an attractive feature that can spark up some conversation around the pool on those unexpected cool nights during summer.
The 24-inches pit is made from high-temperature powder-coated steel with a protective enamel finish. The bowl is well balanced on sturdy legs, and it is large enough for a substantial fire.
The design of this pit will have your friends eying your new fireside buddy with envy. As well as the shiny black surface, the fire pit is decorated with cut-outs of dancing flames that give you a glimpse of the glowing embers within.
The gas tank can generate a lot of heat up to 58,000 BTUs. The flames burn clean so you do not have to worry about your party guests being blinded by smoke. The pit is relatively lightweight at 34lbs. Depending on your entertaining plans, you can easily move it around your garden.
Besides its heating power and attractive design, the Outland Living fire bowl is CSA approved, so you can use it during most campfire bans. The fire bowl has a stainless steel burner and fasteners. It has a chrome knob with a rubber comfort grip. It also comes with a weather-resistant cover, a 10-feet gas hose, regulator, tank stabilizer ring, and a decorative rock set.
If you prefer natural gas, you can purchase the conversion kit separately. The standard 20lbs (5-gallons) propane gas tank has to be purchased separately as well.
Pros
- Ideal for a small backyard or patio
- Great quality
- Generates a lot of heat and light
- Beautiful, realistic-looking fire
- Portable
- Stylish design
Cons
- Firepit sits low to the ground
- Uses a lot of gas
7. Best Choice Products Fire Pit Table
The gas-powered Best Choice Products Fire Pit Table will make an elegant centerpiece for your next social event. It is made from sturdy aluminum and the brown wicker is weather-resistant and the dark brown paint gives it a smart-looking finish. It is also available in gray.
Although the square table weighs 65lbs, it is still lightweight enough for you to move it to your desired spot in your yard, patio, or decking.
A functional firepit, this table comes with a removable lid that you can use to transform the pit into a dining table for drinks and food.
This fire pit works with a 20lbs propane gas tank and produces up to 50,000 BTUs, so you will stay warm on a cold winter’s night. You can also adjust the height of the flame and the level of heating. The pit comes with a steel bowl and white glass beads that accentuate the fire. A cleverly designed hideaway storage door keeps the tank out of sight.
Although the fire pit’s fabric cover provides some protection from the elements, it is not thick enough to stop the paint from fading after being exposed to the harsh sun. This problem can be solved by purchasing a heavy-duty cover.
Pros
- Ideal for a garden, patio, or decking
- Elegant looking design
- Solid construction
- Easy to set up
- Adjustable flame control and heat
- Good heat output
- Can be used as a fire pit and a table
- Gas tank is stored inside the housing
Cons
- Igniter does not always work straight away
- Low-quality cover
Our Top Pick for the Best Fire Pit
Our top pick for the best fire pit is the Landmann Savannah Garden Light Fire Pit.
This fire pit combines a strong steel construction with very attractive designs that are cut into the surface of the pit, therefore, allows the mellow glow of the fire to flicker through. As well as being the highlight of the conversation at your next camp-out or Christmas party under the stars, this pit can also be used as a mini barbeque.
Although the firepit is only ideal for small fires, you might find that you like it so much that you might decide to buy two!
Check the price on Amazon
