There’s a universal magic to gathering around a fire. It’s a primal comfort, a focal point for stories, and the heart of any campsite or backyard get-together. But for years, I’ve wrestled with the clumsy reality of it. Traditional fire pits are monstrously heavy, permanent fixtures. The portable ones are often flimsy, too small, or a pain to pack. I can’t count the number of times I’ve tried to cram a bulky, ash-covered metal bowl into the back of my car, leaving soot on the upholstery and sacrificing precious cargo space that could have been used for a cooler or an extra camp chair. The dream has always been a full-sized fire experience that doesn’t demand a full-sized storage commitment. It’s the core problem for RV owners, car campers, and anyone who wants the joy of a bonfire without dedicating a permanent spot in their yard or garage. The compromise has always felt too great—until now.
- PORTABLE & PATENTED COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN FOR OUTDOOR FIRES: Slinky Stove is the only fire pit with a patented collapsible design that folds down to just 6 inches. Perfect for camping trips, tailgating,...
- FIRE PIT OUTDOOR COOKING MADE SIMPLE: Includes a fire pit cooking grill for flame-grilled meals under the sky. Great for campfire BBQs, patio grilling, or making s’mores. Enjoy versatile cooking...
- DURABLE STAINLESS STEEL FOR LASTING HEAT: Crafted from tough stainless steel, this outdoor smokeless fire pit handles high heat and rugged conditions. Whether it's bonfires with friends or heating...
What to Consider Before Buying a Smokeless Fire Pit
A portable fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating ambiance, warmth, and even a cooking station wherever you go. It transforms a simple patch of grass into a living room under the stars. The main benefits are clear: you get a contained, safer fire that leaves less impact on the environment, reduces annoying smoke that always seems to follow you, and often includes the ability to grill. It bridges the gap between a primitive campfire and a full-blown backyard BBQ setup, offering a versatile middle ground for modern outdoor enthusiasts.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a space constraint. Think RV travelers with limited storage bay capacity, car campers who need to pack efficiently, or homeowners who want a fire pit for their patio but need to store it in a small shed during the off-season. It’s for the person who values convenience and multi-functionality. On the other hand, it might not be suitable for those who desire a permanent, heavy-duty masonry fire feature as a landscape centerpiece or for the ultralight backpacker who counts every ounce. For the former, a built-in stone pit is a better choice; for the latter, a tiny backpacking stove is the only real option.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is twofold. First, consider the operational dimensions. A 23-inch diameter provides ample space for a decent-sized fire that can warm a small group. Second, and perhaps more importantly for this category, is the collapsed size. A pit that shrinks down to just a few inches in height is a game-changer for storage and transport.
- Capacity/Performance: How much wood can it hold, and how much heat does it generate? More importantly, how effective is the “smokeless” technology? True smokeless pits use a double-wall design for secondary combustion, which burns off smoke particles. Simpler designs rely on enhanced airflow, which reduces—but doesn’t eliminate—smoke.
- Materials & Durability: Stainless steel is the go-to material for its resistance to rust and high temperatures. However, the gauge of the steel and the quality of the construction (e.g., welds versus rivets) are paramount. Thinner steel can warp under intense heat, and weak spot welds can fail over time, compromising the entire structure.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: How quickly can you set it up and take it down? A complicated assembly process defeats the purpose of portability. For maintenance, consider how ash is managed. A removable ash pan makes cleanup significantly easier and less messy than having to scoop out debris from the main body.
Keeping these factors in mind, the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit stands out in several areas, particularly its innovative approach to dimensions and space. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit is an excellent choice for a specific user, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not make fire and cover...
- 3-in-1 Fire Pit: Panovue outdoor fire pit can provide inviting warmth for your patio, yard, or garden, also be used as an outdoor BBQ to cook food or as an ice bucket to keep beverages cold. When you...
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop[No waterproof cover]. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not...
First Impressions: The “Slinky” Unfurls
Pulling the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit from its box, the first thing we noticed was the sheer novelty of its design. It arrives nestled in a dedicated carry bag, looking more like a large, metallic frisbee than a fire pit. The entire unit is collapsed down to its advertised 6-inch height. Our initial thought was skepticism. How could something this compact possibly be stable and robust enough to hold a roaring fire? The unboxing itself revealed a few minor scuffs on the polished stainless steel finish, a sentiment echoed by a couple of users who reported receiving units with dings and scratches. While disappointing, it wasn’t a functional deal-breaker for an item destined for fire and soot.
Setup is where the “Slinky” name makes perfect sense. You place the base on the ground, lift the main body, and it expands upwards with a satisfying stretch, much like the classic toy. The inner walls and grates lock into place with a bit of simple maneuvering. The entire process took less than two minutes without consulting any instructions—it’s that intuitive. The kit is impressively complete, including the main fire pit body, a sturdy base, an ash pan, a cooking grill grate, a tabletop lid for when it’s not in use, and a fire poker. This all-in-one approach is a huge plus, eliminating the need to buy essential accessories separately.
What We Like
- Revolutionary collapsible design for unmatched portability and storage.
- Extremely lightweight (under 20 lbs) and includes a convenient carry bag.
- Complete all-in-one kit with cooking grill, lid, and poker included.
- Effective smoke reduction for a more pleasant fireside experience.
- Intuitive and lightning-fast setup and takedown.
Drawbacks
- Build quality concerns, specifically regarding thin-gauge steel and spot welds.
- Not truly “smokeless” as it lacks a double-wall design for secondary combustion.
- Prone to cosmetic shipping damage like dings and scratches.
Performance Deep Dive: Putting the Slinky Stove to the Test
A clever design is one thing, but a fire pit’s true worth is measured in flame, heat, and durability. We spent several evenings with the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit, using it for both ambiance and cooking in a variety of conditions to see if its performance could match its innovative form factor.
The Patented Collapsible Design: Genius Portability or Gimmick?
Let’s be clear: the collapsible mechanism is the star of the show. It’s not a gimmick; it’s a genuine innovation that solves the biggest problem with fire pits. After our first burn, we let it cool completely, brushed out the ash, and collapsed it. In under a minute, the full-sized, 23-inch fire pit was back to its 6-inch height, ready to be slid into its bag and stored on a shelf in the garage. For RV owners, this is a revelation. Multiple users confirmed our findings, with one stating, “Every other fire pit on the market is too bulky to fit in my RV’s storage compartments. Slinky Stove to the rescue!” Another noted it “packs down small and fits well in the bay.” This single feature elevates it into a class of its own for anyone on the move.
However, this unique design brings durability into question. The structure relies on the tension and interlocking parts of relatively thin stainless steel. During our tests, it held up perfectly, even when loaded with oak logs. But we share the concerns of a user who noted the construction relies on “tiny spot welds” and questioned if it would “hold up after a couple of fires.” Another user had a more definitive negative experience, reporting that the “inner base plate warped and would no longer fit” after a single use. While our unit did not suffer this fate, it highlights a potential weak point. The genius of the portability is undeniable, but it seems to come with a potential trade-off in long-term, heavy-duty resilience. It feels best suited for casual to moderate use rather than nightly, raging bonfires.
Smoke Reduction and Heat Performance: A Closer Look at the “Smokeless” Claim
The term “smokeless” has become a buzzword, largely popularized by brands like Solo Stove that use a double-wall construction to create a secondary burn, incinerating smoke particles before they can escape. The SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit does not have this feature. As one astute user pointed out, “There is no double wall for gasification it’s open air.” Instead, its design promotes efficient airflow from below and through vents along the side, which helps the wood burn hotter and more completely, thereby reducing smoke. We found this to be quite effective. Once the fire was established and burning hot, smoke was minimal—certainly a massive improvement over an open ground fire or a basic fire ring. You could sit around it without constantly playing “musical chairs” to dodge the smoke plume.
However, it is not 100% smokeless. During the initial lighting phase and when adding new, damp logs, it produced a normal amount of smoke. This aligns perfectly with user feedback: “The fire pit is not 100 percent smokeless but it does reduce smoke,” and another who stated it’s “Definitely not smokeless.” In terms of heat, the 23-inch diameter provides a generous flame and radiates a comfortable amount of warmth, perfect for a group of 4-6 people. An interesting observation, also noted by a user in an RV park, was that the outer walls didn’t get excessively hot. This is a positive safety feature, reducing the risk of accidental burns, especially with kids and pets around.
From Bonfire to BBQ: Evaluating the Cooking Capabilities
The inclusion of a cooking grill grate transforms the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit from a simple heat source into a versatile outdoor kitchen. This multi-functionality is a huge value-add, especially for campers looking to consolidate their gear. We tested the grill with burgers, hot dogs, and some foil-wrapped vegetables. The grate is large enough to cook for a small family, and cooking over a real wood fire imparts a flavor that gas grills simply can’t replicate. The results were delicious, and the experience was fantastic. As one happy user put it, “The food is great over it!”
The quality of the cooking grate itself, however, received mixed reviews, which our testing confirmed. It’s a functional, chromed-steel grate, but it’s not the heavy-duty, cast-iron masterpiece you might find on a high-end grill. One user noted, “the cooking grate isn’t all of best quality. Did the job, but I will be building a new one.” We agree with this assessment. It’s perfectly adequate for casual cooking, but serious grill masters might find it a bit flimsy. Despite this, having the option to grill included in the box is a major win. For anyone who loves the idea of an all-in-one campfire and cooking solution, the complete Slinky Stove package is incredibly appealing.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from a wide range of users, a clear picture emerges. The overwhelming praise for the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit centers on its revolutionary portability. An RVer raved, “This thing is Awesome! It cooks great and is easy to clean and store in my RV,” perfectly capturing the sentiment of many who prioritize space-saving design. Another was “impressed by how smokeless and efficient it is,” highlighting the significant improvement over traditional fires. The ease of assembly was another common theme, with one person noting how on a cold night in Miami, “It was easy to assemble… the thing became the focus of the party.”
On the flip side, the most consistent criticism revolves around build quality and condition upon arrival. One user expressed frustration, saying their unit was “Falling apart after one camp fire session,” with a warped base plate. Another noted the “material is lightweight and build quality is poor. Tiny spot welds hold it together.” Several buyers were also “disappointed with the condition on arrival,” receiving units with “multiple dings and scratches.” This feedback suggests a potential lack of consistency in manufacturing and quality control, which is a significant concern for a product intended for rugged outdoor use.
How Does the SLINKY STOVE Compare to the Alternatives?
The SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit occupies a unique niche, but how does it fare against other popular outdoor heating and cooking options? We looked at three distinct competitors to see where it stands.
1. hykolity 31″ 2-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill
- 【2 in 1 Outdoor fire pit with grill】: 31” Dia x 24” H, this wood burning fire pit features a multi-functional design ideal for outdoor heating or grilling. The fire pit with cooking grate is...
- 【Swivel Cooking Grate】: The cooking grate with an 21.06-inch diameter grill area, safe to cook on it. The barbecue grill swivels 360 degrees, making swing it left or right possible. Grill adjusts...
- 【Heat-Resistant & Safe Material】: This fire pit with cooking grate uses powder-coated and heavy-duty steel material, which has excellent high temperature-proof and rust-proof capacity. 4 heavy...
The Hykolity fire pit is a more traditional, stationary beast. Its massive 31-inch bowl and robust construction are designed for the backyard, not the back of a car. Its standout feature is the 360-degree swivel cooking grate, which offers superior control over cooking temperature. This alternative is for the user who prioritizes size, cooking functionality, and backyard presence over portability. If you’re looking for a semi-permanent fixture for your patio and don’t need to pack it up after every use, the Hykolity offers more cooking space and a heavier-duty feel for a similar price point, but it completely sacrifices the Slinky Stove’s primary benefit of portability.
2. Outland Living Firebowl 870 Propane Fire Pit
- ✓ PERFECT NO MESS CAMPFIRE: Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane campfire. The perfect outdoor centerpiece for camping trips, RV...
- ✓ COMPACT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Matchless auto-ignition feature ensures a fast and simple...
- ✓ BEAT THE CAMPFIRE BAN: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect...
The Outland Living Firebowl represents a completely different approach to a portable fire. It runs on propane, eliminating the need for wood, the hassle of smoke, and the mess of ash cleanup. It offers instant, adjustable flames at the turn of a knob and is often approved for use during fire bans when wood fires are prohibited. This is the choice for someone who values ultimate convenience and cleanliness. However, you lose the crackle, smell, and authentic experience of a real wood fire. It’s a great fire pit, but it’s not a campfire. The Slinky Stove is for the traditionalist who still wants modern convenience.
3. Solo Stove 2-Piece Fire Pit Tool Set
- 2 PIECE SET - Solo Stove Fire Pit Tools include an angled stainless steel Fire Poker & stainless steel Firewood Tongs. Adjust your firewood with the heavy duty fire pit poker tool featuring a claw...
- ANGLED LOG POKER - The Stainless Steel Log Poker Iron is 36.5 inches long and has a 165° bend to safely reach any fire pit wood while keeping you safe. Designed for use with your Solo Stove fire pit....
- ANGLED LOG GRABBER - The log grabber has a 172° directional bend at the hinge. This lessens the resistance working against you, making it easier to gently add wood while maintaining a safe distance...
This isn’t a fire pit, but an accessory set that speaks to a different market segment. The Solo Stove brand is synonymous with premium, high-performance smokeless fire pits that feature the double-wall secondary burn design. This tool set—a poker and tongs—is built to a much higher standard of quality and durability than the accessories included with many budget-friendly pits. This product is for the user who has already invested in a premium fire pit and demands equally high-quality tools. It serves as a stark contrast to the Slinky Stove’s all-in-one package, highlighting that if ultimate durability and premium feel are your top priorities, you might be better served by buying higher-end components from specialized brands.
The Final Verdict: A Brilliant Idea with Some Rough Edges
After extensive testing, the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit emerges as a product defined by a single, brilliant innovation: its collapsibility. For RV owners, car campers, and anyone with a premium on storage space, this feature is not just convenient; it’s a complete game-changer. The ability to have a full-sized 23-inch fire pit that shrinks to the size of a large pizza box for storage is genuinely revolutionary. The all-in-one kit, including a functional cooking grate, adds tremendous value and makes it ready for adventure right out of the box.
However, this brilliant concept is hampered by legitimate concerns about build quality and quality control. The use of thin-gauge steel and small spot welds means its long-term durability under intense, frequent use remains a question mark. While our unit performed well, credible reports of warping and damage cannot be ignored. Ultimately, we recommend the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit to the specific user it was designed for: the traveler who values portability above all else. If you need a fire pit that can disappear onto a shelf or into a crowded RV bay, this is an unbeatable design. Just be prepared for potential cosmetic blemishes and treat it with a bit more care than a heavy-duty steel ring.
If you’ve decided the SLINKY STOVE 23-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit is the right fit for your adventures, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API