Quick Summary: The Howl R1 delivers up to 32-inch flames and 800°F operating heat in a compact, 11-pound shoebox footprint. Built in the USA from heavy-duty 304 stainless steel and aluminum, it offers full Stage 1 & 2 burn ban compliance, high fuel efficiency, and lifetime durability for overland and camp setups. Read the Full Howl R1 Review below!
Intro
Why I Bought the Howl R1 Campfire
As life continues post Federal Law enforcement carrier, I find myself focused on three core principles, my faith, my family and adventure! The Howl R1 portable campfire fits into all three of those categories perfectly and as you read this Howl R1 Review below, I’ll walk you through the R1’s features and how I plan for this little portable campfire to serve my family for generations to come!
Buying the Howl R1 came down to perfect timing. After health issues (mainly chest pain LOL) forced me to sell two RC bush planes my family had gifted me, I had cash in hand. Instead of sinking those funds into maintenance for our overland rig, “Thirsty Girl,” I wanted an heirloom-quality piece of gear—something built like the durable, generational gear I inherited from my father. Furthermore, I wanted something tangible that would be part of making memories and that would be passed down to the next generation. Basically, I didn’t want to buy something disposable!
The Howl R1 fit the bill perfectly: an overbuilt, shoebox-sized memory maker designed to last generations. Today, sitting around its warmth during beach trips or burn bans, I know it’s an investment my family will enjoy for decades, even if I originally had to convince my wife that a $375 propane fire pit was worth every penny (still not sure she is convinced).
Howl R1 Review & Field Testing
After a quick trip to my local Scheels Outdoors store to pick up my R1 in person, I was ready to give it a test in the driveway! Set up was pretty easy which was good because I had thrown the instructions out with the packaging.
I initially hooked it up to the IGNIK 8.8 Lb Growler tank that I have had for a couple years and used mainly for overlanding. Having done a successful giveaway test, the next step was a camping test!
Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on your point of view) our camping trip didn’t feature any fire bans and wood was plentiful and ultimately the Howl R1 wasn’t much more than dead weight on the trip. Also, the trip was a much needed escape and decompression exercise and we didn’t even pull the R1 out make content. Sometimes that is what you need!
The next test of the Howl R1 came during the 4th of July weekend and the R1 performed flawlessly on our back patio having replaced a large bulky propane patio fireplace that barely managed to put out a 6″ flame.
Our guests were attracted to the dancing flames and warmth and no children left handprints on the fire pit which was one of my concerns due to the fact that the whole fire pit becomes very hot during use!
Looking back it really provided a focal point for guests to congregate and socialize and will become a staple of our future patio events!
The next test came as we traveled to Bozeman, Montana for a Biblical Counseling course put on by Grace Bible Church. The first night we planned to find a dispersed campground in the mountains south of the event after which we would share an Airbnb for the subsequent nights. Unfortunately as we arrived in Bozeman the weather became rainy and windy so we settled for some urban camping in the parking lot next to the big RVs.
The Howl R1 became the centerpiece and kept us warm when we were not inside! It was also a perfect test as there was a good bit of wind along with the rain. My son Daniel was down to being on camera and we had some fun putting content together even if he couldn’t keep a straight face!
R1 Campfire Key Features
Now that we have had the Howl R1 for a while and continue to use it, I wanted to take a few moments to share some pictures and reflect on the key features.
I think its important to note that I purchased this myself, and after drafting this review, we were accepted into the Howl Campfire referral program which means that we will get a nice little thank you if you purchase one using the links in this article 🙂
First I want to say that the build quality is phenomenal, I mean this thing is solid and it reminds me of the other items I use camping that were designed to last like my Coleman stove, army locker box that we have used as a camp kitchen since I was in diapers and of course the Coleman gas lantern.
There are just so few things in life that are built to last generations that it makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside when you come across well made products like the Howl R1.
The Howl R1 features a custom-engineered 8-foot regulator hose system designed to balance heavy-duty field durability with fast, hassle-free setups. At the tank connection, a standard QCC1 hand-wheel fitting effortlessly threads onto common 5 to 30 lb propane tanks (USA standard) without requiring any tools. On the fire pit end, the hose utilizes a high-flow quick-disconnect coupling that snaps securely into place, allowing you to instantly break down the unit without unscrewing stubborn threads.
To protect this critical junction from trail dust, mud, and water ingress when disconnected, Howl includes high-visibility yellow rubber dust covers that cap both the male stem and female quick-release socket during transit and storage.
Integrated inline, the heavy-duty 5 PSI adjustable regulator dial gives you micro-precise flame control—letting you smoothly transition from a low ambient burn to maximum output—while the flexible, weather-resistant hose material retains its flexibility even in sub-freezing temperatures.
For the control setup, the Howl R1 features a laser-etched instruction plate permanently marked onto the stainless steel chassis alongside its rugged Mission Control Knob. Rather than relying on easily lost paper manuals or fading stickers, the permanent plate provides clear, step-by-step lighting procedures, valve sequence safety rules, and clearance requirements right on the unit for foolproof field operation.
Positioned right beside it, the Mission Control Knob is a heavy-duty, US-made brass ball valve engineered for extreme longevity—lab-tested up to 40,000 actuations without wear.
Unlike standard plastic dials or delicate piezo igniters that fail in cold or wet conditions, this solid brass valve gives you immediate, tactile, positive-lock control over the main fuel flow, ensuring instant ignition with an elongated lighter and reliable shutoff every time.
I was especially impressed with the control knob as it is made from durable polymer and appears made to last generations.
At the heart of the unit’s performance is its proprietary A-Flame Technology, which routes propane through 160 precision micro-emitters located at the top of the fire pit.
Unlike conventional portable fire pits that recess their burners deep inside a metal bowl—forcing you to waste fuel just to push the flames above the rim—the Howl R1 exposes the entire burner surface to the open air.
Resting directly over these micro-emitters is the FlexDome Windscreen, a heat-responsive metal dome that expands as operating temperatures climb, creating an ideal thermal airflow pattern that stabilizes the flames in heavy wind and drives them up to 32 inches tall. Because there are no outer walls trapping energy inside the chassis, the entire body of the fire pit becomes an intensely hot heat radiator, reaching operating temperatures of roughly 800°F.
This top-down, fully exposed design throws massive amounts of ambient warmth outwards to everyone around the circle rather than directing it straight up into the sky. (Naturally, with the entire stainless chassis radiating such intense heat, touching any metal surface while operational or before it cools requires extreme caution.)
Beyond raw heat and compact storage, the Howl R1 is engineered with transport in mind, featuring folding Gullwing legs and integrated StrapLock Slots. When deployed at camp, the Gullwing legs extend outward to provide a wide, rock-steady stance that lifts the unit off uneven terrain, rocks, or wet dirt.
When it’s time to pack up, these legs fold completely flush against the stainless steel chassis, bringing the footprint back down to its ultra-compact shoebox size. Rather than treating transport as an afterthought, Howl built laser-cut strap slots directly into the frame. This design allows you to run a standard tie-down or ratchet strap directly through the fire pit and secure it flush against your 10, 11, or 20 lb propane tank.
By locking the fuel source and the fire pit together into a single, unified unit, you can strap the whole assembly securely into a truck bed, overland drawer system, or gear rack without worrying about loose components rattling around on rough trails.
Howl Campfires also has a carry bag and a quick release “Rally Mount” for additional purchase. these were not reviewed as I had already sold my “firstborn” to purchase the campfire!
On the underside of the unit, Howl incorporates heavy-duty, heat-resistant rubber feet that serve a dual purpose: they protect sensitive surfaces—like stained timber decks, truck tailgates, or painted camp tables—from scratches, while providing non-slip traction on slick, wet, or uneven terrain.
Right above these feet, the lower stainless chassis features precision cut “HOWL” logo knockout. These cutouts are far more than just stylish branding; they act as passive ventilation ports that allow cool air to draw up into the lower housing. This continuous airflow prevents heat from pooling underneath the unit, helping protect the ground surface below while ensuring the internal plumbing and brass valves operate within safe temperature parameters.
Full Howl R1 Specs
| Key Specification | Details |
| Dimensions (Folded) | 13.3″ x 8.4″ x 6.1″ (Standard shoebox size) |
| Dimensions (Legs Out) | 14.3″ x 8.4″ x 8.0″ |
| Weight | 10 to 11 lbs |
| Heat & Flame | Up to 32″ flames |
| Fuel Burn Time | Up to 8 hours on high (20 lb tank); days on low |
| Compliance | UL-Certified (Permitted in Stage 1 & Stage 2 bans) |
| Build Materials | 304 Stainless Steel, Aircraft-Grade Aluminum, Solid Brass |
| Price | $374 MSRP |
Navigating Fire Restrictions: How the Howl R1 Solves the Problem
Public safety measures enacted by land management agencies—such as the US Forest Service (USFS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and National Park Service (NPS)—are essential for mitigating wildfire risks across dry Western states.
Understanding these regulations is key to avoiding ruined trips:
- Stage 1 Restrictions: Restricts open wood and charcoal fires strictly to established metal fire rings within designated, developed campgrounds.
- Stage 2 Restrictions: Completely bans traditional wood campfires, charcoal grills, and open wood flames across public lands.
Why the Howl R1 Remains Compliant: Land management agencies explicitly permit equipment powered by UL-certified liquid petroleum (propane) featuring a dedicated fuel shutoff valve when operated in cleared areas. Because this campfire generates zero flying embers, smoke, or ash, it allows you to enjoy an authentic high-heat campfire experience with up to 32-inch flames while remaining fully compliant with regional burn bans.
Features and Spec Summary
1. Ultra-Compact “Shoebox” Footprint
- Packability: Measuring 13.3″ x 8.4″ x 6.1″ when folded, the unit occupies roughly the same space as a standard shoebox. It slides easily into truck drawers, RV cubbies, or tightly packed cargo beds.
- Gullwing Legs: The integrated leg system deploys in seconds to elevate the burner off the ground for stability, then folds completely flush against the chassis for compact storage.
- Rubber Feet: The rubber support feet can be used to keep the fire pit stable and provide a non scratch contact point for when the fire pits gullwing legs are folded.
- Quick Disconnect Hose: The R1’s 8′ long hose features a heavy-duty, tool-free QCC1 (Type 1) fitting with an oversized hand-wheel. It easily screws onto standard 5 lb, 10 lb, 11 lb, 20 lb, or 30 lb LP propane tanks without requiring a wrench.
- High-Pressure Adjustable Regulator: Equipped with an infinitely adjustable high-pressure regulator dial. Rather than a simple on/off switch, the dial gives you micro-control over your fuel flow—allowing you to dial in everything from a low, fuel-saving ambient glow up to the full 54,000 BTU max flame.
2. High-Output A-Flame Technology
- Micro-Emitter Array: Rather than using a standard ring burner, the A-Flame burner combines 160 precision micro-emitters. These individual micro-flames band together to push flames up to 32 inches high in calm air.
- FlexDome Radiant Heat: Standard fire bowls trap heat inside high metal walls. The exposed FlexDome expands as it reaches its 800°F operating temperature, directing radiant heat outward toward people rather than straight up into the sky.
3. High Fuel Efficiency & All-Weather Reliability
- Burn Time: At its maximum output of 54,000 BTUs per hour, a standard 20 lb propane tank provides up to 8 hours of burn time. Dialing the adjustable pressure regulator down yields several days of ambient warmth.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Fabricated in Colorado from 16-gauge 304 stainless steel, aircraft-grade aluminum, and solid brass fittings.
- Simple & Reliable: Designed with a self-draining burner plate to shed rain and snow instantly. It operates without electronic igniters, fans, or batteries that could fail in harsh outdoor environments.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
| Burn Ban Compliant: Fully allowed under Stage 1 & 2 restrictions | Premium Investment: $374 price tag is higher than basic propane bowls |
| Incredible Heat Output: Generates real radiant warmth (~800°F) | Not for Backpacking: 11 lb weight is strictly for vehicle/car camping |
| Ultra-Packable: Folds down to a tiny shoebox footprint | Hose/Accessories: Tank tie-down strap, carry bag sold separately |
| Buy-It-For-Life Build: Heavy-gauge USA stainless steel and brass | No Igniter Button: You will need an external lighter to ignite the fireplace |
Conclusion & Final Recommendation
Well, I hope you enjoyed this detailed Howl R1 Review!
Now it’s time to answer the question of whether or not the Howl R1 is worth the price that you will need to pay. I believe this is a yes especially for my situation as I will be using it for camping, counseling, and family get togethers.
Let’s be honest, sometimes you just don’t want to smell like smoke and the Howl is going to be perfect for that situation as well as navigating fire restrictions.
The two main concerns that I have if any are the lack of an ignition button and just how hot this thing gets. The ignition button isn’t a deal breaker but at this price I would kind of expect to have that. I mean lets be honest, this cost more than my BBQ grill and it has one!
Regarding the heat, it really isn’t a dealbreaker for me and none of the children that have been around it have hurt themselves, but that may be more of a reflection on my friends and their parenting skills than on the R1. Ultimately you will only do it once!
I will state again that I paid for this with my own money and would do so again in a heartbeat!
In fact, the entire portable campfire concept is intriguing to me so we may end up trying other similar products in the future, however something may have to change financially for us to get our hands on the R1’s big brother, the Howl R4! Check it out here if you are looking for a higher capacity fire pit with a focus on heat output vs ambiance.
Where to Get Your Own Howl R1
Howl Campfires Website/Product Page
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