help need input on building a new pit

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Finney

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waterdog said:
ok guys,

Give me all the pros and cons and how to's. Im planning on building a new pit. 20in OD by 3ft with a fire box. My first question, should i go with a square firebox or cylinder? My 2nd question, i would like to build this out of quarter inch pipe but locally i can only find 5/16. Let me here all your opinions, thanks.

1) I like the looks of a sq fire box. And it gives you a little more area.
but... round is cheaper and less labor.

2) Why you sweating the extra 1/16"? If that is what you can get, get it. It will be a little heavier, but should also retain heat a little better.
 
waterdog said:
Let me here all your opinions, thanks.
That's a dangerous invitation around here, waterdog. :LOL: :LOL:

--John 8
(If some of the regulars take "all your opinions" literally, this'll be a thread for the record books. :P )
 
Square offset firebox also gives you a good cooking surface for a pot of corn, lobsters or steamers etc... or even a good warming surface with some elevated racks on it.
 
Good luck. I like the round cooking area and the flat firebox. Next one I build will have a square firebox. Post them pics.
 
The only good reason I know why anybody would build any part of a bbq pit round is because it tends to be cheaper. As far as the thickness of the steel the thicker the mo betta in my book. Up to a point of course:) Ideal offset would have 1/2" firebox and 3/8" everywhere else..or as close to that figger as a person might come based on available materials..budget etc. As you might guess...my pit is square all over so I could be prejudiced.

bigwheel


waterdog said:
ok guys,

Give me all the pros and cons and how to's. Im planning on building a new pit. 20in OD by 3ft with a fire box. My first question, should i go with a square firebox or cylinder? My 2nd question, i would like to build this out of quarter inch pipe but locally i can only find 5/16. Let me here all your opinions, thanks.
 
Ill ditto what bw said..I like a square cooking box..goona build a new one real soon. I think it'll be square, double wall and insalated...but...round is a lot easier...
 

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