Buddy Burner

The Buddy Burner is a simple, safe, fuel source for many of the tin-can stoves shown here (ex: charcoal and hobo stoves). They can be quickly and easily made, stored for long periods of time, and used safely even by the youngest of Scouts.

Supplies:

  • Roll-type can opener
  • Tuna or catfood cans
  • Cardboard or wood chips (not sawdust)
  • Candle wicks
  • Paraffin
  • Double boiler

Procedure (refer to picture for examples):

  • Using the regular can opener remove the top from the can.
  • Fuel type:
    • Cardboard - cut into strips only tall enough to reach the top of the can. Fit the strips in the can in smaller circles until the can is full.
    • Wood chips - Fill can with wood chips, compressing as tightly as you can. Don't use sawdust as it doesn't burn as long.
  • Fit a wick in the center of the fuel.
  • Melt paraffin in a double boiler, never directly over heat.
  • Pour paraffin into can until it fills and covers the fuel, let cool several hours.

Usage:

  • Light wick. Practice before you use it to get a feel for how long it burns
  • If you need to extinguish the flame before it's completely used do so by smothering, do not pour water on the flame.

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This site Updated Last on 01/17/2007
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