# Hot AF, Overbuilt, and Big Money: Howl R4 Campfire Review
The past few summer drought seasons have made real campfires a rarity. Numerous camping areas have been under burn bans for the last two years due to the extreme dryness.
Campfires are not only about ambiance; the heat they produce can make or break a winter camping experience. However, with recent burn bans, smokeless fire pits and artificial outdoor heat sources have become quite popular.
I’ve tried various smokeless fire pits, propane heaters, and campfires over the past few winter seasons. While some offered the ambiance and light of a fire, none of them provided the desired heat. The radiant heat of wood coals was always missing, and I would get cold as soon as I moved away from the flames.
Howl Campfires boldly claims to solve all the issues of fire pits and propane heaters, although I was skeptical, especially considering its high price of $1,299. I tested the Howl Campfires Howl R4 and to my surprise, it delivered. It emitted so much radiant heat that I often had to strip down to base layers regardless of the temperatures. The Howl R4 provided an exceptional amount of heat, just like a real campfire, and even better in some ways. However, the high price tag can’t be overlooked.
### Howl R4 Nuts and Bolts
The Howl R4 arrived in a heavily packed box, indicating its sturdy build. Weighing 34 pounds, the campfire is constructed from 1/8″ 304 stainless steel plate, aircraft aluminum, and brass, making it one of the most robust outdoor gear I’ve tested.
It comes with a top-mounted A-Flame burner and pair of BarCoal radiant tube heaters. The A-Flame burner produced an open flame and convective heat, while the BarCoal burners provided intense radiant heat through infrared waves.
### Convective vs. Radiant Heat in a Campfire
A campfire delivers heat through conduction, convection, and radiation. While the A-Flame burner produced familiar flame and heat, the BarCoal radiant tube heaters emitted intense and effective radiant heat, a feature lacking in many other artificial campfires.
### Did the Howl R4 Live Up to the Hype (and Price)?
Without a doubt, the Howl R4 exceeded expectations. The A-Flame burner was wind and water-resistant, and the BarCoal radiant tube heaters emitted exceptional heat. However, the price and fuel consumption may deter some potential buyers.
### Other Howl R4 Features
The Howl R4 comes with a clever stow mode for the 20-pound propane tank, enhancing its portability. Additionally, it is UL-certified and safe to use during burn bans, making it a reliable and legal option for camping.
### Downsides
The $1,299 price and the relatively heavy weight of the campfire may be deterrents for some. Additionally, it consumes more fuel compared to other propane-powered camping accessories.
### Final Thoughts on the Howl Campfires Howl R4
The Howl R4 is a remarkable artificial campfire, providing exceptional heat and ambiance. However, its high price and fuel consumption may limit its appeal to some consumers. Nevertheless, it offers an unmatched camping experience and complies with burn bans, making it a valuable investment for those willing to overlook the downsides.
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