Steel Fire Pits by Fire Pit Art: Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel Guide

Featured Image: "Bella Vita" Wood Burning Fire Pit by Fire Pit Art

Updated:  07-10-2026

 

Imagine a chilly evening made cozy and luminous. Your loved ones surround you, each familiar face aglow, as the crackle of firewood inside a steel fire pit provides a delightful auditory backdrop — this could be the backyard upgrade you've been dreaming of.

At Fountainful, when we talk about carbon steel fire pits, we're really talking about one brand: Fire Pit Art. Every fire pit in this guide is handcrafted at their facility in Tennessee, from either heavy-gauge carbon steel or 304 stainless steel — no imports, no shortcuts.

In this guide, we'll break down what makes Fire Pit Art's steel construction so highly regarded, help you decide between carbon steel and stainless steel, and walk through eight standout designs — from wildlife-themed showpieces to smokeless innovations — to help you find the right centerpiece for your outdoor space.

 

 

 

Fire Pit Art: Handcrafted Steel Fire Pits, Made in Tennessee

Fire Pit Art hand-builds every piece at their workshop in Lebanon, Tennessee, working almost exclusively in two materials: heavy-gauge carbon steel and 304 stainless steel. That focus is what sets their catalog apart from mass-produced fire pits — every design in our Fire Pit Art Collection is built to the same exacting standard, whether it's a $1,300 wood-burning bowl or a $9,000+ commercial-grade centerpiece.

What Makes Fire Pit Art Steel Fire Pits Different?

Let's walk through the qualities that make Fire Pit Art's steel construction worth the investment.

1. Durable & Weather Resistant

Both carbon steel and 304 stainless steel are naturally resistant to rust and corrosion. Most fire pits in the collection are built from ¼ inch thick steel — an exceptional density that resists abrasion and holds its shape over time. That means you can leave your fire pit outside year-round without hunting for storage space in the garage or shed.

USA-made carbon steel and stainless steel fire pits are built to last a lifetime. Fountainful's Fire Pit Art Collection features ¼" thick carbon steel construction across most designs.

2. Low Maintenance

A steel fire pit is far less demanding than other materials in terms of upkeep. Compared to cast iron or clay, steel won't warp, crack, or degrade nearly as quickly, and its ability to retain and radiate heat at high temperatures reduces ongoing maintenance.

➤ Tips for Cleaning a Steel Fire Pit:

• Remove ashes and debris after each use
• Wipe down with a damp cloth
• That's all!

Steel's sleek surface prevents soot and residue from adhering easily, which significantly cuts down cleanup time compared to porous materials like stone or concrete.

➤ Gas Safety Note: When using a gas-fueled fire pit, it's crucial to prevent water from entering the burner components, as this can lead to hazardous pressure buildup. If you suspect water has gotten into the burner, call a licensed technician for inspection before the pit's next use.

The "Manta Ray" fire pit is photographed here at the edge of the customer's backyard lake.

3. Gas and Wood Burning Versatility

Nearly every Fire Pit Art design is offered in both gas and wood-burning versions, so you can choose the fuel type that fits your lifestyle without giving up the design you love.

The Fire Pit Art Collection showcases exquisite creations crafted from carbon steel and stainless steel, available in both wood-burning and liquid propane/natural gas options.

Position it in any location deemed safe for burning, and exercise the same caution as you would with any open flame. Never use a fire pit in an enclosed space — this includes campers, tents, houses, or vehicles. For extra protection for the surface beneath the pit, consider a Limestone Fire Pit Base quarried from the mountains of Tennessee.

➤ Pro Tip: Do not tarp a fire pit — the tarp can cause the patina to blacken and stop the oxidation process, and in many cases the color of the tarp will transfer to the steel. A canvas cover is best.

4. Custom Colors & Finishes

Fire Pit Art's carbon steel designs come in a wide range of finishes, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional, allowing them to fit into nearly any outdoor decor style. Because gas fire pits run cooler than wood-burning units, gas models can be powder coated with a color finish from Fire Pit Art's palette to make your pit even more unique.

 

 

As of this posting, gas fire pits from Fire Pit Art can be ordered in: Iron Oxide Patina, Bronze, Mojave, Silverado, Speckled Oak, Tuxedo Black, or Rusty Sandpaper.

When a gas model is selected, your steel fire pit can be additionally finished in a color powder coating.

5. Smokeless Technology

One of the newer additions to the Fire Pit Art lineup is the Mesa Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit — a design that uses a secondary airflow system to pull smoke back through the flame and burn it more completely. The result is a wood-burning fire with dramatically less smoke than a traditional pit, without giving up the crackle and scent of a real wood fire. It's a great option if you've avoided wood-burning pits in the past because of smoke drifting toward seating or neighboring yards.

6. Patina That Improves With Age

Steel allows for intricate designs, and it develops a unique patina as it ages that adds character to the piece. Each fire pit from Fire Pit Art is built to heirloom-quality specifications by skilled metalsmiths.

 

 

The stunning patina that steel fire pits acquire over time is further enhanced when you choose the Iron Oxide Patina finish. During the first fire, the natural orangish finish of the iron oxide begins to darken into a rich mahogany — a maturing process that continues with use, preserving that darker look for the remainder of the pit's lifetime.

A "Third Rock" fire pit beautifully displaying the natural darkening process of the iron oxide patina finish that will remain a deep mahogany.

Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Which Should You Choose?

Fire Pit Art builds the large majority of its catalog from carbon steel, with a smaller line of premium designs — like the Bella Vita and Fire Surfer — built from 304 stainless steel. Here's how to think about the choice:

• Carbon steel is the workhorse of the collection — heavy-gauge, finished in a hand-applied patina, and available across dozens of designs and price points. It's the better fit if you want a wide range of styles, colors, and budgets to choose from.
• 304 stainless steel offers the highest resistance to rust and corrosion of the two, and gives designs like the Bella Vita a bright, contemporary finish rather than a patina look. It's the better fit for coastal climates, high-humidity regions, or a more modern aesthetic.

➤ Quick take: if you want maximum design variety and a rich, aged patina, go carbon steel. If you want the most corrosion resistance and a brighter, modern finish, go stainless.

8 Fire Pit Art Fire Pits Worth Knowing

1. The Crown Jewel: Africa's Big Five Wood Burning Fire Pit

A stunning tribute to the wildlife of the African continent, featuring intricate cutouts of the lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and Cape buffalo. Its robust carbon steel construction and unique steel tusk base design make it a durable, eye-catching centerpiece for any outdoor space.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning (Gas version also available)
Material: ¼" Thick Carbon Steel
Finish: Iron Oxide Patina
Dimensions: 41" bowl diameter x 28"H; Longest width: 58" (tusk to tusk)
Weight: 700 lbs.
Price: $8,470 (wood) / from $9,460 (gas)
Warranty: 10 years for all fire pit components from the date of purchase by the original owner

Pros:

• Unique, striking piece of art featuring large cutouts of Africa's "Big Five" animals
• Heirloom potential — robust construction and design that can be passed down through generations

Cons:

• At 700 pounds, it requires a solid, stable placement area
• Its substantial size and price point put it out of reach for smaller spaces or budgets

2. Modern: Bella Vita Gas Fire Pit

Combines modern elegance with timeless durability. Crafted from high-grade 304 stainless steel, this fire pit enhances any outdoor setting with its spherical profile, ensuring everyone can enjoy the warmth and beauty of the flames.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Liquid Propane or Natural Gas (Wood-burning version also available)
Material: 304 Stainless Steel
Dimensions and weight: Ranges from (BV 34) 34" bowl diameter x 12"H / 100 lbs. to (BV 70) 70" bowl diameter x 18"H / 340 lbs.
Burners: H-burners ranging from 125K to 400K BTU, depending on size
Price: From $4,868 (gas) / from $2,802 (wood)
Warranty: 10-year warranty on all components; 100-Year Guarantee on materials and craftsmanship; HPC Penta Burner with a lifetime warranty

Pros:

• Available in four sizes to fit any outdoor space
• The matte bowl finish contrasted with a brightly polished base offers a sophisticated look
• Match Lit System included, with options for grill tank conversion for portable propane tank use

Cons:

• High-quality materials and craftsmanship come with a premium price tag
• 304 stainless steel availability can fluctuate, potentially leading to extended lead times

3. Minimalist: Crater Wood Burning Fire Pit

A classic, unadorned design that focuses on the raw beauty of the flames — a purist's choice for outdoor warmth and ambiance. Crafted from durable carbon steel, this fire pit offers a captivating campfire vibe with its 3-foot diameter bowl.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning (Gas version also available)
Material: Carbon Steel
Color: Iron Oxide Patina
Dimensions: 36" bowl diameter, 30" base diameter x 7"H, Total weight: 190 lbs.
Price: $1,264 (wood) / from $3,202 (gas)
Warranty: 10-year warranty on all components

Pros:

• Constructed from ¼ inch thick carbon steel for heirloom quality and longevity
• Traditional, simple aesthetic that fits nearly any space

Cons:

• As a wood-burning model, it may not be suitable for all areas due to fire regulations
• The minimalist design might not suit those looking for more decorative or elaborate fire pits

4. Innovation: Mesa Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit

For anyone who's loved the idea of a wood-burning fire pit but hated the smoke, the Mesa is Fire Pit Art's answer: a secondary combustion design that pulls smoke back through the flame and burns it more completely, producing a noticeably cleaner-burning wood fire.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning
Material: Carbon Steel
Price: $1,854

Pros:

• Dramatically less smoke than a traditional wood-burning pit
• Keeps the authentic crackle and scent of a real wood fire

Cons:

• A newer design in the lineup, so fewer long-term owner reviews are available yet

5. Asian Inspired: Wok-Style Fire Pits

A modern design influenced by Eastern aesthetics. Its low profile ensures everyone seated around can enjoy a full view of the flames. Available in four sizes, blending dramatic aesthetics with timeless appeal.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Liquid Propane or Natural Gas, or Wood Burning
Material: Carbon Steel
Color: Iron Oxide Patina (various finishes available)
Price: From $3,532 (gas) / from $1,320 (wood)
Burners: HPC Penta Stainless Steel Burner, 125K–400K BTU depending on size
Warranty: 10-year warranty on components, 100-Year Guarantee on materials and craftsmanship, lifetime warranty on HPC Penta Burner

Pros:

• Available in four versatile sizes to fit any outdoor setting
• A distinctive aesthetic for lovers of Eastern-inspired art and decor

Cons:

• Professional installation is recommended for gas connections

6. For the Rancher: Longhorn Wood Burning Fire Pit

Celebrates the spirit of Texas and the Southwest with distinctive bull head cutouts. A robust addition to any outdoor setting that pays homage to the rugged beauty of the Wild West.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning (Gas version also available)
Material: Carbon Steel
Color: Iron Oxide Patina
Dimensions: 36" bowl diameter x 24"H; Base: 19"W x 6"H
Weight: 185 lbs.
Price: $1,342 (wood) / from $3,484 (gas)
Warranty: 10 years for components

Pros:

• The longhorn cutouts offer a unique, captivating visual, perfect for rustic or southwestern decor
• One of the more accessible price points in the collection

Cons:

• As a wood-burning model, it may not be suitable for all areas due to fire regulations

7. Fire Surfer Portable Fire Pit

Style meets practicality. Its wavy-cut surface allows flames to elegantly dance through, creating an enchanting ambiance. Crafted from sturdy stainless steel, this fire pit is not only durable but genuinely portable.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning (Gas version also available)
Material: 304 Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 30" bowl diameter x 12"H, Base footprint: 12"
Price: $2,310 (wood) / $3,648 (gas)
Warranty: All fire pit components warranted for 10 years after the date of purchase by the original owner

Pros:

• Genuinely portable — easy to transport for beach days or holiday parties
• Available in both wood and gas, catering to different preferences

Cons:

• Its lighter-gauge construction may not be as heavy-duty as the ¼" carbon steel used in larger models

8. The Wild Card: Vesuvius Wood Burning Fire Pit

Inspired by its towering Italian namesake, the Vesuvius is designed specifically for narrower spaces and elegantly channels smoke and flames skyward. Its trilateral design projects fire away from the wind and minimizes the spread of embers and sparks.

Specifications:
Type & Fuel: Wood Burning
Material: ¼" Thick Carbon Steel
Finish: Iron Oxide Patina
Dimensions: Base 24"W x 7"H
Price: $2,254
Warranty: 10 years for all components from the date of purchase by the original owner

Pros:

• Unique trilateral shape ideal for wind protection and narrow spaces
• Lighter weight than other models may allow for easier repositioning

Cons:

• Currently only available as a wood-burning model — no gas version at this time

Shop Fire Pit Art at Fountainful

Start creating cherished memories today with a fire pit from Fountainful's Fire Pit Art Collection. We'd be honored to assist with your selection.

Questions about our products? Contact us today at 214-901-7275!

Fire Pit Art FAQ

 

Referenced Resources
Fire Pit Safety: 13 Rules to Remember, Caitlin Castelez and Teresa Odle for BobVila.com