Buck 21 Questions?

Sorry, I haven't used a model 21, but here are my thoughts.

1. In my model 51, I probably could clean from the bottom up. But I believe this could be messy to do so. I have easy roof access, so I clean top down.

2. I don't use a magnetic thermometer. I just don't see the need with a steel stove built as heavy duty as these Bucks are. It doesn't take long to tell how well it's burning from just looking at the flame and feeling the amount of heat from the stove. If you really want to check the temp, I recommend using an IR thermometer so you can point it at any part of the stove. I have one of these IR units, and after using it several times the first week since it was a new toy, I've rarely used it since.

3. Probably not, or at least not recommended. This is not the way these EPA stoves are made to be used.

4. For me, it depends how much heat I need. The best advice I can give is after the break in fires, don't be afraid to burn the stove. I've seen people who burn their stove cooler since they were afraid of getting it hot. When I have mine going good, the secondary burn tubes will glow orange. Probably the hottest I've seen any place on the outside of my stove is 600-650, but I have the optional blower installed and it cools the stove. Use an IR thermometer so you can check any spot on the stove if you're concerned. Always respect a wood stove, but there's no need to be afraid of using your Buck stove. They're well built and made to last.

Just my 2 cents worth.

I've just gotten a model 21.

1. Is there anyway to clean the liner from the bottom up, or at least be able to look up the flue to see how dirty it is? If they don’t use an offset box…

I don't see any way but top down. I guess you could put your camera in there and take a picture up the flue to look?...LOL
Seriously, I can put my hand back there and feel around a bit, but I don't think it would be easy to clean that way.

2. Is there anywhere to put a magnetic thermometer (tel-tru) on it?
I'm putting a magnetic thermometer in front on the door or on the side, plus using a IR thermometer. One person on this forum with the same model told me he tried to get around 400 on the thermometer that he put on the door.

3. Can I occasionally use the stove with the door open and a screen in-front?
Nope. Door open only if you want to get the fire REALLY going.

4. How hot should I run the stove? MAX? normal?
I am finding 400 via thermometer works well. Yesterday the thermometer got up to 500 - I got scared, but it seemed to handle it fine.

Hope this helps.

You know what, Im not sure about that cleaning question after I thought about it a while. I shot the question over to the people at Buck Stove, and will post their reply. The baffle is supposed to be removeable, I think, but I'm not sure. If it is, it seems it might work to clean from bottom up. We'll see...

On the model 51, the baffle is removable and I do remove it every time I sweep the chimney. Otherwise, the creosote stays (and I assume burns) on top of the baffle. The first time you remove it and put it back in, it'll take some time. But after that, it goes quick. Only problem is that you will get dirty.

I wondered why the baffle was loose, but now I'm glad, if it means it can be removed. How do you go about getting it outside the stove?

How you liking that Buck Model 21? I ordered mine yesterday and it will be installed on 12/29 -
- Stowy from NC

I bought wood a couple weeks ago and it was good and seasoned. Now I worry that the extra wood I will buy will not be. I need to buy more though ASAP. All I have is 3/4 of a full cord. You in NC too?

I hope it will get me through, but am prepared to buy more. I need to just bit the bullet and buy a full cord and get it airing out..... This may be my primary heat someday. I need to see if this 21 will hang. Thanks!