If you’re the sort of outdoor enthusiast who loves nothing more than cooking up a hearty meal under the stars, then the Petromax FT6 Dutch Oven should be on your radar. The size we tested has a cooking capacity of 5.5 litres which is perfect for anyone who enjoys the rustic charm of campfire cooking, and it’s an absolute workhorse for camping, 4x4 trips, or even just backyard barbecues. It also comes in a variety of sizes ranging from 0.93L up to a whopping 16.1L.

But how does it really stack up? Let’s dive in.

The Petromax FT6 is a solid bit of kit, weighing in at around 9.5kg – you can tell this thing is built to last! Its pre-seasoned cast iron construction means it’s ready to use right out of the box (no faffing around with seasoning yourself), and thanks to the even heat distribution from the thick walls, you can cook everything from stews and casseroles to baking bread without worrying about hot spots or undercooking.

Ease of Use

The FT6 is designed with ease in mind. The three sturdy legs make it easy to place over coals or directly in the fire, and the strong wire handle lets you suspend it over flames if you have a tripod set up. The lid has a lifted edge so that you can also place hot coals on top to speed up cooking, using heat from all sides.

Talking about the lid, one of the standout features has to be that I can also double as a griddle. It’s a nifty feature for campers looking to cut down on extra gear – flip it over and boom, you’ve got a hot surface to fry your eggs or sizzle some sausages, and it also has three legs to make it easier to use. If you want to keep your eye on your cooking like a pro, it also has a small notch in the lid which, when you line it up with the notch in the base, allows you to slip in a thermometer without having to take off the lid and lose all the built up heat.

Compared to other Dutch ovens we’ve reviewed, Robens Carson and Madog, the Petromax FT6 comes out on top in terms of capacity without feeling overly bulky, and in reality this 5.5 litre size can feed 4-8 people (depending on their greediness), and it comes with a small recipe booklet, written in both German and English, if you need inspiration. The Petromax has a sturdier feel and offers more versatility with that griddle lid, making it a more complete package for serious campers and outdoor chefs.

Any Drawbacks?

While there’s a lot to love, it’s not perfect. The Petromax FT6 is on the heavier side, so if you’re after something a bit more portable, it won’t be the best option for long hikes or solo treks. Also, the cast iron construction, while excellent for cooking, does require a bit of maintenance – regular seasoning after each use will keep it in tip-top shape.

Another potential downside is the price. The FT6 is definitely an investment, and there are cheaper ovens out there, but if you’re serious about your campfire cooking and want a product that’ll last you years, the extra cost is worth it.

Our Verdict

Overall, the Petromax FT6 Dutch Oven is a solid bit of kit for anyone who takes their outdoor cooking seriously. With its large capacity, clever design and robust build quality, it’s a top choice for feeding a hungry crowd on your next camping or 4x4 adventure. Yes, it’s a bit heavy, and yes, it’s pricier than some alternatives, but for the cooking experience it offers, the FT6 is hard to beat. If you’re a fan of hearty meals cooked over an open flame, this one’s a winner, just don’t forget to pack a strong arm to carry it.

price: 5.5 litre version - £94.95

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