Great Northern Popcorn Company Pit Popper Review: A Campfire Companion

For years, I’d dreamt of those classic campfire nights, complete with crackling flames, starry skies, and the delightful aroma of freshly popped popcorn. But the reality of trying to make popcorn over an open fire with makeshift methods always seemed more trouble than it was worth. The thought of unevenly popped kernels, burnt fingers, and a messy cleanup often deterred me. A proper Campfire Popcorn Popper would have saved me a lot of frustration and mess.

The appeal of campfire popcorn is undeniable. It’s the perfect complement to a cozy night under the stars, a fun activity for family gatherings, or a simple pleasure during a camping trip. But buying a popcorn popper designed for open flames requires careful consideration. The ideal customer is someone who enjoys outdoor cooking, values convenience, and wants a simple way to elevate their campfire experience. This popper isn’t for everyone, though. If you prefer perfectly consistent popcorn every time, a stovetop or microwave popper might be a better option. Those looking for an automatic, hands-off experience should also look elsewhere. Before making a purchase, consider your typical campfire setup, the frequency of your use, and the level of heat you’ll be working with. A crucial aspect is considering the popper’s construction materials – durability and heat resistance are paramount. Lastly, think about ease of cleaning; a quick and simple cleanup process is vital for a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Campfire Popcorn Popper - Old Fashioned Popcorn Maker with Telescoping Handle - Camping Gear by...
  • CAMPING POPCORN POPPER - Easily pop a batch of everyone’s favorite salty snack while you enjoy a campfire or backyard bonfire with this popcorn maker. This handy piece of open fire cooking equipment...
  • QUICK POPPING - This popcorn kettle allows you to turn kernels into 4-quarts of fresh campfire popcorn in just minutes. The unique design allows moisture to escape during the popping process, so your...
  • EXTENSION HANDLE - This innovative piece of campfire cooking equipment has a Cool Tube handle with a comfort grip. The popcorn pan handle extends up to 22.8-inches-long to keep your hands safely away...

Introducing the Great Northern Popcorn Company Pit Popper

The Great Northern Popcorn Company Pit Popper promises easy, delicious campfire popcorn. This old-fashioned popcorn maker boasts a telescoping handle, a quick-clip lid, and a 4-quart capacity. Compared to other campfire poppers, its extended handle is a significant safety advantage, keeping your hands away from the heat. Previous versions of campfire poppers often lacked this feature, leading to burnt fingers and frustrating experiences. This popper is perfect for camping enthusiasts, families, or anyone who loves the taste of popcorn made over an open flame. However, it’s not ideal for those seeking perfectly even popping or those with limited campfire experience needing more precise temperature control.

  • Pros: Telescoping handle for safety, quick-clip lid for easy cleaning, relatively lightweight, large capacity (4 quarts), nostalgic design.
  • Cons: Can be prone to uneven heating, the thin metal may warp with high heat, the handle’s plastic components may melt under extreme heat, cleaning might require more effort than advertised.
SaleBestseller No. 1
West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine Electric Hot Oil Popper Includes Large Lid for Serving Bowl and...
  • Popcorn Popper Machine: Make enough popcorn to treat the entire family from the comfort of home; This popcorn machine makes up to 6 quarts of popcorn in minutes
SaleBestseller No. 2
DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker with Measuring Cup to Portion Popping Corn Kernels + Melt Butter,...
  • QUICK plus EASY: Simply measure and add your popcorn kernels to the high capacity heating chamber, then push the one Touch start button, for Hot and fresh popcorn in minutes. It’s so easy, even your...
Bestseller No. 3
Presto Poplite Hot Air Popcorn Popper, 18 Cups, Yellow
  • HEALTHLY SNACK OPTION: The Presto PopLite popcorn machine uses hot air, not oil for a low-fat, heart-healthy snack

Exploring the Features and Benefits of the Pit Popper

The Telescoping Handle: A Game Changer for Safety

The extended handle is this popper’s standout feature. It extends to 22.8 inches, allowing you to comfortably hold the popper over the fire without risking burns. This is a massive improvement over traditional campfire poppers, making the whole process safer and more enjoyable, particularly for families with children. The “Cool Tube” handle also provides a comfortable grip, even when the popper is hot. This feature dramatically reduces the risk of accidental burns, a significant concern with open-flame cooking. No more frantic dashes to avoid getting burned!

The Quick-Clip Lid: Effortless Cleaning

The Quick-Clip lid is designed for convenience. Its simple mechanism allows for easy opening and closing, streamlining the entire popping process. More importantly, the vented lid facilitates better moisture escape during popping, leading to crispier popcorn. This also makes cleaning a breeze, as it’s a simple wipe-down process; no more tedious scrubbing. This is a huge advantage for camping, where water is often limited. The quick-clip design adds to the product’s overall ease of use, minimizing fuss and maximizing enjoyment.

4-Quart Capacity: Enough Popcorn for Everyone

The 4-quart capacity is substantial enough to feed a small gathering or a family. It allows you to make a generous batch of popcorn without repeatedly refilling the popper. This is a time saver, especially when you’re dealing with a dwindling campfire or limited time. For those moments when you crave a big bowl of popcorn, it’s great for sharing the popcorn fun!

Construction and Durability: A Mixed Bag

The popper is constructed primarily of aluminum, which is lightweight and conducts heat well. However, this also means it can warp under extreme heat if not handled carefully. Some users have reported warping or even burning through the bottom after several uses. The plastic components, particularly parts of the handle, can also melt if exposed to excessive heat. Therefore, careful monitoring of heat and responsible use are crucial for extending the popper’s lifespan.

What Other Users Are Saying

Online reviews are mostly positive, praising its ease of use and the delicious popcorn it produces. However, some users caution about potential warping and the need for careful heat management. Many appreciate the convenience of the telescoping handle and quick-clean design, while others emphasize the importance of pre-oiling to prevent sticking. The common thread across most reviews is the unparalleled taste of campfire-popped popcorn.

Ready for Campfire Popcorn Bliss?

The Great Northern Popcorn Company Pit Popper solves the age-old problem of making delicious campfire popcorn safely and efficiently. Its extended handle minimizes burn risks, the quick-clip lid simplifies cleaning, and the 4-quart capacity ensures ample popcorn for everyone. While it’s crucial to be mindful of heat and potential warping, the convenience and the unmatched taste of campfire popcorn make this popper a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here to check out the Great Northern Popcorn Company Pit Popper and start creating unforgettable campfire memories.