They are better if you don't cut the bottom out.
Punch airholes around the bottom and at the top back for a chimney effect.
I usually just cut out a square hole near the top back. You can add fuel through it and it lets the smoke out away from the side you are cooking from. Leave a bit of metal between the hole and the rim for support.
Having the smoke hole on one side and just punched holes for air around the bottom lets you turn it so that you get the best draft if there is any breeze. It also lets you bank dirt around the bootom holes if it is getting to much draft.
Tin cans burn out fairly fast so hobo stoves are short lifetime items, no need to get real fancy with them.

If you are trying to keep it off the ground to prevent burning stuff underneath it throwing some sand, clay or small rocks into it before fueling it helps. Move the bottom holes up to match.
The sand also helps keep the bottom from burning out quite as fast.
Setting the stove up on rocks or sand is good for safety.
A friend of mine uses an upside down cookie sheet under his.
He figures that keeps it more stable and acts as a heatshield to the ground.


If it is done right a hobo stove will burn almost any fuel including oils. The Bengazi burner is a close relative.