Fresh Batch Box Build, What Core?

I've been running a J tube for two years now, and now I'm ready to move up to more of a "Batch Box Masonry Heater" with a batch box firebox and a large masonry bell and bench. But which core?

Original batch: Very well attested, mature, but very tall, firebox on the floor, narrow firebox, secondary air to build and replace (building is not an issue, I am a competent welder, but replacing might get a little annoying. I like to fix things, but I also like them to stay fixed.)

DSR2: Less well attested, good height due to no riser, meaning the firebox can be off the floor, simpler construction using castables (if you can get them) and brick, but narrow firebox, secondary air to build and replace

DSR3: Wider firebox for good viewing window, no secondary air to worry about, and the most damnable aspect of all, precious little build guidance. I can't even make an informed choice, because I have very little information to get informed on. What are the sizing parameters? Build materials?

Hi Solomon;
You will be happy with the batch box upgrade.
I vote for a traditional batch or a sidewinder batch.
The riserless DSR stoves are very cool but are still having the little details worked out.

A thought might be building a Walker design riserless core and installing it in a brick bell.

As far as the secondary air tube.
Duplicate my quick-change design (or buy one)
Purchase an RA330 or an RA253 stub from me or Rolled Alloy, and you never need to replace any of it.

Hi Thomas

I have browsed your wares in the past, but I had forgotten. I appreciate your perspective and your replaceable riser idea is smart.

What you mention is one of my concerns. I know, the efficiency differences are low, but to my eye it seems there is a noticeable difference in efficiency and CO production between the OG Batch box and the DSR series.

Just a little more context, what I'm planning to build is almost exactly Peter's "Mallorca" build except scaled up to 8".



So that scales up to being about seven feet tall. I'm also going to double brick the bell/mass to provide extra thermal mass.

Would be awesome to have a bigger door to look at the fire. But I grew up doing much labor to bring in wood, so I am very interested in efficiency. Also like simplicity and durability.