Buck Stove Fireplace Insert Model 21 | Non-Catalytic, 28,901 BTUs (Covers 1,800 Square Feet) | Wood Burning with Heat Activated Blower | Black Door with 12" Faceplate Trim Kit

Why I chose the Buck 21 insert

I installed the Buck 21 insert to replace a tired, drafty fireplace that was more aesthetic than functional. I wanted a compact, non-catalytic unit that could reliably heat a small-to-medium space without fuss, and this model’s stated output and heat-activated blower fit the bill. After a full season of use—shoulder season starts, a cold snap, and plenty of day-long burns—I have a clear sense of where it shines and where it asks for compromises.

Installation and fit

As with any insert, the real work happens before the first fire. I ran a full, insulated stainless liner to the top of the chimney and sealed the damper area to prevent heat loss. The 12-inch trim kit was straightforward to cut and fit, neatly closing the gaps around the fireplace opening. If your masonry opening is irregular (as mine was), plan a little dry-fit time; the steel frames take a clean score-and-cut if you use the right tools and patience.

The blower plugs into a standard outlet, and I routed the cord discreetly along the hearth. Clearances and local codes still matter, even for an insert, so I’d strongly recommend a professional install or, at minimum, following your local requirements to the letter. Apart from safety, proper installation is also tied to the warranty registration.

Heating performance

On paper, the Buck 21 insert is rated up to 28,901 BTUs and geared toward spaces up to about 1,800 square feet. In my real-world use, it comfortably handled the main level of my older, reasonably insulated home during typical winter days. In an open-plan area, the heat spreads evenly; in a more compartmentalized layout, you’ll rely on the blower (and perhaps a fan in the hallway) to move warmth into adjacent rooms.

The blower makes a meaningful difference. It’s heat-activated, so you don’t need to babysit a switch—the fan kicks in once the body is hot and quietly circulates air, then winds down as the fire fades. The sound level is a low hum in the background, not the kind of noisy whir that dominates a room. It feels tuned for steady comfort rather than aggressive blast heat, which suits how I use the insert.

Day-to-day operation

This is a non-catalytic design with secondary burn tubes across the top of the firebox. Startups are reliable using dry kindling and a couple of small splits. Once the firebox is up to temperature, those tubes create visible jets that clean up the smoke and add heat—an encouraging sign that the combustion system is doing its job.

The firebox itself is on the modest side. It takes shorter splits happily and prefers a few well-placed pieces to a single big round. If you’re imagining true overnight burns, temper expectations; I found that consistent, comfortable heat meant reloading at reasonable intervals through the evening. For daytime heating or evening relaxation, the cadence is just fine, but if long, uninterrupted burns are your priority, consider sizing up within the same brand family.

I appreciated how responsive the appliance is to changes in fuel load and air adjustments. It’s easy to run a clean, efficient burn with good, seasoned wood. Likewise, the glass stays respectably clear when the stove is hot and the wood is dry. On slower, cooler burns, expect some haze—standard fare for non-cats.

Build quality and reliability

Overall fit and finish are solid. The door seals well, the hinge action is smooth, and the viewing area is generous for an insert this size. The black door suits a classic hearth look, and the brand offers alternative finishes (Pewter and Gold) for a more tailored aesthetic. The initial paint cure burned off in the first couple of fires; keep windows cracked and plan for that odor early on.

One small hiccup early in my use: one of the secondary tubes loosened after a hot fire and needed to be reseated. It was a simple, tool-light fix, and it’s been stable since. I now make a point to check the tubes and baffle during routine cleanups, which is good practice for any non-catalytic insert. Aside from that, the appliance has been predictable and sturdy, with no rattles or flex in the door or trim.

The blower in practice

A heat-activated blower sounds like a small detail, but it matters. Convection alone will warm the room directly in front of the hearth; the blower extends that reach. Once the body is hot, the fan kicks in and evens out the temperature across the space, especially helpful in rooms with tall ceilings or long runs. I found the airflow balanced: enough to move heat without creating a draft at sofa level. It’s the kind of set-and-forget convenience that makes wood heat easier to live with.

Maintenance and ease of living

Ash management is straightforward. I keep a shallow bed of ash on the floor for easier restarts and scoop out excess every few days of steady burning. The baffle and tubes are accessible for periodic checks. As with any wood burner, chimney maintenance is non-negotiable—sweep on a schedule that matches your burn intensity and fuel quality. Dry wood makes everything better: easier startups, cleaner glass, and reduced buildup.

The printed materials included with my unit were pretty light. I ended up checking the manufacturer’s resources to confirm details I wish had been in the box from the start. Given the number of variables—chimney height, clearances, trim fitting, and blower routing—more robust instructions would lower the learning curve for new owners. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s an area where a little more documentation would help.

Design and aesthetics

The Buck 21 insert leans traditional without being fussy. The black door is understated; the other door finishes let you dial in the look if your room has more polished metal or warmer tones. The trim frame cleans up the fireplace opening and reads as intentional rather than an afterthought. At night, the flame show is pleasant—especially once the secondary burn is active—and the viewing window gives you enough visual payoff for a cozy focal point.

Warranty and support

The warranty is a 1-year replacement and a 5-year limited parts policy, with manufacturer registration required. That’s a respectable commitment, though not the longest I’ve seen. As always, keep receipts, document your installation, and make sure the work complies with local and state codes so there are no surprises if you need support. Being able to deal with a U.S.-based company is a small but welcome comfort.

What could be better

• Documentation: The included instructions could be more thorough. Clearer guidance would save new owners time.
• Firebox size: It’s effective for its class, but if you want extended overnight burns, you’ll likely want a larger model.
• QC on small parts: My early tube looseness was easy to address, but better fastener checks at the factory would help.

None of these are showstoppers, but they’re worth knowing before you buy.

Who it’s for

• Homeowners looking to upgrade a rarely used fireplace into a practical heat source for small-to-medium spaces.
• Users who value a simple, non-catalytic system with automatic blower assistance.
• Households that burn seasoned wood and don’t mind reloading to maintain steady heat.

If you need to heat a sprawling, drafty home or demand true overnight burns, consider a larger insert. If your space is within the stated range and you want reliable, controllable warmth with a clean look, this model fits nicely.

Recommendation

I recommend the Buck 21 insert for homeowners who want a compact, dependable wood-burning insert that punches above its size with the help of a heat-activated blower. It’s well-built, easy to live with, and attractive in both operation and at rest. Be realistic about the firebox capacity, plan a proper installation, and use dry fuel, and you’ll get steady, comfortable heat without micromanagement. If long burn times are critical for you, step up to a larger unit; otherwise, this is a smart, balanced choice for everyday wood heat.