A biltong box does three things: keeps flies off, moves air and holds a gentle warmth. You can buy one, or you can build one in an afternoon with a crate, a 12 V computer fan and a low-wattage globe.
How to Build a Biltong Box for Under R500
A simple wooden or cardboard dryer with a computer fan and a light bulb that dries a full batch in four days.
- Prep
- 2 hours
- Time
- —
- Total
- 2 hours
- Yield
- One box that holds 3-4 kg
What you need
Materials
- A wooden crate or sturdy cardboard box, about 50 x 40 x 60 cm
- A 120 mm computer fan with a 12 V adapter
- A 40 W incandescent globe with a lamp holder (not LED — you want the heat)
- A stainless rod or dowel for the hooks
- S-hooks or biltong hooks
- Fly mesh, a drill and screws
Steps
- 1
Drill or cut a row of 20 mm holes along the bottom of two opposite sides for air intake, and cover them with fly mesh.
- 2
Cut a fan-sized hole in the top panel and mount the fan so it pulls air out of the box.
- 3
Fit the lamp holder low inside the box, off to one side, and shield it so nothing can touch the globe.
- 4
Mount the rod across the top third of the box, at least 15 cm below the fan.
- 5
Line the floor with foil or a removable tray to catch drips.
- 6
Wire the fan adapter and lamp to a single plug, and test that the box holds 25-30 C with the door closed.
- 7
Hang your strips with a hand's width between them and leave the fan running continuously.
Tips from the box
- • An incandescent globe is doing a job here — LEDs give light but no warmth.
- • If the box runs hotter than 32 C, swap to a 25 W globe or add another intake hole.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a light bulb in a biltong box?
Not strictly, but a low-wattage incandescent globe raises the temperature a few degrees and shortens drying by about a day, especially in winter.
Can I use a cardboard box?
Yes. Cardboard works well for a first build as long as you mesh the air holes and keep the globe well away from the sides.