For my clambake, I made a makeshift, portable “pit” out of an old wine barrel. I cut the top off the barrel and then hinged it back on. That way I could open it to load it with everything I need for the clambake, and then close it easily. Cutting a wine barrel is not difficult; but you do want to be careful; follow these guidelines to ensure the job gets done correctly and safely. Use protective eyewear and heavy-duty gloves, and have a friend help you.
Wood wine barrels can be purchased from a winery or vineyard. They can be used for only a certain number of rotations, so wineries often have a few extra on hand that they’re willing to sell. Wineries also sell off their old barrels to online retailers or to hardware stores and nurseries where they are cut in half to be used as planters. Ask the store manager if he can order an uncut barrel for you. For specific barrel resources, see Sources.
To reuse the barrel after a clambake, wipe it down with hot water and a rag, then rinse it with a high-pressure hose. You can also take it to a self-service car wash, which has really high-pressure hoses. Just be sure not to use soapy water, as the soap will penetrate the wood and flavor your next clambake.
Barrel Build-It Kit
One 59-gallon oak wine barrel (ask for one with a bung plug)
Carpenter’s pencil
Tape measure
Power drill with 1/4-inch metal drill bit
Thirty-two 1/2-inch #12 slotted sheet metal screws
Screwdriver or socket wrench
Two 6-foot-long 2-by-4s (make sure they are straight)
Circular saw or handsaw
Sandpaper
One 6-inch heavy-duty hinge, such as a gate hinge (The hinge needs to be able to handle the weight of the lid, which is about 40 pounds.)
Large heavy-duty latch
8-by-10-foot plastic drop cloth
Outdoor varnish sealant
A rag or brush to apply sealant