What To Know
- And when it comes to smokers, two of the most popular options are the Pit Barrel Cooker and the Weber Smokey Mountain.
- The Pit Barrel Cooker relies on a single air vent at the bottom of the barrel to control temperature.
- The Pit Barrel Cooker is a great choice for those who prioritize ease of use and fuel efficiency, while the Weber Smokey Mountain offers more temperature control and features.
When it comes to outdoor cooking, few things beat the smoky, succulent flavors of smoked meats. And when it comes to smokers, two of the most popular options are the Pit Barrel Cooker and the Weber Smokey Mountain. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll pit these two smokers against each other to help you make an informed decision.
Construction and Design
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker is a barrel-shaped smoker made from heavy-duty steel. It features a unique hanging system that allows you to suspend meat vertically, resulting in even cooking and minimal flare-ups.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain is a vertical smoker with a porcelain-enameled steel exterior and a cast iron charcoal grate. It has a water pan that helps regulate temperature and adds moisture to the cooking environment.
Cooking Capacity
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker comes in two sizes: the 18.5-inch and the 24-inch. The 18.5-inch model can accommodate up to 15 pounds of meat, while the 24-inch model can handle up to 25 pounds.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain is also available in two sizes: the 18-inch and the 22-inch. The 18-inch model has a capacity of 1,060 square inches, while the 22-inch model offers 1,484 square inches of cooking space.
Temperature Control
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker relies on a single air vent at the bottom of the barrel to control temperature. It’s known for maintaining a steady temperature between 225°F and 275°F, making it ideal for low-and-slow smoking.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain has two air vents, one at the bottom and one at the top. This allows for more precise temperature control, enabling you to smoke at a wider range of temperatures, from 225°F to 350°F.
Fuel Efficiency
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker is highly fuel-efficient. Its unique design allows it to burn charcoal for up to 12 hours, making it a great choice for long smoking sessions.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain is also fuel-efficient, but it requires more charcoal than the Pit Barrel Cooker to maintain the same temperature. It typically burns charcoal for 6-8 hours before needing to be refilled.
Ease of Use
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker is incredibly easy to use. Simply hang your meat, light the charcoal, and adjust the air vent to the desired temperature. It’s a great option for beginners and experienced smokers alike.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain is also user-friendly, but it requires a bit more assembly and maintenance than the Pit Barrel Cooker. It’s important to clean the water pan regularly to prevent rust and mold.
Features
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker features a built-in ash catcher that makes cleanup a breeze. It also has a built-in meat thermometer that allows you to monitor the temperature of your food without opening the lid.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain has a built-in water pan that helps regulate temperature and adds moisture to the cooking environment. It also has a hook on the lid for hanging thermometers or other accessories.
Price
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Pit Barrel Cooker ranges in price from $300 to $500, depending on the size.
Weber Smokey Mountain: The Weber Smokey Mountain ranges in price from $250 to $500, depending on the size and features.
Which Smoker is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best smoker for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a user-friendly, fuel-efficient smoker that’s ideal for low-and-slow cooking, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a great choice. If you prefer a smoker with more temperature control and features, the Weber Smokey Mountain is a better option.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Smoke-Off
Both the Pit Barrel Cooker and the Weber Smokey Mountain are excellent smokers that can produce delicious, smoky foods. The Pit Barrel Cooker is a great choice for those who prioritize ease of use and fuel efficiency, while the Weber Smokey Mountain offers more temperature control and features. Whichever smoker you choose, you’re sure to enjoy years of smoky grilling and smoking adventures.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which smoker is better for beginners?
A: Both the Pit Barrel Cooker and the Weber Smokey Mountain are suitable for beginners. However, the Pit Barrel Cooker is slightly easier to use due to its simple design and minimal maintenance requirements.
Q: What types of meat can I smoke?
A: You can smoke a wide variety of meats in both the Pit Barrel Cooker and the Weber Smokey Mountain, including pork, beef, chicken, and fish.
Q: How long does it take to smoke a brisket?
A: The smoking time for a brisket will vary depending on the size and temperature. However, you can expect to smoke a brisket for 8-12 hours at 225°F.
