If you’re passionate about outdoor cooking and barbecuing, you know that the type of smoker you use can make a world of difference in the taste and quality of your food. One type of smoker that’s been gaining popularity among barbecue enthusiasts is the drum smoker. But what exactly is a drum smoker, and why are they becoming a staple in backyard barbecues? Let’s get into it!

Why Choose a Drum Smoker?

Superior Flavor and Juiciness

Drum smokers are known for their ability to deliver superior flavor and juiciness. The vertical design allows for excellent heat distribution, and the meat is often suspended in the middle of the drum, which helps in even cooking and enhances the smoky flavor. Unlike other smokers, drum smokers create a convection effect that circulates heat and smoke around the food, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful dishes.

Versatility in Cooking

One of the most appealing aspects of drum smokers is their versatility. You can smoke, grill, roast, and even bake in these smokers. Whether you’re cooking ribs, brisket, chicken, or even pizza, a drum smoker can handle it all. This makes it a great investment for anyone who loves experimenting with different cooking styles and flavors.

Top Drum Smokers on the Market

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker

Features and Benefits

The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts for a reason. It offers a spacious cooking area, excellent temperature control, and a durable build. The porcelain-enameled steel construction ensures longevity, and the built-in lid thermometer helps you keep track of the internal temperature.

Pros and Cons-

• Pros: Reliable temperature control, durable construction, easy to assemble.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive than other models, heavier to move around.

Pit Barrel Cooker

Features and Benefits

The Pit Barrel Cooker is renowned for its simplicity and efficiency. It features a unique hook-and-hang method that allows you to cook multiple racks of ribs or other meats simultaneously. The 30-gallon drum is made of durable steel and comes with all the accessories you need to start smoking right away.

Pros and Cons-

• Pros: Easy to use, cooks evenly, includes essential accessories.
• Cons: Limited temperature control, smaller cooking capacity compared to other drum smokers.

Oklahoma Joe Bronco Pro Drum Smoker

Features and Benefits

The Bronco Smoker is a premium option that’s designed for serious barbecue enthusiasts. It boasts a high-quality build with a painted finish. This smoker is also highly customizable, with various rack options and accessories available. The unique airflow control system provides consistent and precise control over smoking temps and barrel-mounted temperature gauge with glow-in-the-dark accents.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Excellent build quality, customizable, superior heat control.
• Cons: Higher price point, orange. HA!

How to Choose the Best Drum Smoker

• Consider Your Cooking Style– When selecting a drum smoker, think about your cooking preferences. Do you prefer slow smoking or high-heat grilling? Some drum smokers offer better temperature control for slow cooking, while others excel at reaching higher temperatures for grilling.
• Check the Build Quality– The build quality of your drum smoker will determine its durability and performance. Look for smokers made of high-quality materials like stainless steel or porcelain-coated steel. A well-constructed smoker will retain heat better and last longer.
• Evaluate Ease of Use and Maintenance– It’s important to choose a drum smoker that’s user-friendly and easy to maintain. Look for features like easy ash removal, accessible cooking grates, and straightforward assembly. The easier it is to use and clean, the more you’ll enjoy your smoking experience.

Drum smokers are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor cooking game. They offer superior flavor, versatility, and a unique cooking experience that other smokers can’t match. Whether you choose the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, the Pit Barrel Cooker, or the Gateway Drum Smoker, you’re sure to enjoy delicious, smoky flavors that will impress your friends and family.

FAQs

1. What makes drum smokers different from other smokers?

Drum smokers are unique due to their vertical design, which allows for better heat and smoke circulation. This design helps in achieving evenly cooked, flavorful, and juicy meat compared to other types of smokers. I see these all the time at the competitions. SO MANY teams are using these now.

2. How do I maintain my drum smoker?

Maintaining a drum smoker involves regular cleaning of the grates and the drum itself. Remove ash and grease after each use, and occasionally deep clean the smoker to ensure it remains in good condition. Using a cover can also help protect it from the elements.

3. Can I use a drum smoker for grilling?

Yes, many drum smokers are versatile enough to be used for grilling as well. Simply adjust the temperature and use the cooking grates as you would with a regular grill. This makes drum smokers a great multi-purpose tool for outdoor cooking.