Well, you asked for it. Here, Smoky answers the most commonly asked questions. He is direct, honest and offers an insight into the time proven techniques to preparing great barbecue that is unavailable elsewhere. If you are unable to locate the exact answer you are seeking, feel free to contact him directly and ask!
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Topic: SSSSmokin' Blueprints . . . . From: Darin,
Subject: Re: Smoker Blueprints

I am looking for smoker blueprints so that I may construct one myself. I want to build a mid-sized smoker for my family. If you can help me with this matter it would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you
Darin

Hi Darin,

So we can narrow down the choices to a few thousand, let's talk a little about what you really want. What are your metal working skills and how experienced a cooker are you and how big is your family and how many friends do you intend to feed? How much money do you want to spend?

Most folk who build their own cookers do it after years of barbecuing and do it because they want to have certain features included.

My advice is to spring for a couple of hundred bucks for a Char Broil charcoal model, an Oklahoma Joe's or a similar model. Unless you are an experienced welder with access to steel at a reasonable price, you can build for less. EXCEPT, if you go the 55 gal drum route.

I'm drawing up plans for a couple of models that can be constructed without welding. Your local librarian should be able to point you to several magazine articles about constructing your own grill. If you haven't found what you want in a couple of months, let me know.

Fun,
Smoky