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Smoke Like a Pro: 24 Best Old Smokey Grills for Award-Winning BBQ
From backyard barbecues to smoking brisket, our Old Smokey Grill roundup showcases the best units for both new and experienced smokers.
The Old Smokey Grill is a popular choice among backyard smokers, known for its durable construction and consistent performance. This article compares the most significant features of the Old Smokey Grill models, helping you make an informed decision based on your smoking needs and preferences.
As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!
Reviews
R V Works SCG40C 40 Smokin Cajun Charcoal Grill
The R V Works SCG40C charcoal grill combines impressive cooking capabilities with practical features that make it a solid choice for outdoor entertaining. Its heavy steel construction and professional-grade temperature control range from smoking to high-heat searing prove that you get what you pay for in a grill. While some users have noted challenges with wind resistance and rust, the durable design and reliable performance make it worth considering for serious grill enthusiasts who can address these minor drawbacks.
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet offset smoker combines stylish looks with practical features like adjustable charcoal pans and a built-in thermometer. The heavy-duty grill includes a welded-on lid and side door for easy maintenance, while the durable porcelain-coated grates provide ample cooking space. With thoughtful touches like a rolling base and weatherproof cover, it's a solid choice for backyard barbecuing.
Old Smokey 18-Inch Barbecue Grill
With its elegant aluminized steel construction and USA-made heritage, the 18-inch Old Smokey combines durability and portability for your outdoor cooking needs. Standing just 27 inches tall, this compact grill lets you fire up delicious meals whether you're grilling burgers on your patio or smoking ribs at the beach. The simple design makes it a breeze to use, with easy assembly and quick setup for impromptu cookouts.
Fire Magic Legacy 24" Smoker Charcoal Grill
The Fire Magic Legacy charcoal grill blends commercial-grade durability with user-friendly design elements like adjustable charcoal trays and a front-loading door for hassle-free refueling. The 432-square-inch cooking surface and precise temperature control make it ideal for both casual backyard cookouts and more ambitious BBQ gatherings. Built for durability with 304 stainless steel construction, this grill features a convenient warming rack and portable cart with dual access doors.
PK Grills Original Charcoal Grill and Smoker
The grill's sleek graphite finish and compact capsule shape make it a stylish addition to any backyard setup, while the clever 4-vent design lets you master both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking with ease. Built from rust-proof cast aluminum that heats up four times faster than steel, this durable cooker comes with a decade-long warranty against rust, burnout, or breakage – giving you plenty of time to perfect your BBQ skills. With 300 square inches of cooking surface and a portable design that includes two wheels and a convenient side shelf, it's as practical for tailgating and camping trips as it is for backyard barbecues.
Old Smokey OL382991 Charcoal Grill #22
This compact charcoal grill lets you sit while you cook, thanks to its short legs. The two-piece design handles plenty of food at once, making it perfect for backyard barbecues. Built-in China, it's earned top marks from users who praise its performance for smoking chicken and other meats.
Big Green Egg 18.25 in. Large Charcoal Grill and Smoker
The Big Green Egg stands out among grills as a versatile cooking machine that handles everything from backyard barbecues to precise baking. Its ceramic construction holds heat exceptionally well, whether you're smoking a whole chicken or grilling tender steaks. With the right technique and quality charcoal, it delivers restaurant-worthy flavor that keeps getting better with each use.
Old Smokey OL382990 Charcoal Grill
This Old Smokey grill lets you sit while you cook – perfect for those long BBQ sessions. The two-piece design handles plenty of food, making it ideal for gathering with friends and family. Built in China, it brings convenient sit-down grilling to your outdoor space.
Old Smokey Portable Charcoal Grill
This classic American-made charcoal grill combines durable aluminized steel construction with a practical 333-square inch cooking surface. The chrome-plated grid and dual venting system deliver consistent heat while the portable design lets you move it anywhere in your backyard. Whether you're grilling burgers on the patio or smoking brisket in the backyard, this versatile Old Smokey is built to handle both tasks with ease.
Pk Grills Original Charcoal Grill
This reliable charcoal grill combines portability with authentic smoke-roasted flavor, featuring a spacious 300-square-inch cooking surface and precision temperature control through its unique four-vent system. The upgraded design includes a 3-inch taller cooking chamber and durable cast aluminum construction that's built to last, just like those cherished family heirlooms.
Fire Magic Old Smokey Charcoal Grill
Made from commercial-grade stainless steel and built in the USA, this smoker grill combines impressive durability with precise temperature control via adjustable hood vents and a front-door charcoal addition feature. The rectangular grill space features diamond-sear cooking grids and a built-in warming rack, making it a versatile centerpiece for both casual backyard cookouts and serious smoker enthusiasts. The included thermometer and height-adjustable charcoal pan help maintain consistent cooking temperatures, from slow smoking to fast-searing.
Old Country BBQ Pit
This portable charcoal grill packs serious cooking power into a compact package, with a welded steel construction that gives it lasting durability despite some initial rust issues reported by users. The stay-cool handle and airflow grate make cooking breeze, though the charcoal lines are a bit backward for efficient food scooping. At just 22 pounds, it's easy to take on road trips or camping trips for low-maintenance outdoor cooking.
Char-Griller Smokin' Outlaw Charcoal Grill with Rotisserie
This heavy-duty charcoal grill packs an impressive 975 square inches of cooking space, featuring authentic cast iron grates that deliver restaurant-quality results. The attached side fire box adds versatile indirect heat for smoking, while the easy-dump ash pan makes cleanup a breeze. Built to last, this grill combines solid construction with practical features that help you master both quick grilling and slow smoking techniques.
SUNCHIEF 613 Square Inch Charcoal BBQ Grill
Fold down the sides for prep space and keep the grilling going with quick-add coals. The metal body soaks up heat, and the four adjustable vents make it easy to control the temperature, whether you're smoking brisket or searing steaks. When you're done, the lightweight frame rolls anywhere you need to move it, from the backyard to a picnic spot.
Royal Gourmet CC1830RC Offset Smoker Barbecue Grill
Combining classic barrel grill styling with modern offset smoker design, this durable charcoal grill from Royal Gourmet stands up to frequent backyard use without breaking the bank. The 30-inch cooking surface fits perfectly into smaller outdoor spaces while still delivering ample room for entertaining. With its simple yet effective temperature control and included grill cover, it's a practical choice for both new and experienced grillers.
Phi Villa Offset Charcoal Smoker
This sleek black smoker combines durable steel construction with an efficient offset design that retains heat and smoke beautifully. The large cooking surface, featuring six racks and enameled grates that stay cool to the touch, makes short work of any gathering, while the built-in thermometer keeps your cooking precise and your guests happy.
Captiva Designs Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Combining 512 square inches of cooking surface with seamless heat circulation, this all-metal smoker-grade grill keeps your cuisine grilled to perfection while maintaining original flavors. The acid-proof enamel coating on the grilling rack ensures both safety and taste preservation, while the thoughtfully designed offset smoker section provides versatile additional cooking space for sides or smaller dishes. Built for durability with thicker metal construction than standard models, this charcoal-powered grill sets a new standard for outdoor cooking performance.
Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Barrel Grill with Offset Smoker
A trusted workhorse in the backyard grill category, this classic charcoal barrel grill combines timeless design with practical innovations. The offset smoker design keeps heat where it's needed, while the stainless steel interior and powder-coated steel construction ensure lasting performance through countless cooking sessions.
Royal Gourmet CC1830M Charcoal Grill
With its ample 30-inch cooking surface and traditional barrel design, the Royal Gourmet C1830M charcoal grill delivers impressive performance for both smoking and grilling. The lid-mounted thermometer helps maintain consistent temperatures, while the three integrated hooks keep your cooking tools handy when you're not using them. This versatile grill has become a centerpiece for weekend barbecues and family gatherings, though some assembly challenges and minor quality issues have been reported.
Smokin' Pro Barrel Grill & Offset Smoker
This iconic barbecue masterpiece combines premium stainless steel construction with versatile dual-purpose functionality, letting you master both high-heat grilling and slow-smoking Texas-style cuisine. The fully adjustable airflow system and spacious side shelf with built-in utensil hooks make it a practical centerpiece for any outdoor kitchen, while the classic charcoal fuel source brings out the natural flavors of your favorite meats and vegetables. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or smoking whole hogs for a neighborhood gathering, this Char-Griller legend won't disappoint - it's a backyard staple that continues to impress grill masters after over two decades of loyal service.
Royal Gourmet CC1830W Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830W combines offset smoker functionality with generous cooking capacity for both grilling and smoking. Its height-adjustable charcoal pan and built-in temperature control make it user-friendly, while the spacious mesh storage keeps accessories organized. The paint occasionally peels after a few uses, but the grill delivers impressive flavor and versatility for the price point.
Outsunny Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill
This steel barbecue grill combines a main cooking surface with an offset smoker in a practical design that requires just two hours of assembly. The chrome-plated cooking grates and accurate temperature gauge ensure your food cooks evenly, while the included storage shelves help keep your outdoor space organized. Made from a durable 17kg steel frame with a black powdercoat finish, the portable grill measures just 36.5 cm tall and 102 cm long, making it manageable for backyard use. The wood handle and metal construction provide a solid grip while you're cooking, whether you're grilling burgers and veggies or smoking delicious meats on the side.
Expert Grill 28" Offset Charcoal Smoker with Side Firebox
The Expert Grill 28" offset charcoal smoker combines generous cooking space with practical features like an adjustable charcoal tray and side firebox with temperature control. The black powder-coated steel construction and porcelain-coated cooking grates promise lasting quality and easy maintenance. Whether you're grilling burgers for a backyard gathering or smoking whole chickens, this durable grill delivers reliable performance with its 1025 square inches of cooking space.
Royal Gourmet CC1830F Offset Charcoal Grill
This rugged charcoal grill packs serious cooking power into a surprisingly elegant black steel frame. The main grill offers plenty of surface area for searing steaks and burgers, while the offset smoker chamber adds generous extra space for slow-cooking meats and homemade hickory-smoked chips. The built-in thermometer keeps your cooking temps nailed down, and the heavy-duty lid and portable cart make it a breeze to move around your backyard.
Buyer's Guide
Old Smokey grills combine traditional smoking techniques with modern convenience, offering home cooks a way to create mouth-watering, wood-fired meats and vegetables. Understanding the key features and considerations can help you select the right grill for your cooking needs and preferences.
Smoke Chamber Design
The smoke chamber design significantly affects temperature control and cooking performance. Horizontal smoke chambers are common in upright smokers and provide ample space for smoking multiple items. Alternatively, vertical designs offer better temperature stability and are more energy-efficient.
Material and Construction
Quality materials ensure your Old Smokey grill remains functional and safe for years to come. Stainless steel smokers are durable and resist corrosion, while cast iron models provide exceptional heat retention. The construction should include welded rather than bolted joints for lasting durability.
Smoke Control System
A robust smoke control system maintains consistent temperature and flavor. Look for grills with adjustable vents that allow precise temperature control. The airflow management should enable easy adjustments for both direct and indirect cooking methods.
Cooking Surface and Accessories
The cooking surface material impacts both food quality and cleanup. Cast iron grills provide excellent searing capabilities and conduct heat well. Multi-level grills with separate cooking areas allow versatile cooking options. Essential accessories include drip pans, meat smokers, and temperature probes for monitoring cook progress.
FAQ
What is Old Smokey Grill?
Old Smokey Grill is a brand that specializes in outdoor cooking solutions, particularly known for their grills that offer a smoking feature for adding that authentic barbecue flavor to meats.
The company's products range from portable smokers to full-size grills, designed to help backyard chefs create smoked and grilled dishes that rival those from professional pits.
What types of cooking do Old Smokey Grills excel at?
These grills excel at smoking and low-and-slow cooking, ideal for preparing brisket, ribs, and other meats that benefit from long cook times and indirect heat.
They also perform well for traditional grilled foods like burgers, chicken, and vegetables, offering versatility for various cooking needs.
How does the smoking process work?
Old Smokey Grills feature a separate smoking chamber or compartment where wood chips can be added to create smoke. This smoke is then drawn into the cooking chamber through controlled ventilation, giving your food that characteristic barbecue flavor.
The process requires regular monitoring of both smoking wood and charcoal/burner fuel to maintain optimal smoking conditions.
What maintenance is required for Old Smokey Grills?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the grates and cooking surfaces after each use, checking for any signs of wear on the smoking chamber, and ensuring all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
It's also important to maintain the grill's heating elements and perform general inspections for any signs of damage or deterioration, particularly in the fuel system.
How long do Old Smokey Grills typically last?
With proper care and regular maintenance, an Old Smokey Grill can last for several years, though the lifespan can vary based on usage frequency and storage conditions.
Treat the grill as you would any outdoor kitchen appliance - store it properly when not in use, maintain it regularly, and use it consistently for the best longevity.
Does Old Smokey offer warranty coverage?
Old Smokey Grills typically come with a warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period, usually one to three years depending on the model.
Warranties often exclude normal wear and tear and may require the purchase of extended coverage for complete protection against defects.
As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!