Looking to get into smoking meats but don't want to drop a grand on a pellet smoker right away. Anyone have experience with those barrel smokers from Walmart or should I save up for something better? I've got a decent grill already but want to try low and slow smoking for some ribs.
Check Facebook Marketplace for used charcoal smokers. Tons of people buy them cheap on good intentions and then sell them after a year. You can get a quality used one for under $150 easy.
The $300 budget is doable if you're flexible. I got a decent charcoal one and learned to use it before upgrading. First few smokes you're gonna mess up anyway so don't spend big money yet.
Whatever you buy make sure it actually fits in your yard space. I know a guy who bought a smoker and could barely get it in his backyard.
The Char-Griller offset smoker is right at your price point and it's a solid beginner smoker. Only downside is temp control takes practice but that's part of the learning process.
Honestly a 55 gallon drum from Craigslist and some hardware is like $100 total and works great. Look up some DIY smoker builds if you're handy at all.
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Start with a basic charcoal drum smoker. Weber makes one that's solid and like $250 new. Pellet smokers are cool but the learning curve is less fun when you're starting out.