The Drum Smoker Advantage: Cooking Hot and Fast for Mouthwatering Results
As an experienced barbecue pitmaster, I’ve had the pleasure of cooking on a wide variety of smokers and grills over the years. But when it comes to achieving that perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and efficiency, I always come back to my trusty drum smokers. These compact powerhouses have become a staple in the competition BBQ circuit, and for good reason.
Unlike traditional offset or vertical smokers, drum smokers allow you to cook at higher temperatures while maintaining exceptional moisture and tenderness in your meat. This “hot and fast” approach drastically reduces your cooking time without sacrificing the low and slow smokehouse magic. Whether you’re tackling a massive packer brisket or a rack of fall-off-the-bone ribs, drum smokers deliver restaurant-quality results right from your backyard.
The secret lies in their unique design. By positioning the charcoal basket at the bottom of the drum, the heat and smoke are forced to circulate around the meat, enveloping it in a flavor-packed cocoon. This vertical orientation also maximizes your cooking capacity, allowing you to stack multiple racks or hang multiple cuts simultaneously. It’s a game-changer for entertaining large groups or prepping for a competition.
But not all drum smokers are created equal. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to test and cook on a variety of models, from budget-friendly DIY kits to premium, competition-grade units. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my personal experiences and insights on the top-rated drum smokers on the market, highlighting their unique features, strengths, and drawbacks. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of which drum smoker is best suited for your needs.
Pit Barrel Cooker: The Classic Drum Smoker
When it comes to drum smokers, the Pit Barrel Cooker (PBC) is often considered the gold standard. This veteran-owned, American-made smoker has earned a loyal following for its simplicity, versatility, and unwavering performance. I’ve had the pleasure of cooking on the PBC numerous times, and it’s a true workhorse in my arsenal.
One of the standout features of the PBC is its no-fuss setup. Straight out of the box, you simply attach the handles, light the charcoal, and you’re ready to start smoking. No complicated controls or temperature gauges to worry about – just set it and forget it. The PBC’s air intake is strategically placed at the bottom, allowing you to easily adjust the airflow and, in turn, the temperature inside the drum.
But what really sets the PBC apart is its innovative hanging system. Rather than relying on traditional grates, this smoker allows you to suspend your meat from hooks above the heat source. This not only maximizes your cooking capacity, but also ensures consistently juicy and tender results. I’ve smoked everything from racks of ribs to whole turkeys using this method, and the flavors are simply unbeatable.
In terms of portability, the PBC doesn’t quite match the mobility of some of its competitors. Without built-in wheels, you’ll need to physically lift and move the drum, which can be a challenge for smaller or less physically inclined pitmasters. However, the tradeoff is a sturdy, well-constructed design that can withstand the rigors of the competition circuit.
Cleaning the PBC is also a breeze. Simply remove the grates or hooks, dump the ash, and you’re good to go. No complicated disassembly or deep cleaning required – the porcelain-enameled interior makes it a breeze to maintain.
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills drum smoker that delivers exceptional results, the Pit Barrel Cooker is an excellent choice. Its simplicity, versatility, and proven track record make it a top pick for both novice and experienced pitmasters alike.
Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco: Precision Temperature Control
For those seeking a bit more precision in their drum smoker setup, the Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco is a worthy contender. This well-designed unit offers a level of temperature control that sets it apart from the more basic PBC.
The key to the Bronco’s temperature management lies in its innovative air intake and exhaust system. Rather than a single vent at the bottom, the Bronco features a waist-level air intake pipe that allows you to fine-tune the oxygen flow to your charcoal basket. Coupled with an adjustable exhaust vent in the lid, this setup gives you a high degree of control over the internal temperature – a must-have feature for those who want to experiment with both low-and-slow and hot-and-fast cooking techniques.
I’ve found the Bronco’s temperature probe to be particularly helpful, as it allows me to monitor the internal grill temperature without constantly lifting the lid. This is crucial for maintaining consistent results, especially when cooking tougher cuts like brisket or pork shoulder.
Another standout feature of the Bronco is its generous cooking capacity. With two grate levels and the option to hang meats, you can easily accommodate a large gathering or prep for a competition. The included charcoal basket also boasts an impressive burn time, allowing you to focus on tending to your food rather than constantly refueling.
Mobility is another area where the Bronco shines. Unlike the PBC, this drum smoker is equipped with large, durable wheels that make it easy to transport around your backyard or to the competition site. The only downside I’ve encountered is the wagon-style wheels, which can leave marks on delicate surfaces like my trailer floor.
Cleaning the Bronco is a relatively straightforward process, thanks to the inclusion of a handy grease management system. A small hole in the bottom of the drum allows drippings to collect in a removable cup, simplifying the cleanup process.
Overall, the Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco is an excellent choice for pitmasters who want more precise temperature control without sacrificing the capacity and convenience of a drum smoker. Its thoughtful design and robust construction make it a worthy investment for the serious backyard barbecue enthusiast.
Gateway Drum Smokers: The Competition Circuit’s Favorite
If you’ve attended any major BBQ competitions in the past few years, chances are you’ve seen the ubiquitous presence of Gateway Drum Smokers. These powerhouses have become the go-to choice for many professional pitmasters, and for good reason.
What sets the Gateway apart is its laser-like focus on “hot and fast” cooking. Engineered to maintain temperatures between 250°F and 325°F, this drum smoker is specifically designed to deliver competition-worthy results in a fraction of the time. I’ve personally used the Gateway on the circuit, and the consistency and flavor it produces are simply unparalleled.
One of the standout features of the Gateway is its dual air intake system. Located at waist level, these two adjustable vents allow you to fine-tune the oxygen flow to your charcoal basket, ensuring precise temperature control even in windy conditions. Coupled with the exhaust vent at the top, this setup gives you a high degree of command over the internal environment.
The Gateway’s large capacity is another major selling point. With three cooking grates and the option to hang meats, you can easily accommodate an entire competition spread or cater to a sizeable crowd in your backyard. And thanks to its sturdy caster wheels, moving the Gateway around is a relatively straightforward task.
Cleaning the Gateway, however, can be a bit more involved than some of the other drum smokers on the market. Without a dedicated ash or grease management system, you’ll need to rely on a shop vac or physically tipping the drum to clear out any residue. It’s a minor inconvenience, but one that’s worth noting for those who prioritize effortless cleanup.
If you’re a serious competition pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast who demands professional-grade results, the Gateway Drum Smoker is an excellent choice. Its uncompromising focus on hot-and-fast cooking, coupled with its impressive capacity and temperature control, make it a standout option in the drum smoker market.
Hunsaker Drum Smokers: The Pitmaster’s Choice
After years of testing and competing with a variety of drum smokers, I’ve come to the conclusion that the Hunsaker is my personal favorite. This American-made powerhouse combines unparalleled temperature control, exceptional build quality, and a host of innovative features that have firmly cemented its place as the go-to choice for discerning pitmasters.
The secret to the Hunsaker’s performance lies in its unique air intake system. Rather than relying on vents on the side of the drum, the Hunsaker features a strategically placed hole in the bottom that allows you to precisely regulate the airflow to your charcoal. A simple lever adjustment allows you to easily transition from the “start” position (wide open) to the “run” position (partially closed), giving you granular control over the internal temperature.
Coupled with the adjustable exhaust vent in the lid, this setup allows me to maintain incredibly stable temperatures, even in windy conditions. I’ve cooked everything from delicate fish to thick-cut briskets on my Hunsakers, and the consistency of the results is truly impressive.
But the Hunsaker’s innovations don’t stop there. The inclusion of the patented Vortex system is a game-changer, effectively eliminating the need to spin or rotate your meat. This ingenious baffle forces the air to circulate in a specific pattern, ensuring even cooking throughout the drum without any manual intervention.
In terms of capacity, the Hunsaker is a true workhorse. With five cooking grate levels and the ability to hang multiple racks of ribs or whole turkeys, this drum smoker can handle even the most ambitious backyard barbecue or competition spread. And when it comes time to move it around, the Hunsaker’s heavy-duty, rubberized wheels make it a breeze to transport, even on uneven terrain or tricky surfaces.
Cleaning the Hunsaker is also a breeze, thanks to its bottom-mounted air intake. Simply open the lever to its “start” position, and any ash or grease residue can be pushed right out the bottom, eliminating the need for complex disassembly or awkward tilting.
While the Hunsaker’s premium price tag may be a deterrent for some, I firmly believe that the investment is well worth it. The attention to detail, innovative features, and exceptional build quality make this drum smoker a true standout in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned competition pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast, the Hunsaker is a drum smoker that will elevate your barbecue game to new heights.
Drum Smoker DIY Kits: Affordable Customization
If the price tag of the premium drum smokers has you feeling a bit hesitant, don’t worry – there’s another option that can provide you with exceptional performance at a more budget-friendly price point. DIY drum smoker kits have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing backyard barbecue enthusiasts to build their own custom units without breaking the bank.
One of the standout options in this category is the Hunsaker DIY Drum Smoker Kit. Leveraging the same innovative design principles that make their pre-built models so impressive, this kit allows you to create your very own Hunsaker-quality drum smoker for a fraction of the cost. By sourcing a standard 55-gallon drum and combining it with Hunsaker’s expertly engineered components, you can enjoy all the benefits of their top-of-the-line smokers, but with the added satisfaction of having built it yourself.
The kit includes everything you need to get started, from the custom air intake system to the hanging rod accessories. And with step-by-step instructions and the support of the Hunsaker team, even novice DIYers can tackle this project with confidence. Plus, the ability to customize the color and appearance of your drum smoker means you can truly make it your own.
Of course, the DIY route isn’t for everyone. Building your own smoker requires a bit more time and effort than simply unboxing a pre-assembled model. But for those who relish the challenge and take pride in their handiwork, a DIY drum smoker kit can be an incredibly rewarding and cost-effective solution.
Regardless of whether you opt for a premium pre-built drum smoker or a custom DIY kit, one thing is clear: these compact, high-performance units are a game-changer for the backyard barbecue enthusiast. With their unparalleled efficiency, capacity, and flavor-packed results, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in the competition circuit and the envy of backyard pitmasters everywhere.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to elevate your barbecue game and let the magic of a top-rated drum smoker transform your backyard into a flavor-filled oasis. Visit Creekside BBQ to explore our full selection of premium smokers, grills, and accessories, and take the first step towards barbecue perfection.
