Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Cooker/Smoker review and price compare 2025
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you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
Product overview
Brand | Weber |
Power Source | Charcoal |
Color | Black |
Item Weight | 43 Pounds |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 18.88 x 18.88 x 41 inches |
Fuel Type | Charcoal |
product features
- by entering your model number.
- Charcoal smoker for authentic smokehouse flavor at home
- The bowl and lid are made of premium-grade steel coated with porcelain enamel that won't rust or fade
- Made of porcelain-enameled steel; 2 nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates
- Can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time
- Measures 41 by 19 by 19 inches; 10-year limited warranty
product description
Product Description
When there is no denying your hunger for slow-cooked barbecue, the Smokey Mountain Cooker can handle your craving. With two 18-1/2-inch cooking grates, the Smokey Mountain Cooker can smoke a turkey and a ham at the same time. With it's porcelain-on-steel coating, rust-resistant aluminum fuel door, solid wood handle, it's designed to last for years to come.
Amazon.com
There's nothing better than slow-cooked barbecue. And, there's no better way to get authentic smokehouse flavor at home than with the Smokey Mountain Cooker/Smoker. Perfect for large gatherings, it's easy to cook a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time in this roomy charcoal smoker. So there's no need to plunge straight into ham prep when you still haven't recovered from baking the turkey. Made of premium-grade steel, the smoker has two, triple-nickel-plated cooking grates measuring 18-1/2 inches in diameter-plenty of room for larger birds. Individual vents on the bowl and lid offer optimal air-flow control for tender meats and longer-burning charcoal. Rust-resistant aluminum vents and an aluminum fuel door ensure years of clean use. The bowl and lid are coated with porcelain enamel for optimal corrosion resistance. And, a porcelain-enameled water pan adds steam to the cooking process, so meats stay moist and juicy. Maintenance-free, glass-reinforced, nylon handles withstand the elements for the life of this innovative charcoal grill. The Smoky Mountain measures 41 by 19 by 19 inches, and rests easily on a park bench or patio. The purchase includes a Weber cookbook, a heavy-duty vinyl cover, and is covered by a 10-year limited warranty. --Brian Olson
From the Manufacturer
- Charcoal fueled
- Rust-resistant fuel door
- Two triple nickel-plated cooking grates
- The cooking grate surface area is 18-1/2 inches in diameter
- The bowl and lid are constructed of premium-grade steel coated with porcelain enamel for years of rust-free, dependable service.
- Includes Weber cookbook
- Heavy-duty vinyl cover keeps your grill protected from the elements.
- Maintenance-free handles withstand the elements for the life of the grill.
- Individual vents on bowl and lid control air flow, affecting cooking heat and charcoal life.
- Porcelain-enameled water pan adds steam to the cooking process, so meats stay juicy.
- Made in the USA.
product details
important information
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Questions about Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Cooker/Smoker
Q:
SO... Anyone selling their used one?
Answer: I am selling my brand new, unassembled in box at $100 off this listed price.and no sales tax. Comes with cover. But I am in northeastern PA and would need you to pick it up - too much to ship
Answer: Check your local CL, or TVWBB
Q:
Can you use wood chips with this smoker?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Can use chunks and chips, soak them first :)
Answer: If you wrap them in foil packets, they can be OK, but bigger (tennis ball / fist size) CHUNKS work better.
Q:
Does it come with the Cover?
Answer: Hello! Yes, all of our Smokey Mountain Cooker smokers include covers. Thanks!
Answer: When I bought mine 10 years ago it did.
Q:
Is there a replacement charcoal grate ?
Answer: Hello! The replacement charcoal grate is part # 63013. We have it available through our call center at 1-800-446-1071. Thanks!
Answer: I believe that it uses the same charcoal grate as the 18-inch kettle grill.
Answer: Yes, I think I've seen them at Home Depot and Lowes.
Q:
how are the 2820 and 72001 different?
Answer: Different sizes - big works better for ribs and large batches to feed more people, but also uses more charcoal. If this will be your FIRST, I’d start with the medium size.
Q:
Is it possible to use this for grilling as well as smoking? Can the charcoal pan be raised closer to the top grill plate?
Answer: Hello, we can't recommend using this model for standard grilling, as the distance between the cooking grates and charcoal is greater than what would be needed for good results, and the grates are not adjustable. Thanks.
Answer: The charcoal cannot be raised a and this is a smoker, not a grill. It's a great smoker and I love mine.
Answer: Not really. The Smoky Mountain Series is really intended for “low and slow” cooking. You CAN crank-up the heat by opening the bottom vents and omitting the Water Pan, (supposed to work great for Prime Rib, gets it off the flames). For Grilling, I’d pick up a used Weber Kettle to go with it.
Q:
can it be used indoors?
Answer: No, I hope that this question is a joke, but using ANYTHING that burns charcoal indoors is a recipe for Carbon Monoxide poisoning. So, not just no, but NO WAY!
Answer: No, it uses charcoal, must be used outdoors only.
Answer: Since it burns off charcoal and emits smoke it can only be used outdoors.
Answer: Absolutely not! This cooks using actual charcoal and under no circumstances should this ever be used indoors.
Answer: Never use a charcoal inside
Q:
Area of grate?
Answer: Hi! The upper cooking grate measures 17.5" and the lower cooking grate measures 17." Thanks!
Answer: The grate is a circle 18 1/2 inches in diameter.
Q:
Can the smoker also be used to grill? Steaks, burgers? Sorry for the naive question.
Answer: Hello, our smokers are best suited strictly for smoking food using the "low and slow" cooking method. Grilling foods that require high, direct heat, such as steaks or burgers, would best be grilled on one of our Charcoal Kettles, gas, or electric grills. Thanks.
Answer: It isnt ideal for grilling since the cooking surface is far from the heat source. This is designed for primarily cooking at low temperatures. That being said you can finish steaks though.
Answer: Yes, just use the bottom section and the cooking grate from the top. Small, but can be done.
Q:
Can you use it for fish and chees smoking?
Answer: For fish like Salmon or Trout, with a LOW fire and the right wood / brined fish, but some pros recommend not mixing use for meats and fish, due to "cross-contamination of flavors.
Q:
does anyone know if any of the vendors can ship to Australia ( Melbourne)
Q:
Why can't I find a replacement charcoal grill for this product?
Answer: Hi Debbie. Are you looking for a specific part for your grill?
Answer: Try this site http://www.virtualweberbullet.com/partschematic.html
Q:
Can/should you leave this smoker unattended?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Sure you can-that's the beauty of that smoker- I smoke my briskets 12 to 14 hours-usually all night-just make sure it is stabilized before you go to bed.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: It is made to be used unattended, just use common sense. Use outdoors only, away from anything that can catch fire. I've used mine overnight and while I ran errands during the day.
Answer: Yes, once you have used it a few times you can let it go with only an occasional check every few hours.
Product reviews of Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Cooker/Smoker
Tom Bux : Low and Slow made easy!
This is a great product. It lives up to the Weber name. The WSM is well built with tight tolerances so heat does not escape. It is easily possible to get a consistent even burn at 215 degrees for 6 or more hours with a single chimney of charcoal.
The two cooking grates allow you to cook a lot of food at a time, and either grate can easily fit several racks of ribs, a 15 pound brisket, or 2 or 3 pork sholders.
The water/drip pan holds about a gallon of water and allows for warm moist heat, causing a natural convection and ensuring even heating.
It is a breeze to put together and out of the box you will be cooking delicious slow cooked authentic barbeque!
OhRION : A Great smoker !
I purchased this Weber Smokey Mountain aka: Weber Bullet, over two years ago and I love it. This smoker is engineered to smoke meats at 200 - 300 degrees which is perfect for low and slow barbecue cooking. Great for ribs in particular. Trying to get a regular Weber Kettle to cook at that low of temperature is almost impossible. Weber came out with the newer version of the Weber Smokey Mountain (721001) soon after I purchased this model(2820). The improvements include a thermometer which you really need to smoke, an ash/drip pan on the bottom and a side door with an improved handle and the ability to lean it open when you need to induct some additional air.
If you are looking for a smoker and don't want to spend a huge amount of money the Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker is the answer. As with most Weber products, it is designed and engineered well, fairly priced and parts are always available through Weber. And it is made in the USA !
Barn Spotter : Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker
The shipping on this product was lightening quick! Thank you Amazon. My husband is loving his new toy and we are having a blast smoking everything from cheddar cheese to salmon to beef brisket. Delicious!!!
Ranger : Best made Bullet Smoker
I checked this smoker against the cheaper ones that Lowes and Home Depot sell. The Weber 2820 is made better and is much sturdier than the other smokers. This smoker should last a long time. Although it is hard to move around, it is very easy to use and works great.
Charlie : Old Smokey Comes Through
Weber smoker is one of the finest smokers on the market, I have enjoyed this product and the results are exactly what I expected. Weber quality shows through on the construction and does what it is designed to do.
b7 : foolproof smoker
Add charcoal, water, some wood chips and your meat, and you can't go wrong! The thing is massive and won't get too hot if you make sure to fill the waterpan. Seriously foolproof bbq.
Michael Leonard : Smoker
The best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would not hesitate to purchase another, But they may be a while. It is still smoking stron and will last another 5 or so years. already is 5 years old. great product
Bandsman : Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Cooker/Smoker
I've been able to use the WSMC three times since I received shipment of the smoker. It is easy to set up and assemble. All smokes were easy to get going. Maintaining the internal temperature is easy and effecient. This my first time with a smoker. I have a Weber Genises Grill also. It's hard to beat Webers products. If you're considering a "smoker", this is the one to get. There is a web site which is great for "newbies". Lots of help, great recipes, etc. A great buy!
Nils : It is great - but
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a great smoker. This is my second smoker - the last one being electric, and there is no comparison. The quality of the smoker, as well as the results of cooking with it, are superb. You will be delighted at the number of specific recipes and web articles there are on the internet that specifically pertain to this smoker.
There is one downside, and it apparently takes some creativity and a small investment to fix. Almost all the recipes tell you what the internal temperature of the smoker should be while cooking. One big problem. There is no thermometer. I use a meat thermometer to determine when the meat is done - but since part of what makes smoked meat taste so good is how slow it cooks, the inability to know what your cooking temperature is can have negative consequences. I imagine you get a sense for cooking at the proper temperature with experience.
There are a couple of suggestions on the internet about how to fix this - none of which I have tried yet. Still, don't consider this a reason not to buy it - consider it a challenge worth overcoming to fully enjoy a particularly fine smoker.
Leland L. Bahr : Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Smoker
This is my second Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker. I purchased the first one around 5 years ago and entertain so much at my lake house that I needed a second unit for more smoking capacity. (The old one is still going strong). If you can afford this smoker, there is no other bullet type smoker to buy.
I do own one of those cheap Bxxxkmxn Smokers but never use it anymore. I find the Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker to be easier to control temperature and the diameter of the Weber unit is larger in diameter so you can get more meat on it to smoke and the meat does not have to touch the sides like it does on the cheaper unit. (I don't like my meat touching the sides of the smoker). Also, the thickness of the steel is heavier on the Weber unit thus lasting longer and the thicker metal helps control the heat better. I believe the controllable air vents on the Weber also contribute to its ease of use.
I feel the superior Weber product is worth the difference in price compaired to the cheap competitor model. All my neighbors rave about my smoked brisket, sausage, and ribs done on my Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Smoker. I entertain close to once per month for crowds up to 15 or 16 people. I also smoke for my home owners association picnics. My Weber 2820 keeps them coming back for more each and every time. (I always smoke enough food so there is never any shortage at my parties). The excess ribs go to work with my wife (RN) and they quickly disappear. She is very popular at work!
You can't go wrong purchasing a Weber 2820 Smokey Mountain Smoker.
Lee
Houston, Texas
E. Wood : Great Smoker
I bought this smoker back in 2005 for my husband. We have been using it ever since on a pretty much weekly basis. It is a wonderful smoker for those of you who BBQ for your family. We've done ribs, whole chicken, brisket, pork shoulder and more on here from start to finish and they always turn out great. You will have to watch it a little, as with all BBQ, but it really doesn't take that much messing to keep the temperature right and the smoker going. We also use it as a grill, which works just great. I don't think it is too intimidating so even if you are trying to break into smoking this one will work just fine for you. This model is a little small for us now that our family has grown and we may have to invest in a larger one, but has worked wonderful for 6 years. It's a great one for individuals or small families. I highly recommend it.
J. Brandt : Very pleased with the Smokey Mountain Cooker
I finally had the chance to use my new WSM cooker this last weekend. I cooked pork spare ribs for about 4-4.5 hours. I was surprised at how good the ribs tasted. I cooked 3 full slabs of ribs and everyone was impressed with the results. I had done quite a bit of research prior to using it for the first time, and it paid off.
One note: When I received my WSM, the packaging was in great shape. However, the first time I put it together I could tell the middle section was out of round (as other reviewers have warned about). Mine was very minor and I was able to gently shape it so it was a snug fit all around. It worked great my first time cooking and I had no problems with the out of round issue after the minor correction.
I would highly recommend this product for a first timer like myself who wants to get into cooking with smoke.
Patrick R. Spooner : Weber Smoker
I purchased my Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker in August 2003 after talking about doing so for years and after looking at many competing models. I am not disappointed. From an engineering prespective it's design is simple and straightforward and it is extremely well built (just compare it to competing models and you will quickly see the difference). By reviewing the Thermometer installation procedures available at "virtualweberbullet" web site, adding an industrial grade thermometer by drilling a small hole in the cover was completed easily.
The results have been fantastic!! I have used the noted web site to learn about techniques to extend the cooking period without having to add charcoal and the rib recipe (The Best Ribs in the Universe) is out of this world! Smoked Turkey, smoked chicken, smoked salmon and smoked almonds have all been easy to prepare and the results outstanding.
I easily designed and constructed a side simple shelf (from two shelf brackets, a 10"x12" piece of oak, and a 1/8"x1" by 30" piece of steel straping available at Home Depot) that can be temporarily attached to the cooking section for use during any smoking session and easily removed so that you can then place the cover on the smoker for storage.
You will not be disappointed with the results of you efforts with this smoker!
Sam : Great Smoker
Best smoker I have ever used. Keeps temps constant, cooks evenly and consistent.
Roosterq : The best smoker for the money hands down.
I have used 3 of these to compete with some of the best BBQ pit masters in the world, and won several awards. Of course it's not just the pit, but these are the best smoker you can buy for lest than $300.
S. R. Smith : Great smoker for the money
I have a couple of these smokers and they work great. I have big and small offsets, trailer smokers, you name it, but these work the best of any of them when it comes to burn time of charcoal. The only flaw these have is Weber just doesn't get it when it comes to the water pan. It's just way too small and can be tipped easily if your not careful. This can be remedied by buying a Brinkmann charcoal pan for the water. It holds almost double the water and it actually fits the smoker better. You can read about it on the Weber web site. A gentleman named Dave Stamper had a review on this modification which is simply a drop in place kind of thing. Bottom line on this smoker is it works perfectly for all your smoking needs.
P. Hormel : Smoke 'em if ya got 'em
Fantastic cooker. Plenty of resources / recipes on line. I have never had an issue with this cooker. Highly recommended!
Wilbur L. Dorriety : Great Smoker
I bought this smoker on the advice of my Nephew, Chad, who owns one. Construction is typically "weber"; That is, very well made, and well thought out. I've only gotten to use it one time, but can't wait to experiment with it again next week while I am off work. I am a return Weber customer. I own one of the Weber hybrid grills which work from charcoal ignited by gas. That grill has been with me for over 10 years and still works perfectly.
S. R. Smith : Great smoker for the money
I have a couple of these smokers and they work great. I have big and small offsets, trailer smokers, you name it, but these work the best of any of them when it comes to burn time of charcoal. The only flaw these have is Weber just doesn't get it when it comes to the water pan. It's just way too small and can be tipped easily if your not careful. This can be remedied by buying a Brinkmann charcoal pan for the water. It holds almost double the water and it actually fits the smoker better. You can read about it on the Weber web site. A gentleman named Dave Stamper had a review on this modification which is simply a drop in place kind of thing. Bottom line on this smoker is it works perfectly for all your smoking needs.
Joe Schmo : I really just want one. UPDATE
UPDATE - 8/19/08
Ok, as promised, I am amending my review... Weber did send me the new bottom bowl "hand picked" from the assembly line. Incredibly, the ring has a slight marred mark on it along the same lines as the last three! - not bad enough to be out of round, so it fits snug in the middle cylinder, so I am keeping it and moving on... There is CLEARLY a manufacturing issue here!!
Now to the good part... I put the new smoker to the test yesterday. LOADED it with 4 full racks of baby back ribs and 2 4lb shoulders. Ribs took ~5 hours and shoulders ~7 hours. Very, VERY good. I have been smoking on a traditional charcoal grill previously, which is a pain, and I have to say that the Weber is very easy - basically fool proof. I believe it's the design - the shape and tight airflow enable you to load it up with coal/wood and basically just tweak the vents for a very long time. It basically sits at 225-250 degrees by itself.
Ordered three different types of wood tonight on Amazon to experiment with...
Even with the manufacturing/return issue, I am so immpressed with the usability of this smoker, I'll give it a 4.75 ranking.
ORIGINAL POST:
Well, I really would just actually like to have one of these grills, but I'm on my third try to get one that isn't damaged.
I am a Charcoal Grill Nut and have toyed alot with slow smoking meats on my traditional Brinkmann charcoal grill. I've gotten pretty good at it but it's a pain separating the coal to one side, meat to the other, regulating the heat, etc.
...So I did all the research on smokers and decided the Weber SM smoker was the best choice. I am a big Amazon user and fan. So I ordered a few weeks ago.
The smoker arrived in an undamaged package. Opened it up and both the top bowl and the bottom bowl had a very uniform marred/flattened spot on the ring. The rings were too far out of round to use and didn't fit in the middle cylinder correctly.
I returned to Amazon and they immediately sent a new one. As an aside, I have to say from this and other experiences that Amazon is absolutely fantastic on returns.
The new one came in a few days. Opened it up. Top bowl fine. Bottom bowl - same exact flaw. Box was undamaged.
I did not want to go through this again - I was 80% sure a third one from Amazon would be damaged. This is not an Amazon issue that I can tell. Everything I saw tells me this is a manufacturing issue and there is probably an entire mfg lot of the bowls that are flawed.
I instead called Weber directly. They are "hand picking" one off the assembly line and sending it to me. I am current waiting for it.
Once I receive it in good condition and try the smoker I'll revisit my rating on this....
Pete P. Poplawski : Just buy It! You won't be sorry!
...I've gone through two cheap smokers and finally sprung for this one. It was like riding a bike for 10 years and finally getting a car. A real nice car!!! There is a BIG difference! Unreal constant temperatures. No spikes. No sudden drops. Just real good long lasting constant heat. I made the best ribs ever the first time. My wife was laughing at the sounds I was making eating the ribs. Be sure to check out the virtual weber bullet site, it's like knowing the guy who built the darn thing. This is the ultimate smoking machine. I also have a New Braunfels Pit Smoker and the WSM is by far less trouble especially on the longer smoking runs. Well worth the money! Tip: Watch the price of this item on Amazon. It goes up and down like the stock market. I watched it over four weeks and bought it when it hit bottom.
Rodney T. : Awesome.
Love it. Easy to use and meat was amazing!!
C. Martin : Outstanding Smoker at a Reasonable Price
I purchased the Smokey Mountain Smoker after a fair amount of research on the net and have not been disappointed. (...)The BIG Plus's are (1)very air tight (2) heavy gauge material (3) Porcelain covered (3)heavy enough so it won't blow away (4)should last for years
(5)Weber supplies a good quality tight fitting cover. I've cooked at least several Pork Butt's and Picnic's, 1 whole turkey, 1 turkey hotel breast, several chicken's, numerous racks of Pork Ribs,chicken wings and thighs and last but not lease Corned Beef and Pastrami. Yes I've given this unit a good workout over the past 4 months. I've cooked some of the meat over night. I would put the Butt's on around 9pm and the temp would still be at 210 - 225 the next morning at 7am. And I didn't stay up all night tending to the charcoal. (...)In closing one of the few really good products that I have purchased in quite awhile
Kevin : Weber Makes a Great Smoker
Received product quickly. Bottom section was out of round, but was replaced by customer service with a simple phone call. Have not made a bad meal on this smoker and would definately recommend to any new or experienced smoker. Love the web site devoted to this smoker. Great recipes and cooking advise.
Chef Leo : Wow! Real barbecue!
I got my Weber Bullet from Amazon a couple of weeks ago. It arrived quickly and in good condition. Tried it out this past weekend; boy, was I impressed! It held the temperature like a champ and produced a gorgeous, brown, smoky, succulent pork butt. I'm looking forward to more adventures in smoking soon, after we gobble up all the pork. I followed the advice I read on Virtual Weber Bullet and got a high-quality thermometer, which I put in a cork in one of the vent holes, so I was able to monitor temperatures easily. Great product!
Overweight : Great Smoker
If you are looking for a smoker, spend the money and buy This One! You will be BBQ ing like a pro in NO TIME. REAL Q, really! At least after checking out the <[...]> sight.
Jose M. Garcia : The one you need.
If you're going to really do barbecuing and smoking at home, this is the piece for you. Don't try to fumble around with a grill, rigging it to cook low-and-slow (I'm looking at YOU Cook's Illustrated.) just get this unit and within MINUTES you'll be cooking like a pro. Furthermore there are many great online forums specifically dedicated to cooking with this unit. (Just do a web search.) Couldn't be happier.
Robert M : Where is the thermomometer?
Great product! I have found it easy to use and it makes great Q! I really wanted to give this little gem 5 stars but it lacks a critical piece of equipment that no smoker can do without... a good thermometer! It's like buying a sports car without a steering wheel! [...].
I love the large amount of cooking surface. You are easily able to smoke a large turkey and a 10 pound brisket at the same time.
Since I have started using mine, both my brother and best friend have also purchased a WSM and both have had nothing but good things to say about their smokers.
Jim : Wonderful little smoker, especially for the price!
Today marks my second weekend smoking session with my new Weber Smokey Mountain - what a great little machine!
Last weekend I turned out two racks of babyback pork ribs, mmmmmmmmmm.... Today I'm almost finished with a 6-hour cook of a rack of big ol' beef ribs, and they look great so far! This smoker holds temperature extremely well, is efficient with fuel use and does a fine job.
But, and this is significant, it really needs a thermometer - don't smoke without one if you want to do this right! Get a decent ($20-30) permanent-mount BBQ thermometer, with at least a 2" (preferably 3") dial so you can read it from inside the house or 15-20 feet away. Take a deep breath, bore a hole in the lid, and install one of these! In addition, if you do roasts, briskets, pork butts and other large cuts, you should get a remote-reading probe thermometer so you can accurately read the inside-the-meat temp, which is critical to getting it cooked properly without overcooking.
Knowing and holding your temp where it should be makes all the difference, and you'll be able to dial in the various vents to do it perfectly (I keep top vent wide open and just mess with the lower vents to do a fine job; the lower vents are never open more than 50%, and often fully closed, to keep the smoker at 225-250F).
Make sure to check in at virtualwebberbullet dot com - you can purchase from Amazon via their link, giving the site a little commission, and everything you want/need to know about this smoker is there.
Off to baste and taste . . . . . . .
James Barclay : Did not know what I was missing until smokey joe came along
This is a great device. Very simple to assemble and use. Maintains consistent heat for what seems like ever. I had a fifteen hour cook without adding more charcoal (using method described at [...]) Also, don't judge smoked food by what you buy in the supermarket, it does not compare.
If you are looking at this grill to compare to others at this price range, don't bother. Stop here and buy now. The only negative I see is being able to find smoking wood other that hickory or mesquite locally. It galls me that I had to buy wood online and have it delivered. Also, get the charcoal starter by Weber, it is a necessity.
Nils : It is great - but
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a great smoker. This is my second smoker - the last one being electric, and there is no comparison. The quality of the smoker, as well as the results of cooking with it, are superb. You will be delighted at the number of specific recipes and web articles there are on the internet that specifically pertain to this smoker.
There is one downside, and it apparently takes some creativity and a small investment to fix. Almost all the recipes tell you what the internal temperature of the smoker should be while cooking. One big problem. There is no thermometer. I use a meat thermometer to determine when the meat is done - but since part of what makes smoked meat taste so good is how slow it cooks, the inability to know what your cooking temperature is can have negative consequences. I imagine you get a sense for cooking at the proper temperature with experience.
There are a couple of suggestions on the internet about how to fix this - none of which I have tried yet. Still, don't consider this a reason not to buy it - consider it a challenge worth overcoming to fully enjoy a particularly fine smoker.
Amazon Customer : Use with Caution - Because once you start you CAN'T stop!
I just ate the best chicken I have ever tasted and I currently brine-ing a Boston Butt for the weekend.
It was my first time Smoking. I have been grilling with indirect heat for a while now, and that was sort of my gateway to Smoking!
Browse around virtualweberbullet.com and you will be set. This Smoker holds the heat steadily and is really responsive to adjustments of the vents.
Make sure you get your self a good meat thermometer with a long stem (Weber's dual purpose replacement one is perfect) to measure the cooking temperature and get your self a remote leave-in meat probe thermometer so you can monitor the inside meat temperature during the course of smoking.
Be patient and you will be rewarded. This is a really great product. My only problem is I can't wait to use it. I am addicted to the Smoke!
Ranger : Best made Bullet Smoker
I checked this smoker against the cheaper ones that Lowes and Home Depot sell. The Weber 2820 is made better and is much sturdier than the other smokers. This smoker should last a long time. Although it is hard to move around, it is very easy to use and works great.
L. Hagen : Still getting the hang of it...
I've used the smoker about 5 times now. I am still getting the hang of it. My chicken comes out wonderful, tender with a great smokey flavor. I haven't had much luck with other meats. They have the smokey flavor I am looking for, but they tend to come out dry. I've even use a meat thermometer so that I don't have to open the lid, but the temperature in the cooker fluctuates enough that the meat temp fluctuates. The cooker is very handy in that it can be used as a bbq pit also.
Vernon D. : Great Smoker
Good quality and holds the heat well. I added some handles to it and upgraded the water pan but other than that it's a great product.
FunCpl : Worth EVERY penny.
I have played around with other smokers over the past year and always had good results. Then I bought the Weber Smokey Mountain and realized I had to work WAY too hard with those other smokers.
Step 1) Use a weber chimney starter.
2) Get the temp to your desired range
3) Put the meat on.
4) Go watch a ball game, go for hike, whatever.
5) Come back in 6-8 hrs have the best ribs you have ever tasted.
No more fiddling with charcoal, messing around with the SINGLE vent found on most smokers. This is truly "set it and forget"
I dont get why other smokes only have ONE vent. The four vents on the the Weber is what makes it so easy. It needs to be a little bit bigger.
Quality of construction: Comparing the construction of the Weber to other bullet smokers is like comparing a Mercedes SLK 500 to a Chevy Cavalier.
My only complaint is for $200 Weber should be able to include a built in thermometer. In bulk quantities those things cost $2.
Bottom Line: Dont waste your money on the cheaper bullet smokers. There is truly no comparison. I kick myself for wasting $85 on my Brinkman Smoker.
J. Brandt : Very pleased with the Smokey Mountain Cooker
I finally had the chance to use my new WSM cooker this last weekend. I cooked pork spare ribs for about 4-4.5 hours. I was surprised at how good the ribs tasted. I cooked 3 full slabs of ribs and everyone was impressed with the results. I had done quite a bit of research prior to using it for the first time, and it paid off.
One note: When I received my WSM, the packaging was in great shape. However, the first time I put it together I could tell the middle section was out of round (as other reviewers have warned about). Mine was very minor and I was able to gently shape it so it was a snug fit all around. It worked great my first time cooking and I had no problems with the out of round issue after the minor correction.
I would highly recommend this product for a first timer like myself who wants to get into cooking with smoke.
Hairbands Rule : All the rumors are true
I had a Charbroil smoker for 4 years before my wife bought me the Weber smoker. The longest I could go with the Charbroil was about an hour before I had to mess with the coals, open the door, etc and was becoming a hassle to cook things for a long period of time. It is extremely difficult to keep heat regulated in it. That being said I did cook some great food on it. The first time I used my Weber smoker it kept a consistent temperature for 5.5 hours straight. I did turn the vents a couple of times to reduce or increase the heat but now that I know what to do I've gotten better at keeping things steady and letting it go. Turning those vents even a little bit makes the heat rise or fall a lot so be careful! The last time I spent the afternoon swimming for 2.5 hours, came home and it was still fine.
Overweight : Great Smoker
If you are looking for a smoker, spend the money and buy This One! You will be BBQ ing like a pro in NO TIME. REAL Q, really! At least after checking out the <[...]> sight.
C. Martin : Outstanding Smoker at a Reasonable Price
I purchased the Smokey Mountain Smoker after a fair amount of research on the net and have not been disappointed. (...)The BIG Plus's are (1)very air tight (2) heavy gauge material (3) Porcelain covered (3)heavy enough so it won't blow away (4)should last for years
(5)Weber supplies a good quality tight fitting cover. I've cooked at least several Pork Butt's and Picnic's, 1 whole turkey, 1 turkey hotel breast, several chicken's, numerous racks of Pork Ribs,chicken wings and thighs and last but not lease Corned Beef and Pastrami. Yes I've given this unit a good workout over the past 4 months. I've cooked some of the meat over night. I would put the Butt's on around 9pm and the temp would still be at 210 - 225 the next morning at 7am. And I didn't stay up all night tending to the charcoal. (...)In closing one of the few really good products that I have purchased in quite awhile
Thomas W. Vaughan : Great Smoker
I have used this smoker twice and would like to report that my smoked brisket makes my pilgrimages to the Austin area no longer necessary. The online website [...] is very handy for tips and ideas. I have not needed to make modifications and the thermometer I use indicates that the temp is very much steady and correct for optimum performance.
Highly recommended for the smoked brisket and Boston butt in your future plans.
OhRION : A Great smoker !
I purchased this Weber Smokey Mountain aka: Weber Bullet, over two years ago and I love it. This smoker is engineered to smoke meats at 200 - 300 degrees which is perfect for low and slow barbecue cooking. Great for ribs in particular. Trying to get a regular Weber Kettle to cook at that low of temperature is almost impossible. Weber came out with the newer version of the Weber Smokey Mountain (721001) soon after I purchased this model(2820). The improvements include a thermometer which you really need to smoke, an ash/drip pan on the bottom and a side door with an improved handle and the ability to lean it open when you need to induct some additional air.
If you are looking for a smoker and don't want to spend a huge amount of money the Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker is the answer. As with most Weber products, it is designed and engineered well, fairly priced and parts are always available through Weber. And it is made in the USA !
OhRION : A Great smoker !
I purchased this Weber Smokey Mountain aka: Weber Bullet, over two years ago and I love it. This smoker is engineered to smoke meats at 200 - 300 degrees which is perfect for low and slow barbecue cooking. Great for ribs in particular. Trying to get a regular Weber Kettle to cook at that low of temperature is almost impossible. Weber came out with the newer version of the Weber Smokey Mountain (721001) soon after I purchased this model(2820). The improvements include a thermometer which you really need to smoke, an ash/drip pan on the bottom and a side door with an improved handle and the ability to lean it open when you need to induct some additional air.
If you are looking for a smoker and don't want to spend a huge amount of money the Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker is the answer. As with most Weber products, it is designed and engineered well, fairly priced and parts are always available through Weber. And it is made in the USA !
LTHUONK : Exactly what I wanted.... when I wanted it
This smoker was exactly what my husband had been looking for... His original one has lasted over 20 years but he wanted another one to leave at our lake property. He had tried other ones but this one worked and he always got rave reviews when he used it. I couldn't find one locally so I checked online.
I found this one and ordered it. I expected it wouldn't get here until after Christmas but it was perfect - it got here before Christmas and was a big hit and with the waived shipping fee - it was competitively priced.
Thank you!
E. Wood : Great Smoker
I bought this smoker back in 2005 for my husband. We have been using it ever since on a pretty much weekly basis. It is a wonderful smoker for those of you who BBQ for your family. We've done ribs, whole chicken, brisket, pork shoulder and more on here from start to finish and they always turn out great. You will have to watch it a little, as with all BBQ, but it really doesn't take that much messing to keep the temperature right and the smoker going. We also use it as a grill, which works just great. I don't think it is too intimidating so even if you are trying to break into smoking this one will work just fine for you. This model is a little small for us now that our family has grown and we may have to invest in a larger one, but has worked wonderful for 6 years. It's a great one for individuals or small families. I highly recommend it.
C. Martin : Outstanding Smoker at a Reasonable Price
I purchased the Smokey Mountain Smoker after a fair amount of research on the net and have not been disappointed. (...)The BIG Plus's are (1)very air tight (2) heavy gauge material (3) Porcelain covered (3)heavy enough so it won't blow away (4)should last for years
(5)Weber supplies a good quality tight fitting cover. I've cooked at least several Pork Butt's and Picnic's, 1 whole turkey, 1 turkey hotel breast, several chicken's, numerous racks of Pork Ribs,chicken wings and thighs and last but not lease Corned Beef and Pastrami. Yes I've given this unit a good workout over the past 4 months. I've cooked some of the meat over night. I would put the Butt's on around 9pm and the temp would still be at 210 - 225 the next morning at 7am. And I didn't stay up all night tending to the charcoal. (...)In closing one of the few really good products that I have purchased in quite awhile
OhRION : A Great smoker !
I purchased this Weber Smokey Mountain aka: Weber Bullet, over two years ago and I love it. This smoker is engineered to smoke meats at 200 - 300 degrees which is perfect for low and slow barbecue cooking. Great for ribs in particular. Trying to get a regular Weber Kettle to cook at that low of temperature is almost impossible. Weber came out with the newer version of the Weber Smokey Mountain (721001) soon after I purchased this model(2820). The improvements include a thermometer which you really need to smoke, an ash/drip pan on the bottom and a side door with an improved handle and the ability to lean it open when you need to induct some additional air.
If you are looking for a smoker and don't want to spend a huge amount of money the Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker is the answer. As with most Weber products, it is designed and engineered well, fairly priced and parts are always available through Weber. And it is made in the USA !
b7 : foolproof smoker
Add charcoal, water, some wood chips and your meat, and you can't go wrong! The thing is massive and won't get too hot if you make sure to fill the waterpan. Seriously foolproof bbq.
Florida Shopper : Awesome
This smoker is everything we hoped for and more. So far it has made the best ribs we've ever had, a perfect smoked turkey and excellent pulled pork. My husband has become a "smoker extraordinaire". He has used an electric smoker for the past 10 years but is thrilled with the change to charcoal -- much easier to control the heat.
L. Hagen : Still getting the hang of it...
I've used the smoker about 5 times now. I am still getting the hang of it. My chicken comes out wonderful, tender with a great smokey flavor. I haven't had much luck with other meats. They have the smokey flavor I am looking for, but they tend to come out dry. I've even use a meat thermometer so that I don't have to open the lid, but the temperature in the cooker fluctuates enough that the meat temp fluctuates. The cooker is very handy in that it can be used as a bbq pit also.
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
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