Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze review and price compare 2025
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
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 | Camp Chef |
| Model Name | SmokePro DLX 24 Pellet Grill (Bronze) |
| Power Source | Pellet |
| Color | Bronze |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 40.5 x 25 x 22 inches |
product features
- by entering your model number.
- Large capacity pellet hopper with exclusive ash cleanout system
- Electronic auto-start ignition for quick and easy start every time
- Dual LED temperature readout shows internal cooking temps and food temps
- Simple temperature selection system maintains heat
- Automatic auger dispenses pellets as needed for improved smoker efficiency
- Grilling Area Dimensions: 19.5" x 22",Smoking/Warming Rack Dimensions: 6" x 24",Total Rack Surface Area: 570 sq. in
This fits your .
Product Description
In 1990, founder Ty Measom found himself both frustrated and inspired with the size and quality of the outdoor cooking equipment available. He set out to create a product that was both portable and powerful. After countless hours of brainstorming, engineering, and tinkering, the Pro60 was born—and along with it—a company to pioneer the camp-cooking industry. The simple, yet durable design was applauded by outdoorsmen everywhere. Since then we’ve added griddles and grill box attachments, a variety of cast iron pieces, and more recently—pellet grills. Over the past 30 years, our product line has expanded, but our objective remains the same—provide a better way to cook outdoors.
We’ve raised the steaks in the outdoor cooking industry. So, we challenge you to ask yourself if your cooking equipment is tough enough for the task. Whether you’re barbecuing on the back patio or backpacking in Bolivia—delicious food is attainable despite your coordinates. So, get out there. Make memories with the people you love. Experience the beauty of nature. Feed your outside however you want with the durability, versatility, portability, and power of Camp Chef.
CAMP CHEF DLX Pellet Grills - The newly added Gen 2 controller is easy to use and introduces Smoke Control + PID technology.
PG24B
Camp Chef DLX 24" Pellet Grill, now that sounds like the grill for you.
Camp Chef DLX Pellet Grill
DLX 24" Pellet Grill - Bronze
Say goodbye to the world of guesswork and hours over a BBQ pit—the DLX Pellet Grill brings you an easy, reliable smoke, every time. The newly added Gen 2 controller is easy to use and introduces Smoke Control + PID technology. Tailor the amount of smoke your meal gets by adjusting your Smoke Number. You'll get flawless cook after flawless cook. Plus, Ash Cleanout makes clean up a breeze. Meaning less time fumbling with a suction hose and more time enjoying the beautiful day and delicious food.
- PID controller for consistent temperatures
- Includes 2 meat probes
- Adjustable smoke settings from 1-10 160º F - 500ºF temperature range, Easy to use menu dial, High-visibility, low-glare digital display
- Pellet Hopper Cleanout/Purge, Ash Cleanout System
- Cord Management System, Grease Management System
- Side attachment compatible (Sidekick or Sear Box)
|
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
PID controllerEasy to use menu dial, PID controller for consistent temperatures between 160º F - 500ºF, and adjustable smoke settings . | 2 Meat ProbesWith the Meat Probe accessory, you’ll have total control over the temperature of your food. With an easy digital display, you will know in seconds what’s going on under the grill lid. Hit the hot spot every time with the Meat Probe. | Ash-Kickin' CleanoutEach cook on your pellet grill results in the ashes from your burned pellets. With a simple pull of a knob the ashes drop from the burn cup into a removable cup on the underside of your pellet grill. Do this between each cook for an easy, clean way to flush the burner and dispose of the ashes. | Attachment CapabilityThe Sidekick is designed to give you VersaGrillity as one of Camp Chef's single burner, 14-inch cooking systems, meaning you can add a griddle, grill, oven, stock pot, and more. The Sear Box is a master of one thing—searing. The included cast iron grill grates create beautiful sear marks and assist the Sear Box in reaching an astounding 900°F. |
| Total Cooking Surface | 570 sq. in. | 570 sq. in. | 570 sq. in. |
|---|---|---|---|
| PID Controller | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adjustable smoke settings from 1-10 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Color | Black | Stainless | Bronze |
| Pellet Hopper Cleanout/Purge | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ash Kickin' Clean Out | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hopper Capacity | 18 lbs | 18 lbs | 18 lbs |
| Attachment Compatible | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Side Shelf | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stainless Steel Meat Probes | 2 | 2 | 2 |
product description
product details
important information
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
Questions about Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze
Q:
The bag of pellets is 20 lbs and costs $20...how long does that last? What are the average # of lbs for common cuts of meat? Brisket, ribs...etc.
Answer: you can get great pellets for less $... I use a competition blend from wal-mart that's $20 for 40 pounds. This grill does everything. I've made a few pies and used it as an oven a time or two, but i usually do most everything on low smoke. I think that with the 40 pound bags, it's comparable to cost of propane. I think that the competition blend smokes better than any single variety of wood. I've tried a half dozen types of pellets and like the blended the best...
Answer: You can get a bag of pellets for $9.99 at Cash and Carry Stores, all over the country. How long the pellets last in your grill depends , on what and at what temp you are cooking /smoking it. High temp uses them faster ,and low and slow ,not as much. What are you trying to do . # 8 to 15 pounds is common size for beef, pork, ribs, briskit cuts. I hope that info helps . FISHGRILLER
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Pellets can be found at Gander Mountain for $15/ 20Lb bag. Find a coupon and pick up in store if you have one. Barring that I suggest the Perfect Mix pellets from cookinpellets. 40lb for about 34.00
Answer: Pro tip use a (12 pack of beer) box or similar
Answer: The least of your concerns with one of these smokers is going to be how much pellets you are using. Please trust me on this. My biggest concern is how much meat can I afford, I would keep this thing running 24/7. I smoked 2 racks of pork loin ribs for 5 hrs and it used maybe 2-3 inches of pellets out of the hopper. Temp was Hi smoke.
Answer: As other have said, it depends on the Cooking Temp and time needed... but it ALSO depends on the outside temp. Yesterday I cooked 10 pounds of Lamb directly from the fridge in 3 hours at 200 degrees. because of the warm weather (85 degrees) and direct sun on the top of the smoker, it took very little time to get up to temp. Then it used only a handful of pellets... probably less than 2 pounds.
Answer: Agree with 4 lbs for ribs and 6 or 8 for brisket(depending on thickness), depending on temps(and to a small extent, the quality of the pellets)
Answer: If I cook a slab of spareribs for six hours at 225°F I will probably burn about 4 pounds. If I grill chicken parts at about 325°F for about 1 hour, I will use about 1.5 pounds of pellets.
Answer: 1 pound pellets per hour at the high smoke setting. Ambient temperature 70 to 90°F. Cooking two pork butts. Pellets were Hickory from Gander Mountain.
Q:
How accurate is the thermometer on the smoker? Any one else had issues with it being off?
Answer: I find the thermometer temp to be very accurate with in 5 degrees when the smoke setting is at 1. When I set it to 10 or high smoke, temp swings can be as much as 25 degrees. Which is what you want because they way it allows the pellets to smolder in order to give your meat the smoke rings and great flavor in the outer bark. Btw the internal temp probe of the smoker is attached to the left side of the grilling area and I attach a thermo pro wireless temp probe to the inner middle edge of the grates to compre readings.
Answer: I have been comparing the thermometer to my readings on my Maverick ET 733; can't say which is more accurate, but there is often a 20 degree difference. Furthermore the Camp Chef regardless of which temp gauge I monitor (Maverick or Camp Chef built in) the temp fluctuations on my grill is absolutely horrendous: Setting it at 225 it ranges from 167 to 279 degrees. And I never open the grill. I purchased this grill thinking that it would provide a consistent temp - not even close. You can give that kind of inconsistency with any cheap grill, so paying 600 bucks has really annoyed me.
Answer: There are a couple of considerations. The meat probe is within a 4 degree range from another digital probe I own (Accurate enough). The cooking temperature probe runs fairly accurate. The thermostat keeps hunting within 10 degrees below set point to set point. I typically compensate by increasing the thermostat 25 degrees higher which has helped bring the expected cooking times ion par with what I have read. If you are seeing variations outside of these feel free to contact Camp Chef. They were fantastic to deal with when my meat probe failed.
Answer: I find it to be pretty accurate. Within about 10-15 degrees. That, of course, depends on where you are taking a read from. At the grates, the lid, or closer to the middle where the PG24's actual probe I located.
Answer: Pellet smokers are not as accurate in temp as electric and can sway a bit as pellets are fed into the burn area. That being said they do keep within a pretty tight range and do not swing that far out of range.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: I was reading through all of the comments on the accuracy of the temperatures. One pointed out a good fact about the pellets. I would suspect that that creates a fair amount of variance as they are added or burn down. However, do you ever track the oven in your stove. They frequently vary just as much as what you are describing here for the smoker.
Answer: I have suffered the same problem, with even worse temperature swings. There could be many factors, I covered them all in my review, but I know of people with Traeger smokers that are far less careful than I am with their pellets and the ambient temps when they cook and they have nowhere near the temperature swings that I have seen. I would not buy this smoker again because of the drastic temperature swings I have seen.
Answer: If your asking of the food thermometer I find it with a few degrees of my ThermoWorks Super-Fast Thermapen. Otherwise the BBQ thermometer is very sensitive and rises and falls to maintain an average BBQ temperature. Hope this helps.
Answer:
Answer:
Q:
does this one have a fan
Answer: Yes it does - it is fabulous !
Answer: Yes
Answer: Yes
Answer: yes!
Answer: Yes
Q:
will this sear a steak
Answer: The grill gets up to 500 degrees F. To get a true high temp sear you should look at the Sear Box accessory (model# PGSEAR) that attaches to this Camp Chef Pellet grill. It is a propane powered accessory that will get up to 900 degrees F for that perfect high temp sear.
Answer: Do not get the sear box, instead get the sidekick, you can sear but also use several other accessories including a bbq sear box.. pizza oven and griddle.
Answer: Alone, no it won't. But the optional sear box is awesome....that's just what it is made for...I highly recommend getting it.
Q:
Do you guys that own one feel the temp. variance is as wacky as the Traeger...?
Answer: No. My traeger had huge swings of 40 degrees or more when it was in the ball park. I believe my camp chef holds within 15 degrees or so. That is you set the temp you want and don't open and close the lid. You don't decide to go from smoke to 350 then back to smoke. That will cause it to be off a little LOL.
Answer: Using my thermowrks smoke I have found that, especially at the high end of the necessary temp. swing the digital read out has no connection with what is actually happening at the grate level with the digital read out reading as much as 25 degrees higher then what it is at the food level. Averaging real measured tmep's over a period of time shows no more then a degree or two difference from set temp's.
Answer: Mine tends to be about 15 degrees hotter than the setting but does not fluctuate much at all unless you open the hood
Answer: I think camp chef controls are much better.
Q:
Does it function as a grill (searing a steak or burgers) w/o smoking?
Answer: I've cooked everything on it, except a steak. The grill gets up to 500 degrees but I like to sear my steaks at a higher temperature. The pit will always smoke when on and everthing comes out great. I haven't used my gas gril since I got this pit. I love it.
Answer: Yes, digrees on high. I grilled my pork steaks yesterday, it took 35 minutes and were very delicious ;)
Answer: Absolutely not. It's an oven. A great oven, but not for grilling. Tried the aluminum grill bars and not a substitute for a grill. It's for cooking "low and slow" and great for that.
Answer: You can grill stakes or burgers but with it wide open you do get some smoke.
Answer: The simple answer is yes! You can accurately adjust the temperature from apprimately 200 to over 500 degrees.The Camp Chef cooks by convection. Excellent for fish, foul and meats.
Answer: yes, it cooks up to 425 degrees
Answer: No. Temperature gets high enough but there is no direct heat -- it's all indirect heat.
Answer: NO.
Q:
how long do the chips last?
Answer: They aren't chips, they are compressed wood pellets. And an entire hopper full will last close to 40hrs. Depending on the size of the bag of pellets you use, you can get one to two hoppers per bag. That also depends on the mode you are cooking with - high smoke, low smoke, 275°, etc.....
Answer: It seems to depend on the maker of the pellets. I cooked a brisket at 250 degrees for 8hrs and used I wound guess 7 to 8 pounds.
Answer: I want to add that you should verify the hopper is full before you start. You don't want to run out of pellets halfway through a cook. Ask me how I know....
Q:
Is this just propane? Or Electric with a propane sear box?
Answer: The sear box is propane (and excellent) and the grill is wood pellets heated aided by a glow plug, which is powered by 110 volt outlet (also excellent).
Answer: Burns wood pellets, it’s electric to operate auger that delivers pellets.
Answer: Smoker is electric peller fed, sear box is propane
Answer: It is an electric smoker with a propane sear box.
Answer: It is an electric feed pellet stove on the left side and a propane grill on the right side.
Answer: Propane seat box
Q:
What is the lowest temperature that you can maintain?
Answer: I agree with R Wilson. I live in the Arizona heat and mine gets down to 140 - 150 at the lowest setting. We love it!!! The temperature probe, electronic controls, pellet feeder and clean out work great. We've smoked ribs, brisket, turkey and chicken. Everything comes out great! We use it more often than our $3000 propane built in.
Answer: Depends on the outside temp. I previously owned a 2007 Traeger Lil Tex and I find this machine far superior over that one. The electronics on this unit are far more precise and the clean out dump is so much more convenient. The low smoke setting works great for the long slow cook. Have done Babybacks for 10 hours and they were perfect. My guestimate on temp is 120 150f Also love the extra shelf and the recessed top on the hopper. I live on a ridge with plenty of wind and have had no wet pellets. Hope this helps.
Answer: low smoke setting is 160, high smoke setting is 225. I cold smoke in mine using an a-maze-n pellet maze & a lump of charcoal
Answer: 175f
Answer: 165 farenheit
Q:
Can this grill cook without adding much smoke to the meat? Would cooking at say 350 produce as much smoke as the low/high smoke settings?
Answer: The higher the temperature the less smoke you get. 300 degrees and higher you get very little smoke. Also, you could buy Oak or Adler pellets which have less flavor for your high temperature cooks.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: It doesn't add ANY smoke flavor to begin with.
Q:
is this comes with a cook book?
Answer: No. It came with some tips, but not a book. If you are considering this one, I would recommend shopping around. Very disappointed in the temp variation: it is ridiculous. The plus/minus is easily 75 degrees at 250 F. That may be okay for cooking a forgiving Boston Pork Butt, but that's risky for an expensive brisket.
Answer: Instruction manual has just a couple of simple ones.
Answer: Mine did not come with a cook book, but there are plenty of recipes online.
Answer: No, but lots of good ones out there. Instruction manual has a some simple ones.
Answer: no, just a few recipes in the manual.
Q:
does it come with a cover
Answer: No, only buy the camp chef brand, it will outlast the grill! Best cover made! You will love the grill
Answer: No
Answer: No.
Q:
Why does my grill get a lot of "dust" from the pellets. What can cause it to cook hotter then it is set.
Answer: The dust is caused by the convection fan blowing air into the fire pot and unfortunately is the nature of the best with a pellet grill. Now for the temp. You can adjust the chimney up and down to control temp a little better but there will always be some variance. Hope this helps with your pellet grill experience.
Answer: The "dust" is ash. This is normal and you will need to clean this out after about 12 hours if cooking. As for why it is "hotter" than you set it for, how much hotter? What are you setting it to, and what is it heating to? If the chimney is open too far you might be getting air in that causes the temp to spike? It's easy for the grill to regulate the temp up, but down is obviously harder.
Answer: I have seen different pellet brands that cause more dust. The camp chef and traeger branded pellets are more dense than others...I see the least dust with them.
Answer: I have found that the dust is caused by certain pellets. If I use Camp Chef pellets and keep them dry I don't have the dust problems.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: The two answers you have gotten I have to agree with, they are good answers....I vacuum my burn bowl before very use never had a problem with ash.
Q:
Does the Camp Chef PG24 come with a bag of wood pellets? I can't find anywhere that lists what is included.
Answer: No , start scouting out where you will find your supply of pellets! I do recommend the Camp Chef
Answer: No
Answer: No
Answer: No
Answer: No
Answer: No
Q:
What kind of cleaning utensils/ products can be used? I am looking for a grill/ smoker tool kit that would be good to use with this pellet smoker.
Answer: Regular grille clean tools are fine. I actually just take the grill and angled drip pan out and soak & clean in my deep utility sink. I also added an Teflon Oven spill mat to the drip pan so after a 18-20 hour BBQ clean up is a breeze. Hope this helps.
Q:
Would you please let me know how long it takes to start up and get to 250? How about 350? Thank you!
Answer: It has a lot to do with the outside temp. but about 20 min. to reach 250 and 10 to 15 more for 350. Hope this helps.
Answer: My best answer here would be approximately 15-20 minutes to 250 deg. and maybe 20 - 35 minutes to 350 deg. All depends on ambient temp and here in Florida it's usually very warm. Generally speaking it's certainly quick enough. Hope that helps.
Answer: About a half hour to 250 , then 15 more for 350. In the winter, it barely can reach 350.
Q:
What is the shell made of? What thickness?
Answer: It is powder coated steel. Pretty heavy duty.
Q:
Does it really take 3 to 5 months to get?
Answer: No
Q:
What is the electrical specs for this grill?
Answer: Standar outlet that you can have in your patio (120 volts, 15 amps)
Answer: Standard 120v plug. Other than starting rod the voltage should be very low
Answer: I would have to look, but I have mine plugged into a 120v outside socket. I believe they draw about three amps.
Answer: You plug it into a standard 120V outlet.
Q:
What is the inside height of this grill? We make a lot of beer can chicken and would like to know if this grill is high enough inside.
Answer: I'm not sure of the exact measurements.. But it is large enough for beer can chicken. My husband has made it several times with this grill/smoker! And for the record my husband LOVES this thing! Best gift I EVER got him!
Answer: The inside height is 9 inches.
Answer: 10.5 if you put the beer can holster right on the plate...9 if you put it on the grate
Answer: I am cooking on mine right now and I love it. It is 9 inches from gate to top. 9 1/2 total there is a lip at the lid line and 24 inches across. I'd say easily fit two birds. I took some pictures with a tape measure but you can post those on here.
Q:
Does this grill come with a cover, like on your own web site
Answer: It does not come with the cover. It is purchased separately for about $35
Answer: The grill cover is separate but well worth it in my opinion
Answer: No you have to buy the grill cover separately
Answer: No. I had to purchase one separately.
Answer: No it does not, We purchased one separately.
Answer: No I purchased it and it is very nice
Answer: No, it does not.
Answer: No it does not
Q:
Can it operate on 220 V in South Africa
Answer: No
Q:
Why so long to get it?
Q:
Is the body of this grill painted or powder coated?
Answer: All of the black components are powder coated, but keep in mind that powder coating is a type of paint. So the answer to your question is yes and yes.
Answer: Mine is painted very nice finish
Answer: Powder coated
Answer: Not sure but it is holding up well.
Q:
Do I have to use the meat probe sensor or can I keep it unplugged? I rather use my wireless temp monitor instead.
Answer: No, the meat probe is not required. It’s a convenience to keep from opening the grill to check for internal meat temp. Your own wireless should be fine.
Answer: No, you do not have to. The meat probe just gives you the ability to see the meat temp on the display of the controller when the button is pressed. It does not use the probe temp for any controls.
Answer: No you don’t have to use the meat probe sensor.
Answer: The smoker works fine without the meat probe. The temperature control for the smoker is separate from the meat temperature probe. That said, no reason why you couldn't use both the wireless and the included smoker meat probe for back up.
Answer: No need to use the built in probe, I use my wireless only
Answer: Totally up to you. Plus the same probe hole can be used for your thermometer.
Q:
is hopper rain proof ?
Answer: It seems reasonably rain proof as the top extends a bit beyond the opening and has a lip on it. I have had a moderate rain on mine and did not notice any moisture in the hopper.
Answer: Absolutely not…slightest rain and pellets are mush at the entrance to the auger. You have to cover it and even that is no guarantee.
Answer: Not for a driving rain, but remember, the pellets enemy is moisture. I purchased a cover for mine.
Answer: Yes, I do have a cover, but have had it rain on me before I got the cover on and had no problems.
Q:
How does extended warranty work?
Q:
Are the cooking grates stainless steel or something else? in the air between this and the silverbac by grilla grills
Answer: Steel, not stainless. And I don't know what silverback or gorilla grills are?
Answer: I want to say they are enamel. Since there isn't a fire it won't burn off. Nothing sticks to them. EVER!. The only thing I feel that is missing from this grill is a wifi controller.
Answer: The cooking grates are non-stick porcelain.
Q:
Can I make wood fired pizza in this?
Answer: Yes, you are able to cook a pizza in the PG24.
Answer: I have not, but I would think you could. It gets hot enough. The only thing to decide is whether or not to put the pizza directly on the grill or use a pan/tray.
Answer: Yup. Make sure you use a pizza stone.
Answer: I have done pizza and it came out very tasty
Answer: Yes and it is our favorite to cook on the smoker.. We have 2 stones because it is a hit for cook outs.
Answer: I would say yes. Turn on high let it get up to temperature.
Q:
Can I grill burger and hot dogs?
Answer: Once you try smoked hotdogs you won’t want to eat them any other way!
Answer: Hamburgers yes I have not tried any hotdogs yet
Q:
Red or blue led display?
Answer: Mine arrived today. It has blue LED with two meat probe inputs.
Answer: red
Q:
Have prob with getting to 250* f in smkyjo due to no insul. @ 20* f ambient.. any prob with this camp chef?
Answer: I live in N. Montana and used my Camp Chef all last winter without any added insulation. I was worried about the same thing but have been very pleased using in cold weather. Highly recommend it... Would totally buy it over and over. Just happy with the product.
Answer: I'm not sure. Haven't used it in cold weather as of yet! So far I have had great luck with the camp chef! But try getting ahold of the dealer directly. Good luck
Q:
what are the total grill dimensions
Answer: From what I can find it says its 47.5 inches tall, 50 inches wide, and 20.5 inches depth.
Q:
Can you really grill a steak and burgers on this thing in addition to smoking? How hot will it get and how long does it take to get there.
Q:
Has anyone had issues with the heating rod not getting hot enough to get the temperature up? Just purchased and can't get above 90 degrees after 30mn
Answer: I haven't had any heating problem. If the initial auger fill process was followed and it won't gain temperature I would call call or email Camp Chef customer service. I have had very good luck with them.
Answer: I've had mine for about 6 weeks. Yesterday I cranked it to 450 and it reached and held. Camp Chef has a live person help team on their web site through instant messaging. They can help you quickly.
Answer: So far I'm not having that issue Sounds like you need to call camp chef on that problem.
Answer: No Jeff ,it sounds like you might have something wrong with your grill. I have run mine in some pretty cold weather with no problems.
Answer: Did you open the ash clean out in the start up or did you push the start bypass button
Q:
Can you supplement this with additional wood chunks to generate extra smoke? Seems there's some criticism that it doesn't inject a heavy smoke flavor.
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: No you can't supplement with wood chunks. Get a smoke tube if you want more smoke, but in my opinion this smoker puts out more than enough smoke. I've had my PG24DLX for over a year. I like it so much I bought a 2nd one the PG24SE. Buy it, you won't be sorry
Answer: It is not set up to put chunks of wood in it. I have been using this grill for an entire summer, and have yet to cook something without smoke flavor. I can put a smoke ring in any kind of meat I cook, along with the smoke flavor.
Answer: I have seen some people put chunks of wood underneath the drip tray but idk how well or if it works. You can buy a smoke tube, there is a large variety, that will add extra smoke if you wish.
Answer: NO! This is a pellet grill so it only burns pellets which travel from the hopper to the igniter. It has a high smoke setting which gets pretty Smokey. If you want more, suggest you try different pellet varieties, or extend your smoking duration.
Answer: Yes as much as you can supplement any grill with additional smoke.
Answer: You can get a smoke tube and use the same pellets. I use the high smoke setting and for me that is good
Q:
Does extended warranty run concurrent with factory or does it start after factory?
Answer: I never buy extended warranties. Sorry.
Q:
do you have to have electricity to use these BBQs?
Answer: Yes. It works on Electricity. The pellets are moved to the BBQ via electricity.
Answer: Good day! Unfortunately you do have to use electricity to use these grills. However this has been the best grilling experience I have had using this grill. Worth the electrical tether!
Answer: Hi,
Answer: Yes. The system uses electricity to feed the pellets and also ignite them.
Answer: YES, BUT IF YOURE LOOKING FOR SMOKE FLAVORED MEATS, DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS PRODUCT. IT COOKS WELL, BUT DOES NOT PUT ANY SMOKE FLAVOR IN ANYTHING YOU COOK. IVE TRIED 13 DIFFERENT PELLETS, AND COOKED ON "HIGH SMOKE" SETTING FOR 16 HOURS AND ABSOLUTELY ZERO SMOKE FLAVOR. THE FOOD WILL COME OUT TASTING EXACTLY AS IF YOU USED YOUR INDOOR OVEN. DONT LET ANY OTHER REVIEWS FOOL YOU. THE PRODUCT "COOKS" VERY NICELY, BUT DOES NOT "SMOKE"! I PURCHASED AN OFFSET SMOKER FOR 1/3 THE PRICE AND IT WORKS SOOOO MUCH BETTER IN TERMS OF SMOKE FLAVOR.
Answer: Yes
Q:
What temperature does lo smoke and hi smoke smoke at? Are the higher temp settings just for cooking or do they produce smoke as well?
Answer: Low smoke is 175 high smoke is 225. Higher temps produce smoke also.
Q:
Does this have a top rack as well?
Answer: Yes. has small top rack
Answer: Yes
Q:
If I order this product, will it be the updated 2019 version?
Answer: Don’t know. What is the difference supposed to be?
Q:
What is the length
Answer: Sorry for not getting back sooner I was out of town.
Answer: Fully assembled width is 50" x 24" deep. The cooking area is 24" wide x 19" deep. This is a great smoker
Answer: 51"
Q:
Since stainless and this one are about same price in hind site which model would you choose?
Answer: There wasn't a stainless option when I bought mine or I would had bought it. Easier to clean and no rust. It may turn blue around the heat. No big deal though. Go for it
Answer: Watch YouTube video buy tonybuddy123 for stainless version with is woodwind grill buy Camp Chef
Answer: I'm not sure of the difference in price ( did not know that head a stainless version) but I will say that I am very happy with mine!! Love it, and it continues to perform as it is supposed to.
Answer: I don't think you can go wrong with either one....I have several grills---I did ribs on Chef Pro first time---best ribs that ever passed my lips.
Q:
Can the PG24 be used with an inverter, and if so, how many watts?
Answer: If you look at the manual, you'll see that the internal fuse is rated for 5A (i.e. 120V x 5A ~ 600W). It's probably no more than that. There's just a simple control board, wood pellet lighter (which is off most of the time), blower fan and auger motor.
Answer: I really don't know. Sorry.
Q:
Is the sear box available using natural das rather than propane?
Answer: I only use propane, however, natural gas can be used
Q:
are there instructions for attaching the sear box?
Answer: Yes. The way to attach it is very simple with four bolts that are attached through pre-drilled holes.
Answer: Yes, full instructions plus smoking instructions.
Answer: Yes. It’s quite obvious. But the entire smoker assembly is easier with 2 people.
Answer: Yes. Fully explained. Easy.
Answer: Yes
Answer: Yes
Q:
Do these units have an electric blower to move the smoke around like a Traeger?
Answer: Yes. It has a convection style fan to help regulate the temperature inside the cooking chamber. It also has Camp Chef's patented ash clean-out system that no other pellet grill has. That way you don't have to use a shop vac to clean it out after every cook.
Answer: Yes. It will vary the speed to maintain cooking temperature
Answer: Yes my camp chef does have a fan and it seems to work very well
Q:
My friend has a green mountain daniel boon, his thermostat goes up in 5 degree incremints, this one goes up in 25 degree incremints, which is better?
Q:
where does all the grease go while cooking?
Answer: Runs down on a tray that slants for grease to flow into a small bucket that hangs on the outside o the smoker. Very good drainage system.
Answer: in the grease trap can
Answer: In a bucket(included) hanging on the right side of the grill
Answer: in the little bucket hanging off the side
Q:
Side burner - can i convert to natural gas?
Answer: Not sure, it doesn't have a pilot light or face so I'm not sure.
Product reviews of Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze
Blake W. Hiatt : Great Grill, great food!
I did a ton of research before settling on the Camp Chef pellet grill. So far, the grill has exceeded my expectations by a wide margin.
I'm very experienced with gas grills and after my gas grill started getting a bit long in the tooth, I decided to look at other grills, initially thinking I would simply get another gas grill.
However, a co-worker suggested I look into pellet grills and briefly explained how they are set up with electronic controls that regulate the temperature.
Intrigued, I started doing some research. Boy, are there a lot of pellet grills out there! But, in the end, the Camp Chef was the clear choice for this pellet grill neophyte. Even my experienced co-worker admitted the ash cleanout on the bottom is a great feature and he wished his much more expensive unit had that feature.
So far, I've done country ribs, whole chickens. prime rib, brats, meatloaf, stuffed pork chops and Mac & Cheese. (I use a Camp Chef Turkey Cannon infuser for whole chickens. It's too tall for the grill if the rack is in the Camp Chef. No bother, remove the rack and put the infuser directly on the drip pan. I put the infuser base in a pan to catch the drippings)
I forgot to mention, I purchased a stainless steel pan specifically for use with the grill.
One thing that took me a bit to learn, though there is plenty of information available, is the amount of time it takes to do a good smoke. Generally, I run mine at high smoke for a couple of hours then turn it up to 375 for the last little bit. I also do the initial smoke in a pan (keeps things moist) then move to the regular rack at higher heat.
My wife loves everything I've made so far and I enjoy putting things together for us to eat. All in all, it's a great culinary adventure and a great way to expand ones cooking horizons.
I did a lot of price research and I could not beat the price on Amazon, being as it included delivery. I could have purchased locally, for the same price as I paid on Amazon but then I would have been stuck wrestling the box in and out of my vehicle.
The Camp Chef came well boxed and the packaging was designed to aid assembly. Pull the top off the box, cut the tape holding the sides, the sides of the box fall down, roll the grill on its back, bolt on the legs, stand the grill up, attach everything else.
I had a bit of trouble removing the heat distribution plate so I could get everything positioned, but in the end, everything worked.
The built in heat probe failed almost immediately, but, the failure was probably due to user error. I've not contacted Camp Chef for replacement, because I've another electronic thermometer that sends a readout directly to a hand held unit in the kitchen. So, I've no reason to want or need to replace the temperature probe.
Great grill. Nothing like tossing something on a grill and forgetting about it for a two or three hours. And the taste is beyond belief.
For those who wonder about the cost of pellets, I suggest keeping an eye on Amazon. Generally, one can find good pellets for around $17 per 20#, delivered, which certainly beats running all over town looking for pellets.
Also, don't be afraid to experiment! If it's ovenable, it's grillable!
I'm very experienced with gas grills and after my gas grill started getting a bit long in the tooth, I decided to look at other grills, initially thinking I would simply get another gas grill.
However, a co-worker suggested I look into pellet grills and briefly explained how they are set up with electronic controls that regulate the temperature.
Intrigued, I started doing some research. Boy, are there a lot of pellet grills out there! But, in the end, the Camp Chef was the clear choice for this pellet grill neophyte. Even my experienced co-worker admitted the ash cleanout on the bottom is a great feature and he wished his much more expensive unit had that feature.
So far, I've done country ribs, whole chickens. prime rib, brats, meatloaf, stuffed pork chops and Mac & Cheese. (I use a Camp Chef Turkey Cannon infuser for whole chickens. It's too tall for the grill if the rack is in the Camp Chef. No bother, remove the rack and put the infuser directly on the drip pan. I put the infuser base in a pan to catch the drippings)
I forgot to mention, I purchased a stainless steel pan specifically for use with the grill.
One thing that took me a bit to learn, though there is plenty of information available, is the amount of time it takes to do a good smoke. Generally, I run mine at high smoke for a couple of hours then turn it up to 375 for the last little bit. I also do the initial smoke in a pan (keeps things moist) then move to the regular rack at higher heat.
My wife loves everything I've made so far and I enjoy putting things together for us to eat. All in all, it's a great culinary adventure and a great way to expand ones cooking horizons.
I did a lot of price research and I could not beat the price on Amazon, being as it included delivery. I could have purchased locally, for the same price as I paid on Amazon but then I would have been stuck wrestling the box in and out of my vehicle.
The Camp Chef came well boxed and the packaging was designed to aid assembly. Pull the top off the box, cut the tape holding the sides, the sides of the box fall down, roll the grill on its back, bolt on the legs, stand the grill up, attach everything else.
I had a bit of trouble removing the heat distribution plate so I could get everything positioned, but in the end, everything worked.
The built in heat probe failed almost immediately, but, the failure was probably due to user error. I've not contacted Camp Chef for replacement, because I've another electronic thermometer that sends a readout directly to a hand held unit in the kitchen. So, I've no reason to want or need to replace the temperature probe.
Great grill. Nothing like tossing something on a grill and forgetting about it for a two or three hours. And the taste is beyond belief.
For those who wonder about the cost of pellets, I suggest keeping an eye on Amazon. Generally, one can find good pellets for around $17 per 20#, delivered, which certainly beats running all over town looking for pellets.
Also, don't be afraid to experiment! If it's ovenable, it's grillable!
Weston Albers : Better than Traeger!
My boyfriend has been wanting a Traeger grill for a few years and we picked one up at Home Depot. We were very disappointed with the temperature control and ended up returning it. We tried this camp chef grill and absolutely LOVE it. We've used it for about a year now and have not had any issues. We usually grill at least 3 times a week. We live in Minnesota and have used this just fine throughout the freezing winter temperatures too. The temperature probe has changed the game for us making meats and salmon on the grill, and it is so easy to clean the grill. No need to vacuum it out! My parents even switched out their grill to this one since they loved ours so much. If it ever dies, we will for sure be getting another one!
Robert C. : Camp chief and Outdoorcooking.com Great combination
Best buy ever 1st came sooner than expected seller got it off fast came box looked like he'll but it's packed well had 1 small issue contacted outdoor cooking. Com next day was all taken care of fast and professional I will always buy from this seller. Now grill was easy to put together, took about 45 minutes counting unboxing . Start up directions were quick and easy for your 1st cure . looks great cooked on it every day since it arrived. One tip is for nomax seal for lid and I got a cheep welding blanket to place on grill to help keep temperature good . Now you don't need to do this works fine on its own , and will keep steady temp but it's cold here and after I did this I used half of the pellets I did the first 2 days. Think of it like insulating your house you don't want the furnace to keep running . Very easy to use literally set it and forget it , this makes lots of smoke .tons of YouTube tips and tricks on pellet cooking . I highly recommend this Camp Chef pg24 grill sold by outdoorcooking.com it will take your outdoor cooking to a whole new level
Amazon Customer : Overpriced if you think you're getting a smoker and BBQ combo grill
Don't fool yourself into thinking this is both a smoker and a grill. It's a good smoker and we made great pastrami from it, but as a barbecue grill, it's unpredictable. It came in a zillion pieces and was a pain to put together especially as a couple of the pieces were not welded correctly, and if you don't set the temperature before turning it on it never warms up... and don't even get me started on if you change the temperature as sometimes it will adjust and other times it will just stop working and you!ll get the infamous "Flame" message. Also a reminder that this is electric so you don't get to be cordless - a long extension cord has become our best friend so that we can try to enjoy it outdoors in the summer. Will probably keep this for smoking but definitely are going to have to invest in a real grill as unfortunately this one is not a ton of fun for barbecuing meat.
L. K. Harris : DONT BUY IT. MAJOR DANGER
Do not buy this. After putting together I turned it on. After about 20 minutes of warming up, the top flew open. If I was next to it, it would have knocked me out or worse.
After waiting more than a week for a response from customer service, I finally got help.
After cooking on it once, major issues occurred.
After setting temperature to 250, I closed the lid and went inside. All of the sudden, I hear a huge bang, looked through the window and the door had flown open again with flames coming out. I ran outside and temp was up to 450. Unplugged and now will be ready to be picked up by trash man.
No Fourth of July BBQ for us. Just BS.
Horrible dangerous fire and injury hazard. TERRIBLE.
Get this off of the market.
After waiting more than a week for a response from customer service, I finally got help.
After cooking on it once, major issues occurred.
After setting temperature to 250, I closed the lid and went inside. All of the sudden, I hear a huge bang, looked through the window and the door had flown open again with flames coming out. I ran outside and temp was up to 450. Unplugged and now will be ready to be picked up by trash man.
No Fourth of July BBQ for us. Just BS.
Horrible dangerous fire and injury hazard. TERRIBLE.
Get this off of the market.
Eric A : Easy Assembly and heavy duty construction
I did months of detailed research on what pellet smoker to purchase for under $700. I feel that I made the right choice. This Camp Chef DLX smoker arrived ahead of time, packed perfectly and really easy to assemble. Under 45 mins! Really a heavy duty device. It must weigh 130lbs. I got the Bronze one , and it looks sharp. Followed all the start up directions, feeding the pellet tube, before starting, and 350 for 25-30 mins to burn off manufacturing chemicals etc. then I filled her up with high quality Mesquite pellets and smoked a whole chick and some brats. Ohhhhhh the Smokey flavor was great . This weekend the real test , Tri Tip and Babybacks, corn and zucchini. In two weeks a Brisket! I love this smoker!
Brian : Beware!
I purchased this grill in November of last year and absolutely fell in love with it. Great for smoking, grilling, everything. Easy to keep clean. I own a local catering company and even spoke highly of this grill in a magazine article published in my hometown about home grilling. Then, about a month ago, I ran out of pellets while starting up the machine. I added pellets, switched it over to feed and waited to hear the pellets feed. Once they did, I cranked it up and went into the house to prep the rest of my meal. Luckily, I had a window above my sink and saw the over-abundance of smoke. I rushed outside and smoke was pouring out of the spout near the drain bucket. Foolishly, I opened the lid and the entire grill exploded in flames, singeing my arms and face. As the unit was under my soffit I acted fast and had to drag the unit away from the house without burning myself further. I watched as the paint bubbled and flaked into the air.
This wasn’t really the worst part.
I dutifully took pictures and called the company the next day. After being redirected to a warranty claim form I was emailed a week or so later. The company claims that, even though I know my unit was cleaned regularly and wasn’t even old enough to have a big enough buildup of any debris for this to happen, their unit wouldn’t have caught fire like this and the finish isn’t covered under warranty. The finish. On the grill used as directed. That turned into a burning fireball against the side of my home and burned my hair and skin. Wasn’t covered by warranty. Now I have a rust box. And a story for anyone that considers buying Camp Chef. This is one of 4 Camp Chef grills I own, but will never buy another one.
Thanks for letting a fella down, Camp Chef.
This wasn’t really the worst part.
I dutifully took pictures and called the company the next day. After being redirected to a warranty claim form I was emailed a week or so later. The company claims that, even though I know my unit was cleaned regularly and wasn’t even old enough to have a big enough buildup of any debris for this to happen, their unit wouldn’t have caught fire like this and the finish isn’t covered under warranty. The finish. On the grill used as directed. That turned into a burning fireball against the side of my home and burned my hair and skin. Wasn’t covered by warranty. Now I have a rust box. And a story for anyone that considers buying Camp Chef. This is one of 4 Camp Chef grills I own, but will never buy another one.
Thanks for letting a fella down, Camp Chef.
Sara Downer : Best Value
amazon price is $200 less than everyone else that was the main thing that drew me to this model specifically. did some burgers the first day and then just finished a brisket today. both turned out great in fact my first time ever smoking a brisket and it was amazing. even at the "regular" price of $699 this grill is a good buy based on the features it has that compare to more expensive models. the fact it is compatible with the sear burner is nice so you can add it later if you want and save a few hundred if you don't want it. Great grill for the money and it imparts a nice smoke flavor and all you need to do is flip a switch. Buy with confidence. Couple parts were damaged from shipping. Camp Chef customer service is amazing and got replacements in the mail immediately.
Z. Krage : No better way to up your BBQ game.
Pros:
This thing is heavy. It's made from some very durable, high quality material. Keep it dry and it should last you a lifetime.
Smoking with pellets is ingenious. Fill and easily empty the hopper with your preferred hardwood blend and smoke to perfection. Just keep the hopper full. It's that easy. A chute in the back allows for quick and easy emptying of the hopper.
The digital temperature control and meat probe allows cooking to pinpoint temperatures. It's almost impossible to mess up.
This model is quite large. Even without the rib rack, I'm smoking 3 whole racks simultaneously.
It comes apart easily for quick cleaning. The burner tray is easily emptied. Pull a rod out from under the side table to do so. The ash tray is easily accessible from underneath.
The smoker is designed to channel drippings down to the right, and down a chute into an included bucket. No muss, no fuss.
Cons:
Manufacturing tolerances certainly come into play. At least with mine, there is a noticeable gap between the lid and the body. Smoke pours out readily instead of from the stack as designed. I had to buy some wool gasket to seal it off to keep the smoke inside.
The drippings chute does not have the same stopper as the pellet chute. Now while this might not seem like much of an issue, it becomes one when a varmint crawls its way inside and helps itself to the internal wiring. On the plus side, the wiring is easy enough to replace. Stuff some steel wool up there to keep the critters out.
While my model supports the sear box, which is fantastic by the way, it is not designed with the pre-drilled and tapped holes other models are to attach the hook by which you hang your lp tank.
You may end up struggling to keep this smoker lit when it gets really cold. I had trouble smoking a turkey last thanksgiving because it kept flaming out. They sell a thermal blanket you can attach to the lid and body to keep heat in but I have yet to try it and it's an extra hundred bucks on top of something that is already quite expensive.
Overall, you can't go wrong if you are a grilling/smoking amateur and you want to quickly up your game.
This thing is heavy. It's made from some very durable, high quality material. Keep it dry and it should last you a lifetime.
Smoking with pellets is ingenious. Fill and easily empty the hopper with your preferred hardwood blend and smoke to perfection. Just keep the hopper full. It's that easy. A chute in the back allows for quick and easy emptying of the hopper.
The digital temperature control and meat probe allows cooking to pinpoint temperatures. It's almost impossible to mess up.
This model is quite large. Even without the rib rack, I'm smoking 3 whole racks simultaneously.
It comes apart easily for quick cleaning. The burner tray is easily emptied. Pull a rod out from under the side table to do so. The ash tray is easily accessible from underneath.
The smoker is designed to channel drippings down to the right, and down a chute into an included bucket. No muss, no fuss.
Cons:
Manufacturing tolerances certainly come into play. At least with mine, there is a noticeable gap between the lid and the body. Smoke pours out readily instead of from the stack as designed. I had to buy some wool gasket to seal it off to keep the smoke inside.
The drippings chute does not have the same stopper as the pellet chute. Now while this might not seem like much of an issue, it becomes one when a varmint crawls its way inside and helps itself to the internal wiring. On the plus side, the wiring is easy enough to replace. Stuff some steel wool up there to keep the critters out.
While my model supports the sear box, which is fantastic by the way, it is not designed with the pre-drilled and tapped holes other models are to attach the hook by which you hang your lp tank.
You may end up struggling to keep this smoker lit when it gets really cold. I had trouble smoking a turkey last thanksgiving because it kept flaming out. They sell a thermal blanket you can attach to the lid and body to keep heat in but I have yet to try it and it's an extra hundred bucks on top of something that is already quite expensive.
Overall, you can't go wrong if you are a grilling/smoking amateur and you want to quickly up your game.
B&C : Rattles so loud! See video attached
Feb 2021 UPDATE (2 YEARS LATER): Originally gave this 3 star due to the noise mentioned above. I'm taking it down to 1-star for several issues. 1) The probe thermometer went out after a year or so. I contacted support, they send me another one because its under warranty. Six months later the replacement goes out. Apparently this is a known issue and they havent cared to address it - just keep throwing the same faulty product at you and now they want me to to buy a replacement for $20+.
2) The MAIN issue however, is it is very difficult to get the unit to heat up now. It takes around 5 restarts to get it to work. It appears the blower is at fault, or more likely, a control unit for the blower is faulty (because again, after a few restarts, the blower finally kicks in and the unit will work). Given this, it now takes me about an hour of restarting over and over to get this to finally heat properly.
verbilkent : The best smoker on the market!
This is the best smoker on the market! I can do a full 15 pound brisket no problem. 3 large racks of ribs and room for a fourth on the upper rack. I mention that because it was one of my concerns when doing research. Hands down the two features that set it apart from ANY smoker is the ash clean out underneath and the pellet bin clean out. AND this comes with a meat temperature probe that the "other" companies do not unless you pay for the upgrade! Extremely simple to use set it and forget it! For 10 years I used an offset wood charcoal smoker, every hour rain snow night tending to it, not anymore! 6 hour smoke on ribs, fall off the bone! 15 pound brisket 16 hours then 2 hours wrapped in blanket and put in empty cooler, perfection!
T. Kinney : Love It
I was getting ready to host a bunch of people for Memorial Day for a BBQ. I have an ancient Barbecues Galore Grand Turbo gas grill and a Jumbo Joe charcoal grill. I wanted to do a brisket and neither of those contraptions were going to do it right. I started looking into pellet grills. I liked the Green Mountain grills models but couldn't find one and couldn't get one here in time. Then I stumbled on a review of the Camp Chef on the Amazing Ribs website and they gave it their highest rating. The icing on the cake was finding it on Amazon for a couple hundred off the list price with 2 day shipping to boot. Sold! Then they shipped it UPS. I have a long history of things from UPS showing up looking like they drop kicked it all the way across the country so I had high anxiety for two days. Miraculously, it showed up in perfect condition. Not so much as a rip in the box. Assembly was a snap. My brisket was nothing short of awesome, as good as any I've ever eaten. I'm starting my second year with this smoker. I've smoked fish, ribs, brisket, yard bird, you name it. It has never missed a beat. I have a Maverick remote thermometer that I know is accurate and the thermometer on this grill is very close. People complaining about smoke leaking out of the lid. Who cares? The smoke has already passed over your meat and would just go out of the chimney anyway. I plan to wear this grill out (no sign of that yet) and then upgrade to a MAK but I am perfectly happy with this grill at the moment.
Jacqueline M. Ross : How to make this smoker smoke!
I finally gave in and decided to go the easy way after almost 30 years of wood smoking. I purchased this product based off the many great reviews. When I started using it, 8 cooks in 7 days, I have been VERY disappointed in the amount of smoke this thing puts out. BUT, I finally discovered last night that if I set it on the 200 degree setting, it smokes perfectly!!! I did a pork loin last night and decided to play with the settings. I started at 300 and worked my way down in 20 minute intervals. When I got to 200, this thing smoked like my wood smokers, for the most part. Heavy smoke about every 3 to 5 minutes. This is the only setting I have found that works for heavy smoke. Overall I give this thing a 3 based off temp fluctuation and the amount of smoke across the low temps, I didn't expect much smoke at temps over 275. Also, the High 225/Low 160 smoke setting provide very little smoke??? I'd say I am pretty happy with my purchase. More time will tell!
Iron Mike : Using this grill is easy. It is also very well constructed and fairly ...
Using this grill is easy. It is also very well constructed and fairly easy to assemble. Food has been amazing and dons't need all the attention that my Weber charcoal grill does. Complaint: When I did keep an eye on it at Hi Smoke {216 - 230 degrees) I saw a variance from 180 - 310 degrees. Did not open the top, not a windy day just in the 80s as far as the outdoor temp. I wrote to Camp Chef and they just replied that there would be a temp variation of about 25 degrees either way mine had much more. I found that the food off the Weber 1 had a more smoky flavor. All in all happy with it just wish it kept a better control of the temp, I got it so I wouldn't have to keep tabs on it all day.
N. Bettes : What are you waiting for... buy it.
Great product, this takes grilling/smokers to the next level. I have and still own a 1000lbs steel 3 chamber log fired smoker a propane grill and griddle combo and a propane smoker. I've been cooking outside for 45 years. This pellet grill revolutionizes all aspects of grilling and smoking! This thing is fool proof, perfect smoked meats one day and the best steaks I have ever cooked, I should have switched to camp chef pellet grill years ago.
Robert C. : Camp chief and Outdoorcooking.com Great combination
Best buy ever 1st came sooner than expected seller got it off fast came box looked like he'll but it's packed well had 1 small issue contacted outdoor cooking. Com next day was all taken care of fast and professional I will always buy from this seller. Now grill was easy to put together, took about 45 minutes counting unboxing . Start up directions were quick and easy for your 1st cure . looks great cooked on it every day since it arrived. One tip is for nomax seal for lid and I got a cheep welding blanket to place on grill to help keep temperature good . Now you don't need to do this works fine on its own , and will keep steady temp but it's cold here and after I did this I used half of the pellets I did the first 2 days. Think of it like insulating your house you don't want the furnace to keep running . Very easy to use literally set it and forget it , this makes lots of smoke .tons of YouTube tips and tricks on pellet cooking . I highly recommend this Camp Chef pg24 grill sold by outdoorcooking.com it will take your outdoor cooking to a whole new level
Jesse : Dud right out of the freaking box!
Unbelievable! What a waste of time. After waitting over 2 weeks to get here, unpacking, and putting this lemon together, I loaded it with pellets, placed it in load, started it up and heating element does NOTHING. I bought a 500 dollar piece of metal that is good for nothing but loading pellets in a cup. I've tried all troubleshooting methods. What a waste. Back to looking for a grill that's not a dud or less than last 2 years.
L. K. Harris : DONT BUY IT. MAJOR DANGER
Do not buy this. After putting together I turned it on. After about 20 minutes of warming up, the top flew open. If I was next to it, it would have knocked me out or worse.
After waiting more than a week for a response from customer service, I finally got help.
After cooking on it once, major issues occurred.
After setting temperature to 250, I closed the lid and went inside. All of the sudden, I hear a huge bang, looked through the window and the door had flown open again with flames coming out. I ran outside and temp was up to 450. Unplugged and now will be ready to be picked up by trash man.
No Fourth of July BBQ for us. Just BS.
Horrible dangerous fire and injury hazard. TERRIBLE.
Get this off of the market.
After waiting more than a week for a response from customer service, I finally got help.
After cooking on it once, major issues occurred.
After setting temperature to 250, I closed the lid and went inside. All of the sudden, I hear a huge bang, looked through the window and the door had flown open again with flames coming out. I ran outside and temp was up to 450. Unplugged and now will be ready to be picked up by trash man.
No Fourth of July BBQ for us. Just BS.
Horrible dangerous fire and injury hazard. TERRIBLE.
Get this off of the market.
Phil F. : Never going back to gas
Had an LP grill for years. Added an electric smoker a few years back. Both decided to crap out late last year. Researched different combo units for a few months, then pulled the trigger on this one when it went on sale. Couldn't be happier. Wife and daughter assembled the unit in under an hour. Easy to start and use. Temperature stays stable for the most part as long as there isn't a 20 plus mph wind. Meat probes read about 5-7 degrees lower than actual, but that can be accounted for. Have done ribs, loins, chicken, pizza, burgers...smoked food, grilled food.....you name it and they have all come out excellent. Not much for sear as is the case with all pellet grills, but the kids don't like it that way regardless. Overall, very pleased.
Fintz : Pretty Disappointing
Could not get this thing to hold a temp reliably at all. First couple uses I noticed it was running 20-30 degrees lower than the thermostat was set. Bought the thermal blanket (even though I was running it in 60 degree sunny weather) in hopes of stabilizing it, no luck. Had repeated instances where it failed to ignite at all and I had to empty the firebox and start over, which is very frustrating. Smoke was coming out of every seam in the thing, except for the chimney. Cooked a few things (ribs and pork butt) both came out not as expected for a "set and forget" type grill. I was constantly wrestling with the settings trying to keep the temp stable and the grill producing smoke. After 3 weeks of trying, even with the thermal blanket made by Camp Chef for this model it was still running 20-30 degrees colder than it should have been.
Amazon has been awesome and accepted my returns for the grill and thermal blanket. I'll be buying a Green Mountain Grill locally, which I should have done in the first place.
Amazon has been awesome and accepted my returns for the grill and thermal blanket. I'll be buying a Green Mountain Grill locally, which I should have done in the first place.
Weston Albers : Better than Traeger!
My boyfriend has been wanting a Traeger grill for a few years and we picked one up at Home Depot. We were very disappointed with the temperature control and ended up returning it. We tried this camp chef grill and absolutely LOVE it. We've used it for about a year now and have not had any issues. We usually grill at least 3 times a week. We live in Minnesota and have used this just fine throughout the freezing winter temperatures too. The temperature probe has changed the game for us making meats and salmon on the grill, and it is so easy to clean the grill. No need to vacuum it out! My parents even switched out their grill to this one since they loved ours so much. If it ever dies, we will for sure be getting another one!
SeaBass : Good, but not great at this price point
I want to love this smoker but there have been too many issues for a smoker in this price range. I will say that they have had great customer service, a quick email and photo of the damaged part and I had a new one on the way the same day. These are the issues I'm running into:
1. Too many instances of the temperature inexplicably dropping in the middle of a smoke, forcing me to take off my meat and finish it in the oven (which for my brisket may have been a blessing in disguise, turned out fantastic). I've followed the instructions to a T and there was plenty of pellets in the bin so I still can't troubleshoot the cause. Hopefully customer service can help me with this one.
2. Defective parts: I had a few parts that were defective. One part was clearly bent from shipping but the other was the chimney ring which is a welded piece of steel and had to have been from the factory that way.
3. Not well insulated: The smoke escapes from a multitude of areas on the smoker besides the chimney. On a windy day, this will drastically impact your smoke temp fluctuations. I did buy some insulation for around the lid which helped dramatically but still, at this price point it's something that should be done right from the factory to make it a better product.
4. Built-in thermometer did not work. Luckily I had already purchased a Bluetooth thermometer so I don't use it anyway. But again, at this price point, really?
Overall I like this smoker when it functions properly. I would say about 50% of the time the thing just gives up midway through a smoke and I'm forced to finish in the oven. If Camp Chef is able to troubleshoot this and get it running 100%, I will update my review.
1. Too many instances of the temperature inexplicably dropping in the middle of a smoke, forcing me to take off my meat and finish it in the oven (which for my brisket may have been a blessing in disguise, turned out fantastic). I've followed the instructions to a T and there was plenty of pellets in the bin so I still can't troubleshoot the cause. Hopefully customer service can help me with this one.
2. Defective parts: I had a few parts that were defective. One part was clearly bent from shipping but the other was the chimney ring which is a welded piece of steel and had to have been from the factory that way.
3. Not well insulated: The smoke escapes from a multitude of areas on the smoker besides the chimney. On a windy day, this will drastically impact your smoke temp fluctuations. I did buy some insulation for around the lid which helped dramatically but still, at this price point it's something that should be done right from the factory to make it a better product.
4. Built-in thermometer did not work. Luckily I had already purchased a Bluetooth thermometer so I don't use it anyway. But again, at this price point, really?
Overall I like this smoker when it functions properly. I would say about 50% of the time the thing just gives up midway through a smoke and I'm forced to finish in the oven. If Camp Chef is able to troubleshoot this and get it running 100%, I will update my review.
Dink : Great for outdoor cooking.
This is the right choice for anyone that likes smokey flavors and cooking slow at home. It is my first experience with a pellet grill and I have read and studied them for a while. I was looking for a outdoor cooking solution that would give me the ability to cook like the pros without the super sized trailer. Finally deciding to go with the Camp Chef I haven't been disappointed. The temperature control is flawless so you can dial down the cooking process. I smoked chicken the other day and the red smoke ring was a 1/2" deep. It works like a convection oven so there are no cool or hot zones, it just keeps the heat even and consistent. I have noticed even if smoke isn't pouring out the wood flavors are present.
It is a unique cooking system and designed to cook slowly. It doesn't get hot enough to sear thin cuts of meat like steaks but it will have a very good smoke flavor. So it's not a solution for all your outdoor cooking needs, but if you like to slow cook it's great.
Pro's
The hardwood flavor.
Temperature control.
Large cooking surface will hold two turkeys.
Dump tray for easy clean out.
Temperature Probe.
Power failure restart.
Con's
Hard to get pellets out of the hopper for storage. (remove the grate or it is impossible)
Ashes are blown all over the bottom and must be vacuumed out about every fourth or fifth use.
Warming rack is in the way but you can take it out. Not sure I will ever use that.
Checking in at six months.
Upping it to five stars!
Still loving it after cooking about 100 meals. Thru rain, snow, and the occasional nice day it is still going. Today I'm about to grill brats. My weber grill sits around rarely needed so it's going to get sold. I discovered with quality pellets it can grill just fine to temps up to 450. The camp chef grill cover keeps the pellets dry in the hopper so I don't even take them out unless you want to change flavors. I did have to seal the hopper handle around the rivets to keep the rain out but other than that it is very tight. See the pic makes smoke like crazy.
Checking in at one year,
Still very happy with this purchase. I'm not interested in professional BBQ competitions but my brisket is better than many famous BBQ restaurants I have been to in Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. Thats not just my opinion many of my friends agree and and also have encouraged me to enter some local competitions.
This cooker is still the best value for the dollar for pellet grills I have been looking again for a larger rig, but haven't found one better. If you are looking for an entry level pellet grill this is the one you want. Don't be discouraged by the reviews that talk about leaking smoke or not sealing well because it does leak smoke everywhere. Look at the pic I attached to my review you can see it for yourself it does, but isn't it silly to buy a smoker that doesn't smoke. If you ever go to a BBQ competition you will see most of their smokers leak smoke also.
I hope this review helps and I can honestly say I am completely satisfied with my purchase and would do it again.
Two years and still going.
I have used this cooker at least once a week for two years. I recently had a couple of issues with it going out and was thinking it was having a serious issue. Quite frankly as much as I use it it should be worn out by now. Here is what I discovered. Carbon had built up on the tempeture probe and the grill wasn't getting accurate readings. Suspecting the temp probe I checked it with an external one and it was off 50 degrees or more. I am assuming that the readings were off enough that the grill controller just shut it off kind of a fail safe? 30 seconds with steel wool and we are back in business.
The old camp chef is heading to a new home. We have been thru thick and thin, rain, or snow, on two ocations high wind blew it off the patio. A few dents bad scratches but it still works like a top. My son is driving in form North Carolina to take it off my hands this weekend it has been replaced by a yoder ys-640. The yoder is bigger and heavier with more btu output if needed. But the camp chef still is easier to clean out and cooks a fine brisket.
Just another update: 07/2019, the grill is still going 5 years later. My son and his family still have it and love it. So I guess it has passed the weather and time test also.
It is a unique cooking system and designed to cook slowly. It doesn't get hot enough to sear thin cuts of meat like steaks but it will have a very good smoke flavor. So it's not a solution for all your outdoor cooking needs, but if you like to slow cook it's great.
Pro's
The hardwood flavor.
Temperature control.
Large cooking surface will hold two turkeys.
Dump tray for easy clean out.
Temperature Probe.
Power failure restart.
Con's
Hard to get pellets out of the hopper for storage. (remove the grate or it is impossible)
Ashes are blown all over the bottom and must be vacuumed out about every fourth or fifth use.
Warming rack is in the way but you can take it out. Not sure I will ever use that.
Checking in at six months.
Upping it to five stars!
Still loving it after cooking about 100 meals. Thru rain, snow, and the occasional nice day it is still going. Today I'm about to grill brats. My weber grill sits around rarely needed so it's going to get sold. I discovered with quality pellets it can grill just fine to temps up to 450. The camp chef grill cover keeps the pellets dry in the hopper so I don't even take them out unless you want to change flavors. I did have to seal the hopper handle around the rivets to keep the rain out but other than that it is very tight. See the pic makes smoke like crazy.
Checking in at one year,
Still very happy with this purchase. I'm not interested in professional BBQ competitions but my brisket is better than many famous BBQ restaurants I have been to in Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. Thats not just my opinion many of my friends agree and and also have encouraged me to enter some local competitions.
This cooker is still the best value for the dollar for pellet grills I have been looking again for a larger rig, but haven't found one better. If you are looking for an entry level pellet grill this is the one you want. Don't be discouraged by the reviews that talk about leaking smoke or not sealing well because it does leak smoke everywhere. Look at the pic I attached to my review you can see it for yourself it does, but isn't it silly to buy a smoker that doesn't smoke. If you ever go to a BBQ competition you will see most of their smokers leak smoke also.
I hope this review helps and I can honestly say I am completely satisfied with my purchase and would do it again.
Two years and still going.
I have used this cooker at least once a week for two years. I recently had a couple of issues with it going out and was thinking it was having a serious issue. Quite frankly as much as I use it it should be worn out by now. Here is what I discovered. Carbon had built up on the tempeture probe and the grill wasn't getting accurate readings. Suspecting the temp probe I checked it with an external one and it was off 50 degrees or more. I am assuming that the readings were off enough that the grill controller just shut it off kind of a fail safe? 30 seconds with steel wool and we are back in business.
The old camp chef is heading to a new home. We have been thru thick and thin, rain, or snow, on two ocations high wind blew it off the patio. A few dents bad scratches but it still works like a top. My son is driving in form North Carolina to take it off my hands this weekend it has been replaced by a yoder ys-640. The yoder is bigger and heavier with more btu output if needed. But the camp chef still is easier to clean out and cooks a fine brisket.
Just another update: 07/2019, the grill is still going 5 years later. My son and his family still have it and love it. So I guess it has passed the weather and time test also.
RandyR09 : Lacks Quality Control but Service was Excellent
fit And finish we’re skimped on. first 10 hour smoke did well, spent last half hour of grilling in rain. Afterwards the top and was noticeably rusting... surface prep before painting at mnfr was a total failure... experienced problems with the Grill probes and controller, temps were swinging widely, delta of 50 deg F., after a few weeks of use. Update - Customer Service provided replacement thermocouples for oven and food probes as well as a new controller... received and installed, grill seems to be operating in the correct temp. range now. Service was excellent but i still have reservations about this grill, maybe i received the Monday production model...
T. Kinney : Love It
I was getting ready to host a bunch of people for Memorial Day for a BBQ. I have an ancient Barbecues Galore Grand Turbo gas grill and a Jumbo Joe charcoal grill. I wanted to do a brisket and neither of those contraptions were going to do it right. I started looking into pellet grills. I liked the Green Mountain grills models but couldn't find one and couldn't get one here in time. Then I stumbled on a review of the Camp Chef on the Amazing Ribs website and they gave it their highest rating. The icing on the cake was finding it on Amazon for a couple hundred off the list price with 2 day shipping to boot. Sold! Then they shipped it UPS. I have a long history of things from UPS showing up looking like they drop kicked it all the way across the country so I had high anxiety for two days. Miraculously, it showed up in perfect condition. Not so much as a rip in the box. Assembly was a snap. My brisket was nothing short of awesome, as good as any I've ever eaten. I'm starting my second year with this smoker. I've smoked fish, ribs, brisket, yard bird, you name it. It has never missed a beat. I have a Maverick remote thermometer that I know is accurate and the thermometer on this grill is very close. People complaining about smoke leaking out of the lid. Who cares? The smoke has already passed over your meat and would just go out of the chimney anyway. I plan to wear this grill out (no sign of that yet) and then upgrade to a MAK but I am perfectly happy with this grill at the moment.
Paul H. : Excellent performance, better than Traeger
I bought the Camp Chef after doing a lot of research and couldn't be happier with my purchase. Assembly was easy, operation is a snap, and once broken in, the flavor it imparts is excellent. Two features that this smoker has that a Traeger that I own does not have are the pellet clearing mechanism that allows you to change out different flavors of pellet easily and most importantly, the ash bucket device that allows for simple ash removal...with my Traeger, I have to pull the grills and grease plate out to get the ash out, and it's a pain. With the camp Chef, you just detach the ash bucket and dump it. I strongly recommend you purchase the optional sear box that is available with this model. I actually use it more than the smoker ... it is capable of reaching a very high temperature and thus sears steaks and burgers perfectly. I couldn't be happier with this purchase.
Justin W : Fantastic grill for the money
I think a lot of reviewers here don't have enough experience in pellet grilling to recognize how many features are packed into this unit for the money. I'm not going to talk about the usual advantages of pellet grilling in general in this review (i.e., clean flavor, "set and forget", less ash,). Instead, I'm going to focus on what makes this one uniquely better than the other grills in it's class.
-Trap door for easy burn pot clean out every cook (if this was the only special feature, it would be enough!) Anybody who has cleaned out a pellet grill before knows how big a deal this is. The only other pellet grill company that offers a feature like this costs twice as much as the camp chef!
-The controller is exceptional: built in cool down function, high and low smoke settings, pellet prime for charging auger
-Built in digital meat probe!
-Built in meat probe port so you don't have to run you probe wires under the lid.
-EXTREMELY efficient on pellets.
-power outage bypass! When the power goes out mid cook, you can bypass the relight feature to save wear and tear on your hot rod (These guys really did their homework!)
-Smoke stack in the back means you have work space on the right hand side! So simple yet such a smart design choice.
-Squared off back side of grill creates more space inside the grill to actually use your upper grill rack without being cramped!
Cons.
-Warranty-(Forgive my soapbox here, folks.) I'd give it 5 stars if Camp Chef would give it a real warranty. One year is pathetic and WAY below the industry standard. Camp Chef, I know you are reading this because you guys are too excited about your great new product to not pay attention to feedback like this. Nut up and stand behind your awesome product. Why would anybody buy a product from an industry newcomer with no track record when you yourself are only willing to stand behind it for 1 lousy year?... Especially when the "industry leader" will guarantee their product for 3 years?!?! You are communicating that you have 1/3rd the amount of trust in your product that Traeger does. That's terrible! You should exceed what they are offering just to make the point in the industry! At a minimum, you should at least match their warranty just so it doesn't become a stumbling block to potential customers. Look, you basically took the lil tex and said "ok boys, so how can we make this better?!?" You did that! You totally knocked it out the park! Why cheap out with the warranty?!? As a customer, it makes me nervous that you know something I don't.
In summary, this grill is a great for the money! This may be Camp Chef's first attempt at making a pellet grill but they did their homework and they came to play. I predict this grill will take over the market if they keep up the great ideas and if they implement a longer warranty that shows they actually believe in their fantastic product.
***Update: 11/2014: It's been a year now and I still adore this little grill. I've got a kamado and 3 different kettles and this is by far the most convenient and easy to use. The smoke rings this guy puts on a brisket are amazing and the flavor is the perfect balance of wood flavor without overpowering the meat. I've researched about 15 different pellet grills and I still can't find a better value than what this grill offers
****Update 12/2014: So I finally found something negative to report. Today I was cooking 2 pork butts and a brisket and discovered that this grill does not do well with wind on a brisk day (It was 45 degrees here today). When set at 250 degree, the smoker could barely make it up to 190 degrees. I was able to bypass the problem by throwing a cheap moving blanket over the grill (an $8 fix) but I think it's worth noting.
-Trap door for easy burn pot clean out every cook (if this was the only special feature, it would be enough!) Anybody who has cleaned out a pellet grill before knows how big a deal this is. The only other pellet grill company that offers a feature like this costs twice as much as the camp chef!
-The controller is exceptional: built in cool down function, high and low smoke settings, pellet prime for charging auger
-Built in digital meat probe!
-Built in meat probe port so you don't have to run you probe wires under the lid.
-EXTREMELY efficient on pellets.
-power outage bypass! When the power goes out mid cook, you can bypass the relight feature to save wear and tear on your hot rod (These guys really did their homework!)
-Smoke stack in the back means you have work space on the right hand side! So simple yet such a smart design choice.
-Squared off back side of grill creates more space inside the grill to actually use your upper grill rack without being cramped!
Cons.
-Warranty-(Forgive my soapbox here, folks.) I'd give it 5 stars if Camp Chef would give it a real warranty. One year is pathetic and WAY below the industry standard. Camp Chef, I know you are reading this because you guys are too excited about your great new product to not pay attention to feedback like this. Nut up and stand behind your awesome product. Why would anybody buy a product from an industry newcomer with no track record when you yourself are only willing to stand behind it for 1 lousy year?... Especially when the "industry leader" will guarantee their product for 3 years?!?! You are communicating that you have 1/3rd the amount of trust in your product that Traeger does. That's terrible! You should exceed what they are offering just to make the point in the industry! At a minimum, you should at least match their warranty just so it doesn't become a stumbling block to potential customers. Look, you basically took the lil tex and said "ok boys, so how can we make this better?!?" You did that! You totally knocked it out the park! Why cheap out with the warranty?!? As a customer, it makes me nervous that you know something I don't.
In summary, this grill is a great for the money! This may be Camp Chef's first attempt at making a pellet grill but they did their homework and they came to play. I predict this grill will take over the market if they keep up the great ideas and if they implement a longer warranty that shows they actually believe in their fantastic product.
***Update: 11/2014: It's been a year now and I still adore this little grill. I've got a kamado and 3 different kettles and this is by far the most convenient and easy to use. The smoke rings this guy puts on a brisket are amazing and the flavor is the perfect balance of wood flavor without overpowering the meat. I've researched about 15 different pellet grills and I still can't find a better value than what this grill offers
****Update 12/2014: So I finally found something negative to report. Today I was cooking 2 pork butts and a brisket and discovered that this grill does not do well with wind on a brisk day (It was 45 degrees here today). When set at 250 degree, the smoker could barely make it up to 190 degrees. I was able to bypass the problem by throwing a cheap moving blanket over the grill (an $8 fix) but I think it's worth noting.
Amazon Customer : Everything about this grill is planned out nicely.
I like this grill a lot because it holds the temperature much closer to your set point than the Traeger I bought last year. The sah clean out is great instead of taking it all apart to clean ash out. The pellet clean out will be handy someday but I usually stick with the same pellets. The window to see pellets is great and the extra big lid on pellet hopper is a good tray. I purchased the Sear Box and it works very well. The only thing I miss is the tray in front. I have read about some guys attaching the side tray in the front a may look closer at that. I won’t bash Traeger here but after such a let down it is great using this smoker and look forward to smoking for many years. Thanks Camp Chef you did your home work you get an A.
SeaBass : Good, but not great at this price point
I want to love this smoker but there have been too many issues for a smoker in this price range. I will say that they have had great customer service, a quick email and photo of the damaged part and I had a new one on the way the same day. These are the issues I'm running into:
1. Too many instances of the temperature inexplicably dropping in the middle of a smoke, forcing me to take off my meat and finish it in the oven (which for my brisket may have been a blessing in disguise, turned out fantastic). I've followed the instructions to a T and there was plenty of pellets in the bin so I still can't troubleshoot the cause. Hopefully customer service can help me with this one.
2. Defective parts: I had a few parts that were defective. One part was clearly bent from shipping but the other was the chimney ring which is a welded piece of steel and had to have been from the factory that way.
3. Not well insulated: The smoke escapes from a multitude of areas on the smoker besides the chimney. On a windy day, this will drastically impact your smoke temp fluctuations. I did buy some insulation for around the lid which helped dramatically but still, at this price point it's something that should be done right from the factory to make it a better product.
4. Built-in thermometer did not work. Luckily I had already purchased a Bluetooth thermometer so I don't use it anyway. But again, at this price point, really?
Overall I like this smoker when it functions properly. I would say about 50% of the time the thing just gives up midway through a smoke and I'm forced to finish in the oven. If Camp Chef is able to troubleshoot this and get it running 100%, I will update my review.
1. Too many instances of the temperature inexplicably dropping in the middle of a smoke, forcing me to take off my meat and finish it in the oven (which for my brisket may have been a blessing in disguise, turned out fantastic). I've followed the instructions to a T and there was plenty of pellets in the bin so I still can't troubleshoot the cause. Hopefully customer service can help me with this one.
2. Defective parts: I had a few parts that were defective. One part was clearly bent from shipping but the other was the chimney ring which is a welded piece of steel and had to have been from the factory that way.
3. Not well insulated: The smoke escapes from a multitude of areas on the smoker besides the chimney. On a windy day, this will drastically impact your smoke temp fluctuations. I did buy some insulation for around the lid which helped dramatically but still, at this price point it's something that should be done right from the factory to make it a better product.
4. Built-in thermometer did not work. Luckily I had already purchased a Bluetooth thermometer so I don't use it anyway. But again, at this price point, really?
Overall I like this smoker when it functions properly. I would say about 50% of the time the thing just gives up midway through a smoke and I'm forced to finish in the oven. If Camp Chef is able to troubleshoot this and get it running 100%, I will update my review.
Tim : Showed up broken
Assembled it and started the 30 minute burn in. Kept popping my GFI breakers. After trying multiple outlets and extension cords, called Camp Chef. They knew the problem was the hot rod right away so this appears to be a common issue. They are going to send me a replacement (3-5 days processing, then delivery, so minimum of another week).
That, and I have to replace the hot rod myself. Watched the video and got the old one out-it wasn’t as easy as they made it look.
Long and the short, I don’t have a working grill and won’t for at least a week and I have/will spend at least an hour fixing a “new” grill.
That, and I have to replace the hot rod myself. Watched the video and got the old one out-it wasn’t as easy as they made it look.
Long and the short, I don’t have a working grill and won’t for at least a week and I have/will spend at least an hour fixing a “new” grill.
cyberclone : Best Purchase . . . but . . .
Best purchase in many years. Have smoked and seared ribeye steaks, smoked chicken wings, beef jerky, chuck roast, brisket, and pork tenderloin. All came out perfect with little effort other that the prep work. Since temperature management is the most important item in grilling and smoking any meat, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX PG24S takes all the guesswork out of the process. Still love my Weber Kettle charcoal grill, but find myself using it less and less.
The only downside is that a two weeks after I purchased this grill (might of got the last one), Camp Chef quit making the DLX PG24S and now offers the larger SG for a little more $. Had I known this was coming out, I definitely would have waited and purchased the SG.
The only downside is that a two weeks after I purchased this grill (might of got the last one), Camp Chef quit making the DLX PG24S and now offers the larger SG for a little more $. Had I known this was coming out, I definitely would have waited and purchased the SG.
ionblue : Great smoker! Well worth it!
I've been trying to smoke on my Weber grill and while that worked ok, it was never quite right. So I did some research and this seemed like a good fit. Price was reasonable and reviews of it were mostly positive.
I have to say this thing is very well made and really didn't take long to get it together. Most everything was already together anyway!
Based on a few reviews complaining about gaps when the lid was closed, I bought some heat gasket (Lavablock or something like that) before I got it. Honestly I'm not sure it needed it, but I put it all around the lid and that took care of any kind of gap there. Worth the $11.
The first thing I smoked on it was chicken legs and they turned out great. Tomorrow is baby back rib time and I have high hopes after today!
One last thing for anyone complaining about temperature swings, it's completely normal to have up to a 15 degree swing with this, but it honestly isn't going to be a problem. If the temperature was 100% stable you wouldn't have any smoke. The smoke comes in when the pellets smolder. That's why with the hi or low smoke settings the temperature swings are greater - the smolder time is greater to produce more smoke. I know this because I asked the folks at Camp Chef!
I certainly hope this holds up over time, but so far I'm very impressed.
I have to say this thing is very well made and really didn't take long to get it together. Most everything was already together anyway!
Based on a few reviews complaining about gaps when the lid was closed, I bought some heat gasket (Lavablock or something like that) before I got it. Honestly I'm not sure it needed it, but I put it all around the lid and that took care of any kind of gap there. Worth the $11.
The first thing I smoked on it was chicken legs and they turned out great. Tomorrow is baby back rib time and I have high hopes after today!
One last thing for anyone complaining about temperature swings, it's completely normal to have up to a 15 degree swing with this, but it honestly isn't going to be a problem. If the temperature was 100% stable you wouldn't have any smoke. The smoke comes in when the pellets smolder. That's why with the hi or low smoke settings the temperature swings are greater - the smolder time is greater to produce more smoke. I know this because I asked the folks at Camp Chef!
I certainly hope this holds up over time, but so far I'm very impressed.
DerekMc : I underpaid!
This is the best purchase I’ve made in years. It’s like my electric lawnmower - why did I ever wait to buy one? I’ve cooked everything from fish to fajitas, hotdogs and kabobs on this grill and it’s all been the best version I’ve ever cooked. I’m from Texas where everything has a little extra flavor and this smoker doesn’t disappoint. I would recommend getting this one with the seer box as it makes a lot of difference. I usually smoke brats, fajitas, steaks, etc then seer them. Ribs, pork loins, etc. just need smoke.
Willard Nelson : Awesome Smoker with Great Features the others don't have
Finally warm enough out to fire the ol smoker up and dang is it nice. I bought this after spending weeks checking out other pellet smokers on youtube and reviews through Amazon. I finally chose this one because of the cleanout feature with the ash removal cup beneath the smoker box. Along with the pellet removal trap door in the pellet box. This is extremely nice for removing the pellets in the box for changing smoking wood type. The only thing I noticed with mine is that I was trying to achieve a smoking temperature around 225*F but the display on the smoker was dancing from 195-240*F and my digital meat thermometer was reading around 250*F most of the time at rack height. A little higher than I would like to smoke at, but the ribs I smoked turned out excellent. Running on low smoke brought the temperature down to around 170*F. Too low for my preference. The shutdown feature is nice. Click it to the position and around 10-15 minutes later the fire is out and cooled down and the fan shuts off. Very nice smoker for the price with all the features that the others, don't have.
Raymond S. Yankura : Not a true smoker
This took me awhile to review this product. You see I wanted to use this product a few times to get a true test. How should I start. First of all, if you like smoked meat, as I do, then this is not the grill for you, nor is any pellet grill for that matter. The good things about these grills is that it has an auger and you do not constantly need to feed the fire. The smoking part is non existent. I first purchased a "Masterbuilt" and was very disappointed in how it too smoked. I had to constantly feed it with either wood chips or pellet and it would really smoke for a short while. Then I had to feed it constantly. Yes the meat did in fact have a smoky flavor. Thinking that the SmokePro would eliminate all the hassle of constantly adding wood and pellets which it did but it did not address the "no smoke problem". I finally purchased a "smoke tube" which constantly feed smoke to the grill. So if you want a grill that gives you a smoke flavor, this is not for you nor any other smoker grill. Buying a smoke tube makes any grill a smoker.
BAS : Girl Assembles Grill in 75 Minutes!
Technically, I'm a 60 year old woman, but I liked the word play.
Wanted to describe for you how easy it was to put together. My total time was 75 minutes, which included the unpacking (about 20 minutes just for that). I carefully opened the box, and cut down the sides so that if required, could use the cardboard as resting materials for the grill. Worst case, if it doesn't work, I have to tape it all back up again. By the way - it is required - because you have to tip the grill onto its back to attach the legs. You don't find this out until you break into it all and read the directions.
Everything was carefully wrapped. Caution - the stainless steel heat diffuser and drip tray are fairly well oiled, so take care unwrapping (and clean them with several sprays of 409 - otherwise you likely will get burnt oil when you fire up) . Don't know for sure, because I have to go get some pellets.
The directions are pretty clear with pictures and WORDS! Provides details on exactly what size bolts to use, clearly shows where they are to be placed. Mind you, these aren't just bolts, but ones with lock washers too. Rest assured this isn't going anywhere. All you need for assembly is a phillips head screwdriver and crescent wrench to attach the smoke stack, and phillips for the handle and attaching the side table.. Comes with a nice allen wrench to put the legs on.
The hardest thing to assemble is the handle. For that, two people might be better, but I still managed just fine (maybe an extra 5 minutes) by myself.
Everything was very well made. Heavy duty materials, solidly finished, side table attaches with 5 bolts (normally you are lucky to see 3). Honestly, the quality on this grill is better than that of my gas grill, which cost more than $1000.
I did buy the cover - have to keep my new toy nicely protected. It fits like a champ.
Once I get my pellets and fire her up, will amend this review to let you know how well she works. Truly looking forward to it.
UPDATE: Cooked with the grill twice. Pretty easy to use, just follow the directions. There are also a couple of nice YouTube videos on this unit you can watch.
Can't wait to try out the various pellets to change smoking flavors. Working with a beef brisket today and using the temperature probe (per the directions that came with the grill). Did only a small brisket, since didn't want to have to want to wait 12 hours for the entire cook and rest procedure.
So far, so good. As it was starting, threw a piece of salmon on the grill with Montreal Steak Seasoning and some dried dill mix, little olive oil Let her go for about 45 min (since was cooking at 250 degrees), checked it with separate meat thermometer...taste test = YUM.
Then threw on a few chicken legs, let them go about 1.5 hrs (remember, cooking at low temp for the brisket). put a light glaze of BBQ sauce on them. Can't wait to try them. Did some brined chicken breasts last weekend - also good, but in boneless meats, watch the heat setting or they will dry out sooner than you expect.
Unlike standard grills, you don't have flames, so you aren't going to get the sear you may be used to. This is more of a smoker... As a side note, saw a couple of Traegers in the store, and let me tell you, my Camp Chef is made a lot better - sturdier assembly all around, heavy duty construction, so don't be enticed by the deals at Costco. It's worth the wait.
Of course, I also have a gas grill as well as a Primo (natural charcoal) grill.
Girl can't have too many Grills you know!
Wanted to describe for you how easy it was to put together. My total time was 75 minutes, which included the unpacking (about 20 minutes just for that). I carefully opened the box, and cut down the sides so that if required, could use the cardboard as resting materials for the grill. Worst case, if it doesn't work, I have to tape it all back up again. By the way - it is required - because you have to tip the grill onto its back to attach the legs. You don't find this out until you break into it all and read the directions.
Everything was carefully wrapped. Caution - the stainless steel heat diffuser and drip tray are fairly well oiled, so take care unwrapping (and clean them with several sprays of 409 - otherwise you likely will get burnt oil when you fire up) . Don't know for sure, because I have to go get some pellets.
The directions are pretty clear with pictures and WORDS! Provides details on exactly what size bolts to use, clearly shows where they are to be placed. Mind you, these aren't just bolts, but ones with lock washers too. Rest assured this isn't going anywhere. All you need for assembly is a phillips head screwdriver and crescent wrench to attach the smoke stack, and phillips for the handle and attaching the side table.. Comes with a nice allen wrench to put the legs on.
The hardest thing to assemble is the handle. For that, two people might be better, but I still managed just fine (maybe an extra 5 minutes) by myself.
Everything was very well made. Heavy duty materials, solidly finished, side table attaches with 5 bolts (normally you are lucky to see 3). Honestly, the quality on this grill is better than that of my gas grill, which cost more than $1000.
I did buy the cover - have to keep my new toy nicely protected. It fits like a champ.
Once I get my pellets and fire her up, will amend this review to let you know how well she works. Truly looking forward to it.
UPDATE: Cooked with the grill twice. Pretty easy to use, just follow the directions. There are also a couple of nice YouTube videos on this unit you can watch.
Can't wait to try out the various pellets to change smoking flavors. Working with a beef brisket today and using the temperature probe (per the directions that came with the grill). Did only a small brisket, since didn't want to have to want to wait 12 hours for the entire cook and rest procedure.
So far, so good. As it was starting, threw a piece of salmon on the grill with Montreal Steak Seasoning and some dried dill mix, little olive oil Let her go for about 45 min (since was cooking at 250 degrees), checked it with separate meat thermometer...taste test = YUM.
Then threw on a few chicken legs, let them go about 1.5 hrs (remember, cooking at low temp for the brisket). put a light glaze of BBQ sauce on them. Can't wait to try them. Did some brined chicken breasts last weekend - also good, but in boneless meats, watch the heat setting or they will dry out sooner than you expect.
Unlike standard grills, you don't have flames, so you aren't going to get the sear you may be used to. This is more of a smoker... As a side note, saw a couple of Traegers in the store, and let me tell you, my Camp Chef is made a lot better - sturdier assembly all around, heavy duty construction, so don't be enticed by the deals at Costco. It's worth the wait.
Of course, I also have a gas grill as well as a Primo (natural charcoal) grill.
Girl can't have too many Grills you know!
T. Kinney : Love It
I was getting ready to host a bunch of people for Memorial Day for a BBQ. I have an ancient Barbecues Galore Grand Turbo gas grill and a Jumbo Joe charcoal grill. I wanted to do a brisket and neither of those contraptions were going to do it right. I started looking into pellet grills. I liked the Green Mountain grills models but couldn't find one and couldn't get one here in time. Then I stumbled on a review of the Camp Chef on the Amazing Ribs website and they gave it their highest rating. The icing on the cake was finding it on Amazon for a couple hundred off the list price with 2 day shipping to boot. Sold! Then they shipped it UPS. I have a long history of things from UPS showing up looking like they drop kicked it all the way across the country so I had high anxiety for two days. Miraculously, it showed up in perfect condition. Not so much as a rip in the box. Assembly was a snap. My brisket was nothing short of awesome, as good as any I've ever eaten. I'm starting my second year with this smoker. I've smoked fish, ribs, brisket, yard bird, you name it. It has never missed a beat. I have a Maverick remote thermometer that I know is accurate and the thermometer on this grill is very close. People complaining about smoke leaking out of the lid. Who cares? The smoke has already passed over your meat and would just go out of the chimney anyway. I plan to wear this grill out (no sign of that yet) and then upgrade to a MAK but I am perfectly happy with this grill at the moment.
Sara Downer : Best Value
amazon price is $200 less than everyone else that was the main thing that drew me to this model specifically. did some burgers the first day and then just finished a brisket today. both turned out great in fact my first time ever smoking a brisket and it was amazing. even at the "regular" price of $699 this grill is a good buy based on the features it has that compare to more expensive models. the fact it is compatible with the sear burner is nice so you can add it later if you want and save a few hundred if you don't want it. Great grill for the money and it imparts a nice smoke flavor and all you need to do is flip a switch. Buy with confidence. Couple parts were damaged from shipping. Camp Chef customer service is amazing and got replacements in the mail immediately.
Tom Gregory, N4NW : Camp Chef DLX a truly deluxe smoker
This is my first Camp Chef smoker.
I gave it five stars because unlike other smokers I have owned/used the defector plate has not warped due to heat.
5 stars for the ash clean out feature.
5 stars for the easy dump feature of the pellet hopper allowing easy removal of unused pellets for storage (pellets will absorb moisture, which ruins them if left in the smoker that usually lives outdoors under a cover) and allows easy changing of pellets to different types.
5 stars for dual temperature readout capability, one reads the internal smoker temp and the other for use with a food probe.
I did not deduct any stars for the less than perfect seal between the hinged lid and smoker body as I solved this issue with the simple addition of Openfire BBQ replacement gasket (although it replaced nothing in the case of my Camp Chef DLX, as Camp Chef does not provide a lid gasket.) Hint Cam Chef, adding the gasket to the lid boosted routing of the smoke around the food and out the chimney and not along the edges of the top when closed. This beeps the smoke residues off the edges of the lid and off the front of the smoker.
I gave it five stars because unlike other smokers I have owned/used the defector plate has not warped due to heat.
5 stars for the ash clean out feature.
5 stars for the easy dump feature of the pellet hopper allowing easy removal of unused pellets for storage (pellets will absorb moisture, which ruins them if left in the smoker that usually lives outdoors under a cover) and allows easy changing of pellets to different types.
5 stars for dual temperature readout capability, one reads the internal smoker temp and the other for use with a food probe.
I did not deduct any stars for the less than perfect seal between the hinged lid and smoker body as I solved this issue with the simple addition of Openfire BBQ replacement gasket (although it replaced nothing in the case of my Camp Chef DLX, as Camp Chef does not provide a lid gasket.) Hint Cam Chef, adding the gasket to the lid boosted routing of the smoke around the food and out the chimney and not along the edges of the top when closed. This beeps the smoke residues off the edges of the lid and off the front of the smoker.
Justin W : Fantastic grill for the money
I think a lot of reviewers here don't have enough experience in pellet grilling to recognize how many features are packed into this unit for the money. I'm not going to talk about the usual advantages of pellet grilling in general in this review (i.e., clean flavor, "set and forget", less ash,). Instead, I'm going to focus on what makes this one uniquely better than the other grills in it's class.
-Trap door for easy burn pot clean out every cook (if this was the only special feature, it would be enough!) Anybody who has cleaned out a pellet grill before knows how big a deal this is. The only other pellet grill company that offers a feature like this costs twice as much as the camp chef!
-The controller is exceptional: built in cool down function, high and low smoke settings, pellet prime for charging auger
-Built in digital meat probe!
-Built in meat probe port so you don't have to run you probe wires under the lid.
-EXTREMELY efficient on pellets.
-power outage bypass! When the power goes out mid cook, you can bypass the relight feature to save wear and tear on your hot rod (These guys really did their homework!)
-Smoke stack in the back means you have work space on the right hand side! So simple yet such a smart design choice.
-Squared off back side of grill creates more space inside the grill to actually use your upper grill rack without being cramped!
Cons.
-Warranty-(Forgive my soapbox here, folks.) I'd give it 5 stars if Camp Chef would give it a real warranty. One year is pathetic and WAY below the industry standard. Camp Chef, I know you are reading this because you guys are too excited about your great new product to not pay attention to feedback like this. Nut up and stand behind your awesome product. Why would anybody buy a product from an industry newcomer with no track record when you yourself are only willing to stand behind it for 1 lousy year?... Especially when the "industry leader" will guarantee their product for 3 years?!?! You are communicating that you have 1/3rd the amount of trust in your product that Traeger does. That's terrible! You should exceed what they are offering just to make the point in the industry! At a minimum, you should at least match their warranty just so it doesn't become a stumbling block to potential customers. Look, you basically took the lil tex and said "ok boys, so how can we make this better?!?" You did that! You totally knocked it out the park! Why cheap out with the warranty?!? As a customer, it makes me nervous that you know something I don't.
In summary, this grill is a great for the money! This may be Camp Chef's first attempt at making a pellet grill but they did their homework and they came to play. I predict this grill will take over the market if they keep up the great ideas and if they implement a longer warranty that shows they actually believe in their fantastic product.
***Update: 11/2014: It's been a year now and I still adore this little grill. I've got a kamado and 3 different kettles and this is by far the most convenient and easy to use. The smoke rings this guy puts on a brisket are amazing and the flavor is the perfect balance of wood flavor without overpowering the meat. I've researched about 15 different pellet grills and I still can't find a better value than what this grill offers
****Update 12/2014: So I finally found something negative to report. Today I was cooking 2 pork butts and a brisket and discovered that this grill does not do well with wind on a brisk day (It was 45 degrees here today). When set at 250 degree, the smoker could barely make it up to 190 degrees. I was able to bypass the problem by throwing a cheap moving blanket over the grill (an $8 fix) but I think it's worth noting.
-Trap door for easy burn pot clean out every cook (if this was the only special feature, it would be enough!) Anybody who has cleaned out a pellet grill before knows how big a deal this is. The only other pellet grill company that offers a feature like this costs twice as much as the camp chef!
-The controller is exceptional: built in cool down function, high and low smoke settings, pellet prime for charging auger
-Built in digital meat probe!
-Built in meat probe port so you don't have to run you probe wires under the lid.
-EXTREMELY efficient on pellets.
-power outage bypass! When the power goes out mid cook, you can bypass the relight feature to save wear and tear on your hot rod (These guys really did their homework!)
-Smoke stack in the back means you have work space on the right hand side! So simple yet such a smart design choice.
-Squared off back side of grill creates more space inside the grill to actually use your upper grill rack without being cramped!
Cons.
-Warranty-(Forgive my soapbox here, folks.) I'd give it 5 stars if Camp Chef would give it a real warranty. One year is pathetic and WAY below the industry standard. Camp Chef, I know you are reading this because you guys are too excited about your great new product to not pay attention to feedback like this. Nut up and stand behind your awesome product. Why would anybody buy a product from an industry newcomer with no track record when you yourself are only willing to stand behind it for 1 lousy year?... Especially when the "industry leader" will guarantee their product for 3 years?!?! You are communicating that you have 1/3rd the amount of trust in your product that Traeger does. That's terrible! You should exceed what they are offering just to make the point in the industry! At a minimum, you should at least match their warranty just so it doesn't become a stumbling block to potential customers. Look, you basically took the lil tex and said "ok boys, so how can we make this better?!?" You did that! You totally knocked it out the park! Why cheap out with the warranty?!? As a customer, it makes me nervous that you know something I don't.
In summary, this grill is a great for the money! This may be Camp Chef's first attempt at making a pellet grill but they did their homework and they came to play. I predict this grill will take over the market if they keep up the great ideas and if they implement a longer warranty that shows they actually believe in their fantastic product.
***Update: 11/2014: It's been a year now and I still adore this little grill. I've got a kamado and 3 different kettles and this is by far the most convenient and easy to use. The smoke rings this guy puts on a brisket are amazing and the flavor is the perfect balance of wood flavor without overpowering the meat. I've researched about 15 different pellet grills and I still can't find a better value than what this grill offers
****Update 12/2014: So I finally found something negative to report. Today I was cooking 2 pork butts and a brisket and discovered that this grill does not do well with wind on a brisk day (It was 45 degrees here today). When set at 250 degree, the smoker could barely make it up to 190 degrees. I was able to bypass the problem by throwing a cheap moving blanket over the grill (an $8 fix) but I think it's worth noting.
ionblue : Great smoker! Well worth it!
I've been trying to smoke on my Weber grill and while that worked ok, it was never quite right. So I did some research and this seemed like a good fit. Price was reasonable and reviews of it were mostly positive.
I have to say this thing is very well made and really didn't take long to get it together. Most everything was already together anyway!
Based on a few reviews complaining about gaps when the lid was closed, I bought some heat gasket (Lavablock or something like that) before I got it. Honestly I'm not sure it needed it, but I put it all around the lid and that took care of any kind of gap there. Worth the $11.
The first thing I smoked on it was chicken legs and they turned out great. Tomorrow is baby back rib time and I have high hopes after today!
One last thing for anyone complaining about temperature swings, it's completely normal to have up to a 15 degree swing with this, but it honestly isn't going to be a problem. If the temperature was 100% stable you wouldn't have any smoke. The smoke comes in when the pellets smolder. That's why with the hi or low smoke settings the temperature swings are greater - the smolder time is greater to produce more smoke. I know this because I asked the folks at Camp Chef!
I certainly hope this holds up over time, but so far I'm very impressed.
I have to say this thing is very well made and really didn't take long to get it together. Most everything was already together anyway!
Based on a few reviews complaining about gaps when the lid was closed, I bought some heat gasket (Lavablock or something like that) before I got it. Honestly I'm not sure it needed it, but I put it all around the lid and that took care of any kind of gap there. Worth the $11.
The first thing I smoked on it was chicken legs and they turned out great. Tomorrow is baby back rib time and I have high hopes after today!
One last thing for anyone complaining about temperature swings, it's completely normal to have up to a 15 degree swing with this, but it honestly isn't going to be a problem. If the temperature was 100% stable you wouldn't have any smoke. The smoke comes in when the pellets smolder. That's why with the hi or low smoke settings the temperature swings are greater - the smolder time is greater to produce more smoke. I know this because I asked the folks at Camp Chef!
I certainly hope this holds up over time, but so far I'm very impressed.
Weston Albers : Better than Traeger!
My boyfriend has been wanting a Traeger grill for a few years and we picked one up at Home Depot. We were very disappointed with the temperature control and ended up returning it. We tried this camp chef grill and absolutely LOVE it. We've used it for about a year now and have not had any issues. We usually grill at least 3 times a week. We live in Minnesota and have used this just fine throughout the freezing winter temperatures too. The temperature probe has changed the game for us making meats and salmon on the grill, and it is so easy to clean the grill. No need to vacuum it out! My parents even switched out their grill to this one since they loved ours so much. If it ever dies, we will for sure be getting another one!
verbilkent : The best smoker on the market!
This is the best smoker on the market! I can do a full 15 pound brisket no problem. 3 large racks of ribs and room for a fourth on the upper rack. I mention that because it was one of my concerns when doing research. Hands down the two features that set it apart from ANY smoker is the ash clean out underneath and the pellet bin clean out. AND this comes with a meat temperature probe that the "other" companies do not unless you pay for the upgrade! Extremely simple to use set it and forget it! For 10 years I used an offset wood charcoal smoker, every hour rain snow night tending to it, not anymore! 6 hour smoke on ribs, fall off the bone! 15 pound brisket 16 hours then 2 hours wrapped in blanket and put in empty cooler, perfection!
colin n. : Bit of a headache, but it's great for the price
I've had this smoker for about 7 months and have used this about 1-2 times weekly. It's easy to clean and easy to use. You get that good smoke ring and it doesn't require too much babying.
I do notice that the temp swings about 90 degrees up and down. I feel like that's a lot for a pellet grill. The first thing I smoked on the camp chef was a pork butt. I threw it in there over night til it hit about 200 internally using the camp chef probe. I mopped it every hour and wrapped it toward the end, but the pork still came put too tough to shred. Im positive it was either due to the hard temp swings or the temp readers aren't accurate. With that said, you have to allow for extra cook time if your meat doesn't come out as tender as you need it to be.
On a few other occasions the flame would go out while I'd smoke things low and slow over night. The pellets would be filled to the brim, but the flame would still go out for some reason.
On other occasions, the pellets were still full, but they weren't funneling properly causing the auger to empty out. You really gotta go in there and shake the pellets up manually. Upon reignighting (as the instructions state,)
the auger overfills, causing the smoker to over smoke. This gave our pizzas the dirtiest smoke taste. I suggest you remove whatever you're cooking of you ever need to reignite your smoker, otherwise you may ruin the flavor of whatever you've worked to hard on.
When we first got our smoker I noticed the gaps in between the door and the smoker would let out so much smoke. My husband fixed that by adding a heat proof rubber seal on the door. It was an easy/cheap fix, but I wish they would have added that for the price I paid.
The dial on the smoker says it gets to 500 but it just doesn't insulate the heat enough to keep it there.
Now for the pros. After getting the hang of things, this smoker does produce some good bbq. Although we have problems with keeping the smoker lit at low and slow, its still much easier than a stick burner and had given me some moist/tender meats. The smoker is not too heavy. Im able to roll it in and out of my garage with no problems.
All in all, I'm still content with my purchase
I do notice that the temp swings about 90 degrees up and down. I feel like that's a lot for a pellet grill. The first thing I smoked on the camp chef was a pork butt. I threw it in there over night til it hit about 200 internally using the camp chef probe. I mopped it every hour and wrapped it toward the end, but the pork still came put too tough to shred. Im positive it was either due to the hard temp swings or the temp readers aren't accurate. With that said, you have to allow for extra cook time if your meat doesn't come out as tender as you need it to be.
On a few other occasions the flame would go out while I'd smoke things low and slow over night. The pellets would be filled to the brim, but the flame would still go out for some reason.
On other occasions, the pellets were still full, but they weren't funneling properly causing the auger to empty out. You really gotta go in there and shake the pellets up manually. Upon reignighting (as the instructions state,)
the auger overfills, causing the smoker to over smoke. This gave our pizzas the dirtiest smoke taste. I suggest you remove whatever you're cooking of you ever need to reignite your smoker, otherwise you may ruin the flavor of whatever you've worked to hard on.
When we first got our smoker I noticed the gaps in between the door and the smoker would let out so much smoke. My husband fixed that by adding a heat proof rubber seal on the door. It was an easy/cheap fix, but I wish they would have added that for the price I paid.
The dial on the smoker says it gets to 500 but it just doesn't insulate the heat enough to keep it there.
Now for the pros. After getting the hang of things, this smoker does produce some good bbq. Although we have problems with keeping the smoker lit at low and slow, its still much easier than a stick burner and had given me some moist/tender meats. The smoker is not too heavy. Im able to roll it in and out of my garage with no problems.
All in all, I'm still content with my purchase
James S. : Absolutely the best
I absolutely love this pellet grill..I did a lot of research before settling on buying the camp chef dlx..it has features other pellet grills don't offer and most important to me is the ash clem out, and the hopper clean out it makes it so easy to change flavors of wood pellets..the vacuum thanks camp chef..because it's the only way to get them out on other grills..so far (only have had it for 3days) I've made 8 racks of ribs 3 are on as I type. ..2 whole chickens..and Jerky will be going on tonight..the temp remains constant despite the breezy weather we're having right now ..within a 10-12degree range..assembly was simple took maybe 30 mins..i did watch a video on how to assemble prior to it arriving so it gave me a edge..although instructions are straight forward. .nothing negative to report on this pellet grill if your thinking of buying...you won't be disappointed. .
Z. Krage : No better way to up your BBQ game.
Pros:
This thing is heavy. It's made from some very durable, high quality material. Keep it dry and it should last you a lifetime.
Smoking with pellets is ingenious. Fill and easily empty the hopper with your preferred hardwood blend and smoke to perfection. Just keep the hopper full. It's that easy. A chute in the back allows for quick and easy emptying of the hopper.
The digital temperature control and meat probe allows cooking to pinpoint temperatures. It's almost impossible to mess up.
This model is quite large. Even without the rib rack, I'm smoking 3 whole racks simultaneously.
It comes apart easily for quick cleaning. The burner tray is easily emptied. Pull a rod out from under the side table to do so. The ash tray is easily accessible from underneath.
The smoker is designed to channel drippings down to the right, and down a chute into an included bucket. No muss, no fuss.
Cons:
Manufacturing tolerances certainly come into play. At least with mine, there is a noticeable gap between the lid and the body. Smoke pours out readily instead of from the stack as designed. I had to buy some wool gasket to seal it off to keep the smoke inside.
The drippings chute does not have the same stopper as the pellet chute. Now while this might not seem like much of an issue, it becomes one when a varmint crawls its way inside and helps itself to the internal wiring. On the plus side, the wiring is easy enough to replace. Stuff some steel wool up there to keep the critters out.
While my model supports the sear box, which is fantastic by the way, it is not designed with the pre-drilled and tapped holes other models are to attach the hook by which you hang your lp tank.
You may end up struggling to keep this smoker lit when it gets really cold. I had trouble smoking a turkey last thanksgiving because it kept flaming out. They sell a thermal blanket you can attach to the lid and body to keep heat in but I have yet to try it and it's an extra hundred bucks on top of something that is already quite expensive.
Overall, you can't go wrong if you are a grilling/smoking amateur and you want to quickly up your game.
This thing is heavy. It's made from some very durable, high quality material. Keep it dry and it should last you a lifetime.
Smoking with pellets is ingenious. Fill and easily empty the hopper with your preferred hardwood blend and smoke to perfection. Just keep the hopper full. It's that easy. A chute in the back allows for quick and easy emptying of the hopper.
The digital temperature control and meat probe allows cooking to pinpoint temperatures. It's almost impossible to mess up.
This model is quite large. Even without the rib rack, I'm smoking 3 whole racks simultaneously.
It comes apart easily for quick cleaning. The burner tray is easily emptied. Pull a rod out from under the side table to do so. The ash tray is easily accessible from underneath.
The smoker is designed to channel drippings down to the right, and down a chute into an included bucket. No muss, no fuss.
Cons:
Manufacturing tolerances certainly come into play. At least with mine, there is a noticeable gap between the lid and the body. Smoke pours out readily instead of from the stack as designed. I had to buy some wool gasket to seal it off to keep the smoke inside.
The drippings chute does not have the same stopper as the pellet chute. Now while this might not seem like much of an issue, it becomes one when a varmint crawls its way inside and helps itself to the internal wiring. On the plus side, the wiring is easy enough to replace. Stuff some steel wool up there to keep the critters out.
While my model supports the sear box, which is fantastic by the way, it is not designed with the pre-drilled and tapped holes other models are to attach the hook by which you hang your lp tank.
You may end up struggling to keep this smoker lit when it gets really cold. I had trouble smoking a turkey last thanksgiving because it kept flaming out. They sell a thermal blanket you can attach to the lid and body to keep heat in but I have yet to try it and it's an extra hundred bucks on top of something that is already quite expensive.
Overall, you can't go wrong if you are a grilling/smoking amateur and you want to quickly up your game.
Rick Hall : Goes together great. It all stops there and nothing works like it should. I want my Traeger back!!!
It would seem the people who make this Ouija Board of pellet grills put all their Rubles into making it easy to put together, but hardly any into making it work. The controller genuinely sucks! I've read the manual several times and the controller never does what the manual says it should. I hate to think I got rid of my Traeger for this possessed POS! Now to add insult to injury to this companies customers, they are not open on the weekends and while they are open until 8 or 8:30 Monday through Thursday they close all customer service at 5 or 5:30 on Friday. Now, when does the most grilling go on in most states of the Union? Yep, the weekends! When are they closed? Yep, the weekends! How utterly ignorant is that??? And who ever set those hours must have also written the manual as it sucks worse than the controller does. This thing goes together so nicely, and then does NOTHING RIGHT!!!!! I can't even make it burn the oil off the innards by taking it to 350 for 30 minutes as every time it goes up, about the time it gets to 300 down it comes, with that wonderful burnt oil smell in the air to let me know it's not burnt off yet and likely will never be. But of course, even if that oil did get burnt off, how would I cook on this aberration of a pellet grill when the temp keeps crashing? I'm sure that's because once I Start I can't go back to the Temp set. And if I do the temp set first, I can't start. How great is that?? You can never wear these out since they can't be used!! Genius! I'm sure this had to have been made in some country with no work ethic. Don't worry about the warranty. Just send me a Traeger!
dcharley : Temp out of control.
Had this unit almost 2 years. The temperature control has been a nightmare. Been in contact with customer service numerous times. First call with my concern with the incredible temperature fluctuation they sent me a meat probe. WHAT? Next call they sent me temperature probe for the unit. Next call they sent me a new computer panel. Next call they sent me a whole new control system including the pellet housing. Supposed to be new and improved. Well after all this the unit fluctuates + or - 40 degrees. Thats an 80 degree swing. Incredible right? So I'm stuck right? After all this I see they sell an insulated cover to help control temperature. What the hell give it a try. WORTHLESS!! Is goes up 40 down 30. Up 25 down down 35 and so on. So if you want to give camp chef a try I hope you make out better than me
Timmy Lee : Works great and I love using it! Read review!
DA : I feel like I'm cheating
Man, where has this thing been my adult life?!? I've had this for several months now, and it replaced a Bradley Smoker, that I was just fed up with as it wouldnt cycle the wood pucks. I've done a brisket, ribs, pork shoulder/pulled pork, beef jerky, chicken wings, burgers, you name it. Everything has turned out fantastic, so much so, I feel like I'm cheating. I may get the add-on sear-box attachment and just ditch my gas grill this thing is so awesome. Worth every penny, I did lots of research when I started looking at pellet grills and let me tell you, the added little bonuses that this thing has compared to the other (even more expensive ones) are totally worth it. The hopper and fire-box clean-out are fantastic and make clean-up/storage a cinch. Cant wait till the weather warms up some so I can try cooking some other things.
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
-
FRSDMY Fishing Net with Bag Quick-Drying Glued, Foldable Crayfish Traps, Carp Fishing Accessories, Durable Outdoor Fishing Gear (Color : 40cm x 400cm) review and price compare -
DONGTAISHANGCHENG Fishing Net Foldable Fishing Landing Net Triangle Aluminum Alloy Fishing Dip Net with Handle Portable Fishing Accessories 2pcs review and price compare
-
Crab Trap, Lobster Trap, Fishing Net, Fishing Accessories, for Shallow Water Catch Crab, Fish, Lobsters review and price compare
-
01 Fishing Net, Crab Trap, Lobster Net, Fishing Accessories, Portable 2PCS for Catch Crab, Fish, Lobsters Shallow Water review and price compare
-
ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Net with Telescopic Pole Handle - Lightweight Aluminum&Carbon Fiber and Nylon Landing Net for Catch and Release or Butterfly Net review and price compare
-
CHICIRIS Folding Fishing Net, Fishing Accessory Fishing Net for Fishing Net Replacement for Fishing Accessory review and price compare
-
Goldlion Dehydrator Rack Stainless Steel Stand Accessories Compatible with Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer 6.5 and 8 Quart, Instant Pot Air Fryer 8 Qt review and price compare
-
Betts Old Salt Premium Cast Net for Bait Fish with Utility Box review and price compare
-
Fancyes 2pcs Durable Fishing Rod Tie Fastening Strap Wrap Cover Fishing Accessories review and price compare
-
Yosoo Health Gear Portable Fishing Net, Folded Fishing Bait Traps with Zipper Design, Fish Shrimp Minnow Crayfish Crab Baits Tarp Fishing Net review and price compare
-
XIAOXIA Black Nylon Plastic sea Rod Bracket Head carp Fishing Accessories Rod Bracket Gun emplacement Bracket Fishing Supplies review and price compare
-
Bubba 6 Inch Ultra Flex Tapered Fillet Knife with Non-Slip Grip Handle, 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Blade, Lanyard Hole and Synthetic Sheath for Fishing review and price compare
-
GMG Trek WiFi Portable Grill & Smoker Tailgating Package Includes Cover-Collapsible Rack – BBQ Lights review and price compare
-
Keenso Fishing Net, 28109 - BL Rustproof Aluminum Alloy Fly Fishing Net Compact Fishing Cast for Fishing Accessories review and price compare
-
Rapala Digital Scale 50 lb review and price compare
-
01 Crab Trap, Lobster Net, Fishing Accessories, Fishing Net, 2PCS Portable for Shallow Water Easy to Use Lightweight Catch Crab, Fish, Lobsters review and price compare
-
Trademark Innovations 23.6" Fly Fishing Fish-Safe Wood with Rubber Net (Sapele Wood) review and price compare
-
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze review and price compare
-
4 Fruit Leather Silicone Dehydrator Sheets with EDGES - NON-Toxic for Nesco Round Dehydrators Lip Mold Hold Batter Liquids Fruit Roll Up Fruit Leather Circle ReUsable Flexible Non Stick review and price compare
-
50m Fishing Net, Professional Durable Fish Net, Fishing Accessories, Lightweight for Saltwater Great Workmanship Easy to Use Freshwater(3 Fingers) review and price compare
© 2025 fishing.qciss.net All Rights Reserved. fishinghub copyrights