Pros
Consistent results with minimal fuss
Great for feeding small to medium-sized families
Holds temperature well for long cooking sessions
Durable and long-lasting construction
Smaller models are portable and use less fuel
Easy to clean with porcelain-coated interior and exterior
Produces excellent smoke flavor
Great value for the price
Efficient heat management
Versatile for different types of meats
Cons
Heavy and not easily portable when fully assembled
Larger models may be overkill for smaller gatherings
Requires manual monitoring of the heat, especially for long cooks
Main Product Advantages
9 Build Quality
The Smokey Mountain Cooker is built with high-quality materials including a porcelain-coated interior and exterior, which offers durability and ease of cleaning.
8 Ease of Use
Many users found the 18-inch model easy to assemble and use, though the instructions could be clearer. The unit's performance is often described as 'set it and forget it,' requiring minimal adjustments during the cooking process.
8 Flavor Quality
Users consistently reported excellent smoke flavor in their meats. The device effectively produces a good bark and moisture content in various types of meats.
8 Value for Money
The product is reasonably priced considering its quality and performance. It’s often recommended as a solid investment for those serious about smoking meats.
7 Size and Capacity
The 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is often considered too large for small gatherings but suitable for medium to large groups. It can efficiently cook enough food for 24-32 people double-layered racks for extra capacity.
7 Temperature Control
The unit holds heat well and can run for long periods, although some users noted it can be tricky to monitor and adjust the temperature, especially for overnight cooks.
7 Cleaning and Maintenance
The unit is relatively easy to clean, although its larger size means there is more surface area to maintain. The buildup of grease and gunk is an issue if not cleaned regularly.
6 Heat and Fuel Efficiency
Some users noted that the 18-inch model requires more fuel to heat the larger space, making it less economical compared to smaller models like the 14-inch. However, it does hold temperature consistently and remains fuel-friendly for shorter cooks under 6 hours.
6 Fuel Capacity and Consumption
While the unit efficiently uses fuel for shorter cooking sessions, it somewhat struggles with longer sessions requiring refueling, especially when filled with food.
5 Portability
Due to its size and weight, the 18-inch model is less portable than the smaller 14-inch version. It's challenging to move around or store away, making it most suitable for static placements.
Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker, Charcoal Smoker, Black
The first bite of tender, fall-off-the-bone meat makes taking it low-and-slow worth every moment.
The Smokey Mountain Cooker™ smoker has two cooking grates for smoking multiple items at once, making it perfect for barbecues and other gatherings.
It features easily adjustable dampers for precision heat control, allowing you to manage the temperature effectively throughout the cooking process.
There's nothing quite like waiting all day for dinner when you know the result will be perfectly smoked, flavorful meat.
Conclusion
The Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is a top-notch charcoal smoker that excels in producing tender, delicious meat. Its dual cooking grates and adjustable dampers make it versatile and user-friendly, ensuring that your slow-cooked meals are worth the wait. Highly recommended for barbecue enthusiasts and perfectionists alike.
