Once you become adept at grilling, a smoker is usually the next step up in outdoor cooking.
Most big box retailers sell inexpensive smokers for under $300 from Char-Broil, Brinkmann, and Weber.
These smokers are functional, but leave a lot to be desired in terms of smoking performance.
(See the video above.)
The small holes and vents that typically come with these smokers are usually inadequate to maintain a long-lasting burn.
(Seethis videofor more.)
Upgrade Your Support Hardware
Cheap smokers are built with inexpensive parts, including legs and wheels.
Usehex boltswith aflatandlockingwasher to secure the supports.
Replace broken plastic wheels or totally remove them and set your smoker on concrete blocks.
Replace the Thermometer
Many thermometers only show warm/ideal/hot.
Look for longer thermometer probes that extend deeper into the smoker.
SearchAmazonandeBayfor direct replacement thermometers that have upgraded readouts.
Look for something likethis $13 modelwhich has a large 2 display and 2 1/2 stem.
Its also handy to have aprobe thermometerwhen smoking any punch in of meat.
Before you finish assembling your smoker, paint the whole thing, including the legs.
Photos byCharles & HudsonandThe Institute of Man.
