17" Vertical Steel Charcoal Smoker Heavy Duty BBQ Grill Test

Introduction

As an avid backyard griller, I've always been intrigued by the idea of smoking meats but was intimidated by the complex smokers on the market. That's why I was excited to try out the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker. This heavy-duty round BBQ grill and smoker promised to be an approachable entry point into the world of smoking, and with an impressive 4.3 out of 5 star rating, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

The Realcook Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that allows you to smoke, grill, steam, bake, braise, and roast all kinds of foods. Its compact 17-inch size makes it ideal for backyard use, while still providing ample cooking space. As someone new to smoking, I was drawn to its straightforward design and affordable price point compared to more elaborate smokers on the market.

What makes this smoker stand out is its vertical design, which allows for even heat distribution and efficient use of space. The two-door system and ability to separate the unit into sections also caught my eye as unique and practical features. With summer barbecue season approaching, I was excited to put this smoker to the test and see if it could help me up my outdoor cooking game.

Pros and Cons

After thoroughly testing out the Realcook Vertical Charcoal Smoker, here are the main pros and cons I discovered:

Product Specifications

Here are the key features and specifications of the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker:

• 17-inch diameter steel construction
• Two cooking grids providing 453 square inches of cooking space
• Built-in thermometer with detailed temperature scale
• Adjustable air supply on lid for temperature control
• Porcelain-enameled water pan and charcoal pan
• Heat-resistant bakelite handles
• Crossbar and 4 hangers inside the lid for hanging meats
• Two access doors - one for the fuel and one for the second rack
• Latch locking system for stability
• Can be used for cold or hot smoking
• Suitable for outdoor cooking

User Experience

As I began using the Realcook Vertical Charcoal Smoker, I quickly realized there was a bit of a learning curve, but the process was rewarding. Assembly took me about an hour, which was longer than expected, but not overly complicated. The instructions could have been clearer in some areas, but I managed to put it together without major issues.

My first smoking attempt was with some chicken thighs and bratwursts. I was impressed by how evenly the heat distributed throughout the smoker. The built-in thermometer was helpful, but I found using an additional digital meat thermometer gave me more precise control. The two access doors were a standout feature, making it easy to add more wood chips or check on the lower rack without disturbing the food on top.

One aspect that took some getting used to was temperature control. It requires a delicate balance of adjusting the vents and managing fuel. My first few smoking sessions resulted in temperatures that fluctuated more than I'd like, but with practice, I got better at maintaining a steady temperature. The water pan was crucial in helping stabilize the heat and keep the meat moist.

I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of cooking space. The two racks allowed me to smoke different meats simultaneously, which was great for feeding a crowd at a backyard barbecue. The option to hang meats using the included hooks is a nice touch, though I haven't experimented with that feature yet.

Cleaning the smoker after use was relatively straightforward, thanks to the porcelain-enameled pans. However, I did notice significant ash buildup during longer smoking sessions, which required more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance.

Over time, I've come to appreciate the versatility of this smoker. I've used it for traditional low-and-slow barbecue, but also for grilling when I remove the upper sections. It's become a staple in my outdoor cooking arsenal, allowing me to experiment with different smoking techniques and recipes.

One concern that emerged from other users' experiences is the potential for rust development over time, particularly on the bottom vent. While I haven't encountered this issue yet, it's something I'll be keeping an eye on and taking preventative measures against, such as storing the smoker in a dry place when not in use.

Use Cases

The Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker is an excellent choice for several types of users:

1. Beginners to smoking: If you're new to smoking meats, this smoker offers an affordable and approachable entry point. Its straightforward design and operation make it less intimidating than more complex smokers.
2. Backyard barbecue enthusiasts: The compact size makes it perfect for backyard use, while still providing enough cooking space to feed a small gathering.
3. Versatile outdoor cooks: Those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods will appreciate its ability to smoke, grill, steam, bake, braise, and roast.
4. Space-conscious consumers: The vertical design and 17-inch diameter make it a good fit for those with limited outdoor space, such as small patios or balconies.
5. Budget-minded shoppers: Compared to high-end smokers, this Realcook model offers good value for money, making it accessible to those who don't want to invest heavily in a first smoker.
6. Occasional smokers: If you enjoy smoked meats but don't plan to use a smoker frequently, this model's affordability and ease of use make it a suitable choice.

Whether you're smoking ribs for a family dinner, experimenting with smoked vegetables, or grilling burgers for a weekend cookout, this smoker can handle a variety of cooking tasks. Its versatility makes it a great option for those who want to explore different outdoor cooking techniques without investing in multiple appliances.

Price Analysis

While the exact price of the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker isn't provided, based on its features and user reviews, it appears to offer excellent value for money in the entry-level smoker category.

When considering the price, it's important to factor in the smoker's versatility. You're not just getting a smoker, but also a grill and a multi-functional outdoor cooking appliance. This versatility alone adds significant value, as it eliminates the need to purchase separate appliances for different cooking methods.

The build quality, while not premium, is solid for its price range. The heavy-duty steel construction and porcelain-enameled components contribute to its durability, suggesting that with proper care, it should last for several barbecue seasons.

When compared to high-end smokers that can cost several hundred or even thousands of dollars, this Realcook model provides an affordable entry point into the world of smoking. It offers many of the key features found in more expensive models, such as temperature control, ample cooking space, and versatility in cooking methods.

However, it's important to have realistic expectations. While this smoker performs well for its price point, it may lack some of the advanced features or premium materials found in more expensive models. For instance, temperature control isn't as precise as in digital smokers, and some components may not be as durable as those in high-end units.

Overall, for beginners or casual smokers who don't want to make a large initial investment, the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker offers good value. It provides a cost-effective way to explore smoking and outdoor cooking, with enough features and capacity to satisfy most backyard cooks.

Final Thoughts

After extensive use and consideration, I can confidently say that the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker is a solid choice for those looking to dive into the world of smoking or expand their outdoor cooking capabilities.

The smoker's strengths lie in its versatility and user-friendly design. The ability to smoke, grill, and perform other cooking methods makes it a valuable addition to any backyard. The two-door system and separable sections are thoughtful features that enhance the user experience, making it easier to manage your fuel and food during long smoking sessions.

I was particularly impressed with the even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving consistent results when smoking. The built-in thermometer, while not perfect, provides a helpful guide, especially when used in conjunction with a digital meat thermometer.

The 453 square inches of cooking space proved more than adequate for my needs, allowing me to smoke enough food for family gatherings and small parties. The option to hang meats adds another dimension to its functionality, though I'm still exploring this feature.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. The assembly process could be smoother, and some parts feel less durable than others. Temperature control takes practice to master, which might frustrate some beginners. The issue of potential rusting reported by some users is also worth keeping in mind, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and storage.

Despite these minor issues, I believe the Realcook Vertical Charcoal Smoker offers excellent value for its price point. It's an ideal starting point for those new to smoking, providing a platform to learn and experiment without breaking the bank. Even for more experienced outdoor cooks, its versatility and compact size make it a useful addition to their cooking arsenal.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker to anyone looking for an affordable, versatile outdoor cooking solution. It's particularly well-suited for beginners, those with limited space, or anyone who wants to explore smoking without a significant investment. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, it provides everything you need to start creating delicious smoked meals in your backyard.

Whether you're dreaming of perfectly smoked ribs, juicy brisket, or even experimenting with smoked vegetables, this smoker can help you achieve your outdoor cooking goals. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve, practice patience with temperature control, and don't forget to perform regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. Happy smoking!