Choosing the right smoker can be as personal as picking your favourite cut of meat. From hands-on traditionalists to modern pitmasters looking for set-and-forget convenience, there’s a smoker for every BBQ style. But don’t forget, the wood you use can make all the difference—especially when you’re using charcoal, gas, or electric setups.
1. Offset Smokers (Stick Burners)
What it is:
The classic, traditional smoker that uses wood splits or logs to build a fire in the firebox. Smoke flows through the cooking chamber to flavour your meat.
Pros:
- Produces authentic, bold, wood-fired flavour.
- Perfect for large quantities of meat.
- Favoured by BBQ purists.
Wood Tip:
Offset smokers thrive on hardwood splits like post oak, pecan, or hickory, rather than wood chunks. Full-sized logs are the go-to for this smoker.
2. Vertical (Bullet) Smokers
What it is:
Compact, efficient smokers where heat and smoke rise vertically past the food.
Pros:
- Affordable and beginner-friendly.
- Ideal for smaller spaces.
Feedlot Pairing:
Mix The Feedlot’s Apple or Cherry Wood Chunks with your charcoal to add a subtle sweet smoke that’s perfect for pork, poultry, or fish.
3. Pellet Smokers
What it is:
Digitally controlled smokers that burn wood pellets and maintain steady temps automatically.
Pros:
- Easy to use with consistent heat.
- Great for long cooks like brisket or pork shoulder.
Feedlot Tip:
While pellets handle most of the smoke, adding a Feedlot wood chunk directly over flame (if your model allows) can give a little extra boost of smoke flavour during searing.
4. Kamado Smokers
What it is:
Ceramic cookers like the Big Green Egg that can smoke, grill, or even bake.
Pros:
- Fantastic heat retention.
- Very versatile.
Feedlot Pairing:
Kamados love pecan or cherry wood chunks alongside lump charcoal to create a beautifully balanced smoke for lamb, chicken, or even veggies.
5. Electric Smokers
What it is:
Electric element for heat, paired with a small tray for wood chips or chunks.
Pros:
- Plug in and go.
- Perfect for areas with fire restrictions.
Feedlot Pairing:
Pop in The Feedlot’s Apple or Hickory Chunks for that gentle smoky hit ideal for ribs or brisket.
6. Gas (Propane) Smokers
What it is:
Works like an electric smoker but powered by propane with a smoke box for wood.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control.
- Easy to manage.
Feedlot Pairing:
Toss in The Feedlot’s Mesquite or Post Oak Chunks for bold, authentic BBQ flavour.
🔔 Pro Pitmaster Tip: Chunks for Controlled Smoke
Not every smoker needs wood chunks, but for charcoal, electric, and gas smokers, The Feedlot’s premium wood chunks are the perfect way to fine-tune your smoke profile without overpowering your food.
👉 Grab yours here: The Feedlot BBQ Wood Chunks