Oklahomajoes Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This oklahomajoes oklahoma joe s longhorn reverse review focuses on a large charcoal smoker built for serious backyard cooks. It offers 850+ square inches of total cooking area, split into 751 square inches of primary space and 309 square inches of secondary space. The unit weighs 226 pounds and measures 64.3 inches wide. Its reverse flow design helps distribute heat evenly across the chamber. You get a professional temperature gauge to track your cook. This grill is designed for those who want authentic offset smoking with the flexibility to switch smokestack locations. It is a substantial piece of equipment that requires a dedicated outdoor space.
- Switchable reverse flow or traditional offset smoking via optional smokestack locations
- 850+ square inches total cooking area with four baffles for even heat distribution
- Heavy-gauge steel construction for durable, long-lasting performance
- Large charcoal basket supports steady burns for longer cooks with less tending
Good fit for
You should choose this smoker if you host large gatherings or cook big cuts like brisket and pork shoulder regularly. The 850+ square inches of space lets you smoke multiple items at once. The heavy-gauge steel and large charcoal basket mean you can run long cooks without constant fuel management. If you have a spacious patio or yard and want authentic charcoal flavor with reliable heat distribution, this unit fits your setup well.
Who can skip it
Skip this model if you have limited outdoor space or prefer quick, high-heat grilling. At 64.3 inches wide and 226 pounds, it is a large, heavy unit that requires a sturdy, flat surface. It is a charcoal-only smoker, so you cannot use gas or pellets for convenience. If you want a compact grill for small families or need a digital controller for set-and-forget cooking, this manual, large-format smoker is not for you.
Verdict
This is a robust, high-capacity charcoal smoker for cooks who value authentic offset flavor and large cooking space. It suits serious hobbyists with room for its substantial footprint.
Key specs for Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn
Cooking Area: 850+ Sq In
You get 751 square inches of primary space and 309 square inches of secondary space. This large capacity lets you smoke multiple large cuts of meat at once. It is ideal for backyard gatherings or long cooks. Compare this total area with smaller grills if you often host groups. The split design helps manage indirect heat zones for consistent results.
Weight: 226 pounds
The unit weighs 226 pounds due to heavy-gauge steel construction. This mass provides stability and durability during long smoking sessions. You will need a solid, level surface to place it. Consider this weight when choosing a patio spot. Heavier units often retain heat better than lighter alternatives. Ensure you have help for setup and moving.
Dimensions: 64.3 x 35.5 x 55.5 inches
The width is 64.3 inches, length is 35.5 inches, and height is 55.5 inches. These dimensions define the footprint you need for your outdoor space. Plan for clearance around the unit for safe operation and airflow. Compare these measurements with your available patio or deck area. The large profile supports the extensive cooking surface inside.
Fuel: Charcoal
This smoker uses charcoal and hardwood splits or chunks for fuel. Charcoal provides a steady, controllable burn for low-and-slow cooking. You can adjust airflow to manage temperature precisely. This fuel type offers authentic smoky flavor. Compare charcoal options with gas or pellet smokers if you prefer convenience or different flavor profiles. It requires manual fire management.
Design and Build Quality
According to the listing, this unit is constructed from heavy-gauge steel. This material choice suggests a focus on durability and long-lasting performance for outdoor use. The smoker is finished in black, which helps it blend into typical backyard environments while protecting the steel surface. You get a robust build that can withstand the high temperatures required for low-and-slow charcoal cooking.
The physical footprint is substantial, measuring 64.3 inches in width, 35.5 inches in length, and 55.5 inches in height. It weighs 226 pounds, indicating a stable, stationary unit rather than a portable grill. You will need a flat, solid surface that can support this weight. The large dimensions accommodate the 850+ square inches of cooking area, including the offset firebox and main chamber.
Layout features include a bottom shelf for storing utensils, wood, and extra charcoal. This keeps your tools close during long smoking sessions without cluttering the cooking space. The firebox door allows for easy fuel loading and ash access without opening the main cooking chamber. A professional temperature gauge is mounted for reliable monitoring. These design elements prioritize efficient fuel management and consistent heat distribution through four baffles beneath the grates.
Setup and everyday use
This smoker weighs 226 pounds and measures 64.3 inches wide by 55.5 inches high. You will need a stable, level surface that can support this weight. The large footprint requires adequate clearance for safe operation and airflow. Assembly typically involves attaching the firebox, chimney, and shelves to the main cooking chamber. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before your first use to prevent heat loss or structural shifting.
Daily operation relies on charcoal as the fuel source. You load fuel through the dedicated firebox door, which allows access without opening the main cooking chamber. This design helps maintain consistent internal temperatures. The unit includes a large charcoal basket designed to hold enough fuel for extended cooking sessions, reducing the need for frequent refueling. You can adjust smokestack locations to switch between reverse flow and traditional offset modes. This feature lets you change heat distribution patterns based on your cooking needs.
The four baffles beneath the grates help distribute heat and smoke evenly. This setup promotes consistent results across the 751 square inches of primary cooking space and the 309 square inches of secondary space. You monitor temperature using the professional gauge mounted on the unit. The bottom shelf provides storage for tools and extra charcoal, keeping essentials within reach during long cooks. Cleanup involves accessing ash through the firebox area, simplifying maintenance after each session.
Before You Buy This Smoker
Owning this large charcoal smoker requires planning. You need a solid, level foundation to support its 226-pound weight. The 64.3-inch width demands significant backyard space. Ensure you have adequate clearance for safe operation and proper airflow. You will need to purchase charcoal and hardwood splits separately. The listing notes it uses charcoal, so verify your fuel supply matches this requirement. Regular upkeep includes ash removal. The firebox door allows easier access for this task. You should also check if your local regulations permit open-flame charcoal smoking. This unit fits well alongside other heavy-duty grills in our guide. It suits cooks who prioritize capacity and reverse-flow versatility over compact designs. If you prefer electric or gas simplicity, look at the smaller, lighter options listed here. This smoker is built for long, slow cooks. It is not ideal for quick weeknight dinners. Plan your cooking sessions around its heat-up time and fuel management needs. The heavy-gauge steel construction suggests durability, but you must maintain it to prevent rust. Keep tools and fuel on the bottom shelf for easy access during long sessions.
Check before you buy
- Verify your backyard has enough space for the 64-inch width.
- Ensure your ground is level to support the 226-pound weight.
- Confirm your local laws allow charcoal smoking in your area.
- Check if you have enough charcoal and hardwood for long cooks.
Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Reverse Flow Charcoal Smoker
Best for: Large gatherings requiring extensive smoking capacity
- Cooking Area
- 1060 sq in
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Smoker Style
- Offset
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
This large offset charcoal smoker offers 1060 square inches of total cooking space, split between a 751-square-inch primary chamber and a 309-square-inch secondary rack. The reverse flow design uses four baffles to distribute heat evenly across the main cooking area. You get a professional temperature gauge for monitoring and a large charcoal basket for longer cooks. Weighing 226 pounds, it is built from heavy-gauge steel for durability.
- 1060 square inches of total cooking capacity
- Reverse flow design with four baffles for even heat
- Switchable smokestack locations for traditional or reverse flow
- Large charcoal basket supports longer cooks
- Professional temperature gauge included
- Heavy 226-pound weight makes it difficult to move
- Large footprint requires 64.3 inches of width
- 751-square-inch primary chamber is smaller than total capacity
- You need space for multiple large cuts of meat
- You want to switch between reverse flow and traditional offset styles
- You have a sturdy deck or patio for heavy equipment
- You have limited outdoor space for a 64.3-inch width
- You cannot handle a 226-pound unit
- You prefer propane or gas fuel sources
Verdict: Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Reverse Charcoal Smoker fits backyard pitmasters who need serious capacity and durable steel construction. You should buy it if you have the space and strength to manage its large size and weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Reverse Flow Charcoal Smoker |
|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 1060 sq in |
| Fuel | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Offset |
| Features | Offset Smoker |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black |
| Size | Large |
| Dimensions | 35.5 × 64.3 × 55.5 inches |
| Weight | 226 pounds |
| Model | 17202053 |
Frequently asked questions
What fuel does the Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Reverse use?
This smoker uses charcoal as its primary fuel source. You load lump charcoal or briquettes into the firebox to generate heat and smoke. This method allows you to control flavor profiles and temperature manually. It is not designed for propane or natural gas, requiring you to manage the fire directly for consistent results.
How large is the cooking surface on this unit?
The total cooking area exceeds 850 square inches. This space is divided into 751 square inches of primary cooking area and 309 square inches of secondary warming space. This ample capacity lets you cook multiple large cuts of meat simultaneously, making it suitable for feeding large groups or preparing big batches of smoked goods.
What are the physical dimensions of the smoker?
The unit measures 64.3 inches in width, 35.5 inches in length, and 55.5 inches in height. Its large footprint requires a spacious outdoor area. You need sufficient clearance around the unit for safe operation and proper airflow. These dimensions confirm it is a substantial piece of equipment that needs a dedicated spot in your yard.
How much does the Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn weigh?
The smoker weighs 226 pounds. This significant weight indicates a robust, heavy-gauge steel construction. You must ensure your chosen location has a solid, level foundation capable of supporting this load. Moving the unit after assembly will be difficult, so plan its permanent placement carefully before you begin setup.
Is this smoker an offset style?
Yes, this unit is an offset smoker. The firebox is attached to the side of the main cooking chamber rather than being underneath. Heat and smoke travel from the firebox into the cooking chamber, then exit through the chimney. This design is traditional for pitmasters who prefer authentic smoke flavor and manual temperature control.
Who is this smoker best suited for?
It is best for backyard pitmasters who need serious capacity and durable steel construction. You should buy it if you have the space and strength to manage its large size and weight. It fits those hosting large gatherings requiring extensive smoking capacity. It is not ideal for small patios or casual cooks seeking convenience.
What color is the Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn finished in?
The smoker is finished in black. This color helps it blend into typical backyard environments while protecting the steel from the elements. The black finish is standard for many heavy-duty outdoor cooking appliances. It does not affect performance but contributes to the traditional aesthetic of offset smokers.
See also
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
