Weber® Smokey Mountain Cooker Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This weber weber smokey mountain cooker review focuses on the 22-inch charcoal smoker. It is a vertical unit designed for low-and-slow cooking. The unit measures 48.5 inches tall and weighs 68 pounds. These dimensions define its footprint and stability. You get a porcelain enameled finish that resists rust. The two cooking grates offer space for large cuts. This model, with the 23-inch width, fits standard patios. It uses charcoal as its primary fuel source. The design prioritizes heat retention and easy temperature control. You adjust airflow with dampers. The fuel door allows for easy charcoal addition. This setup suits those who want dedicated smoking space.
- Porcelain enameled lid, bowl, and center section retain heat and resist rust
- Two cooking grates provide ample room for smoking two large items at once
- Silicone temperature grommet monitors the internal temperature of your smoker
- Large aluminum fuel door allows easy access for adding charcoal while smoking
- 22-inch size with 48.5-inch height offers substantial vertical cooking volume
Good fit for
You should choose this smoker if you have outdoor space for a 23-inch wide unit. The 68-pound weight means it is stable but requires a solid surface. The 22-inch cooking diameter fits two large roasts or racks of ribs. You will appreciate the porcelain enamel for easy cleaning and durability. The vertical design saves horizontal patio space. If you prefer charcoal flavor and do not mind managing dampers, this model suits your cooking style. It is ideal for dedicated smoking sessions rather than quick grilling.
Who can skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a portable grill. At 68 pounds and 48.5 inches tall, this unit is not designed for frequent moving. The 22-inch diameter may be too large for small balconies. If you want direct high-heat searing, this vertical smoker is not the best tool. You cannot easily achieve grill marks like on a flat grate. The lack of a digital thermometer means you must rely on the grommet. If you prefer gas or pellet convenience, this charcoal model requires more attention to fuel and airflow management.
Verdict
The Weber Smokey Mountain 22" Charcoal Smoker is a durable, space-efficient vertical cooker for serious smoking. Its porcelain enamel and dual grates make it a practical choice for dedicated outdoor cooks.
Key specs for this smoker
Size: 22"
This diameter indicates the primary cooking surface area. A 22-inch bowl offers ample space for smoking multiple large cuts of meat simultaneously. You can fit two large items at once without overcrowding. This size suits families or enthusiasts who cook in batches. When comparing vertical smokers, check if the diameter allows for your typical meal portions. Larger diameters generally mean more capacity but require more fuel.
Fuel: Charcoal
This unit uses charcoal as its heat source. Charcoal provides steady, consistent heat ideal for low-and-slow smoking. It allows for deep smoke flavor development compared to gas options. You control the burn rate by adjusting the dampers and fuel door. When shopping, note that charcoal smokers require manual temperature management. This method appeals to purists who value traditional smoking techniques and flavor profiles over convenience.
Weight: 68 pounds
This weight reflects the mass of the porcelain enameled steel construction. Heavier units offer better heat retention and stability against wind. You benefit from reduced temperature fluctuations during long cooks. However, 68 pounds requires a solid, level surface for placement. When comparing models, consider if you need to move the unit often. Lighter smokers are more portable, while heavier ones prioritize thermal mass and durability.
Height: 48.5 inches
This height includes the vertical chimney design. The tall structure creates a strong draft, pulling smoke through the food. It ensures even heat distribution from the bottom to the top grates. You need sufficient overhead clearance for safe operation. When evaluating vertical smokers, compare this height to your available patio or yard space. Taller units often provide better temperature stability but require more vertical room.
Design and build details
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker features a porcelain enameled finish on its lid, bowl, and center section. According to the listing, this coating retains heat and resists rust or peeling. The black exterior is durable for outdoor use. You do not need to worry about surface degradation from weather exposure during storage. The vertical design maximizes cooking space within a compact footprint. The unit stands 48.5 inches tall with a width of 23 inches and a length of 24 inches. This height allows for efficient heat circulation. The 22-inch diameter provides two cooking grates. This layout gives you ample room to smoke two large items at once without overcrowding the interior. The weight of 68 pounds offers stability. You can move it, but it is heavy enough to stay put during long cooks. Temperature control relies on adjustable dampers. You can manage the smoke intensity by shifting these vents. A silicone temperature grommet monitors the internal heat. This feature helps you maintain consistent low-and-slow conditions. An aluminum fuel door detaches for easy charcoal or wood addition. This design simplifies refueling without interrupting the smoking process. The construction focuses on heat retention and ease of maintenance. You get a reliable vertical smoker that fits well in standard patios or decks. The materials suggest long-term durability. You can rely on the enameled steel for consistent performance over many seasons. The layout supports efficient airflow. You get precise control over your cooking environment.
Setup and everyday use guide
Setting up this vertical smoker involves assembling its three main sections: the lid, the bowl, and the center section. The unit arrives as a substantial piece of equipment, weighing 68 pounds and standing 48.5 inches tall. Its footprint measures 24 inches in length and 23 inches in width. You will need adequate clearance around the base for airflow and safe operation. The porcelain enameled finish on these components is designed to retain heat while resisting rust and peeling, which simplifies long-term maintenance.
Daily operation relies on charcoal as the fuel source. You control the internal temperature by adjusting the dampers on the unit. This manual system allows you to manage the smoke intensity and cooking speed. The large aluminum fuel door is a key feature for routine use. It detaches completely, making it easier to add charcoal or wood chunks without disturbing the cooking environment. This design choice supports longer smoking sessions where fuel replenishment is necessary.
Inside, you have two cooking grates that provide ample space. The 22-inch diameter allows you to smoke two large items simultaneously without overcrowding the bowl. A silicone temperature grommet is included to monitor the internal heat. You insert a thermometer through this grommet to track the smoker’s core temperature. This setup ensures you can maintain consistent low-and-slow cooking conditions. The vertical design concentrates heat and smoke around the food, which is typical for this style of cooker. You position your meat on the grates and let the dampers and fuel management handle the rest.
Before you buy this smoker
You should verify your outdoor space can accommodate a unit standing 48.5 inches tall. Its footprint measures 24 by 23 inches, so ensure you have adequate clearance for safe operation. The porcelain enameled finish helps resist rust, but you still need to protect it from prolonged exposure to rain or snow. Consider purchasing a heavy-duty, weather-resistant cover to extend the lifespan of the black exterior. Since this model uses charcoal, you must maintain a steady supply of lump charcoal or briquettes. The aluminum fuel door allows for easy refueling, but having a dedicated charcoal scoop or tool nearby will keep the process clean. You also need to check compatibility with any third-party thermometers, as the silicone grommet is designed for specific probe sizes. This vertical smoker fits well alongside other charcoal options in our 1 product guide, offering a distinct low-and-slow approach compared to direct-heat grills or pizza ovens. Its design prioritizes smoke circulation over searing capability. If you plan to smoke large cuts like brisket or pork shoulder, this 22-inch capacity is suitable. However, if you primarily grill burgers or steaks, you might find the indirect heat less ideal for quick searing tasks.
Check before you buy
- Verify your patio has 24 by 23 inches of clear space.
- Ensure you can store a weather-resistant cover for the black finish.
- Confirm you have a steady supply of lump charcoal or briquettes.
- Check that your thermometer probes fit the silicone grommet size.
Weber Smokey Mountain 22" Charcoal Smoker
Best for: Dedicated charcoal smokers needing large capacity
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
- Grill Style
- Kettle
- Dimensions
- 24 × 23 × 48.5 inches
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a 22-inch charcoal smoker designed for serious smoking. It features a porcelain enameled construction that retains heat and resists rust. The unit includes two cooking grates for ample capacity and a removable fuel door for easy charcoal management. Weighing 68 pounds with dimensions of 24 by 23 by 48.5 inches, it offers a stable, traditional offset-style smoking experience for dedicated grill masters.
- Porcelain enameled lid, bowl, and center section retain heat and resist rust
- Two cooking grates provide ample room for smoking two large items at once
- Removable aluminum fuel door allows easy charcoal addition while smoking
- Silicone temperature grommet monitors internal smoker temperature
- Heavier build at 68 pounds compared to lighter portable options
- Fixed 22-inch diameter limits capacity for very large batches
- Height of 48.5 inches requires significant vertical clearance
- You want a durable, heat-retaining charcoal smoker with a large cooking area
- You value easy charcoal access via a removable fuel door
- You have space for a 48.5-inch tall unit
- You need a lightweight, portable smoker for easy transport
- You prefer gas or electric ignition over manual charcoal management
- You have limited vertical space for a tall smoker
Verdict: Weber Smokey Mountain 22" Charcoal Smoker fits buyers seeking a robust, traditional charcoal smoking experience with durable porcelain enameled construction and easy fuel access, provided you have the space for its 48.5-inch height and 68-pound weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Weber Smokey Mountain 22" Charcoal Smoker |
|---|---|
| Fuel | Charcoal |
| Features | Offset Smoker |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black |
| Grill Style | Kettle |
| Dimensions | 24 × 23 × 48.5 inches |
| Weight | 68 pounds |
| Size | 22" |
| Model | 731001 |
Frequently asked questions
What fuel does the Weber Smokey Mountain 22" use?
This smoker runs exclusively on charcoal. The design relies on traditional charcoal combustion to generate smoke and heat for your food. You must purchase charcoal separately, as the unit does not include any fuel. This fuel type allows for consistent, low-and-slow cooking profiles typical of vertical smokers.
How large is the cooking area on this model?
The primary cooking surface has a 22-inch diameter. This size provides ample room to smoke multiple large cuts of meat at once. You can fit two large items without overcrowding the space. The 22-inch measurement refers to the bowl's width, which defines the main cooking zone.
Is the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker an offset smoker?
Yes, the product attributes list it as an offset smoker. This configuration typically places the firebox to the side of the main cooking chamber. It creates a traditional smoking environment where heat and smoke travel horizontally. This design helps maintain steady temperatures for long cooking sessions.
What is the total weight of the Weber Smokey Mountain 22"?
The unit weighs 68 pounds. This substantial weight contributes to its stability during operation. You need a solid surface to support this mass. The heft also helps the porcelain enameled construction retain heat more effectively than lighter alternatives.
What are the exact dimensions of this smoker?
The smoker stands 48.5 inches tall. Its footprint measures 24 inches in length and 23 inches in width. These dimensions require significant vertical and horizontal clearance. You must ensure your outdoor space can accommodate this height and width for safe operation.
What color is the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker?
The unit features a black exterior finish. This color is applied over the porcelain enameled steel construction. The black coating helps hide soot and smoke residue common in charcoal smoking. It also contributes to the traditional aesthetic of this vertical smoker.
What is the model number for this Weber smoker?
The specific model number is 731001. You can use this identifier to verify parts compatibility or check the official listing details. It distinguishes this 22-inch charcoal smoker from other Weber models. Ensure you reference this number when ordering accessories or replacement parts.
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.
