I have also had my Pit Barrel Cooker for over 3 years. I cook everything on it. The only modification I've made is to drill one hole in the lid to add a cheap Walmart, Weber, temp, smoking gauge. When I cook, I don't tinker. The Pit Barrel is a set it and forget it smoking system. If you are a tinkerer and need to constantly fiddle with air, coals, etc. this isn't for you. If you want to cook good food in less time with less need to tinker then this cooker works very well. Very simple , great results.

Just finished a brined chicken on my Pit Barrel Jr., I’ve had it for a couple of years now, and this thing is a MACHINE when it comes to chicken and ribs.

By far one of the Best Reviews. Thank you for taking your time to show us the actual Pros and Cons.

You can use a magnet to suffucate the coals, Aiso I installed a vent on the lid and a thermometer. Works great. Total control. I am at 1600m, mile high.

Just got a Pit Barrel Cooker and your tips will come in handy. Thanks.

Good video and review of the PBC. I think part of the reason your coals tend to die off and go out is the way you're starting it. Try spreading the lit coals evenly across the top of the basket instead of just the middle. When juices drip on unlit coals it tends to prevent them from lighting. It's more forgiving when they drip on lit coals.

Excellent idea using two hooks in the ribs. I cant believe that's the first time I've seen that. Can definitely can save the rack from falling into the charcoal, Thanks for the great idea.

Appreciate the honest review!

Just bought one! Looking forward to using it, thanks for the pointers. 🔥🍖

Excellent video, thanks

Bro i love how you said everything you said ! Unlike most then other folks dont say this. But they need to know what are the good and bad ! why because smoker's aren't cheap, you need to know what you paying for. thanks for the help brother keep up with your youtube up good work.

'great review - Tons of info.

Nice review, thanks! Your kids are cool. Greetings from Brazil!!

I bought the PBC bc of the “set it forget it” but quickly realized when it was running hot I wish it had vents like you said for some control. Hey I had fun stopping by!! Always appreciate your videos!

Thanks for the video, now I'm craving some smoke ribs & chicken :-)

I love my PBC! Looks awesome!

Nice review... You covered all the things that pose a challenge for me as well. I have 3 PBC's one for 10 years now, I use it every weekend....I installed a temp guage in the lid and found that lighting 44 briquetes for the Original and only 7 for the Junior keeps my temps at 225-250 until it burns out... I like the Junior becuase it uses nearly 75% less charcoal and I can get the same results in a cook. I do not like how short the distance is between the lid and the grate.. I can't fit a half ham in there... turkeys, ribs, pork shoulder, brisket, and even chuck roast comes out amazing.... Great review...

Good!

I have one of the old models that doesnt have the shiny finish still works great.

Eric, I have the Pit Barrel Jr. and have been using it for the last year. I only do 1 set of ribs at a time St. Louise Style or Baby Back. However, I cut the ribs in half so the lower ribs don’t burn. Besides that I don’t use briquettes but lump charcoal. It burns hotter so less is required. The other difference is using a digital probes for ambient temp and internal meat temps. Regards, Kevin