Pit Barrel Cooker Co. US Review: The Ultimate Grilling Experience – Simply Set It and Forget It
Save 10% Off On Your All Orders
Get $10 Off On Your All Purchases
Get Free Shipping On Order Over $99.99
Sale! Save Upto 30% Off On Selective Items
Shop Our Cookers Collection Starting From $329.99
Checkout Our Pit Rubs Collection Starting From $8.99
Explore Our Replacement Parts Collection Starting From $9.99
Our Accessories Collection Starting From $8.99
Introduction
When it comes to achieving delicious, smoky perfection without complicated preparation, the Pit Barrel Cooker Co. US is a true game-changer in backyard grilling. Known for its signature smoke barrels, this brand combines the intense flavors of traditional smoking with the simplicity of modern design. It’s not just a smoker—it’s a complete cooking system suitable for both beginners and grill masters. In this review, you’ll learn what makes the Pit Barrel Cooker so unique, what performance you can expect, and whether it deserves a place in your outdoor kitchen.
About Pit Barrel Cooker Co. US
Founded by Noah and Amber Glanville in Kentucky, Pit Barrel Cooker Co. initially had one mission: to make professional-level grilling accessible to everyone. What began as a passionate family project has grown into a trusted brand cherished by barbecue enthusiasts worldwide.
The company’s flagship product, the Pit Barrel Cooker, is a vertical drum smoker that achieves even, flavorful cooking results thanks to simple technology—convection heat and hanging meat. It’s designed to take the guesswork out of smoking, delivering consistent results without constant temperature monitoring or adjustments.
With models for both indoor and competitive barbecue, Pit Barrel has built a reputation for durability, flavor, and user-friendliness.
Pit Barrel Mission and Philosophy 🌿
- Pit Barrel Cooker Co. believes that great barbecue should be uncomplicated. Its philosophy emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and flavor.
- Ease of Use: Each oven is designed for effortless setup and minimal maintenance.
- Flavor is paramount: By combining direct heat and convection, the design preserves natural juices and smoke flavor..
- Durable: Each oven is handcrafted from high-quality steel and coated with porcelain enamel for weather resistance.
- Community-oriented: Pit Barrel supports a passionate community of grill enthusiasts who share tips, recipes, and inspiration.
- This philosophy makes the brand a true go-to for anyone who wants the best results without much effort.
The original and most popular model, this 18.5-inch barrel smoker is the brand’s flagship product. It features a steel drum design, a removable charcoal basket, hanging rods, and sturdy stainless steel hooks.
Pros:
- Even heat distribution for perfect cooking.
- Cook multiple cuts of meat at once (ideal for ribs, chicken, brisket, and pork).
- Easy assembly and cleaning.
- Durable, weather-resistant finish.
Cons:
- No adjustable vents – you’re reliant on natural air circulation.
- Limited temperature control for advanced users.
The Pit Barrel Junior is the compact version of the original and offers the same flavorful performance in a smaller format—perfect for smaller patios, tailgates, or balconies.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable.
- Great for small households or on the go.
- The cooking performance is the same as the larger model.
Cons:
- Smaller cooking capacity (best for 1-2 people).
The PBX model is the largest version and is ideal for large families, parties, or barbecue competitions. It offers the same simple functionality with expanded capacity.
Pros:
- Large cooking surface – accommodates multiple ribs or large brisket joints.
- Consistent grilling performance at scale.
- Perfect for event caterers or grill masters at barbecue competitions.
Cons:
- Heavier and less portable.
- Requires more charcoal for long cooking times.
Highlights
- Unique Features Vertical drum design for even heat distribution.
- Easy to set up and forget – minimal supervision required.
- Our unique hanging system ensures excellent flavor and tenderness.
- Portable and easy to set up.
- Works with standard charcoal or wood chips.
- Made of high-quality steel with a porcelain enamel coating.
6. Who is this for? 👥
Pit Barrel Cooker Co US is ideal for:
- Home cooks and grilling enthusiasts who want authentic smoky flavor without a steep learning curve.
- Families who enjoy outdoor gatherings and weekend grilling.
- Anyone who prefers a simple, low-maintenance cooking experience.
- Anyone who wants restaurant-quality grilling at home.
It may not be ideal for:
- Grillers who prefer adjustable vents and precise temperature control.
- Anyone who wants the convenience of an electric or gas grill.
- Anyone who only occasionally grills small portions.
7. Our Opinion / Why We Love It ❤️
We love Pit Barrel Cooker Co because it makes top-notch grilling accessible to everyone. You don’t need years of experience or fancy equipment—just charcoal, meat, and patience. The vertical design ensures even cooking, while the hanging method delivers unmatched tenderness and smoky depth.
It’s also one of the most user-friendly smokers on the market. You simply light the charcoal, hang your food, and let the grill do the work. No digital apps or constant adjustments—just traditional, flavorful grilling.
In a world where grilling often seems complicated, the Pit Barrel Cooker is refreshingly simple and incredibly effective.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional flavor with minimal effort
- Simple, user-friendly design
- Durable, weatherproof construction
- Portable and easy to set up
- Inexpensive compared to most smokers
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Limited temperature control
- Not ideal for quick grilling or searing
- Accessories require additional costs
- Require manual cleanup of ash and residue
Customer Reviews
Customers in the US consistently praise the Pit Barrel Cooker for its simplicity, aromatic flavor, and reliability. It’s especially popular with first-time smokers who want consistent, restaurant-quality results without the complexity of digital smokers.
Positive Feedback:
“It’s almost impossible to go wrong—the food turns out perfectly every time.”
“I’ve owned my Pit Barrel for years, and it still works like new.”
“The best ribs I’ve ever made at home—juicy, smoky, and tender.”
Critical Feedback:
Some users wish they had more precise temperature settings.
Some found cleanup after long cooking times a bit time-consuming.
Accessories can be expensive separately.
Overall, customer satisfaction is exceptionally high, with many calling it the best smoker for the money.
FAQs
Q: How long does the Pit Barrel Cooker take to heat up?
It typically reaches its ideal cooking temperature (135–150°C) within 15–20 minutes.
Q: What fuel does it use?
It uses traditional charcoal briquettes or charcoal lumps. You can also add wood chips for extra flavor.
Q: Can you grill and smoke on the same unit?
Yes, with the optional grate, it can be used as both a grill and a smoker.
Q: Is it weatherproof?
Yes, it’s made of high-quality, enameled steel for long-lasting outdoor durability.
Q: Does it require assembly?
Assembly is minimal—most users can set it up in less than 15 minutes.
Final Verdict
Pit Barrel Cooker Co. US brings the magic of authentic barbecue to your backyard without the hassle of complex equipment. It’s simple, efficient, and delivers smoky perfection every time.
Whether you’re cooking for two or entertaining large groups, the Pit Barrel offers the perfect combination of convenience and flavor that most smokers can’t match. Its durable construction, excellent value, and reliable performance make it a must-have for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.
In short, the Pit Barrel isn’t just a smoker—it’s the easiest way to become a delicious barbecue master.
