Brinkmann bullet charcoal smoker

The most basic and perhaps the most well-known charcoal smoker is the Brinkmann bullet smoker. Affectionately called the ECB or “El Cheapo Brinkmann” by many of its owners due to its low cost, this smoker can produce some really tasty barbecue. Although the ECB is very touchy and requires a lot of attention, you’ll enjoy it if you’re up for a challenge.

The ECB is an 18-inch barrel with three legs, two pans, and two grates. The bottom pan is designed to hold the charcoal, and the top pan is for water or other liquids. The steam from the water pan helps to balance the heat inside the unit. Water boils at 212°F, and as the surface of the water gets hot, it starts to steam. The steam combines with the hot air in the smoker and naturally strives to regulate the ambient temperature in the smoker to 212°F.