I Think Darth Vader Uses a 55 Gallon Drum Smoker
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The Cult of the 55 Gallon Drum Smoker is a curious thing. In the past year, I’ve fielded more questions and received more hits on this blog about this one single subject over all others. However, I think I’ve seen maybe two of these at the KCBS and FBA competitions I’ve been to, so it has me thinking.
Are 55 gallon drum smokers, made “Do it Yourself” style being built and used only by a cult of backyard barbecue smokers who gather in Sith-like fashion around a central Imperial backyard BBQ force?
One of BigMista’s Ugly Drum Smokers
See More of BigMista’s UDS Posts here.
Oh, you can find information on 55 gallon drum smokers, otherwise referred to as Ugly Drum Smokers (UDS), if you look hard enough. In fact, there are whole message boards and forums devoted to these babies. But why don’t I see more of them being used by BBQ Pros? Is it because they’re just not as reliable or can’t be regulated as much as say, a Stumps Smoker or Green Mountain pellet grill? Or, does it just take a special breed of Pro BBQ cook to throw down and get their ‘cue on with a DIY 55 Gallon Drum Smoker?
By the way – I think BigMista cooks on a SpiceWine Smoker now as well, so he may not do too much with the UDS these days.
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Comments on I Think Darth Vader Uses a 55 Gallon Drum Smoker
Just got word from a Pro BBQ Competitor who has won a GC using his Ugly Drum Smoker! Rock on! Hope to hear from him here tomorrow!
I built two UDSs that I’ve used as my only pro competition cookers since the beginning of the 2008 season. I’ve done very well with them, including two RGCs. -John
John – man, that’s awesome! Guys, this is something! I’ve seen maybe two (2!) UDSs in use at the Pro level here in FL. Be sure to check out John’s Patio Daddio BBQ site! Some great pics. Hope you’re hungry!
I just did a contest with an XL UDS and a ranch kettle this past weekend and I saw 3 other teams with them. I saw several at the American Royal last year also. I use my Spicewines for catering and vending. But if I am traveling light, the UDS works!
The Godfather of the UDS… Bigmista himself… speaks the UDS Gospel! Honored to have your presence on this humble BBQ site, sir! We actually posted an article on BigMista’s Barbecue and your “Brisketology” expertise some time ago. Do you have any links to photos of your XL UDS competition model? We’d love to showcase that baby here!
I might be using the XL UDS this weekend at a contest in Vista, CA. If I do I will post some pics. It is ugly and rusty but it cooks great!
@Bigmista: Hey Neil! That sounds awesome! Please do take some pics. If you put ‘em up on Google Plus or FB, I’ll pimp them here and link back to you!