Brinkmann Vertical Gas Smoker

The Brinkmann Vertical Gas Smoker is a propane-fueled model. Reviewers say gas smokers offer freedom from having to add charcoal during an hours-long smoking process, although some owner reviewers say they can detect a slight propane taste on food. But the go-to source for smoker reviews, AmazingRibs.com, says the Brinkmann Vertical Gas Smoker produces "very tasty meat" and offers great value for the money. Craig "Meathead" Goldwyn of AmazingRibs.com adds that the smoker's walls are thin and will burn more gas and wood chips in cool weather. That review also says the Brinkmann Vertical Gas Smoker burns a bit hotter than a barbeque purist might like -- the tester could not get this smoker down to the desired 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Brinkmann's warranty coverage is just for one year, compared with 10 years for the top smoker in reviews, the charcoal-burning Weber Smokey Mountain (*Est. $300 for 18.5-inch size).

Goldwyn's AmazingRibs.com has the most extensive coverage of smokers, and he reviews the Brinkmann Vertical Gas Smoker. We also found a sampling of owner reviews at HomeDepot.com.