Offset Smoker
A traditional BBQ smoker with a horizontal cook chamber and a side-mounted firebox — the pitmaster's instrument for producing the deepest smoke flavor.
The offset smoker (also called a stick burner or pipe smoker) is the classic American BBQ pit design. It consists of a horizontal cook chamber (the barrel) with a separate firebox mounted to one side, connected by an opening. Heat and smoke travel from the firebox through the cook chamber and exit through a chimney on the opposite end.
How It Works: You build and maintain a wood fire in the firebox. Heat and smoke enter the cook chamber, flow across the meat, and exhaust out the chimney. The draft (airflow) is controlled by dampers — an intake on the firebox and an exhaust on the chimney.
Types: - Standard flow: Heat enters one side, exits the other. Creates a temperature gradient — the firebox side is hotter. - Reverse flow: A steel plate forces heat under the cooking grates to the chimney end, then back over the meat. Evens out temperatures significantly.
What Makes a Good Offset: - Minimum 1/4-inch steel (3/8" preferred) for heat retention - Sealed construction — no air leaks - Proportional firebox size - Quality grates at the right height - Solid welds and good door seals
The Trade-Off: Offsets produce the deepest smoke flavor of any cooker type, but they require manual fire management — adding wood every 45-60 minutes, adjusting dampers, monitoring temperatures. It's hands-on cooking. That's either the best part (if you love the craft) or the worst part (if you just want to eat).
Price Range: $500-800 for entry level (Oklahoma Joe), $1,000-2,500 mid-range (Old Country, Lone Star Grillz), $2,500+ for competition grade (Yoder, Jambo, Moberg).
An offset is the tool I've used my entire career. Nothing else produces the same flavor. But it's not for everyone — and that's okay.
Related Terms
Related Guides
Offset Smoker Mastery: Setup, Fire Management & Technique
The offset smoker is the pitmaster's instrument. Here's how to set it up, manage the fire, maintain clean smoke, and troubleshoot common problems.
Pellet Smoker vs Stick Burner: An Honest Comparison
I've spent decades on offset stick burners and I own a pellet grill too. Here's my honest take on both — the advantages, the trade-offs, and who should buy which.