Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Smoker and Grill review for ultimate BBQ enthusiasts

Description

A Versatile Outdoor Cooking Powerhouse

The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & Grill (Model 24203004) is a beast of a machine designed for grilling and smoking enthusiasts. I’ve had my fair share of experience with combination grills, and this one promised to bridge the gap between convenience and authentic flavor. After giving it a solid test run, here’s what stood out to me.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was its sturdy stainless steel construction. It feels solid and well-built, with a sleek black finish that screams durability. The 196-pound weight is no joke—it’s hefty, but the rubber-treaded wagon wheels make moving it around surprisingly manageable. I’ve rolled it over gravel and uneven terrain, and it held up like a champ. The pivoting cool-touch handles are a thoughtful addition, especially when working near high heat. They’re not just functional; they add a layer of safety that I truly appreciated.

Another feature I love is the flat-bottom shelf with an integrated raised shelf. It’s perfect for storing extra charcoal, wood splits, or even a few accessories. I often find myself juggling tools and ingredients, so the tool hooks and front-side shelves were lifesavers for keeping everything within arm’s reach.

Cooking Performance: Smoking and Grilling

This combo grill truly delivers on versatility. It features a 750-square-inch primary cooking area—plenty of space for smoking a couple of pork shoulders while grilling burgers for the crew. The firebox adds an additional 281 square inches, which I used for grilling wings.

The gas side of the grill heats up impressively fast, thanks to its 36,000 BTU rating, and the temperature stays consistent throughout. I was able to sear steaks quickly, achieving that beautiful crust, while the smoker side allowed me to slow-cook ribs to tender perfection.

The adjustable dampers on the firebox and smokestack offer excellent temperature and smoke control. I experimented with different levels, and it was easy to maintain a steady heat. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, this level of control is a game-changer.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Let’s talk about the removable ash pan—what a blessing! Cleaning up after a long smoke session can be a nightmare, but this feature made the process much less painful. The ashes from the firebox collect neatly in the pan, and I just slid it out and dumped it. Cleanup was quick and hassle-free.

The propane gas option is a fantastic backup for those days when I don’t want to deal with charcoal. It’s as simple as hooking up a 20-pound propane tank (not included) and firing it up. I found this especially useful when I was in a rush to cook dinner.

Key Benefits

• Dual functionality: Combines the rich flavor of charcoal smoking with the convenience of gas grilling.
• Generous cooking space: Perfect for hosting gatherings or cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
• Robust design: Durable materials and practical features like cool-touch handles and large wheels.
• Excellent temperature control: Adjustable dampers and smokestack for precise heat and smoke management.
• Easy maintenance: Removable ash pan simplifies post-cooking cleanup.

Areas for Improvement

While this grill has a lot going for it, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Size and weight: At nearly 200 pounds, it’s not the most portable option. The wheels help, but you’ll need a decent amount of space to store it.
• Propane tank not included: This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you don’t already have one on hand.
• Assembly process: Putting it together required patience and a few extra hands. The instructions were clear, but the sheer size made it a bit of a challenge.

Competing Brands

Compared to other combination grills like the Char-Griller Duo or the Pit Boss Memphis Ultimate, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo stands out for its build quality and cooking performance. The Char-Griller Duo offers similar functionality but doesn’t feel as durable, especially with its lighter materials. On the other hand, the Pit Boss Memphis Ultimate includes a smoker box, but its temperature control isn’t as intuitive.

Where this product shines is in its smoking capabilities and precise control. The dampers, smokestack, and charcoal basket all work together seamlessly, making it ideal for anyone serious about smoking meats. If I had to nitpick, the competitors might edge out in portability, but they don’t quite match the overall versatility and durability of this model.

Smart Spending

This grill isn’t cheap, but it’s a solid investment for what you’re getting. The combination of charcoal flavor and gas convenience makes it feel like two products in one. While other options might cost less upfront, they often compromise on features or durability. I’d say this grill offers a fantastic price-to-quality ratio for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking. It’s not just about the price; it’s about getting a tool that can handle everything from weeknight burgers to an all-day smoking session for a backyard barbecue.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a grill—it’s an outdoor cooking station that caters to both the impatient griller and the meticulous pitmaster. I genuinely enjoyed testing it out and was impressed by its performance. The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & Grill has its quirks, but the combination of quality, functionality, and thoughtful design makes it a winner in my book. Whether you’re hosting a party or just cooking for the family, this grill has you covered.

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