so my camp chef pellet grill crapped out on me over the summer and I'm in the market to replace it. However, after getting a blackstone flat top several years back the pellet grill hardly ever got used besides the occasional rack of ribs, sausage ,pork butt, etc.

What I've come to realize though is that I miss the taste of smoke. Especially hamburgers, steak, etc over charcoal. But also smoked chicken, and other dishes smoked.

Curious what yall recommend for me. I'm thinking a weber kettle, or possibly a barrel pit type of smoker would work best since I could use wood or charcoal..... Budget would also like to stay under $400 if possible.

I also saw a chargrill version that seemed like it was half kettle, half ceramiac smoker. That seemed interesting also.

This was a week or so ago: https://texags.com/forums/34/topics/3617687

I've always been partial to Webber and charcoal, mostly because that's what I grew up on and haven't bought a pellet grill yet.

My roommate a while ago had two recteq's and those things we money.

ETA: was going to ask about budget but just saw you notes.

Might be good to go with a barrel smoker or a tower

I'd suggest keeping a lookout on Facebook market place, you can always find good deals there.

Check out Hasty Bake charcoal grills/ovens. Made here in Tulsa. Can do it all. New they are above your budget but you can find them in good used condition for around what you're looking to pay.

Akorn grill/smoker has been my go-to for 10+ years. They are up $100 over the last couple of years, likely no good reason, but still a solid performer.

I agree with Ogre. I've had a Weber Smoky Mountain for many years and it is the bomb. I use charcoal for heat, then supplement with red oaks chips for smoke. Also, the water reservoir means you'll be able to smoke low and slow. I also think it's within your budget. Good luck!

A Weber kettle with a Slow 'N Sear insert is a great and cheap setup. You can get everything from jet engine blast to slow smoking, and everything in between. The insert will get me about 8 hours of smoking before I have to refill it.