I'm about to pull the trigger on one of these gravity fed charcoal grill/smokers. Does anyone have any experience with one? How do they do on brisket and other smoked delicacies?

I have an 850. For me, it is hands down my favorite grill. If you've been using a pellet smoker, you'll notice a significant improvement in smoke flavor. If you've been using a stick burner….well, you're trading convenience for some wood flavor.

I've cooked several briskets on it. Some of my best briskets I've ever cooked came off this grill.

I'd say it's safe to put a few wood chunks mixed with charcoal, but I have not had luck with 100% wood. I've also not had luck with lump charcoal. Just stick to briquettes.

I live in a constant 20mph wind area. It has no trouble maintaining temp. I also love that I can crank it to 600F for ribeyes I did make the mistake of using the griddle at that temp. It warped the hell out of it. For the short amount of time I had a useable griddle, it was a joy to use.

Make sure you use the Masterbuilt fire starters. The tumble weed things are trash for it.

Thanks, just the kind of feedback I was looking for.


If I'm in the middle of a cook and it starts raining will it mess it up? I'm going to have to use this one uncovered. I'll keep it covered when not in use.

I have the Char-Griller 980 gravity version...have only had it for a couple of months, so haven't yet put it through it's full paces, but so far I'm really enjoying it.

Rain shouldn't be an issue. The firebox is pretty well sealed from the elements. At most, it will cause you to burn your coal faster.

I've got the 560 and love it. Just did a turkey for Thanksgiving and everyone enjoyed it. Once you do a few cooks and figure it out, it's an amazing grill/smoker