Equipment

Offset Smoker

A traditional 'stick burner' with a separate firebox that produces the deepest, most authentic BBQ smoke flavor.

Offset smokers have a horizontal cooking chamber with a smaller firebox attached to one side. You burn split logs (sticks) in the firebox, and the smoke and heat draw across the cooking chamber and out a chimney. They require constant attention — feeding the fire every 30-45 minutes — but produce the deepest, cleanest smoke flavor of any cooker. The standard for Texas BBQ joints.

Why it matters

If you're chasing competition-grade brisket, this is the endgame.

Related Terms

Pellet Grill

A wood-pellet-fueled grill with a thermostat that auto-feeds pellets to maintain temperature like an oven.

Stick Burner

Slang for an offset smoker that burns split logs (sticks) instead of charcoal or pellets.

Used In These Articles

See Offset Smoker in real-world context across our reviews, guides, and recipes.