You want a charcoal grill that works well and is not expensive. The 22 old smokey charcoal grill is a good choice for people who cook outside a lot. It gives you a big space to cook food. It uses aluminized steel, so it lasts a long time. You can put it together without much trouble. People who use it like that it heats food evenly. The hinged grate lets you add charcoal fast. The finish does not rust easily. If you want a grill that is easy to move and clean, look at this one. Think about how you like to grill and how much you want to spend as you read this review.
Key Takeaways
The Old Smokey 22-Inch Charcoal Grill has a big cooking space. It cooks food evenly, so it is good for family meals. It is also great for cooking outside.
Its aluminized steel body does not rust easily. It can last for many years. This grill is strong and works well. It does not cost a lot of money.
The grill is light and simple to move. You can take it camping or to a tailgate. It is also good for your backyard. You can put it together fast. You do not need special tools.
You can change the dampers to control the heat. This helps you cook in different ways. You can sear, smoke, or cook food slowly.
The Old Smokey costs less than the Weber Kettle. It gives you good value. It has fewer parts to take care of. It is great for people who want quality but do not want to spend extra money.
22 Old Smokey Charcoal Grill Overview
Features
You want a grill that gives you plenty of space to cook for family and friends. The 22 old smokey charcoal grill offers a 21-inch diameter and a generous 333 square inches of cooking area. You can fit burgers, steaks, or even a whole chicken with room to spare. The tall lid lets you handle large cuts of meat or set up for indirect cooking. You get a charcoal grill that is easy to move, thanks to its lightweight design. You can take it camping, tailgating, or just move it around your backyard without hassle.
Tip: The hinged cooking grate makes it simple to add more charcoal while you grill. You do not need to lift the whole grate or stop cooking.
You will love how quickly you can assemble this grill. Most people put it together in less than 15 minutes. The old smokey charcoal grill comes with clear instructions and only a few parts. You do not need special tools or skills. You get a grill that is ready to use almost right out of the box.
The price is another big reason to choose this charcoal grill. You often find it for under $100. You get a large, sturdy grill without spending a lot. Many grills with similar features cost much more. You save money and still get great results.
Build and Materials
You want a grill that lasts. The 22 old smokey charcoal grill uses aluminized steel for its body and lid. This material stands out because it resists rust and does not chip or peel like painted or porcelain-coated grills. You do not have to worry about the finish burning off or flaking into your food. The grill stays looking good and working well for years.
A long-time user shared that their old smokey charcoal grill still cooks as well as when it was new. You can expect the same lasting performance if you take care of your grill. Cleaning out the cooled ashes after each use helps keep it in top shape.
You also get the pride of owning a grill made in the USA. The build quality shows in every detail. The simple design means fewer parts that can break. You get a charcoal grill that is both sturdy and easy to maintain.
Note: If you want a grill that is easy to move, simple to clean, and built to last, this one checks all the boxes.
The price makes it even better. You do not have to pay a premium for quality. You get a reliable charcoal grill that fits your budget and your lifestyle.
Performance Review
Grilling Results
You want your food to taste great every time you fire up your charcoal grill. The 22 Old Smokey delivers even heat across the cooking surface. You get juicy burgers, tender steaks, and perfect chicken. The tall lid gives you space for large cuts, so you can try brisket or a whole chicken. Many users say this grill gives them reliable results, even when they cook for a crowd. You can set up a two-zone fire for direct and indirect cooking. This method lets you sear on one side and finish on the other, locking in that smoky flavor.
Many grillers love the classic taste you get from charcoal. The Old Smokey brings out the best in your food, giving you that rich, smoky flavor every time.
Heat Control
You control the heat with ease on this charcoal grill. The adjustable top and bottom dampers let you manage airflow. Open them wide for high heat and searing. Close them down for low-and-slow cooking. The dual damper system responds quickly, so you can reach your target temperature in 10-15 minutes. You do not need to guess or struggle with flare-ups. The system is user-friendly and helps you keep steady heat for any recipe.
Top and bottom dampers adjust airflow for precise heat control.
Quick heat changes let you switch from searing to slow cooking.
The grill holds heat well, so you use less charcoal over time.
You get consistent performance every time you cook. Many users say they love how easy it is to manage the heat, even if they are new to charcoal grilling.
Smoking and Versatility
You want a charcoal grill that does more than just burgers. The Old Smokey gives you options. You can grill, smoke, or even bake. The design holds heat inside, making it perfect for low-and-slow cooking. You can add more charcoal during cooking without stopping. This feature helps you smoke ribs or brisket for hours. The grill reaches high temperatures for searing, but you can also keep it low for delicate foods.
Set up a two-zone fire for both direct grilling and indirect smoking.
Reload charcoal easily with the hinged grate.
Try different cooking methods, from searing steaks to baking bread.
You get a grill that fits your style and brings out the best flavor in every meal.
Old Smokey Charcoal Grill vs Weber Kettle
Design Comparison
When you look at the old smokey charcoal grill and the Weber Kettle, you see two classic shapes. The Old Smokey uses a drum shaped charcoal grill design. This shape gives you a deep bowl and a tall lid. You get more room for large cuts of meat or tall items. The Weber Kettle has a round, dome-shaped lid and a wide bowl. Both grills offer plenty of space, but the Weber 26-inch model gives you even more cooking area than the Old Smokey 22-inch. If you want to cook for a big group, the Weber’s extra space helps. The Old Smokey stays lighter and easier to move. You can take it camping or tailgating without trouble.
The Old Smokey’s simple design means fewer parts to break. You get a grill that is easy to assemble and maintain.
Cooking Experience
You want a charcoal grill that makes every meal taste great. Both grills deliver strong cooking performance, but each has its own feel. The Old Smokey heats up fast and holds heat well. You control the heat with top and bottom dampers. The tall lid lets you cook big items or use indirect heat for slow cooking. The Weber Kettle also gives you great heat control and supports both direct and indirect cooking. The 26-inch Weber offers more space, so you can grill more food at once or try new recipes with accessories like the Vortex or Slow ‘N Sear.
The Weber Kettle gives you more room for large parties.
The Old Smokey makes it easy to add charcoal during cooking.
Both grills let you sear, smoke, or bake with charcoal.
Many users say the Old Smokey gives them juicy, smoky food every time. The Weber Kettle wins points for flexibility and extra space. If you want the best value for family cookouts, both grills work well, but the Old Smokey keeps things simple and budget-friendly.
Durability
You want a charcoal grill that lasts for years. The Old Smokey charcoal grill uses aluminized steel, which resists rust and stands up to heat. Many users report their Old Smokey lasting 11 to 25 years or more. Some even use grills from the 1980s that still work well. You can expect the main parts to last decades if you clean and store your grill properly. The Weber Kettle also has a strong reputation for durability. Some Weber grills from the 1970s still cook food today. Both brands offer long warranties and easy-to-find replacement parts. You get peace of mind with either choice.
Take care of your grill, and it can last a lifetime.
Value
You want the best value for your money. The Old Smokey charcoal grill often costs less than $100. You get a large cooking area, sturdy build, and easy use without a high price. The Weber Kettle costs more, especially for the larger models, but you get more space and extra features. If you want a grill that fits your budget and still delivers strong performance, the Old Smokey stands out. You save money and still enjoy great food. The Weber Kettle gives you more options and space, but you pay a higher price for those extras.
Feature | Old Smokey Charcoal Grill | Weber Kettle |
|---|---|---|
Cooking Area | 333 sq in | |
Build Material | Aluminized Steel | Porcelain-Coated Steel |
Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
Price | Under $100 | $120-$350+ |
Lifespan | 11-25+ years | 20+ years |
Value | Best value for budget | More features, higher price |
If you want a charcoal grill that gives you the best value, the Old Smokey is hard to beat. You get reliable cooking, long life, and a price that fits almost any budget.
User Ratings and Review Highlights
Positive Feedback
You want a grill that makes outdoor cooking easy and fun. Many users share strong praise for the 22 Old Smokey Charcoal Grill in their review. You see people talk about how well it cooks steaks, burgers, and chicken. The grill heats up fast and gives your food a great smoky flavor.
You can move this grill anywhere. Its lightweight build makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or a quick backyard meal.
The simple design stands out. You get solid construction and plenty of airflow, which helps you control the heat.
Many users say the grill offers great value. You pay less but still get a reliable cooker that lasts for years.
The grate height works well for chicken and indirect cooking. You can try different recipes and get good results.
Some people use it as a second grill. It fits well next to a bigger setup or works alone for smaller meals.
“This grill is easy to carry and set up. I take it on every camping trip. It never lets me down.”
You get a grill that does what you need without extra fuss. The positive feedback shows you can trust this grill for your next cookout.
Common Complaints
You want to know the downsides before you buy. Some users mention a few things in their review that you should consider.
The grill does not have a built-in thermometer. You need to use your own to check the temperature.
The handles can get hot during long cooks. You may want to use gloves for safety.
The ash cleanup takes a little effort. There is no ash catcher, so you need to tip the grill or scoop out the ashes.
The legs feel less sturdy on uneven ground. You should set the grill on a flat surface for best results.
Note: Most complaints are small and do not affect the grill’s cooking performance. You can work around these issues with simple solutions.
You see that the Old Smokey 22-Inch Charcoal Grill gives you strong value and reliable results. The few drawbacks are easy to manage, making this grill a smart choice for budget-minded grillers.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
You want a grill that gives you more for your money. The Old Smokey 22-Inch Charcoal Grill stands out with several strong advantages:
Affordable Price: You save money. This grill costs less than most competitors, so you get more value for your dollar.
Large Cooking Area: You can cook for your whole family. The 333 square inches of space fit burgers, steaks, and even a whole chicken.
Lightweight and Portable: You move this grill with ease. Take it camping, tailgating, or just around your backyard.
Quick Assembly: You set up the grill in minutes. No special tools or skills needed.
Durable Build: The aluminized steel resists rust. You enjoy years of reliable grilling.
Easy Charcoal Access: The hinged grate lets you add charcoal fast. You keep cooking without hassle.
Made in the USA: You support American workers. The quality shows in every detail.
Tip: If you want a grill that is simple, sturdy, and budget-friendly, the Old Smokey delivers.
Drawbacks
You should know the downsides before you buy. Every grill has a few trade-offs. Here are the main drawbacks:
No Built-In Thermometer: You need to use your own thermometer to check the temperature.
Handles Get Hot: You may need gloves when cooking for a long time.
No Ash Catcher: You clean out ashes by tipping or scooping. This takes extra effort.
Legs Can Feel Wobbly: You get the best results on flat ground. Uneven surfaces make the grill less stable.
Basic Features: You do not get extras like tool hooks or storage shelves.
Note: These drawbacks do not stop you from enjoying great food. You can work around them with simple solutions.
You see the pros far outweigh the cons. If you want a reliable, budget-friendly grill, the Old Smokey 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is a smart choice.
Charcoal Grill #18 Medium and Other Alternatives
Size and Use Cases
You want a grill that matches your needs. The charcoal grill #18 medium gives you a cooking grate with an 18-inch diameter and about 254 square inches of space. This size works best for small families or groups of four to six people. You can fit about 12 burgers at once, so you never run out of room for your favorite recipes. The #18 medium model uses a basic design and aluminized steel, which means you get durability without extra weight.
If you often cook for a crowd, you should look at the 22-inch Jumbo model. It offers a much larger cooking area and side handles for easy transport. The Jumbo lets you handle big gatherings and more complex recipes. For couples or solo grillers, the small #14 model fits two to three people and works well for quick meals.
Feature | Charcoal Grill #18 Medium | Old Smokey #22 Jumbo |
|---|---|---|
Cooking Grate Diameter | 18 inches | 22 inches |
Cooking Surface Area | 254 sq in | Larger than 254 sq in |
Intended Cooking Volume | 4-6 people | Crowd |
Approximate Food Capacity | 12 burgers | More than 12 burgers |
Additional Features | Basic, durable | Larger, side handles |
Tip: Choose the grill size that fits your usual group. You save fuel and time when you match your grill to your needs.
When to Choose Each
You want to pick the right grill for your lifestyle. The charcoal grill #18 medium stands out if you cook for a small family or enjoy simple recipes. You get a balance of size, price, and easy use. The #18 medium is the best seller because it fits most backyards and does not waste charcoal.
Pick the 22-inch Jumbo if you host big parties or love trying new recipes that need more space. The extra room helps you cook large cuts or use two-zone setups for advanced grilling. If you want something portable for camping or tailgating, the #14 model is your best bet.
When you choose a grill, think about these factors:
Material quality: Aluminized steel lasts longer and resists rust.
Assembly: The #18 medium sets up fast, so you start cooking sooner.
Performance: Look for grills with good airflow and easy charcoal access.
Price: The #18 medium gives you great value without breaking your budget.
You deserve a grill that fits your space, your recipes, and your plans. Pick the model that matches your needs, and you will enjoy every cookout.
You want a grill that gives you great value and strong performance. The 22 old smokey charcoal grill stands out for its price, easy use, and lasting build. If you want a simple grill that cooks well and fits your budget, this is a smart pick. You should choose it over the Weber Kettle if you want to save money and still enjoy tasty food. Weigh the pros and cons, then make your choice with confidence.
FAQ
How do you clean the Old Smokey 22-Inch Charcoal Grill?
You can clean it by scooping out the ashes after each use. Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. For tough spots, use a grill brush. Keep your grill clean to make it last longer.
Can you use the Old Smokey for smoking meat?
Yes, you can smoke meat on this grill. The tall lid and adjustable dampers help you control the heat. Set up a two-zone fire and add wood chips for smoky flavor. You get great results every time.
Does the Old Smokey grill come with a warranty?
You get a warranty when you buy the Old Smokey grill. The company stands behind its products. If you have any issues, contact customer service for help. You can grill with confidence.
Is the Old Smokey grill easy to assemble?
You will find assembly quick and simple. Most people finish in under 15 minutes. The instructions are clear. You do not need special tools. You can start grilling right away.
What type of charcoal works best with the Old Smokey?
You can use lump charcoal or briquettes. Both work well. Lump charcoal heats up faster. Briquettes burn longer. Choose the type that fits your cooking style. You get tasty results either way.
See Also
Best Charcoal Rotisserie Grills To Try In 2023
Essential Tips For Proper Charcoal Grill Maintenance
Transforming Your Barbecue Grill Into A Pizza Oven