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Grill Talk => WSM: Weber Smokey Mountain => Topic started by: FatBottomGrills on November 18, 2020, 04:35:36 PM

Title: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: FatBottomGrills on November 18, 2020, 04:35:36 PM
I'm planning on buying a WSM soon and was wondering what current owners think of the 18in when it comes to smoking larger cuts. I smoke ribs, pork butt and brisket frequently and I've heard polarizing remarks about the 18in capacity. I only ask because there is an 18in for sale near me for $50. I know  my query has an obvious answer but I couldn't resist lol. How well does a large rack of St. Louis' fit when flat on the grate, for instance? As always, thanks for the advice and patience with a question most have figured out!
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: michaelmilitello on November 18, 2020, 04:55:24 PM
For $50, just buy it.  It'll fit up to 12-14 pound packer briskets with some creativity.  Laying large slabs of ribs flat can be a challenge but Gateway rib hanger is cheap and very fun.   The 18 is very fuel efficient and takes up little space.  Love mine.  I'd use it more if not for my kettle affliction. 


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Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: Red_5_Wrangler on November 18, 2020, 06:05:50 PM
I agree with M&M, $50 is a great deal and if nothing else you can get addicted to smoking  with it and either get the hanger or trade up. You can definitely get your money back towards a larger one if thats your choice.

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Title: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: AZ2FL on November 18, 2020, 06:09:36 PM
Just buy it!

I agree with @michaelmilitello

Two racks of ribs on a 18" WSM
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: Kneab on November 18, 2020, 06:30:59 PM
It should be in your trunk by now

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Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: FatBottomGrills on November 18, 2020, 07:11:04 PM
Haha, alright. You got through to me. I'll pick it up tomorrow. That picture of the side by side racks is perhaps all I needed to see. Thanks guys!

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Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: DaveG74 on November 19, 2020, 09:32:58 PM
Did you get it?
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: Easy on July 17, 2021, 12:30:18 PM
I love the size of the 18 very versatile smoker. Only thing better than cooking on it is eating what you do cook.

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Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: BoomCannonFJB on March 02, 2023, 12:23:18 PM
The 18" is sufficient for 99% of cooks.  It's difficult to fit a ton of racks of ribs in there or a full packer...but for small to medium cooks, it's excellent.
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: 1spacemanspiff on March 13, 2023, 09:31:09 AM
I agree with all the answers here (especially the idea of hanging the ribs).  If a 22" comes up for a deal in your area, grab it and do a cook on it to decide which to keep.
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: bamakettles on March 13, 2023, 11:58:14 AM
Quote from: 1spacemanspiff on March 13, 2023, 09:31:09 AM
I agree with all the answers here (especially the idea of hanging the ribs).  If a 22" comes up for a deal in your area, grab it and do a cook on it to decide which to keep.
Probably the reason mine will stay around.....
Title: Re: Is the 18in WSM large enough
Post by: Kloeshuman on May 01, 2023, 11:29:19 AM
I'm going to jump in here only because I'm upgrading my 14" WSM to the 18"....14 I could only fit a rack if I cut it in half....have any opportunity to get a 18 for just over $100....I think I'm taking it

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