Smokey Joe vs Go-Anywhere

[austin87]

Hey all, I'm looking to pick up a portable grill and I'm not really sure the main differences between a Smokey Joe and Go-Anywhere (besides the shape of course). Does one have any advantages over the other? Does anyone have a personal preference for one of them? The only thing I can think of is that it may be easier to do something indirect on the Go-Anywhere given the shape.

Also - I'm assuming if I go Smokey Joe I want the one with both a top and bottom vent instead of the one with just a top vent - right?

[MINIgrillin]

I would imagine you would want a gold for the lid holder. It clamps down on the lid for transport

[Bob BQ]

My personal preference for grilling on a small portable is the GA. It's quite versatile... as you mentioned, it is easier to cook indirect. The only thing I use my Smokey Joes for is when they are in mini WSM mode.

There is also the Jumbo Joe to consider.......

[MrHoss]

Listen to Bob....consider a Jumbo Joe. I love mine.

[Rsmims]

I second the Jumbo Joe. You''ll really appreciate the additional grill space. (Smokeys are 14.5 and Jumbos are 18.5) The lid clamp makes it fully portable and indirect cooking works much better on a Jumbo. I use my Jumbo more than my OTG.

[Jammato]

I use my SJ all the time. It is not just for travel. The thing is great for smaller cooks. Cooks as good as a full size kettle.

[hogsfan]

I've owned 5 different portable models and the JJ is my favorite. And hands down the best for indirect unless you want to build a mini WSM.

[Spinarri]

I have the SJ14 and the WGA. The WGA is my favorite.

I am going to make a cast iron grill for it when I have time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4Y4T_uVT1A

or they can be purchased.
http://www.cast-iron-grate.com/go-anywhere-grate.html

[Jammato]

@Spinarri those are great links thanks

[Spinarri]

@Jammato

NP, I love these mods.  One of my favorites is the 12" stacker from the forum.
Oven for fresh bread and smoker for smoking/preserving the fish while camping.

http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2014/03/12/weber-go-anywhere-conversion/

[mrbill]

can't go wrong with either one really. but, if you can't have both, I'd suggest the ga. imo, when the legs are folded up for transport, it's a bit more compact than a sj. it's shape, like was said is a bit easier for indirect cooking and with it's two top and two side vents, offers more precise temp control.

[austin87]

At 18.5" on the Jumbo Joe, is it just a shorter and more compact version of a normal 18.5" OTS?