Done with projects for other folks for a while. Time to build something for me. Got a rack, which will be the primary object I'll be building my smoker around.



Dimensions right now will be roughly 4'x4'x5' tall. Insulated, with code power to it for light and heat, and whatever else I need.

I have a standard smoker base to provide the regular heat and smoke with, but I think I'll also add either a Bradley smoker generator or some sort of auger set up for pellets for prolonged smoke/heat generaton. I like the idea of having both as options.

I need airflow, so I'll take care of that, plus light inside as well as outside. Want to set up a thermostat type of heat regulator so I can both hot and cold smoke.

I have the framed door, wood, insulation, pier blocks for the base, and the cedar shingles for siding. I'll use expanded metal for the individual sheets for laying fish and whatever else on. I'll also set it up so I can hang hams or other meats inside.

What else am I missing, or should I consider?

Dogfish,

I have a Bradley that I no longer use. You probably could
rig the guts to the one you are gonna build.

fp

That's a large space to control heat/smoke, which is fine if you can fill it up. You might consider a divider in place of a rack space. That way you could vary the amount of space needed?

Does anyone do Dry smoke process any more? When I was a kid the
smoke house looked like a two seater. We smoked hams and bacon
and such. Didn't cook it, just smoked it.

Illyrian,

That's what the cold smoke process is. Smoke only for brined meats. Smoke chamber is set away from the housing so it does heat things up a lot.

Yes, I will have plenty of ventilation, but thanks for the reminder. Going to have to play with that, so I'll probably set it up for over-ventilation at first, with the ability to block it off as needed. I think the sheet pans for baking will work as liners between rack to catch drippings. I have 4 of those to start with.

I'll be picking up some wood this week, start on the foundation, and dig a trench for electrical.

Fred, I'll give you a call on the Bradley.