Weber smokey mountain 14 review

Main Features of Weber Smokey Mountain 14

The WSM 14 is the smallest among the smokers with similar features. Except for the size, everything is relatively the same. 

• It’s constructed with high-quality material and therefore is durable
• It has a built-in lid thermometer 
• It comes with two excellent quality steel charcoal grates
• A fuel door on the side makes it quite convenient to open and shut
• The glass-reinforced nylon handle allows you to do your tasks with ease
• Easy to set up with the help of attached user-guide
• Rust-resistant dampers and legs
• It also has a porcelain-enameled water pan
• It can cook two dishes or two pieces of meat simultaneously, one at the top and one at the bottom.
• It has four air vents, one on top and three on the bottom.

Now that we have an idea regarding the features, we will see if the WSM 14 performs and its bigger siblings. In this section, we will know:

• Is the Weber Smokey Mountain worth it?
• Can you use a Weber Smokey Mountain as a grill?
• How to maintain the temperature?
• Do you have to season a Weber Smokey Mountain?
• Can I burn wood in my Weber grill?
• Can you use lump charcoal?
• Weber Smokey Mountain vs. Kettle

Is the Weber Smokey Mountain worth it?

The WSM 14 is a famous smoker for many backyard chefs. Ever since it arrived on the market, many cooking enthusiasts have made it a part of their barbeque equipment. It is indeed a tiny smoker but is quite suitable for a small number of people.

Besides, it can cook delicious meat dishes. The construction with excellent materials makes it rust-resistant and can last several years. It is ideal for use in different places. You can take it during camping, picnic, and other outdoor activities. 

Due to its size, it can fit in even tiny areas and take a little space. It is also fuel-efficient, unlike the bigger models. Hence, Weber Smokey Mountain is worth it. 

Can you use a Weber Smokey Mountain as a grill?

Even though the equipment is originally a smoker, you can configure it to a grill whenever you want to grill meat. All you have to do is follow some steps and watch a video that provides efficient and straightforward instructions. 

• You can make the grill on the bottom or top according to your convenience.
• If you want to use the bottom part, simply remove the middle portion. If you do not like bending too much, though, make the grill on the upper part. 
• You just have to put the charcoal holder below the area where you will be placing the grate. 
• Open all the vents.
• Heat the charcoal and let the temperature rise to your preference. You can start grilling once you finish prepping your meat or any food which you want for grilling.

How to maintain the temperature?

Often, first-time WSM users spoil their lovely piece of meat simply because they overshoot the temperature. Several factors affect the temperature of a WSM. Hence, you should follow the proper instructions for the best results. Among others, air vents play a very vital role in maintaining the temperature. 

Experts suggest that you should keep the top vent open at all times since it also serves as an exhaust. You have to keep the three lower vents open till the temperature reaches 225-250 or 250- 260 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it arrives at the target temperature, you can start adjusting the bottom vents. But you should not make quick adjustments because it takes about 10-15 minutes for the temperature to change after adjusting the vents.

Read Also: Where do you probe brisket?

Do you have to season a Weber Smokey Mountain?

You may hear some people saying you need not season your new WSM. But you should season your Weber Smokey Mountain by following some simple instructions. It is easy to season a smoker, and once done, it will be clear of any chemical, and unwanted residue, including oil. Seasoning the smoker also makes it more durable. The simple steps for seasoning your WSM are: 

• Cleaning
• Coating with oil
• Heating

Can I burn wood in my Weber grill?

You can burn wood in your Weber grill. First of all, light a full chimney of charcoals and place them in the fire/charcoal bowl. Next, you can add some wooden sticks. Remove the door while placing the weber smoker on top. 

Next, place the grate in its place. You can open the bottom vents and place the meat on the bottom grate—Grill the meat for 15 minutes on each side. Next, place the top grate and place the meat there. From here on, you can grill the meat according to your preference. Some people like rare, others like medium-rare or medium or well-done. Hence, you can grill it longer if that is what you prefer.

Can you use lump charcoal?

You can use lump charcoal. However, use briquettes to begin the fire. Lump burns at higher temperatures than briquettes. Hence, add only a few of the lit charcoal. If you are not comfortable using lump charcoal, though, stick to briquettes.  

Weber Smokey Mountain vs. Kettle

The WSM 14 and Weber Kettle are both popular barbeque equipment. Some prefer the former while others prefer the latter. When it is Weber Smokey Mountain (14 inches) vs. Kettle (22-inch Weber original premium charcoal), the WSM has a slight edge due to few aspects.

• Though you can convert the Weber kettle into a smoker, the Weber Smokey Mountain is more efficient and long-lasting.
• The WSM also has the better feature to maintain the temperature. With the Kettle, you have to adjust the airflow regularly. But with the WSM, it can cook fine for hours without you needing to examine it again and again.
• You can also use the cold smoking method with the WSM, which is otherwise not convenient with the Kettle.
• One better aspect about the Kettle is, it is slightly bigger than the WSM, which we are talking about here. 
• Both are portable, and so you can carry them anywhere.
• Overall, the Weber Smokey Mountain is better because it can produce delicious and excellent quality smoked meat, and it is definitely worth the money.

Conclusion

Though small in size, the Weber Smokey Mountain 14 is an efficient and convenient barbeque equipment piece. You can learn to use it with ease quickly. Besides, it is affordable and worth its price. You can become an expert backyard chef in days to come and have great fun smoking, grilling, and cooking delicious meat dishes.

Weber Smokey Mountain 14