Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Grill and Smoker Review Unveiling Ultimate BBQ Versatility

Description

Performance and Cooking Versatility

Testing the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Grill & Smoker has been quite an experience. The combination of a charcoal smoker and a 3-burner gas grill offers impressive flexibility. I love that the 36,000 BTU gas grill heats up quickly and maintains consistent high temperatures, making it perfect for searing steaks or cooking burgers in a rush. On the smoker side, the horizontal cooking chamber fueled by charcoal and hardwood splits allows for authentic low-and-slow smoking. The adjustable dampers on both the firebox and smokestack provide excellent control over heat and smoke flow, which is crucial for achieving that perfect smoky flavor. The smoker cooks large cuts like pork shoulders effortlessly, and the firebox grate can handle smaller items like wings or burgers without crowding. The upper rack is a nice bonus for indirect cooking or just keeping food warm while you finish grilling.

Robust Build and Practical Design Features

This grill and smoker combo weighs a solid 203 pounds, which gives it a sturdy feel but still allows for some mobility thanks to the two large rubber-treaded wagon-style wheels. Moving it around my backyard was surprisingly smooth, even on uneven ground. The black stainless steel body and painted steel interior look durable and almost industrial, which suits my style. Pivoting cool-touch handles on both the lid and firebox made opening and closing the chambers safe and comfortable, even when the grill was hot. I appreciated the easy-access removable ash pan that made cleaning out ashes hassle-free—a feature I didn’t realize I’d miss until I experienced it. The robust staging shelf and tool hooks gave me plenty of space for utensils and wood splits, which kept my workstation tidy.

Fuel Monitoring and Convenience

A standout feature I found genuinely useful is the integrated propane fuel gauge. It’s a small thing that saved me from the frustration of running out of gas mid-cook. Being able to see how much propane is left on the 20-pound tank means I could plan ahead for replacements without unexpected interruptions. This thoughtful addition shows the manufacturer understands the real-life challenges of grilling and smoking. Also, the combo’s ability to run on either liquefied petroleum gas or charcoal means I’m not locked into one fuel type, which adds to its versatility for different cooking moods or situations.

Positive Features

• Extensive cooking area with 750 square inches on the primary grate, 424 square inches on the upper rack, and 281 square inches on the firebox grate.
• Adjustable dampers and smokestack provide precise temperature and smoke control.
• Convenient tool hooks and staging shelf help keep everything organized.
• Easy mobility thanks to rubber-treaded wheels.
• Fuel gauge prevents unexpected propane depletion.

Areas for Improvement

• The weight, while adding stability, can make it challenging for those without some muscle or multiple people to move the unit frequently.
• The painted steel interior, although functional, might require more maintenance over time compared to stainless steel.
• No propane tank included, which means an additional purchase is necessary before firing up the gas grill.
• The smoker box, while effective, might feel small for those wanting to smoke multiple large cuts simultaneously.

Alternative Offerings

Comparing this combo grill and smoker to other popular options like the Weber SmokeFire EX4 and Traeger Pro Series 575, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo shines with its dual fuel capability. Unlike the Traeger, which relies solely on pellets, this unit offers both charcoal and propane, catering to both traditional pitmasters and those who want quick gas grilling. The Weber SmokeFire offers excellent temperature control but lacks the gas grilling option, which might be a downside for people like me who want to switch between smoking and searing quickly. However, the Oklahoma Joe’s unit falls behind in portability compared to the lighter Weber models, and the Traeger’s digital controls are more advanced, making temperature management more straightforward for beginners. Overall, the Canyon Combo balances between traditional and modern grilling but trades off some convenience features found in competitors.

Value for Money

Considering the price performance of this grill and smoker combo, it offers a unique blend of features that justify the investment. The combination of a horizontal charcoal smoker with a powerful gas grill isn’t something you see often at this price point. For those who want authentic smoke flavor but also crave the convenience of gas grilling, this unit hits a sweet spot. The durability and thoughtful design elements like the fuel gauge, ash pan, and tool hooks add to its overall worth. However, those strictly seeking lightweight portability or digital precision controls might find other models more appealing, even if it means spending a bit more. For backyard chefs who value versatility and ruggedness, this product provides solid value without breaking the bank.

User Experience and Daily Use

My friends and family, including my kids, have enjoyed the food coming off this grill and smoker. The reverse-sear method has been a hit, letting us smoke ribs low and slow, then finish them with a quick sear for that perfect crust. My kids were particularly impressed with the juicy burgers cooked on the gas side, which are quick to prepare when hunger strikes unexpectedly. The smoke flavor from the charcoal side adds an authentic touch that’s hard to replicate with gas-only grills. On a practical note, the pivoting cool-touch handles gave me peace of mind during busy cooking sessions, preventing any accidental burns. Setting up the fire and controlling the temperature took a bit of learning, but once dialed in, the results were consistently excellent.

Design and Build Quality

The heavy-duty black steel construction feels built to last, although it does mean the unit is less portable than some lighter alternatives. The painted steel interior, while solid, may need occasional touch-ups to keep looking fresh. I noticed that the sturdy wheels and bottom shelf provide excellent support and easy movement, even when fully loaded with wood and food. The tool hooks are a thoughtful touch, keeping grilling tools within easy reach and off the crowded shelves. Overall, the design strikes a balance between ruggedness and practicality, though it leans more toward the traditional pitmaster style than sleek modern aesthetics.

Testing this product has proven that it’s a robust and versatile option for anyone serious about smoking and grilling. The blend of features like adjustable dampers, a removable ash pan, and a propane fuel gauge elevate the experience beyond a basic combo grill. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of high-end digital models, it delivers on performance and value, especially for those who appreciate the art of low-and-slow smoking paired with quick gas grilling convenience.

Additional information