Looking to build a vertical offset smoker. How do I determine size?

[rob sicc]

HI everyone,

I have a vertical smoker. Please check out my picture to see it.
I have a good friend who is willing to help me build a new smoker, using the Same design but proportionally bigger.

Can anyone tell me a good source that will explain to me how to calculate the size of the fire box once I figure out how big the smoker section will be?

As usual, all help and suggestions are always greatly appreciated.

 

[daveomak]

IMO.... vertical smokers take less BTU's to maintain temp... harder to control if using splits vs. charcoal... they have less surface area for heat to dissipate...

So, all being considered, a smaller fire is needed, less air flow..... they are more of a conventional wood style smokehouse in miniature...
Unless you plan on using it like your kitchen oven.. higher temps...

 

[rob sicc]

Hi Dave,

Thanks for the remarks.  In your opinion then would you recommend a horizontal smoker?  I need something bigger.  I also need to be able to control the heat better than I have been able to in my current smoker.

I would consider purchasing something though the idea of building one sounds much more fun.

Can you recommend anyplace to get blue prints? 

I know nothing about building a smoker.  My buddy can weld anything so if I get blue prints we should be good.  I just don't know where to get other times like grates

Any other thoughts?

 

[daveomak]

Look through all the smoker builds and find something you like..... there must be 500 builds on here...

 

[rob sicc]

Thanks Dave.  Makes sense.