Charcoal smoking

[smokinsmoker23]

Hey everyone,
Been a while since I been on here. So anyway I'm not anywhere near a pro at smoking but I do pretty good with flavor and all. My question is is there something I can put in with charcoal like hot rocks or something to help keep heat up without using a bag n a half of charcoal just to keep temp where I want it?
I use the vent n all but I really haven't mastered it. How also to make my wood chunks last (smoke) a bit longer?
I uploaded a pic of my smoker if it helps.
Thanks everyone

 

[PerazziMx14]

Please delete

 

[smokinsmoker23]

My smoker is metal and it has pretty good thickness to it, not super thick. Need to research about hot rocks or something that will help with heat but I hear what ur saying about insulation.

 

[PerazziMx14]

Please delete

 

[chopsaw]

I didn't read thru the whole thread , but know there are good points given above about insulation , but looks like I saw a bag of Kingsford in a pic . Start by using better charcoal and see where that gets you . Try Royal Oak products . I bet it makes a difference .

 

[smokinsmoker23]

Very informative information. What kind of insulation do I need or recommend to look for that's not to expensive.

 

[gmc2003]

Very informative information. What kind of insulation do I need or recommend to look for that's not to expensive.

A welder's blanket.

Chris

 

[PerazziMx14]

Please delete

 

[smokinsmoker23]

Can I cover firebox as well considering it probably 4 times hotter then cooking chamber?

 

[pops6927]

Can you fit fire brick into your side box and line the bottom of the vertical chamber with it to hold more heat?