Greenhorn wants to use a 55 gallon drum for the firebox

[jgwellwood]

I'm on the path of using a 55 gallon drum as the firebox for my smokehouse in the traditional side configuration with a short distance (30"?) between the firebox and the smokehouse.

Any additional thoughts to this approach? Thinking the smokehouse will be a block base with wood framed structure atop the block base. Dimensions of the smokehouse structure to be based on using two traditional sheet pans (26"x18") for the width/depth of the freeboard dimension inside plus 1/2" for additional clearance. My thoughts are to use a standard sheet pan as the drip pan and all trays will mimic this size.

Rough sketch provided for viewing/commenting.

Thanks in advance

 

[fivetricks]

Take it from me, fill those block with sand. That's my contribution to this build plan.

 

[daveomak]

Sounds good.... Think about trying to find or have made a 10-12" duct for getting heat and smoke to the smokehouse... Bigger is better.... Less friction...