Question about bricks

[xxhillbillyxx]

On the smoker that I am building I am wanting to line the firebox with bricks. Now I know that firebricks are probably the obvious choice, however I cannot seem to find them for less than $2-$3 a piece. At that price it will REALLY add up to line a 55 gallon barrel. So here is my question, Are there any less expensive alternatives than firebricks to line the drum with?

 

[SmokinAl]

This must be one heck of a big smoker if the firebox is a 55 gallon drum!

Al

 

[xxhillbillyxx]

Doing a big baby double barrel build, but with two upper barrels instead of one

 

[kam59]

Buy some fireplace mortar and line the bottom with a layer of it. Suspend some chicken wire for reinforcement.

 

[daveomak]

Castable refractory would be a good choice also...  You can make your own firebricks using this or something similar...  You can repair bricks or make a fire brick layer with it....

 

[xxhillbillyxx]

 
Buy some fireplace mortar and line the bottom with a layer of it. Suspend some chicken wire for reinforcement.

 
Castable refractory would be a good choice also...  You can make your own firebricks using this or something similar...  You can repair bricks or make a fire brick layer with it....

Thanks for the awesome suggestions!!

 

[jokensmoken]

You can cast your own using Portland cement and silica sand (the white stuff) and bake them out.
I've lined two fireplaces and a BBQ pit over the years...
It's a little labor intensive but far cheaper than the alternative.