separate container for pre-burning wood and charcoal

[bbqbrisket]

I tried loading up my offset with oak and charcoal but it seems too much for it and for the first 2 hours in order to keep temp low I have to choke it off at both ends.

So I am considering reducing the quantity of fuel and then adding more later on in the smoking.

Any ideas as to what kind of container I can use to pre-burn it in\?

Thanks

 

[crazymoon]

Cast iron fry pan ???

 

[dirtsailor2003]

Old wood stove. 55 gallon drum, fire pit, fireplace, charcoal grill.