The Tool Shed
Reviews and how-to guides for the best tools in the game. If it can't stand the heat, it doesn't stay in my backyard.
How to Light a Cold Offset Smoker and Stabilize Clean Heat
Don't put meat on a cold, dirty pit. Build a coal bed, light small hot splits, and wait for thin blue smoke at 225°F–250°F (107°C–121°C).
How to Manage Ash and the Coal Bed Mid-Cook on an Offset Smoker
Prevent oxygen suffocation and dirty smoke. Master mid-cook ash management, firebox clearing, and maintaining a fiery coal bed on long cooks.
How to Light a Charcoal Chimney Without Lighter Fluid
Skip the petroleum fumes. Master clean, reliable chimney starts using newspaper, fire starters, or paper towels for a foul-free coal bed.
Managing an Overnight Fire on an Offset Smoker
An overnight offset cook requires a clear routine. Learn how to build a stable ember bed, use large splits to manage temperature, and sleep safely in short intervals.
How to Calibrate Your Smoker's Leave-In Temp Probes
An inaccurate temperature reading is the quickest way to ruin a cook. Here is how to test and calibrate your digital meat thermometer probes using ice water and boiling water.
Fixing Dirty Smoke on Your Offset Smoker
White billowing smoke on your stick burner? Big B walks through the usual causes, what to change at the firebox, and how to reset mid-cook without ruining the meat.
Mastering the Stick Burner: How to Use an Offset Smoker
The traditional offset smoker is the gold standard of BBQ, but it requires skill and patience to master. Learn how to manage your fire for perfect results.
The Central Coast Classic: How to Use a Santa Maria Grill
Master the art of high-heat open-pit cooking. Learn how to manage the wheel and the wood for the perfect Tri-Tip.
The Big Pellet Grill Showdown: 2026 Edition
We put the top pellet grills to the test. We're looking at temperature stability, smoke profile, and those new smart features.