I've used this gem for years. My apartments, on the whole, mandated the simplicity and efficiency offered up by the Smokey Joe.

A great feature is the rounded top. This enables better smoking, as air and smoke circulates more fluidly.

The downsides:
The legs aren't as sturdy as they could be. Given time, a bit of bumping around and general abuse, and the screwed on legs might turn askew. If you notice this while the grill is hot, you've a problem. The solution is to keep them tight during non-use.

The air intake at the bottom gets clogged with ashes. A key to good charcoal grilling is the manipulation of air flow. The intake might be open, but stopped up. If you are diligent to clean the ahes, you'll be OK.

Because the grill is so close to the ground, you need to be careful. Unlike most of Weber's grill, this one os also apt to getting kicked over, run into by dogs, cars and children.

I fully recommend Weber's Smokey Joe. Now, I'm hungry. Time to stir the coals and pop on a few brats.

Anthony Trendl

I bought this right before tailgating, showed up to the game, put it together and cooked steaks and chicken. I had no problems figuring out how to put it together - its one of those products that just makes sense when you look at it. The grillheated up quickly, and cooked thoroughly.

The best part of this for tailgating is the charcoal remains are small enough that they can be dumped directly in a used paint can (which can be left outside the car during the game to cool). The grill cooled down very quickly after the coals were removed, so I could easily pack up and get to the game.

This grill also appears very sturdy and is appears to me to be worth the price. I was thrilled with it.