Charcoal to fuel a Lang Smoker?

[TheMidnightSmoker]

In reading the Q&A section of the Lang website I see where it is possible to burn charcoal in a Lang smoker rather than wood. I also saw a video where a Lang owner said he uses charcoal and wood in his smoker. Do any of you Lang owners use charcoal rather than or along with wood to fuel your Lang smoker?

 

[El Lobo]

Is it because of the (large) size of the firebox that there is a preference for wood (splits)? If so i guess this question would apply to any larger offset owners. I use both in my smoker and my firebox is 24" wide.

 

[stephan]

I have an off set with a 20x20 firebox and use both with no problems

 

[Big Ron]

What is the concern with using only one or the other? Do you have trouble finding wood in your area?

 

[Lake Dogs]

My Lang has the 24x24 firebox. I've done 100% hardwood, and 100% charcoal. They
all work fine. I now mix the two, starting off with a bed of charcoal and charcoal lit
from a chimney, then throw a few warmed split pieces on the top. I'll use about a
chimney full of charcoal an hour+- and a split log or two depending on size.

 

[TheMidnightSmoker]

What is the concern with using only one or the other? Do you have trouble finding wood in your area?

I have no experience with burning only wood. I have only used charcoal with wood chunks so I have never even purchased a cord or even a half-cord of wood. Not sure where I would get it or store it here in my little residential home. So from what I am reading it sounds like a lot of larger offset owners use a combination of charcoal and wood. Do you guys start with charcoal and then add wood throughout the cook? I am trying to determine what kind of smoker I want to purchase this year so your help and knowledge is greatly appreciated.

 

[Schraufy]

My pit has a 24x24 firebox. I start out with a lit chimney of lump and place another unlit chimney of lump in basket with splits. Then just add splits as needed. Occasionally i will add more lump if coals get down to much. That works for me. I think thats pretty standard with a stick burner.

 

[jaxbbq]

I have a Lang 84 delux that i use both wood and charcoal in. I use charcoal when i want high heat and don't want to feed my cooker every 30 mins or so.