The Broil King Smoke Charcoal XL Smoker (948050) is the most versatile offset smoker on the market that gives you incredible cooking precision. The Broil King 948050 Smoke Charcoal XL Smoker charcoal grill is constructed of 2mm, 14-gauge steel with a black high-heat paint finish and offers 625 sq. inches of overall cooking surface, suitable for any size cookout. The thick steel cooking chamber has heavy-duty cast iron cooking grids, perfect for achieving those steakhouse quality sear marks. Cleaning up is a breeze with the removable stainless steel drip tray and a removable ash collector. The grill is supported by four steel legs with two leg levelers and two large, crack-proof wheels. A durable steel bottom shelf provides storage space for pellets and grilling tools.
The grates are heavy duty cast iron.
The charcoal trays and ash tray are stainless steel.
The lid is heavy and sturdy with double wall insulation and a gasket.
The wheels are substantial and do not feel cheap.
I did notice some differences between the grill I received and some of the pictures I've seen online. I believe Broil King has recently updated the design.
The stainless steel coal and ash trays no longer have handles.
The lid has been upgraded with a piece of stainless steel for insulation and a gasket around the edge.
The dual side doors to access the fire have been reduced to only one door on the right side, but the door has been upgraded with a gasket all the way around the edge.
The lid handle is now longer, spanning almost the entire length of the lid and now has a cushion grip.
Minor problems/concerns:
1. One of the included screws was damaged and unusable. Luckily they are common 1/4-20 so I was able to find a replacement.
2. The wheels come with plastic covers. I could not get the covers on. They are just for looks though so who cares.
3. The side door for accessing the coals does not not open/close smoothly. The nut needs to be very loose in order for the handle to operate freely.
4. The lid handle covers a good portion of the shelf when the lid is down in the closed position.
When i first received the grill I was disappointed to find that it was not made in USA or Canada. After I got past that, I assembled the grill and was pleasantly surprised with the quality. I think it's definitely a worthwhile purchase at this price point.
- stanleyk