Step 1
Measure the available area for the grill-smoker combination (length, width and depth) and bring these measurements grill shopping to compare against product specs. It saves aggravation if you select a smoker grill based on these dimensions, rather than buying the product and assembling it only to learn it's too big or small. In figuring measurements, leave enough room so all surfaces of the smoker grill are at least four feet from any outside wall, vinyl siding or other combustible material.
Step 2
Consider the utility of the grill-smoker combinations available. Horizontal barrel grills with offset fireboxes offer the most surface area for preparing large quantities of meat at a time, and the fireboxes keep good indirect separation of the heat source and meat for long, sustained cooking. Upright, bullet-shaped smokers offer more portability but smaller surface areas for cooking. Upright smokers often contain water pans, which users must replenish during the several hours of cooking time most meats require when smoking with the devices.
Step 3
Check the amount of ventilation each product exhibits. A grill-smoker with adjustable chimneys, smokestacks and side or lower vents provides more means of controlling grilling and smoking temperatures than units with only one vent. Choose a unit that offers the greatest amount of temperature control.
Step 4
Consider the material comprising the grill-smoker combinations. Choose a unit already painted or treated for resisting rust and withstanding weather elements, such as enamel-coated steel or grills painted with heat-resistant finishes.
Step 5
Decide whether convenience or flavor are more important. Gas and electric smokers and grills ignite quicker and are less messy than charcoal units, which require cultivating of hot coals and produce more ash and char. But charcoal imparts a more traditional flavor of hardwood smoke and creates a better medium for placement of smoking wood chips.
