Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker Review

How the Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker Performed Under Pressure

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker promises a gateway to delicious, smoke-infused meals, bringing the art of smoking from professional kitchens to your backyard. This propane-fueled smoker aims to deliver consistent temperatures and ease of use, catering to both seasoned pitmasters and novices alike. Having spent countless hours tending charcoal smokers, I was eager to see if this vault could truly simplify the smoking process without sacrificing flavor.

My journey to the Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker began with a quest for consistency. I was tired of the unpredictable temperature swings of my charcoal smoker, which demanded constant attention and often led to unevenly cooked meats. The allure of a propane smoker, promising set-it-and-forget-it convenience, was strong.

Unboxing the smoker revealed a robust steel construction, hinting at durability. The components felt solid, and the assembly process was straightforward, taking about an hour with basic tools. Compared to other smokers I considered, like the Masterbuilt electric smoker or the Weber Smokey Mountain, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault struck a balance between ease of use and authentic smoking performance. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – could this smoker truly deliver the smoky flavor I craved with the convenience I desired?

Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker to the Test

First Use Experience

My inaugural smoke with the Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker took place in my backyard, under a clear autumn sky. I decided to start with a classic: a 10-pound pork shoulder, aiming for that perfect bark and tender, pull-apart meat. Setting up the smoker was a breeze; the matchless ignition fired up the 18,000 BTU burner quickly and efficiently.

The temperature control was surprisingly stable, holding steady around 225°F for the first few hours, even with a slight breeze. I had to make minor adjustments using the damper valves to maintain consistent temperature. After about 12 hours, the pork shoulder was ready, boasting a beautiful smoky ring and incredible flavor. The only slight issue was a bit of moisture buildup inside the smoker, which I addressed by opening the dampers further.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve smoked everything from ribs and brisket to salmon and even a whole turkey, with consistently delicious results. The smoker has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite being exposed to the elements.

Cleaning is relatively simple, thanks to the removable porcelain base tray. A wire brush and some soapy water are usually all it takes to remove any accumulated grime. Comparing it to my old charcoal smoker, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault has significantly reduced the amount of time and effort required for smoking, without compromising the quality of the final product.

Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker

Specifications

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker boasts the following key specifications:

• 18,000 BTU Propane Burner: This burner provides ample heat for consistent smoking temperatures, even in colder weather.
• Temperature Range: Offers a temperature range of 160°F to 350°F, allowing for both low-and-slow smoking and higher-temperature roasting.
• Two Standard Smoking Racks & One Jerky Rack: Provides ample space for smoking a variety of foods simultaneously.
• Porcelain-Coated Wood Chip Tray & Water Pan: These components ensure even smoke distribution and maintain moisture within the smoker.
• Three Adjustable Damper Valves: Allows precise control over temperature and smoke density.
• Heavy-Gauge Steel Construction: Ensures durability and longevity.
• Matchless Ignition: Provides quick and easy start-up.

These specifications contribute significantly to the smoker’s performance. The robust burner ensures consistent temperatures, while the adjustable dampers offer precise control over the smoking process. The ample rack space allows for smoking large quantities of food, and the porcelain-coated components make cleaning a breeze.

Performance & Functionality

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker excels at its primary function: delivering consistent, flavorful smoked food. The temperature control is remarkably stable, allowing for predictable results. The smoker is easy to use, even for beginners, with a simple ignition system and intuitive damper controls.

One minor weakness is the built-in temperature gauge, which tends to run a bit hotter than the actual internal temperature. I recommend using a separate digital thermometer for accurate readings. Overall, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault meets and often exceeds expectations, delivering restaurant-quality smoked food with minimal effort.

Design & Ergonomics

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker features a sturdy, no-frills design. The heavy-gauge steel construction ensures durability, while the black and white finish gives it a professional look. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing smoker on the market, its functionality more than makes up for its utilitarian design.

The smoker is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve when it comes to mastering the damper controls. Once you understand how the dampers affect temperature and smoke density, achieving consistent results becomes much easier. The door seals tightly, minimizing heat loss and maintaining consistent internal temperatures.

Durability & Maintenance

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker is built to last. The heavy-gauge steel construction and porcelain-coated components are resistant to rust and corrosion. With proper care and maintenance, this smoker should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning of the racks, wood chip tray, and water pan is essential to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance. The porcelain base tray makes cleanup a breeze, and the smoker can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker comes standard with two smoking racks, one jerky rack, a wood chip tray, and a water pan. While there are no readily available customization options directly from Camp Chef, the smoker is compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories.

A digital thermometer is a must-have for accurate temperature readings. Many users also recommend adding a smoke generator for enhanced smoke flavor. You can also purchase additional racks to maximize smoking capacity.

Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker

Who Should Buy Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker?

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker is perfect for:

• Those new to smoking who want an easy and reliable entry point.
• Home cooks who want to elevate their barbecue game.
• Families who enjoy smoked meats and want to cook in large batches.
• Anyone seeking a propane smoker with consistent temperature control.

Those who should skip this product:

• Competitive barbecue teams requiring precise, advanced control.
• Purists who insist on charcoal or wood-fired smoking only.
• Individuals needing a highly portable smoker (this model is relatively bulky).

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A reliable digital thermometer for accurate temperature readings.
• A smoke generator for enhanced smoke flavor (optional).

Conclusion on Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker

The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker delivers on its promise of consistent, easy smoking. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The smoker’s reliable temperature control, ample smoking space, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the price.

For those looking to simplify the smoking process without sacrificing flavor, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault is a worthy investment. It has become a staple in my backyard cooking arsenal, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to elevate their barbecue game. So fire up the Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker, grab your favorite cut of meat, and get ready to experience the joy of perfectly smoked food.