Let’s Dive into Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker
The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker is more than just a way to cook food; it’s a gateway to crafting culinary masterpieces right in your backyard. Camp Chef has a reputation for building durable and reliable outdoor cooking equipment, and this smoker appears to continue that tradition. This vertical propane smoker promises consistent temperatures and ease of use, making smoked delicacies accessible to both seasoned pitmasters and backyard barbecue beginners.
I was looking for a smoker that could handle large cuts of meat and maintain a stable temperature without constant babysitting. Many cheaper smokers I’ve used struggled with temperature fluctuations and required constant attention. The Camp Chef Smoke Vault seemed to offer the capacity and control I needed.
Unboxing the Smoke Vault, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and heavy-gauge steel. The unit felt solid, promising durability and long-term performance. It’s a manageable size, fitting nicely on my patio without taking up too much space.
Compared to other propane smokers I considered, like the Masterbuilt propane smoker and the smaller 18-inch Camp Chef model, the 24-inch Smoke Vault stood out due to its larger cooking area and seemingly more robust temperature control. I was also drawn to the included jerky rack and the three damper valves for smoke and heat management. My initial impression was excitement, tempered by the awareness that the proof is always in the smoking.
Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Camp Chef Smoke Vault during a weekend barbecue at my house, smoking a 12-pound brisket and a rack of ribs. The weather was moderately humid, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I positioned the smoker on my concrete patio, ensuring it was level and away from flammable materials.
The Smoke Vault performed admirably, holding a consistent 225 degrees Fahrenheit for the entire 12-hour smoking process. Startup was simple using the matchless ignition. The temperature gauge was relatively accurate, though I supplemented it with a digital probe thermometer for precise readings.
The only hiccup was learning to fine-tune the damper valves. I initially struggled to get the smoke just right, but after some experimentation, I found the sweet spot for a clean, flavorful smoke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve used it at least once a week for everything from salmon and poultry to pork shoulder and even smoked cheese. The smoker consistently delivers flavorful results with minimal fuss.
The Smoke Vault has held up well, with no signs of significant wear and tear. The porcelain-coated wood chip tray and water pan make cleanup relatively easy. I’ve found that occasionally scrubbing the racks is necessary to remove stubborn residue.
Compared to my previous electric smoker, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault offers significantly better temperature control and smoke penetration. The results are consistently better, and the experience is far more enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker
Specifications
The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker features an 18,000 BTU propane burner. This provides ample heat for maintaining consistent smoking temperatures.
It has a temperature range of 160°F to 350°F, making it versatile for various smoking and baking needs. This range is ideal for both low-and-slow smoking and higher-temperature baking.
The smoker includes two standard smoking racks and one jerky smoking rack. This provides ample space for smoking a variety of meats and other foods.
A porcelain-coated, heavy-gauge steel wood chip tray is included. This ensures durability and efficient smoke generation.
The smoker also features a removable porcelain base tray for easy cleanup. This makes maintenance much simpler.
A porcelain-coated water pan is also included. This helps maintain moisture during the smoking process.
Three adjustable damper valves provide precise control over temperature and smoke. This feature is critical for achieving the desired level of smokiness.
The exterior is constructed from heavy-gauge steel, ensuring longevity and heat retention. This is a crucial aspect of its build quality.
Its size is 24 inches. This provides ample cooking space without being overly bulky.
The Manufacturer is Camp Chef.
Performance & Functionality
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault excels at maintaining consistent temperatures, a crucial aspect of successful smoking. This consistency, combined with the adjustable damper valves, allows for precise smoke control.
The 18,000 BTU burner provides ample power to quickly reach and maintain the desired temperature, even in colder weather. The included jerky rack is a welcome addition, making it easy to create delicious homemade jerky.
However, the built-in thermometer is not always accurate and a separate digital thermometer is highly recommended. Also, refilling the water pan requires opening the smoker, which causes a temporary temperature drop.
Overall, the Smoke Vault meets and often exceeds expectations for a propane smoker in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smoke Vault features a simple, functional design. The heavy-gauge steel construction inspires confidence in its durability.
The adjustable racks and removable trays are well-designed and easy to use. There’s a slight learning curve in mastering the damper valves.
Durability & Maintenance
The heavy-gauge steel construction suggests the Smoke Vault is built to last. Regular cleaning of the racks and trays is essential to prevent buildup.
The porcelain coating on the water pan and wood chip tray makes cleanup relatively easy. With proper care and maintenance, this smoker should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault comes standard with two smoking racks, one jerky rack, a wood chip tray, and a water pan. While no major customization options are directly offered by Camp Chef, the smoker is compatible with various aftermarket accessories.
These include digital temperature controllers, rib racks, and alternative smoking woods. The ability to add a digital temperature controller would greatly enhance the smoker’s ease of use and temperature precision.
Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker
Pros
- Consistent temperature control allows for worry-free smoking.
- Large cooking capacity accommodates large cuts of meat or multiple items.
- Durable construction ensures years of reliable service.
- Adjustable damper valves provide precise smoke control.
- Easy to use and maintain, making it suitable for beginners.
Cons
- The built-in thermometer may not be entirely accurate.
- Refilling the water pan requires opening the smoker, causing temperature fluctuations.
Who Should Buy Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker?
The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker is perfect for barbecue enthusiasts who want a reliable and easy-to-use smoker without breaking the bank. It’s especially well-suited for individuals or families who regularly smoke large quantities of meat. This smoker is also a great option for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of smoked foods.
Those seeking precise temperature control and “set it and forget it” convenience might want to consider a more expensive digital electric smoker. If you need a highly portable smoker, this might not be the best option either due to its size.
A must-have accessory is a good quality digital thermometer with multiple probes. This will allow for accurate monitoring of both the smoker temperature and the internal temperature of the meat.
Conclusion on Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker
The Camp Chef Camp Chef 24in Smoke Vault Smoker offers an excellent balance of performance, capacity, and value. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end smokers, it delivers consistently delicious results with minimal fuss.
The price is certainly justified by the quality of construction and the versatility of the smoker. I would definitely recommend this smoker to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to enjoy smoked foods.
Ready to elevate your barbecue game? Invest in the Camp Chef Smoke Vault and start creating mouthwatering smoked masterpieces today!