Frequently asked questions
Do you ship?
Yes, we ship within the lower 48 states using LTL freight carriers.
All Mack Drum Smokers leave our shop securely strapped to a pallet and wrapped to help protect the product during transit.
When requesting a shipping quote, please let us know:
If the delivery address is a business or residential location
If a lift gate will be required for delivery
Please inspect the pallet and packaging for visible damage before signing for delivery. If the shipment appears damaged, refuse the delivery so a claim can be filed.
Do you sell the drum separately?
Yes, we can sell the drum by itself. Please contact us for current pricing.
Shipping a drum via LTL freight can be expensive due to its size, so many customers choose to locally source their own drum. You are also welcome to pick up your drum directly from our shop in the Houston, Texas area to avoid freight charges.
Do you sell parts or DIY kits?
Yes. We offer individual parts available in either raw steel or powder-coated black finish.
We also offer complete DIY kits for customers who want to build their own drum smoker. Please contact us for current pricing and availability.
How do I clean my Mack Drum Smoker? What should I use?
We recommend cleaning out the ash after every cook using an ash scraper tool. Keeping ash cleaned out helps maintain proper airflow and consistent cooking performance.
You can also use a grill cleaner when needed to remove grease and buildup.
For a deeper cleaning, we personally clean our drums about every 4–5 cooks using Sam's Club brand grill and oven cleaner. After cleaning, we recommend re-seasoning the drum by applying a light coat of nonstick cooking spray and heating the smoker to restore the protective seasoning layer.
There are also many helpful videos on YouTube demonstrating different methods for cleaning and maintaining drum smokers.
Is seasoning necessary?
Yes. We recommend seasoning your drum smoker before its first use and after deep cleanings.
To season your smoker, apply a light coat of nonstick cooking spray to the inside walls of the drum and the inside of the lid. Then heat the smoker to 300°F for approximately 2 hours.
Seasoning helps create a protective layer on the metal and locks in flavor over time, improving the cooking performance of your smoker.
How long is the life expectancy of a drum smoker?
The lifespan of a drum smoker depends largely on how well it is maintained.
To help extend the life of your Mack Drum Smoker, we recommend regularly cleaning out ash buildup and maintaining the interior of the drum. When not in use, store your smoker in a cool, dry place to help protect the finish and reduce exposure to moisture.
With proper care and routine maintenance, your smoker can provide many years of reliable cooking performance.
Should I use a water pan?
There is no right or wrong answer—it comes down to personal preference.
Mack Drum Smokers are designed so that meat drippings fall directly onto the coals, creating additional smoke and flavor during the cooking process.
Some users prefer to use a water pan to help regulate temperature and add extra moisture inside the smoker. If you choose to use one, we recommend placing a ½-size aluminum pan filled with water on the lowest grate level.
Is it better to cook at a higher temperature or a lower temperature?
One of the best features of the Mack Drum Smoker is its versatility.
Our smokers can run hotter and cook faster when the air intakes are opened up, which is great for achieving a flavorful bark and shorter cook times.
If you prefer a low-and-slow cooking style, simply reduce airflow by adjusting the air intakes to lower the cooking temperature. Some users also add a water pan to help maintain steady temperatures during longer cooks.
What is the lead time on a custom order?
Lead times vary depending on the options requested and the complexity of the build.
In most cases, custom orders are completed within 2–3 weeks after the final build sheet has been approved by the customer. We will always communicate the estimated timeline during the ordering process so you know what to expect.