DIY FILE CABINET SMOKER - HOW TO BUILD - Smoking Fish and Meat

All pieces were salvaged and cost was Free. I got a donated File cabinet. I found some ranges on online that were free and took the racks. Took the thermometer from an old Grill that someone was discarding. Total cost to me was $0, but did take some time. Hope this helps! You may have different ideas for racks. Share with everyone if you try something different and it works good. Shared ideas are what makes this a great place.....Thanks

[@MichaelMassimino]

I found a free filing cabinet this past weekend and am going to do something similar. Thanks for the info!

[@youcanfixit3721]

Nothing better than a free smoker!

[@googleuser569]

Right on bro, thanks for explaining in great detail.

[@youcanfixit3721]

Hope it works for you too... I appreciate you taking the time to say thanks and post.

[@rogerlewinton933]

What did you do when the draw runner bearings melted? They are made of plastic.

[@youcanfixit3721]

Took the runners off and just slid the door in free

[@ronaldhemmings2476]

I like what and how you did this . There is however no mention of fat or drip collection ? Would either cause a problem ?

[@youcanfixit3721]

I just had them drip down to the bottom and the drippings dried down there. You could also put a layer of foil down and toss after.

[@spacecowboy_1962]

If you put a water pan/drip pan in the 2nd from the bottom drawer. Not only does it catch the drippings, with water added, it acts like a heat sink and makes it easier to control heat. It also adds moisture to your smoke, which makes it easier for meat to absorb. And finally, you can use those drippings to make a gravy.

[@ARSENICKMUSIC]

When it comes to a lean cut such as salmon there's not too much fat to drip out.

[@ARSENICKMUSIC]

@@spacecowboy_1962 I like where your head is at sir!

[@amgeezy_2709]

Nice. I’m going to build a fire and put the drawers and empty cab into it to burn the paint off. I think it will be easier and faster.

[@Kingnadeer_333]

Wat if the cabinet has paint on it?

[@youcanfixit3721]

I burned and washed it off. I wasn't about to risk smoking with nasty paint chemicals getting onto my fish. May be no issue, but I wasn't going to risk it.

[@RideForLifeVegas]

Invest in proper tools first of all. Hammering a screwdriver to make a hole....come on now!

[@youcanfixit3721]

Lol! I'm making a smoker out of a file cabinet. Get a clue. Plus the Hammer and screw driver were right there and I didn't have to walk anywhere to get other tools. It's just thin sheet metal. You stay at it though super pro!