Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro Vs. Gateway Drum Smoker | Which Drum Is Better? | Drum Smoker Comparison

Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro Vs. Gateway Drum Smoker | Which Drum Is Better? | Drum Smoker Comparison
In this video I compare the Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro Vs. The Gateway Drum Smoker 55G! Both of these drums are absolutely fantastic to cook on but it's been a long time coming and I finally decided to do a drum smoker comparison! So the main question, Which Drum Is Better? Well you'll just have to watch the video and get my thoughts on it! I actually use both of these cookers in comps and they both have there spot in my line up! If you have any further questions on the Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro or the Gateway Drum Smoker feel free to ask because I'm sure I can answer it! But I am hopeful that this Drum Smoker Comparison video between the Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro Vs. Gateway Drum Smoker will answer any questions you may have! As Always I appreciate you watching and have a great week!
Oklahoma Joe's Bronco Pro - www.oklahomajoes.com/bronco-p...
Gateway Drum Smoker - www.gatewaydrumsmokers.com/co...

[@DeadBrokeBBQ]

Great comparison Brian!! I own the regular bronco and love it but someday I want a gateway! I just like cooking on a drum! Thanks for sharing this brother!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey thanks Ricer and you bet! Drum cooking is by far my favorite and a ton of fun! Have a great weekend and good luck with the whole KZbin thing…I’m confident you’ll make something of it someday…🤣🍻

[@eastsidebadger8416]

Great video..both seem like a good purchase & great job reviewing them both.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thank you Badger! And yep they are both solid cookers!

[@jaybooth4815]

Really nice comparison Brian! I do like the color of the gateway but like all the extras you get with the bronco. Great video! Cheers brother!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey thanks Jay! And ya the gateway is pretty

[@OffroadButcherBBQ]

Awesome comparison video mate! I’d be happy with either of those cookers. Good stuff!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Heeeyyy thanks Ben!! They both are awesome cookers!

[@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ]

Awesome comparison Brian! I like them both!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks chief! So do I!

[@nathaneyears508]

Thanks Brian. I bought a Tel Tru BQ300 thermometer for my OJB and it’s super accurate. Highly recommend it.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

You bet Nathan! And nice, those tel trus are legit!

[@EverettBBQ]

Excellent comparison of all the features and setups of these smokers. All in all, that Bronco is not a bad deal at all. Cheers, Brian! 🍻

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thank you sir! And completely agreed! 🍻🍻

[@freedom-isntfree9002]

I have the standard and added an extra outside shelf and an extra 2nd grate and for my purposes, there's plenty of room. I love the hanging aspect of this cooker and have done 9 racks and boy were my guests amazed and loved the flavor we got from all those juices hitting the coals ...Unreal flavor.Drums sure do make some good ribs !! You gotta love that feature on this bad boy. The hinged lid with the nice beefy handle is a major asset as well.. I found my Bronco @ Wally World for 1/2 price during the month of October when they were moving patio stuff out & bringing in Xmas decorations in. Always check WW when Xmas & Thanks Giving are coming.They liquidate a lot of the charcoal... pellet & gas grills. Was looking at WSM and it was very expensive and lacked so much compared to this Beast !! Lighter weight steel plus so many other features missing that OKJ Bronco had. Friend has Gateway and never saw these rigs and when he saw mine... he bought one.... sold the Gateway and is a happy smoker for much less $$ & for him he claimed "better features"....I cant argue that point either!! I also rigged a fan before anyone had some options............. I use a Pitmasters IQ fan unit (non digital) with some Home Depot fittings and it works excellent. Drum on its own will hold 240 all day & night providing ample fuel is used. With the fan unit I'm able to set 225 and will deviate 2-4 degrees from set point which isnt bad and burns less coal. I also use my unit as a designated smoker only. I use Weber kettles for grilling ( Smokey Joe 18" unit) Thermometer on mine clouded up and I didnt care as I use remote temp grate probe. But it was accurate when I stuck a probe that far down in the barrel. Mainly a cosmetic feature I think. Or possibly a ball park reference for some. It is built like a tank and even at 300$+ its still a great value .So if yu grab one on sale, your really doing good. Great video and excellent job at comparisons !!

[@MDEEZY19]

Great video review brother!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Mike! 🙏

[@bbbvvhk]

You are awesome... really enjoy watching your vids

[@cards2468]

Great comparison, also I thought your speech was just fine!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Steven I appreciate it!

[@hulkhuggett]

Very good review. 👍👍

[@ayomaggotz]

Nice comparison and tips. Will sub and thumbs up

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thank you!!

[@jr7003]

Excellent video!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey thanks @JR! I appreciate that!

[@4MzBBQandGRILL]

Great comparison 👍.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thank you Michael! I appreciate it! Have a great weekend brother!

[@padraicley3265]

I recently brought the Joe Pro from Amazon with free shipping. Nice to see this video the Joe has no disadvantage except the weight if moving is a necessity. The weight is good in my regard since I don't need it move. From the video, it seems the Bronco has more features and accessories with better price. I am still relative new in BBQ, seem like vertical smoker with heat at the bottom can handle steady temp better than off set smoker which I also have. Thanks for the video.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks! And ya the pro can cook in all weather! She’s a beast with all the bells and whistles.

[@stevew9916]

Thanks for the comparison. I don't think I would have looked at the OK Joe, but it looks like its packed with some great features. I like the large wheels, shelf, and attached lid. If it reaches and holds 300F, then I don't see the single air intake as an issue.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

No problem! And it takes a little while longer to get there but she holds at 300 really nice. Heck I’ve even ran it at 400 without any issues.

[@HeadtoTailBBQCooking]

I have the Bronco Pro and have really enjoyed it. I agree once it gets up to temp it will hang at that temp really well. It has been fun to cook on.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

That’s awesome! The BP is a beast for sure!

[@HeadtoTailBBQCooking]

@@MadHorseBBQ plan on doing some half chickens today on it with a raspberry glaze

[@franciscopena446]

Yeesss!!!!! You rock bro!!!! Thanks for this video!!!. Need to see the gateway in winter weather I'm In New city and it gets cold.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

You bet man! And the gateway will be getting used this winter so stay tuned.

[@tribounty1392]

Got my bronco at a Walmart on sale for $50 in January of 2017. Absolutely love it. Should of bought the other 2 they had left. Working on building my own barrel smoker now

[@curtisrogers4190]

I too have the OKJ Bronco original and love mine. The other difference in the two is how you can move the charcoal basket on top of the charcoal and grill and grill in three positions. One with the deflector as you had it and charcoal on top, flrip the deflector the other direction and move the charcoal even closer to the grate and you can lower the grate down a level and practically have the grate sitting on top of the charcoal. Very Versitile. For the $200 savings you are getting more versitility with the Bronco unless as you do and travel around with it.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Well said Curtis! And I can’t believe I forgot to mention the grilling feature.

[@davidfrey8669]

Very good comparison. Can you please do a vid on the cleaning process, any other required maintenance, for a drum smoker? I think that would be really great info for those of us considering buying one.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks David! And I sure can!

[@amosmccleese3374]

You're 100% right about the weight.... I rolled my Bronco pro back and forth on my patio but I can't imagine trying to load it up and take it somewhere..... That's what my Pit Barrel Cooker is for 😁😁😁

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Yep agreed! I use a pull behind trailer so it’s not bad but the pro is a hoss! Thanks for watching bro!

[@jessethabarber]

We use them for competition. It's not too bad with 2 people. 1 forget it lol we use a trailer now too.

[@pitbul8183]

The cat litter is a great tip to help me with the excessive grease in my new/used ORION COOKER

[@saniarao7250]

Favorite channel

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks!

[@billystpaul8907]

Thank you for this video. I really enjoy your channel and your video's.. I have been thinking about getting a drum cooker to my collection. I am thinking about the Gateway or the one made by Hunsaker Grills. Both are right around the same price. But, I like the Hunsakers design build more. I am curious about the vortex system and I the hinged lid. But, both cookers seem the same as far as price and quality go. This will be my first winter cooking with my new Kamado grill ...Like you, I am fan of various grills and hope to have 5 or 6 in my collection..

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey not a problem billy and I appreciate that! And I looked at the hunsaker but went with the gateway. Both seem like awesome grills. And you’ll have to let me know about the vortex system. I have a few different kinds of deflector plates for my drums and don’t really use them cause I think the flavor from the juice in the coal is awesome. And what kind of kamado do ya got?

[@smokefathersbbq]

Just ordered the Gateway in matte black. I like that the matte paint is good to 1000 degrees, unlike the gloss paint. Can’t wait to add this drum to my arsenal.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hell ya! Great choice!

[@smokefathersbbq]

@@MadHorseBBQ Now that I have it, just gotta find some time to play with it lol. Was able to do a burn in on it. Ran it for 5 hours and hardly used any charcoal. I was surprised how little fuel it used.

[@thatfishingdude813]

Thanks for sharing love the video and no you're not talking too fast. I thought people in Minnesota talk slow. I also have a Oklahoma Joe Bronco and I love it

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey thank you N! And love the Bronco pro!

[@meatmeinthebackyard5823]

Not a fan of Oklahoma Joe's offsets but they got it right with the Bronco/Pro. Excellent review...

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thank you! And I agree with ya!

[@Kiiinglee]

Both are really nice, I just got a big bad barrel for $90.00 new in the box for now

[@dutchvelcamp5425]

I consider the thickness of the walls an advantage, not a disadvantage. Most people don't move their smokers around and engage in competition.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Good point Dutch!

[@62dobie]

@@MadHorseBBQ , can you hang ribs with the Gateway? Does it have spots for hangers like the OK JOE?

[@The_Cyberz]

@@62dobie yes, there is a rib hanger available

[@LITTLEROCK2517]

@@62dobie yo

[@BakersBBQ]

I’ve got the regular Bronco and love it! Thinking about adding a Gateway as well 👍🏻! Great video Brother!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks! And you for sure should add a gateway to your lineup!

[@Sysaphys]

I'm impressed by how clean your smoker is. Do you have any videos on your cleaning routine and how the kitty liter helps with cleaning. I just bought a Bronco and I would like to adopt your regiment.

[@foodonfire3662]

Very interesting comparison and yes, the thermometer is 100% a POS. They sent me (and a friend) free replacements which were also 100% POS. There are however, a few features of the Bronco (I have the smaller version of the Bronco) that weren't covered: 1) The grill grate handles are slightly angled so it will hang from either the handle or the shelf... no need to find a place to put it while working on the fire. Nice. 2) There is a removable metal cup underneath the unit which allows you to both brush any ashes out and/or scrub the unit down with water (pressure washer!) and it will just drain out. Thus, you never need to tip it over or use a vacuum to clean it out. 3) The Bronco has a metal gasket attached to the lid that makes it air-tight. I use a fan/controller with mine and it easily runs at 250℉ for 12 hours with a much smaller coal basket than the Pro model. I can appreciate that the light weight construction of the Gateway is important to you because you compete. That said, the Bronco is built like a tank (I don't think you could dent it if you tried). When you combine all this with the fact that the Bronco has a hinged lid, huge wheels that will go over any terrain (vs the tiny casters on the Gateway) and all the extras (hanging rods, hooks, shelf and towel bar/handle) that are included, I think the Broncos are a much better option (if you don't need the portability) and $200 less. I should add I also have a gas grill and a Kamado Joe Big Joe and it's the Bronco that I use the most.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya all valid points. Very well said.

[@Disastrousmedia]

Food on Fire, for all those reasons you brought up is the reason why i ended up with a Bronco. For me it came down to the WSM and the Bronco. But ultimately all the features convinced me to buy the Bronco. Plus i didn't want to spend the extra money modding the WSM, just to do/have what the Bronco already has/does, thus voiding the warranty.

[@beginning-reloading]

I only have one regret with my OKJ Bronco, it's too small 😉If you're seriously looking at the OKJ's, get the Pro, you'll be glad you did. I've used the heck out of my Bronco and love all the food that comes out of it. I use the Inkbird fan system and it will hold temperature steady as a rock for as long as you need. I actually like that the charcoal grate comes out of the basket. I purchased the large basket from the Pro to use in my Bronco on longer cooks. For shorter cooks like ribs, I put the small basket back in. So the removable grate gets moved from one basket to the other. I suppose you could just purchase another grate and maybe weld the grate in a few spots so it stays put. To me, there's no comparison. Way more features on the OKJ's. 👍

[@foodonfire3662]

@@beginning-reloading Yes, yes and yes. The grate is exactly 18" in diameter which is plenty for many people but had I known then what I know now I would get the PRO (~40% bigger area) model as well!

[@user-dw3oy4jl2u]

you should return then mine isnt a POS

[@ShaunPanzer]

That’s a good idea putting cat litter on the bottom . Maybe everyone but me knew this but I have a brand new gateway and I’ll dump some in

[@Wicky781]

Thank you for the review looking at getting the bronco pro. Q. How many racks of ribs have you cooked on it at once and how does a brisket cook on it?

[@squatchhunter15]

Great video! I'm really impressed with the bronco, I had some preconceived ideas because of my experience with some of their cheaper offsets. I'd be interested in how competition looks for you if you ever decide to whip out the camera at a comp. Great work!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Jacob! If you’re near a wal mart they should have the Bronco there. Pretty sure the Bronco pro has to be ordered but she’s a tank of a grill. And it’s crossed my mind to do that but not really enough time. If you check your my dads channel he did some recording of me at my last comp.

[@LouisatRshackBBQ]

Nice side by side comparison- will say for the dollar the OKJ bronco seems like the better deal

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Louis! And they both are great pits for sure.

[@jonathanjusti2793]

I just took the plunge and bought a Gateway. A major consideration was because it is made in USA even though it was more expensive.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Heck ya JJ congrats man! You won’t regret it!

[@amosmccleese3374]

I picked up a Bronco Pro floor model from Lowe's for $150 this past January. The Bronco pro performs just as good as the Gateway for about $200 cheaper $699 VS $899.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey congrats! They are both solid cookers!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

And hold up…Lowe’s sells the 21” Bronco Pro and you got it for 150$??

[@amosmccleese3374]

@@MadHorseBBQ I honestly think that they had the pro on display but they only sold the smaller model. I didn't realize it was the pro until I got it home and finished the assembly!!! It was a pleasant surprise 😂😂😂

[@MadHorseBBQ]

@@amosmccleese3374 I bet!

[@Mr2MuchJuice4U]

Both are over priced. You're just paying for the brand like a regular idiot

[@sheilagibbs3913]

I appreciate the comparison. As a KCBS judge, I see a LOT of gateways at the comps. Don't see too many bronco pros. Must be the weight. I am looking to get a drum smoker to add to my collection for the hot and fast capabilities. I would think the BP would hold temps better in cold weather as it is much thicker gauge steel. Any thoughts on that?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya I’d guess the weight. And to be honest they both run the same. The Bronco pro takes a little longer to get up and running but once it is it’s easier to run compared to the gateway. Especially in colder temps.

[@brentnelson1270]

I’m researching Gateway vs Hunsaker. Heat deflector/diffuser are available on both, standard on the Hunsaker. The Hunsaker has the vortex diffuser whereas the Gateway is just a plate with various size holes. 🤔

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Indeed they are. I rarely ever use the deflector so to me it’s no big deal. Having seen the vortex diffuser used quite a bit at comps I prefer the deflector from gateway or udsparts.com if I use one. Just my personal preference.

[@brentnelson1270]

@@MadHorseBBQ thanks man. Bought a PBC for our seasonal campsite and love the flavor profile but not 100% in love with the PBC. I am hooked on barrel cooking as a method though. Really thinking about selling the P&S Maverick 1250 and going with a barrel here and of course keeping my Weber Performer Deluxe for grilling. Thanks for the advice. Subbed and liked!

[@crushingbelial]

@Brent Nelson Heya Brent - I don't own a drum smoker but I am curious what you don't love about the PBC even though you like the food? I'm considering one

[@jeyransome9212]

The gateway is $1,200 now. I think I'll go with the bronco pro. Thanks for the video

[@MadHorseBBQ]

You’re welcome. And ya stew prices are outrageous now so I wood t be surprised if other companies followed suit.

[@xxBLKSNXxx]

Expensive for it being essentially a metal drum chemicals come in lol.

[@johnmanthey2683]

I really wanted to hear your review and thoughts. Even with my Bose ear buds I couldn't hear your recommendations. Between the two do you recommend over the other?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya sorry bout that. And they’re both great drums and can produce the same thing. But my favorite is the gateway.

[@calveryc1]

Question: how would this cook if you used a Hill Country style of loading the basket with burned down wood or charcoal vs lighting the center and letting it burn out? I’ve been thinking of building a chudbox but this would be a lot easier if it would work well.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hmmmm I would think it would work just fine but haven’t ran it that way before.

[@tommyfletcher111]

After watching this video make me love my Oklahoma joe so much more. Would definitely not waste my money on the gateway

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya they’re both solid cookers. I have 2 gateways and wouldn’t trade them for anything but I also am a huge fan of the Bronco pro.

[@houlester]

I’m cooking on a wsm right now direct heat. I have all the vents closed and it’s still pumping over 300 degrees. Does the drum smokers regulate heat any better?

[@josephguidry3540]

I’ll always wonder why they didn’t make charcoal basket wider

[@chuck5898]

Nice review. Did you ever consider using foil to line the bottom with the air intake cut out?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

I actually haven’t.

[@kevinbongard6772]

Does it cook differently with the diffuser in as opposed to leaving it out Advantages or disadvantages to using it ??

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya it cooks different without the diffuser. I myself prefer no diffuser. I think the flavor without the diffuser is better. Cook times are quicker without the diffuser.

[@P3ak930]

Leaning towards bronco pro for price savings and it being heavy duty. Thoughts after all this time on one being better than the other? Thanks.

[@davelip6992]

Great video and comparison. Two questions as I've never used a drum smoker only have a WSM- if you don't use the heat deflector then aren't you basically direct grilling and not smoking? Secondly, if you hang ribs and especially without the heat deflector aren't the bottoms going to cook faster being closer to the heat source? Thanks.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks! So for the first question I’d say regardless on the method you’re cooking the meat or whatever you have on it. To me the flavor is way better without the deflector in. And you would be correct on the ribs so what I do is either cut them shorter or put the meatier side towards the coal. I don’t hang a whole lot anymore though.

[@Jc23812]

​@@MadHorseBBQWhy don't you hang much anymore?

[@loydonrogers8701]

How do they vary on a practical temperature range? Will they both smoke at higher temps, like at 350 for doing turbo cooks? Thank you!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Oh ya they run hot and fast all day long.

[@ordeal3175]

Do your UDS you made and compare all 3!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hmmm now that’s a possibility!

[@patmancrowley8509]

Thanks, Mad Horse. I've used Weber kettles for decades. I discovered Gateway smokers about 2 months ago. The price tag was shocking, honestly. I just can't afford something like that but I haven't ruled one out just yet. Retiring in a year and a half and am looking for a way to earn some supplemental income. Hmmmm...

[@MadHorseBBQ]

“Buy once, cry once” is what I say.

[@mcfresh30]

Check out the Hunsaker

[@lexwaldez]

I crapped meself as well. I got a 55 ga drum, mango puree, for $10 and paid $90 to have it sandblasted and another $75 for a high temp weber powder coat (stumbled on a guy who had high temp weber paint and wanted to get rid of it - as long as I wanted black). Bought a Big Poppa Smokers UDB kit for under a $100 on sale years ago (luv it). Works great. Now even the kits are expensive. I gotta wash mine out take better care of her (unscented clay kitty litter apparently to line the bottom).

[@patmancrowley8509]

@@MadHorseBBQ Yep, yep! B.O., C.O. applies to most purchases. That's why I went with the 26" Weber. It was more expensive but I'll never regret the purchase. It should be lasting me the rest of my life and that's what I look for in purchase possibilities, "will it last the rest of my life?" I realize the Gateway Smoker would last the rest of my life but I also look at the "cost per year" aspect. Since I'm 65 that increases the cost per year. I may turn my trash picked 1/2 keg into a still and save on my whiskey purchases.

[@dalewetzel773]

Try a Cotton Gin Smoker!!! Much more accessories at no extra charge

[@kevinbongard6772]

Which cooker smokes which meats at comps..??? I use a Humphreys cabinet smoker for comps....thinking of switching to drums

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Matte Black 55g Gateway- Brisket Ok Joe’s Bronco Pro - Pork Matte Gray 55g Gateway - Ribs Homemade UDS 55G - Chicken

[@appleblows1]

do you hang a whole brisket to smoke or lay it down on the grate?

[@Redskinviking0811]

Looking at buying the bronco. Saw it first time yesterday at academy sports. Thanks for the side bug side.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Nice! But to be clear this is the Bronco pro.

[@Redskinviking0811]

@@MadHorseBBQ understood.

[@Redskinviking0811]

Main diff is size of the cook top right...

[@MadHorseBBQ]

@@Redskinviking0811 correct. The Bronco is an 18” and Bronco pro is 21”.

[@Redskinviking0811]

@@MadHorseBBQ so to me in the box all is the same right... or wrong? If so I can justify not having the extra 3 in of cook top.

[@Hossir]

The Bronco Pro coal basket is twice the size/capacity of the regular Bronco. The Pro is also bigger both horizontally and vertically so you can hang more meat. It can fit a whole packer beef brisket. Try it on the regular Bronco and the brisket would be nearly touching the coal. Great video!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Agreed 💯!! Thanks so much!

[@P3ak930]

Can that heat diffuser fit inside the Bronco pro? Thinking about buying a heat shield for my new Bronco pro. Got Hunsaker’s vortex on the way as well.

[@patrickgallegos2122]

What's the brand of clay scent free kitty litter do you use in your smokers? Great idea that I'd love to adapt to keep the base of the drums clean

[@MadHorseBBQ]

It’s the clay scent free stuff from wal mart. I don’t remember the brand off the top of my head. If you can’t find it lemme know

[@mrodeif]

What brand of cat litter do you use? Good idea and I'm sure you found one that adds no unwanted chemicals and flavors to the meats. Thank you.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

It’s clay scent free kitty litter from wal mart.

[@mrodeif]

@@MadHorseBBQ thank you!

[@kevinbongard6772]

Can you put multiple grates in the gateway...cook pork butts on 1level ribs on the other

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Yep you sure can. There’s spots on the gateway for 3 grates.

[@bigb2967]

Why do you not use the deflector plate on the bronco? Isn't it used to promote even cooking temps?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Better flavor when you cook directly over the coals imo.

[@Jc23812]

Earned a sub. I saw a comment regarding hanging ribs in the Bronco. Why don't you hang much anymore?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Meh no real reason. I hat prefer not too

[@Jc23812]

@@MadHorseBBQ So I'm trying to find a smoker for independence day. Smoking between 7 to 10 tacks of spare ribs St Louis style. I've been looking at the Bronco because it holds temp well and I can hang the racks. Do you think this is a good idea? I pretty much use my Weber kettle for most everything but I just cannot do volume with it.

[@freedom-isntfree9002]

@@Jc23812 YOU BET !! I have the standard not the pro and I have done 9 racks hanging and my guests were blown away on flavor and the appearance of them. Drum smokers do a great job especially with ribs IMO. Mine will hold 235-240 all day .Good stout cooker, Barrel is good thick steel which once up to temp will hold temp very easily. I also have small 18" Weber Smokey Joe, which handles all of my grilling cooks and occasionally due to ease of kettle will do pork butt on it . Buy the Bronco and get a 2nd grate, tons of room !! I've also have placed the 2nd rack in left the top one off and put up the hanging rods and hung chucks on top of burgers, sausages, Texas Twinkies, chix breasts wrapped in bacon. The juices dripping down on the other items made it that much better . I hung 3 chucks with the hooks. IMO best bang for the buck the OKJ Bronco. I'm looking at buying Bronco Pro charcoal basket. I think the basket is about $33 bucks at the moment. Bottom grate on standard will fit in bottom of pro basket .If you want to really go for long & slow the bigger basket I read allows for such as 20+ hrs !! Not needed for the avg cook. I have gotten 14+ hrs out of standard but it does require some creative briquette placement. Where as the big basket you could just dump a load of charcoal and do not have to arrange the basket to extend your cook times. Good luck with your decision but honestly, if your not having to move it about and dont compete, this rig really does shine on all points with owning a drum IMO.

[@tashrayt4398]

Is the temp dial really that bad ok the Oklahoma Joe and off that much? Man I was going to get one of these but if the temp dial doesn’t work what’s the point :/

[@kevinbongard6772]

What's the advantage of not using the deflector plate

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Biggest advantage is the flavor you get from the fat dripping on the coals and cook times are quicker with no plate.

[@patoches]

Merci

[@MadHorseBBQ]

You bet!

[@dutchvelcamp5425]

I'm hanging six racks of ribs in my Bronco original, and I can leave it completely alone for 4 or more hours. Is the Gateway made in the USA? THAT would be a big factor for me.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Gateway purs just like the Bronco pro. Both very hands off when you get em set. And as far as I know it’s made in the US of A!

[@mikeee_e4606]

Any idea if the gateway drum hanger will fit the bronco? The bronco seems like it has a solid lid which would hood temp. I just got the WSM and temps are so hard to control. These seem like they would be easier to control

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya it does I believe. But the Bronco and Bronco pro comes with hangers. And temps are easier to control in a WSM using briquettes imo. What are you using for fuel in it?

[@mikeee_e4606]

@@MadHorseBBQ I only use lump charcoal

[@MadHorseBBQ]

@@mikeee_e4606 got ya. I’ve always thought that lump in a drum is super easy to control but to me lump in a WSM is a bit more challenging. Especially if you’re using the 22. You should try using a mix of both and see if it’s easier.

[@mikeee_e4606]

@@MadHorseBBQ probably going to get a gasket for the lid since that’s where it usually spews out smoke hopefully that will help

[@mikemalone4729]

Seems like it would be difficult to add wood. You need to remove the non folding rack with the meat to add wood.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

I add the wood right before I throw the meat on. I don’t ever add wood during the cook.

[@user-rw3go8ni6x]

Ive got a pair of K4L Drum smokers which is the same type of air flow as the gateways do you think its better to run lump or a natural briquette

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Lump

[@user-rw3go8ni6x]

Apricate it I have a KCBS comp coming up in a couple weeks in Poplar Bluff Mo and thats what I've been using @@MadHorseBBQ

[@dalewetzel773]

Check out Cotton Gin Smokers

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya I’ve seen them before. Pretty slick lookin. I’m not a fan of the front access for coal but to each there own.

[@nelsonbrooks]

You might consider using a “normalizer” for your final volume control. Your post contains two distinctly different sound levels; one at the garage, & then one during your close up. I was about to leave your channel but the volume changed during the close-up product detail. I’ve stopped streaming at 17:06 because you’ve gone back to your long-distance audio mode again.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya I upgraded my audio shortly after this video.

[@timwilt8755]

Hello, I didnt mind the video, your Volume was really low and could hardly hear you.. So, maybe if that would get corrected.. As far as talking fast, that didnt bother me, just needed to be louder.. Other than that... Keep up the good work... I was between a Oklahoma Joe and Just building a Ugly drum smoker... I went with building my own.... Which is still being worked on.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Tim and will do! I have a 4 part UDS build video series on my channel as well.

[@johnmanthey2683]

I've got some things to say. I've watched several of your videos on my computer and commented, (complained actually), that I couldn't hear you. AHA. I have the KZbin app on mt smart tv. Really makes a difference on sound and picture quality. Particularly after I saw this video again on the tv. I do apologize to you. A note on the Gateway. The heat deflector is extra, the rib hanger is extra. Both are standard on the Bronco. The thing I see with the Gateway 30 inch compared to the base Bronco Joe is Home Depot has a special now on it with cover, delivered at $441. The Gateway alone is $899. Then the added cost of all the extras that are standard on the Bronco. The other thing that I'm curious about is does the Gateway come with wheels? If not, I see that those are another $50 option. For those like me on a limited budget, I'm 79 and on SS, the Bronco makes more sense economically. They both appear to make similar flavor product. One last detail. I heard you mentioned you lived in Minnesota. I did time there in Albert Lea then up north and west at a little burg called Clinton, just north east of Millbank. You also mentioned you could "run over to Sioux Falls". I live in Sioux Falls. I find that interesting. I am just going to have to subscribe to your channel to see what all you do. Apparently we both have to battle the same weather conditions and environmental challenges. Thank you for bearing with and I apologize again for my past audio comments.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hey John thank you and to be fair my audio was pretty crap until awhile ago when I finally decided to upgrade. And the wheels come with all the gateways. But as far as your comments on the Bronco I agree. It really depends on what you want. If you’re wanting to get in to comps and be able to move your drum the gateway is a better option imo. And I’m kind of a gateway fanboy as of late so that’s why I like the gateway better. But as far as food and flavor profile they both put out the same products. The Bronco and Bronco pro come with all the bells and whistles while you have to buy them extra with the gateway. I appreciate you watching and hopefully I answered all your questions.

[@johnmanthey2683]

@@MadHorseBBQ You most certainly did. I did order the regular Bronco as it is an 18" and Greg at Woodshed made me a couple baskets and grates for my 18" WSM a long time before his current health issues. Hopefully they'll fit. Thanks again.

[@aliciararey4142]

I like my bronco I recommend it to anyone just starting out smoking meats

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Nice! Couldn’t agree more.

[@danielmontes9410]

What is the product you put at the bottom to help with cleanup?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

It’s scent free clay kitty litter.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

www.walmart.com/ip/Special-Kitty-Fragrance-Free-Natural-Clay-Non-Clumping-Cat-Litter-25-lb/10293705

[@suicidebbq1742]

Can you add 1 or 2 more great for the ok joe’s

[@MadHorseBBQ]

What?

[@anthonyraylujan2083]

This video got me into smoking

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Wow that’s awesome! How ya liking it so far?

[@manny4491]

Which one holds low temp better? I like 250 - 275.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

I’d have to say the Bronco pro

[@manny4491]

@@MadHorseBBQ That sounds like my next smoker! Thanks

[@BrokeGuyBBQ]

Is there any way to run a 2nd grate on the bronco pro?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Yes

[@BrokeGuyBBQ]

@@MadHorseBBQ the tabs that hold the hanger set up? And it's a standard 22 kettle size grate?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

@@BrokeGuyBBQ if I remember right it sits on the flange where the 2 pieces of the drum come together as well. But I haven’t used it in awhile.

[@ericpete8588]

He didn’t show how you can flip the heat deflector an you can grill burgers and steaks on the Oklahoma Joe’s Pro

[@user-ho1yn6ms7y]

Seems to me Gateway is just extra margin for their dealers based on double the price without the accessories. Just my thoughts. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@IzzyEatz]

Paint it purple!!!!!!!!! Top yellow

[@MadHorseBBQ]

It’s a possibility!

[@user-zl3ws4qu6k]

What is the diameter of the pipes. Good luck.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Hmmmm I thinks it’s 2.5” OD but not positive. I believe it’s on their webpage.

[@dmb3428]

I like the gateway better, looks like something made in the 50's ...been thinking about getting one

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya man the gateway is solid! I actually have 2 of the 55G ones now.

[@matt4393]

Have you cooked with the regular size OK Joe by any chance? Is there any difference apart from the size?

[@MadHorseBBQ]

I have not! But I’m guessing you’re right!

[@anthonyz5671]

How difficult are these to clean? Be nice to see a how to clean video

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Real easy. I have a video showing how.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Here’s the video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHvddXiLiZxkZpo

[@anthonyz5671]

@@MadHorseBBQ well hell looks like I wont be getting one of these anytime soon lol. These suckers aren’t cheap

[@MadHorseBBQ]

@@anthonyz5671 lol Well you get what ya pay for. I have 2 of them now.

[@anthonyz5671]

@@MadHorseBBQ true. I just wasn’t expecting it to be that much. Lol

[@masterofgarden3472]

You forgot that the Bronco Pro can be converted to grill or smoke.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Well g dangut I knew I’d forget something.

[@werkubayu5791]

❤😅🎉

[@Weezulguy]

Good LAWD they workin over every segment of the market, $700?!?! Buy an old drum and make friends with a welder that likes to drink lol.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Lol I have videos on how to make a UDS as well.

[@margaretwills8733]

Hard for me to hear

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Ya sorry about that.

[@solman93]

Your audio level is too low

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Well shoot. Sorry bout that.

[@salomonsmith3643]

He lost me at kitty litter

[@MadHorseBBQ]

But why though?

[@lakorai2]

Both will rust out in a year. They need to make these out of 404 Stainless steel.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Well I’ve had both for over a year and no signs of rust.

[@chrisanderson9542]

Cheap coal baskets

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Why?

[@PicklesBBQandCooking]

Nice job Seth, that was a good overview on both! I have seen a lot of gateways at comps and they do really well no matter the weather. The ok joe actually looks pretty well done too and hey free stuff! Grill on brother!

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Thanks Charley! And 100% agreed! Have a great weekend my vignette brother!