Thinking about a UDS

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If you use the KISS principle on the first build, probably shouldn't cost you more than $40 in hardware NOT including the cost of the barrel unless you don't have a uni bit to drill the holes, they're worth the investment to own one.

Using three 3/4 holes spaced 1/3 around the bottom of the barrel two to three inches up from the bottom, i'd use 6 inch long 1/2 pipe to screw in from inside the barrel. This will provide you with lower charcoal grate support. Then just use an 18 inch weber/off brand cooking grate and set it on top of all three inlet tubes for support. This also allows air from the inlets a more direct path to the fire from below. About $5 in stainless steel nuts and bolts, another $12 for a cheaper 22 inch cooking grate up top and you're done.
 
My only concern is that it says they are "reconditioned". Reconditioned from WHAT?

As for the liner, I don't know what that LP-15 means, but if it's a food grade liner, I've read that most of it will come out on a good burn but the rest will probably have to be scraped or ground out.

I've got a barrel in my garage. Waiting for it to maybe be my winter project. I've read on here that it should easily be under $50 to get the whole thing finished.

I read a good post yesterday of wutang's UDS build
http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/for...ghlight=smoker

you might find this helpful
 
If I were to do it all over I would opt for a brand new barrel. The burn out process is a pita imo. Once you buy that barrel, burn it out, then you will have to buy paint. If you consider the cost of the paint and that barrel you're not far off the price of a new unlined drum.
 
Thanks. Glad you liked it.

I never really added up the cost of everything I spent to build it. Around $50-$70 is probably a fair guess but I did have to buy a few tools along the way (grinding wheel, step-up drill bit, etc.) So some of the cost is because of the tools. And some of the stuff I bought isn't really required, mine sits on caster wheels for example.

It is worth every penny by the way. If you build one, you will love it.
 
Rick,

You gotta be kidding me - I would at least have to take you to the local bar for some cold ones. My in-laws have a summer home sale in Wilmington, right off 55. I might actually stop by to pick those items up. How much though really - you can't just give this stuff away?!?!
 
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