Less than full load of coal

[fuzzydaddy]

Welcome (Bluecat)!

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks. There's obviously some good folks on this web site.

[RobertC]

I've wondered whether a smaller diameter perforated metal ring which could sit within the regular basket would work for smaller, shorter duration, sessions. The reason I've wondered is because the volume of the PBC is still fixed, so I've wondered whether a set up like that would be able to maintain stable temperatures without hot and cold regions. I suppose you could experiment with bricks, formed in a ring, to see what would happen. If so, please let us know what you find.

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks, great suggestions- I might get around to this but for now, I'm still learning how to use it unmodified. Only done 3 cooks, all came out very good (especially the salmon).

[(Blake)]

I have done smaller baskets of coals. It takes some experimenting with and you might have to crack the lid toward the end of your cook but you'll get the hang of it

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks, Blake. I think I've decided to be Mr. Set-and-Forget until I have more experience.

[HawkerXP]

Welcome to the Pit!
I use the rake method during lighting of my PBC and so when its done I just pull out the basket and put in my Weber kettle to extinguish the coals. I use these for smaller cooks in the Weber. PBC! PBC! PBC!

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks, Hawk. But ... what is the"rake method"?

[HawkerXP]

(Bluecat) The "rake method" is ..... I fill the charcoal basket, remove and light off the 40 coals in the chimney, add to the basket when ready and using my garden rake, the kind with the short steel teeth (?) lift the basket into the barrel.

[(Bluecat)]

Got it, and thanks again.

[tbob4]

Welcome from Northern California

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks, tbob. We love the NoCal, esp. Monterey area.

[Mr. Bones]

Howdy from Kansas Territory, Welcome to th' Pit!
How's yer PBC cooks been goin'?

[(Bluecat)]

Thanks, and sorry for the delay. Been a little busy.

[Butchman]

You might consider using some lump charcoal with a smaller basket of kbb to keep the temperature hotter longer.

[(Bluecat)]

Good suggestion, thanks.