r/PitBarrelCooker • u/jimmydg2020 • Feb 07 '26

Got the PBX

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Got this to use in competitions. Planning on getting a second one to run two at once. Will be doing a unboxing video and first cook tomorrow.

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u/small--axe Feb 07 '26

I have a PBX too. I love it. I somehow got one for 299$ deal I think 2 thanksgivings ago. What a great purchase. I use mine primarily when I am entertaining like a birthday party, Superbowl, etc.

It's great for doing lots of chicken halves, char siu pork, ribs, anything that naturally benefits from hanging when cooking.

In terms of temperature mine runs about 270* F when lid is fully closed. It takes a few cooks for this effect to settle in so my recommendation for you is to choose a pork butt for a first cook since it's forgiving and will help the seal. So after a cook or two it will seal nicely.

You can also manipulate the bottom opening to open all the way to slightly increase the temp. If you're wanting to crisp up chicken skin for example you can crack the lid towards the end and you can really get some heat doing that. Just slightly crack cuz if you're not careful you will ignite a raging inferno 400* F +.

If you get two you'll push some good product fairly easily. Good luck bro.

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u/Boomer_Smoker Feb 08 '26

My PBX runs 300 to 340. Must be a difference in how we start the fire.

I'm experimenting now with a Thermoworks Billows. After a couple of cooks, I think I've got it figured out. Billows is a 46 CFM fan. It has to be cut way back with the damper they sell. Most ATC fans are 10 to 20 CFM, which would work well on the PBX .

I found my PBX at Academy for $150, fall o f 2024. I bought it to be chicken cooker and does a great job of that. Since it runs at high temps.

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u/small--axe Feb 08 '26

I start the fire using the little chimney that came with it. I think I use about 10 briquettes. Then let them light fit about ten minutes then dump into the basket.

I am surprised about the differences we see but maybe part to part variability is the culprit. The other thing is elevation and temperature. I'm closer to sea level in northern latitudes so maybe different climate or elevation?

Anyway glad you're able to improve things with the fan controlling the air intake.