In/on the ground pit

[Vol Horn 4 Life]

For some time I have considered building an in/on the ground brick or stone pit to replace my Oklahoma Joe. I have lot's of parties and that thing just wont hold enough meat for a larger gathering.

I was thinking 8' x 4' base with a smoker, small area for grilling and maybe a spot to add a propane burner and work area. Or maybe a smaller area base but have it vertical with multiple racks which opens from the front instead of the top.

Any suggestions?

What direction should I build it (facing north, south, etc)?

Do you actually build a "fire box" just like a mobile pit?

If you have one please post pictures.

 

[Vol Horn 4 Life]

Surely someone here has an idea or two.

 

[baboso]

Brick pit plans

 

[hullabelew]

I wish I had one of them Wilburs in my back yard.

I have a buddy who just uses cinder blocks and different sizes of expanded metal for a grate. After each cook he takes the thing down, then the next cook, he will set it up, depending on how much meat he is planning on cooking. Through several years, he has this down to a science, knowing where to leave spaces open for vents, depending on how big of a 'pit' he is building for that time. He is an artist.

Not much help...I guess my point is, it doesn't have to be that fancy to get the job done.