About 20 years ago, an ex-girlfriend gave me a Smokey Joe Charcoal Grill. We used to do a lot of camping and she thought it would improve the campground facilities grill. Well, it did that for certain. In addition, I've gotten a lot of household use out of it. I always use charcoal as a fuel. I always let the coals get into just the right gray condition then apply the meats, etc. I always grill with the cover on. It takes a sense of timing to know when the dinner is done, but that comes with experience. Yum! I've prepared some really memorable barbecues on this thing! Lamb chops are my favorite! Steaks can be outstanding. Chicken, oh yes! The trick is getting them done to perfection and I'm getting pretty good at it according to my guests.