We may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases to cover data analysis costs. Rankings are based solely on our PatioRank Score algorithm. Full disclosure
Oklahoma Joe's Highland Reverse Flow Smoker
Oklahoma Joe's Highland Reverse Flow Smoker. Entry-level offset smoker that needs mods out of the box. A project grill for hands-on pitmasters.
3 critics · 22 Reddit · 112 Amazon
Reddit is mixed on the Oklahoma Joe's Highland Reverse Flow Smoker -- most users like it, especially for reverse flow design genuinely evens out temperature, but opinions vary. Entry-level offset smoker that needs mods out of the box. A project grill for hands-on pitmasters. Main complaint: leaks smoke from every seam out of the box - gasket mods mandatory.
Based on 3 critic reviews and 22 Reddit discussions
Score Breakdown
Reddit Sentiment
Based on 22 authentic mentions across Reddit
What People Love & Don't
What People Love
- ✓ Reverse flow design genuinely evens out temperature
- ✓ Huge capacity for multiple briskets and rib racks
- ✓ Great entry point for learning real stick burning
- ✓ Heavy-gauge steel feels substantial for the price
What People Don't
- ✗ Leaks smoke from every seam out of the box - gasket mods mandatory
- ✗ Paint quality is terrible - chips and rusts within months
- ✗ 90-day warranty is a joke for a $600+ product
- ✗ Constant attention required - true offset learning curve
What Reddit Says
"Day one with the Highland: smoked leaked from every seam, door, and hinge. Spent $40 on gaskets and RTV sealant. Day two: pulled off the best brisket of my life. This thing is a project, not a product."
"The 90 day warranty tells you everything you need to know about how much OK Joe's stands behind this thing. The paint started peeling after 3 months. Budget for a can of high-temp paint."
"If you want easy, buy a pellet grill. If you want to actually learn to smoke meat and earn your brisket, the Highland RF is the cheapest way in. Just know what you're signing up for."
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Oklahoma Joe's Highland need modifications?
Oklahoma Joe's Highland vs Highland DLX - what's different?
What's the best starter offset smoker?
PatioRank Score: 64/100
Oklahoma Joe's Highland Reverse Flow Smoker - $629
as of 04/08/2026 (Details)
Related Products
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch
The charcoal grill every other grill gets compared to. Wirecutter top pick since 2017.
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch
The smoker that made backyard smoking accessible. Rock-solid temp control for 12+ hours.
Weber Spirit E-310 Gas Grill
The gas grill critics keep picking. CNET best overall, Serious Eats number one.