I bought this in June and have used it almost even week since then. I was undecided between the 18" and 22" but since using the 18 I've had no problems making 10LB pork butts, ribs (some of the ribs I do need to cut in half if they are super long) and a bunch of other things too. Super efficient with charcoal I can fit a whole bag in it and that'll last an entire 8 hour+ cook at 225 - 250.