Contender Series Reverse Flow Performance

The 30″ Contender Series Reverse Flow Smoker – Pitmaster Approved is built for cooks who expect consistent heat, dependable performance, and the ability to produce competition‑quality barbecue every single time. The Contender is engineered from true ¼” thick steel, giving it exceptional heat retention and stability during long cooks. This heavy‑duty construction ensures the smoker maintains steady temperatures even in cold weather, wind, or extended overnight sessions. The reverse‑flow design channels heat and smoke evenly across the entire chamber, eliminating hot spots and creating the balanced cooking environment that serious pitmasters rely on.

Contender Cooking Capacity & Layout

With 950 square inches of total cooking space, the Contender offers the versatility needed for briskets, ribs, pork shoulders, whole chickens, and multi‑meat cooks. The two oversized cooking racks—25″ × 17″ and 25″ × 21″—provide flexible layout options whether you’re preparing a single centerpiece cut or loading the smoker for a full weekend cook. This generous capacity makes the Contender ideal for backyard pitmasters, competition teams, and small‑batch catering operations that demand reliable performance and consistent results.

Contender Airflow & Temperature Control

The Contender’s reverse‑flow system is designed to deliver predictable heat distribution, ensuring your food cooks evenly from edge to edge. Adjustable intake and exhaust dampers allow precise airflow control, giving you the ability to fine‑tune your fire and maintain exact temperatures throughout the cook. The integrated probe port allows thermometer wires to pass through without opening the lid, helping you monitor multiple zones or track internal temperatures without losing heat. For pitmasters who prefer automation, the Contender is fully compatible with CyberQ and other pit controllers, allowing you to maintain rock‑steady temperatures with minimal fire management.

Contender Build Quality & Durability

Every Contender is finished with a high‑temperature powder coat that protects the steel from the elements and maintains a clean, professional appearance. The removable drip pan simplifies cleanup and helps keep the cooking chamber organized, especially during long cooks or high‑volume sessions. The heavy‑duty construction ensures this smoker will perform season after season, making it a long‑term investment for anyone serious about barbecue. From the welds to the fit‑and‑finish, every detail of the Contender is built with craftsmanship and durability in mind.

Contender Series Craftsmanship & Custom Options

Fat Daddy Smokers are known for quality, reliability, and attention to detail. The Contender Series continues that tradition with a smoker designed to meet the needs of both traditional pitmasters and modern, tech‑driven cooks. If you need custom features, additional accessories, or a different size, we can design a Contender that fits your exact cooking style. Whether you’re looking for upgraded racks, added storage, custom colors, or specialized configurations, we’re ready to build a smoker that matches your vision.

Why Pitmasters Choose the Contender

The Contender Series Reverse Flow Smoker delivers the reliability, heat control, and flavor that define great barbecue. Its combination of heavy‑duty steel, balanced airflow, and thoughtful design features makes it a trusted choice for anyone who values consistency and craftsmanship. From backyard cooks to competition teams, the Contender provides the performance needed to produce incredible results every time you fire it up.

pitmaster approved smoker

30″ Contender Series Reverse Flow Smoker–Pitmaster Approved

Built in Wisconsin for serious outdoor cooking.