Napoleon AS18K 18 inch Apollo 18 Charcoal Water Smoker with 254.5 sq. in. Total Cooking Area, 304 Stainless Steel Cooking Grids and Accu-Probe Temperature Gauge in Black

Apollo® 18 Charcoal Water Smoker

Elevate your smoking game with the Apollo® 18-Inch Charcoal Water Smoker. This unique cooking method allows for low and-slow smoking of meats, making it perfect for juicy, tender brisket, ribs, fish, poultry, and even vegetables. Featuring an insulated lid handle, ACCU-PROBE™ temperature gauge, and adjustable smoke control, it ensures perfect results every time. The durable stainless steel rotisserie ring and hanging bar for fish, and sausages add versatility, while the silicone sealed probe port and large doors with insulated handle offer ease of use. With 304 stainless steel cooking grids, adjustable vents, and locking caster wheels for mobility, the Apollo® delivers seamless cooking and effortless transport.

• 254.5 in² Total Cooking Area on 3 Levels each with 18-in Diameter Main Cooking Area
• PRECISE HEAT CONTROL: 3 adjustable inlet vents allow you to fine-tune your cooking temperature for every smoke
• DURABLE FINISH: Durable black powder coat enamel stands up to any weather
• 304 STAINLESS STEEL COOKING GRIDS: These cooking grates are low maintenance, provide exceptional sear marks, and even heating
• LOCKING WHEELS: This BBQ is easy to move and secure suing the locking caster wheels
• DURABL STAINLESS STEEL ROTISSERIE RING: Ready for seamless motor and spit mounting, so you can rotate meats effortlessly for even cooking. *Rotisserie attachment sold separately
• ACCU-PROBE™ TEMPERATURE GAUGE: Achieve perfect cooking temperatures with reliable and accurate readings every time
• INSULATED LID HANDLE: Built for safety and comfort, ensuring easy and secure handling even in the hottest moments
• ADJUSTABLE SMOKE CONTROL: Fine-tune your smoke flow with precision for the perfect balance of flavour
• LID WITH HORIZONTAL BAR & 5 S-HOOKS: Hang fish, ribs, and sausages for a unique smoking experience with the included S-hooks
• SILICONE SEALED TEMPERATURE PROBE PORTS: Get accurate temperature readings with a secure fit that reduces leaks
• LARGER DOORS & INSULATED HANDLES: Provide easier access to your food with enhanced safety and control
• VERSATILE WITH LARGE COOKING CAPACITY: Includes water pan, charcoal basket, 2 cooking grids, and 5 stainless steel “S” hooks for optimal smoking

• LOCKING TOGGLE LATCHES: Secure each section during cooking or easily detach for simple storage and transport

Why Buy Napoleon AS18K Apollo® 18 Charcoal Water Smoker

• 18-inch charcoal water smoker design: Ideal for authentic low-and-slow BBQ cooking
• 3-tier vertical cooking system: 254.5 in² total cooking space for multiple foods at once
• ACCU-PROBE™ temperature gauge: Provides accurate heat monitoring for consistent results
• Adjustable air vents: Fine-tune airflow for precise temperature and smoke control
• Water pan system: Helps maintain moisture for tender, juicy meats
• 304 stainless steel cooking grates: Durable, easy to clean, and delivers even heat distribution
• Hanging bar with S-hooks: Perfect for smoking fish, ribs, sausages, and more
• Rotisserie-ready ring: Compatible with optional rotisserie setup for added versatility
• Large access doors: Easier handling of food during long smoking sessions
• Insulated handles: Safer and more comfortable operation during high heat cooking
• Silicone-sealed probe ports: Allows accurate temperature readings with reduced smoke leakage
• Adjustable smoke control: Helps fine-tune flavor intensity and smoke flow
• Weather-resistant powder-coated finish: Built for outdoor durability in various conditions
• Locking caster wheels: Easy mobility with secure positioning during use

• Locking toggle latches: Secure assembly and simple breakdown for storage or transport

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Napoleon AS18K?

A: The Napoleon AS18K is the Apollo 18-inch charcoal water smoker, designed for low-and-slow BBQ smoking and charcoal grilling.

Q: Is the AS18K a grill or a smoker?

A: It is primarily a smoker (water smoker), but it can also be used as a charcoal grill. It is best known for smoking meats at low temperatures.

Q: What fuel does the AS18K use?

A: It uses charcoal (briquettes or lump charcoal) as its heat source.

Q: What is it used for?

A: It is used for BBQ smoking and grilling foods like brisket, ribs, pork shoulder, chicken, fish, and vegetables, especially for slow cooking.

Q: What is a water smoker?

A: A water smoker uses a water pan to stabilize temperature and add moisture, helping keep food tender and juicy during long cooking sessions.

Q: How big is the cooking area?

A: It has an 18-inch diameter cooking area with multiple cooking levels (typically 3 tiers), allowing different foods to be cooked at once.

Q: Does it have temperature control?

A: Yes, it includes adjustable air vents and an ACCU-PROBE temperature gauge to help control heat and smoke levels.

Q: Can you move it easily?

A: Yes, it comes with locking caster wheels, making it easier to move and stabilize during use.

Q: Is it good for beginners?

A: Yes, but it has a learning curve. It is better suited for users interested in traditional BBQ smoking techniques rather than quick grilling.

Q: Does it require electricity or gas?

A: No. It is fully manual and charcoal-powered, requiring no electricity or gas connections.

Q: Is it good for everyday grilling?

A: It can grill, but it is optimized for slow smoking rather than fast, high-heat grilling.

Pros and Cons of Napoleon AS18K Apollo® 18 Charcoal Water Smoker

Pros

• Excellent low-and-slow performance: Designed specifically for consistent smoking of brisket, ribs, poultry, fish, and vegetables
• Multi-level cooking capacity: 3-tier vertical design with ~254.5 in² cooking space for batch smoking
• Strong temperature control: ACCU-PROBE™ gauge, adjustable vents, and water pan help stabilize heat and moisture
• Versatile setup: Includes hanging system (S-hooks), rotisserie-ready ring, and multiple cooking grids for different styles
• Durable construction: 304 stainless steel grates and powder-coated steel body for weather resistance
• User-friendly design: Insulated handles, large access doors, and sealed probe ports improve safety and convenience
• Mobility: Locking caster wheels make it easier to move and secure in place
• Even smoke distribution: Adjustable smoke control helps fine-tune flavor intensity

Cons

• Learning curve: Vertical water smokers require practice to master airflow and temperature control
• Not fully portable once assembled: Tall design is less convenient for transport or small storage spaces
• Requires charcoal management: Needs regular refueling and monitoring during long cooks
• No advanced automation: Lacks digital controls or smart features found in pellet smokers
• Assembly time: Multi-section build can take time to set up properly

Conclusion

The Napoleon AS18K is a high-quality entry-to-mid-level charcoal water smoker built for BBQ enthusiasts who want authentic smoky flavor and hands-on control. It stands out for its strong heat stability, versatile cooking options, and durable build, making it ideal for backyard pitmasters focused on traditional smoking techniques. However, it’s less suited for users who prefer set-and-forget convenience or digital automation.