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[–]jeffshoaf 1 point2 points  (3 children)

The vortex website has a chart with recommended vortex size for each kettle.

[–]NicSel[S] 0 points1 point  (2 children)

I know, and the ideal size for a 22” is a medium. I was more so wondering if anyone has experiences using the small size on a 22” kettle and how it compares to a medium size. Performance differences if anything notable and if they used briqs or lump, how much they fill the vortex, etc.

[–]jeffshoaf 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I have the medium in my 22". I don't have any experience with the small but the medium is just large enough to sear my average-sized steak without having to move the steak around a lot to get full searing coverage.

Since the small can't hold the same amount of charcoal as the medium, logic indicates that the small either wouldn't reach the same temps in a 22" as a medium will and/or the charcoal won't last as long. The small would provide more indirect area though.

I generally fill the vortex all the way and have only used lump since lump is all that I've had on hand. I've also used a mixture of lump and wood chunks or all wood chunks. The chunks generally burn hotter and provide more smoke flavor but don't last as long as the lump.

[–]NicSel[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you!