PIT Boss 11086 Smoker Review
Our verdict
The PIT Boss 11086 stands out in the under-$400 pellet smoker category thanks to a 4.3-star average from 130 reviews and over 500 units bought last month, signaling genuine current demand. At 136.6 lb and measuring 26.7 x 47 x 47.2 inches, it is a full-size backyard pellet smoker at a competitive price.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Backyard grillers who want a proven, actively selling pellet smoker from a major brand at around $400
Skip if
You need a compact or portable smoker, or you want premium stainless steel construction rather than alloy steel
- Fuel Pellet
- Material Alloy Steel
- Color Matte Black
- Dimensions 26.7 X 47 X 47.2 In
- Weight 136.6 lb
- Priced 20% above the category median ($329.50 across 122 tracked models)
- Weight of 136.6 lb - heavier than 80% of the 122 models we track
Pros
- Over 500 units bought last month shows strong, real-world current demand
- 4.3 stars from 130 reviews is a solid and reliable satisfaction signal
- Full-size 26.7 x 47 x 47.2 inch footprint handles large cooks for families or small gatherings
- Pit Boss brand support, parts availability, and community resources are well established
- Pellet fuel provides automated, consistent temperature control for low-and-slow cooks
Cons
- Alloy steel construction with paint is less rust-resistant than stainless steel long-term
- 136.6 lb weight means this is a stationary unit; no easy moving once placed
- No cooking area spec is listed, making exact capacity comparisons with other models harder
- Pellet smokers require electricity to run the controller and auger; no power, no smoke
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.3/5
4.3 average across 130 owner ratings
-
Popularity2.3/5
130 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other grills, grill parts and burners, smokers and smoking gear, grill tools, outdoor griddles, outdoor kitchen appliances and grill covers we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['Among pellet smokers in the $350 to $450 range, the PIT Boss 11086 carries one of the stronger demand signals in this smoker category, with over 500 units purchased last month at the time of listing. That kind of buying activity, paired with 130 reviews at 4.3 stars, tells you real buyers are choosing this model repeatedly.', 'The alloy steel construction and matte black finish are standard for the category. At 26.7 x 47 x 47.2 inches and 136.6 lb, this is a properly sized floor-standing pellet smoker with room for full racks of ribs, chicken, or a large pork shoulder. Pellet fuel means you can set a temperature and let the controller handle the rest.', 'At $397, the PIT Boss 11086 falls right in the sweet spot of the competitive pellet smoker market. Pit Boss has an established dealer and support network, and replacement parts are generally easy to find.']
Specifications
| Fuel | Pellet |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Color | Matte Black |
| Dimensions | 26.7 X 47 X 47.2 In |
| Weight | 136.6 lb |
Performance notes
Fuel type is pellet. The alloy steel body measures 26.7 x 47 x 47.2 inches and weighs 136.6 lb. The matte black finish is standard for outdoor smokers. No BTU, cooking area in square inches, or power wattage specs are listed, though pellet smokers in this class typically draw 300 to 500 watts during startup and 50 to 150 watts during a cook cycle. The strong monthly sales volume relative to the review count suggests consistent buyer activity.
What buyers say
One hundred thirty reviews at 4.3 stars is meaningful positive feedback for a sub-$400 pellet smoker. The combination of a healthy review count and over 500 monthly purchases suggests buyers are not just satisfied after the fact but actively recommending the unit through their purchasing behavior.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the cooking capacity of the PIT Boss 11086?
The cooking area in square inches is not listed in the available specifications for this model. Based on the 26.7 x 47 x 47.2 inch outer dimensions, it falls in the range of a mid-to-large pellet smoker that can typically handle two to three racks of ribs or a full pork shoulder. For precise capacity information, check the Pit Boss product page or owner manual.
Do I need to season a new pellet smoker before cooking?
Yes, running a new pellet smoker through a burn-in or seasoning cycle is a good practice. The process involves running the grill at a high temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, which burns off manufacturing residues and oils on the cooking surfaces. Most Pit Boss manuals outline the specific process for each model. Doing this before your first cook improves flavor and protects the grill grates.
How often do I need to refill the pellet hopper on a long cook?
Pellet consumption depends on the temperature setting and how efficiently the smoker holds heat. At lower smoking temperatures, 180 to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, a mid-size hopper can last 12 to 20 hours. At higher searing temperatures the pellets burn through faster. Checking and topping off the hopper before starting a long overnight or all-day cook is a simple habit that prevents interruptions.