OUR STORY
Cotton Gin Smokers was founded by Matt Messer, a West Texas native who grew up as a pastor's son with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and community. Matt’s journey into the world of barbecue began in 2001, when he built his first smoker in shop class—a project that would unknowingly set the stage for his future. Fast forward two decades, and Matt now owns one of America’s top-selling drum and offset smoker companies. In January 2025, Matt teamed up with his good friend Aaron Norris of Norris Thermal Technologies to launch Live Fire and Smoke, a company that unites three brands under one roof: Cotton Gin Smokers, Tribal Fire Grill, and Game Changer Smoker. All three brands are proudly crafted in Tippecanoe, Indiana, and offer high-quality, innovative grilling products. For more information, visit www.livefireandsmoke.com.
OUR MISSION
At Cotton Gin Smokers, our mission is to make Christ known through the world of barbecue—sharing His love, grace, and goodness one meal at a time. We believe that great barbecue brings people together, creating opportunities for fellowship, community, and faith. Through our craftsmanship, integrity, and passion for excellence, we strive to honor God in everything we do, using the gift of barbecue to serve others and glorify Him.
MADE IN AMERICA
COTTON GIN DIFFERENCE
At Cotton Gin Smokers, every pit is built with purpose and precision. We combine handcrafted quality, proven engineering, and a genuine love for live-fire cooking to create smokers that are reliable, consistent, and made to perform for a lifetime.
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COTTON GIN REVIEWS
BEST DRUM ON THE MARKET!!
From the craftsmanship to paint job and how well its cooks. The Harvester is hands down the best drum on the market. Can’t go wrong with using it in the backyard or on the competition trail. It will not fail you!
Tanner P (Breaking Bread BBQ)
This 500 gallon smoker from cottonginsmokers is definitely the best around. Not only can you cook so much at once but every piece of meat is delicious and outstanding.
Josiah M
I am not a review person, however this one is necessary. At the time I ordered this one, I ordered 2 more from competing companies. The Harvester, by leaps and bounds, is a superior product. The fit, finish and attention to details sets it on another level. Its also a show stopper from passerby's. One last comment....cheaper than the other 2 I purchased.
Jeff Smith
I purchased the cottongin Harvester as my first drum smoker, and 4 years later it hasn't let me down. Beautiful design, and fire management is easy to control! Easy to get to temp and quick recovery time if your temperature goes up or down. Love the door for easy access to your charcoal basket, and water pan if you use one to cook. Since using the Harvester we've landed a bunch of top 10 and top 5 calls in the competition bbq circuit. Do yourself a solid and purchase one as your next smoker. You will not be disappointed!!