Why Ceramic Stone(s) as the Indirect Piece                                                  

We’ve played around with a number of different items for indirect pieces.   The one item that works best with our pieces is the ceramic stone.   Here are several short reasons why we prefer stones:

• First, the stones are flat or disk shape, so they can be set at varied heights, from in the fire ring to right under the grid.   You just need something to hold the stone which is not a problem with our pieces.
• Second, the stones are round, a perfect shape for a round cooker.   The shape provides 360 degrees of unobstructed air movement around the stone and inner wall of the cooker.   The only piece to obstruct the 360 degrees of open-air is whatever holds the stone in place.   With our set-ups, the crossbars, rods or grids have negligible impact on circulation
• Third, you have options on the diameter size.   Thus, if so inclined, you can match the indirect piece to the size of the cook.
• Fourth, round stones match effectively with round drip pan sizes.

  	Stone	Drip Pan
  	10”	10” - 12”
  	12”	12” - 14”
  	13"	13” - 16”
  	16"	16" - 18"

• Fifth, rectangular drip pans can sit on round stones.   A manageable solution for long cuts of meat, ribs and brisket.   Or, you can opt for a rectangular stone.
• Sixth, with several of our set-ups, the drip pan does not have to sit directly on the stone.   It is possible to have a space between the stone and drip pan.   How much space and where the pieces are situated is your call.

We have one simple rule when considering a stone:  The stone's thickness must be greater than 1/2-inch.   It’s the easiest way we’ve found to separate the good from the not so good.  Plus, we recommend staying clear of the thin, usually pricey, specialty stones.     

We offer cordierite formulated Ceramic Stones with 5/8-inch thickness.   The material and thickness allow the stones to take significant punishment.   However, we do not recommend shocking these stones with big temperature swings.    Let the stone warm up and cool down with the cooker whenever possible.   Our Ceramic Stones are made in the USA.