When seeking that quintessential smoky char and robust flavor profile, no cooking vessel captures the essence of true barbecue quite like a barrel grill. The unique design of these units, often crafted from repurposed steel drums, facilitates exceptional heat retention and airflow, crucial for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat searing. The best barrel grill is more than just an outdoor cooking apparatus; it’s a statement piece that promises culinary adventures.
The best barrel grill is more than just an outdoor cooking apparatus; it’s a statement piece that promises culinary adventures. We’ve meticulously reviewed and ranked the top barrel grill models, evaluating their construction, capacity, temperature control, and overall performance. From compact home units to larger, more professional-grade barrel grills, understanding the nuances of each is key to elevating your grilling game.
Prepare to explore the innovative features and classic techniques that make these grills a favorite among pitmasters and backyard enthusiasts alike. Which of these top-tier barrel grills will ignite your passion for the perfect cook?
Find Your Perfect Barrel Grill!
1. Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Wood-Painted Side
Elevate your backyard barbecues with the Royal Gourmet CC1830V, a robust 30-inch barrel charcoal grill designed for serious grilling enthusiasts. Offering ample cooking space and precise heat control, this grill delivers perfectly smoked meats and delicious grilled favorites, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking the best barrel grill experience.
This versatile barrel charcoal grill boasts 443 sq. in.
of primary cooking space and a 184 sq. in. warming rack, ideal for entertaining.
Master your smokehouse techniques with intuitive controls, including an adjustable fire grate and a lid-mounted thermometer for perfect temperature management. The easy-dump ash pan simplifies cleanup after every cookout.
Pros
- Generous cooking surface: With 443 square inches of main grilling area and an additional 184 square inches warming rack, you can easily accommodate large cuts of meat and multiple dishes for your entire family or party guests.
- Precise heat and smoke control: The adjustable fire grate allows you to manage the distance between coals and food, while the lid-mounted temperature gauge and side air vent ensure optimal heat distribution and smoke flavor for perfect smoking and grilling.
- Effortless cleaning: The integrated easy-dump ash pan makes disposing of charcoal remnants quick and mess-free, saving you valuable time after your grilling sessions.
- Convenient workspace: The thoughtfully designed front and side tables provide ample space for prep work, platters, and tools, enhancing your overall grilling convenience and efficiency.
Cons
- Assembly may require time and attention, as is common with larger grilling appliances.
For those in search of the best barrel grill, the Royal Gourmet CC1830V offers a compelling combination of capacity, control, and convenience. Its sturdy construction and user-friendly features make it an excellent investment for creating memorable outdoor dining experiences.
This charcoal grill is perfect for weekend feasts and mastering the art of low-and-slow smoking.
2. Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming
Elevate your backyard gatherings with the Royal Gourmet CC1830 Barrel Charcoal Grill, a robust and versatile centerpiece designed for the serious griller. Experience the authentic smoky flavor and precise temperature control that only a charcoal barrel grill can deliver, making every barbecue a memorable occasion for family and friends.
This 28-inch barrel grill boasts an expansive 626 square inches of total cooking space, featuring 475 square inches of primary grilling area and a 151 square inch warming rack. Effortlessly manage heat with its adjustable air vent and lid-mounted thermometer, ensuring perfect results for everything from delicate fish to slow-cooked ribs.
The portable design with heavy-duty wheels adds convenience to your outdoor culinary adventures.
Pros
- Generous Cooking Capacity: The substantial 626 sq. in. cooking surface, including a dedicated warming rack, effortlessly accommodates large cuts of meat and multiple dishes simultaneously, ideal for hosting larger groups and family reunions.
- Precise Heat Management: Achieve grilling mastery with two key features: a closable side air vent for controlling oxygen flow and a smoke stack for fine-tuning heat. The adjustable 2-level charcoal pan further enhances your control over cooking temperatures by altering the distance between coals and food.
- Convenient Features for a Smooth Experience: A built-in lid thermometer provides real-time temperature monitoring, while the integrated side shelf with tool hooks keeps your essential grilling accessories and spices organized and within easy reach.
- Durable and Portable Design: Constructed with robust materials, this backyard essential is built to last. Two heavy-duty wheels ensure easy transport around your patio or yard, offering flexibility in where you choose to grill.
Cons
- Assembly may require some effort and additional tools, and the ash catcher, while removable, could be larger for extended cooking sessions.
For those seeking an authentic charcoal grilling experience with ample space and user-friendly controls, the Royal Gourmet CC1830 stands out as a compelling choice. Its thoughtful design, from the adjustable charcoal pan to the convenient side shelf, makes it a practical and enjoyable addition to any outdoor kitchen setup, promising delicious results for all your grilling endeavors.
3. Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker |
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker. This versatile grill is perfect for backyard gatherings and camping trips, offering a complete charcoal grilling and smoking solution.
Achieve authentic smoky flavors with the integrated offset smoker, while the spacious primary grill area provides ample room for all your barbecue favorites. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make charcoal grilling and slow smoking accessible and enjoyable.
Pros
- Expansive Cooking Surface: Boasts a total of 823 square inches of cooking space across the main grill, warming rack, and offset smoker, perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Authentic Smokehouse Flavor: The dedicated offset smoker, attached directly to the main barrel grill, allows for precise control over smoke circulation and heat, delivering that desirable slow-smoked taste.
- Adjustable Heat Control: A two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan provides excellent command over cooking temperatures, letting you fine-tune the heat by adjusting the distance between fuel and food.
- Integrated Temperature Monitoring: The built-in lid thermometer offers clear visibility of the internal temperature, ensuring consistent results and preventing over or undercooking.
- Convenient Workspace and Storage: Features ample front and side tables for prep and tool organization, plus a bottom shelf for extra storage of charcoal bags or accessories.
Cons
- The bottom shelf has a weight limit of 20 lbs when accessories are evenly distributed, requiring mindful organization of larger items.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S stands out as a premier charcoal grill option, combining robust functionality with user-friendly features. Whether you’re searing steaks or low-and-slow smoking ribs, this barrel-style grill delivers exceptional performance and flavor, making it a top contender for the best charcoal grill and smoker combination for dedicated outdoor chefs.
4. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Outdoor
Elevate your backyard barbecues with the Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill. This robust outdoor cooking station is engineered for enthusiasts seeking authentic smoked flavors and ample grilling space, making it the ideal centerpiece for any gathering.
Designed for serious cooks, this grill boasts exceptional cooking capacity with 668 sq. in.
The integrated offset smoker attachment provides an additional 272 sq. in.
for low-and-slow smoking or can be used as extra grilling real estate, ensuring you can prepare a full feast with ease. Crafted from heavy-gauge porcelain-enameled steel wire, the grates offer durability and even heat distribution for perfect searing and smoking. Cleanup is simplified thanks to the removable grease cup and accessible charcoal pan.
Cleanup is simplified thanks to the removable grease cup and accessible charcoal pan.
Pros
- Generous Cooking Area: Offers a combined 940 sq. in. of primary grilling and smoking space, perfect for large parties and events, significantly exceeding typical barrel grill capacities.
- Versatile Offset Smoker: The attached offset smoker provides authentic smokehouse flavor and can be used for dedicated smoking or as supplementary grilling space for side dishes, enhancing the grilling experience of this charcoal cooker.
- Precise Heat Management: Features a 3-level height-adjustable charcoal pan, allowing for fine-tuned temperature control and efficient fuel usage, crucial for mastering different grilling techniques on this outdoor BBQ grill.
- Convenient Charcoal Access: The side charcoal door on the smoker allows for easy replenishment of coals without disturbing your main cooking surface, ensuring uninterrupted cooking for extended periods.
- Hassle-Free Maintenance: A removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan simplify the cleanup process after grilling, saving you valuable time and effort.
Cons
- While the offset smoker offers versatility, its combined 272 sq. in. might still be limited for very large smoking projects compared to dedicated, larger smokers, making it best suited for supplementary smoking or smaller batches.
The Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill is an outstanding choice for those who value authentic charcoal flavor, substantial cooking capacity, and versatile cooking options. Its robust construction and thoughtful features, including the adjustable charcoal pan and integrated offset smoker, position it as a top contender among barrel grills for outdoor enthusiasts and home chefs looking to host memorable cookouts. For anyone seeking a reliable and spacious charcoal grilling solution, this model offers exceptional value.
For anyone seeking a reliable and spacious charcoal grilling solution, this model offers exceptional value.
5. Traeger Grills Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker,
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with the Traeger Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker. This bronze masterpiece redefines flavorful grilling, offering an effortless way to achieve authentic wood-fired taste without the hassle of gas or charcoal.
Experience the superior flavor of wood-fired cooking with this robust pellet grill, featuring a generous 884 sq. in. of cooking space.
Its powerful steel construction and durable powder coat finish ensure longevity, while the Advanced Grilling Logic in the Digital Pro Controller maintains precise temperatures for perfect results every time. Enjoy grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQing with ease.
Pros
- Authentic Wood-Fired Flavor: Move beyond conventional grilling by embracing the rich, smoky taste that only wood pellets can deliver, making every meal memorable.
- Exceptional Cooking Versatility: Effortlessly switch between grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQing with the 6-in-1 functionality, catering to any culinary creation.
- Precision Temperature Control: The Digital Pro Controller with Advanced Grilling Logic ensures a consistent cooking environment, holding temperatures within +/- 15°F for reliable, precision grilling up to 450°F.
- Ample Cooking Capacity: With 884 sq. in. of space, it easily accommodates large gatherings, fitting up to 8 chickens, 7 racks of ribs, or 40 burgers, perfect for parties and family meals.
- Durable & Easy Maintenance: Built with sturdy steel, a powder coat finish, and easy-to-clean porcelain grill grates, this grill is designed for longevity and straightforward upkeep, complemented by convenient all-terrain wheels.
Cons
- Pellet Consumption: Like all pellet grills, it requires a continuous supply of wood pellets, which can be an ongoing cost to consider compared to propane or charcoal.
The Traeger Pro 34 is an exceptional choice for barbecue enthusiasts seeking the best barrel grill experience with unparalleled flavor and convenience. Its robust construction, advanced temperature management, and ample cooking surface make it an ideal companion for anyone looking to master the art of wood-fired cooking and smokehouse quality meals at home.
6. Barrel Smoker Grill Combo | 100% 304 Stainless Steel Barrel
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with the SMOKED GRILLERS Barrel Smoker Grill Combo. This premium 304 stainless steel smoker offers unparalleled ease of use, exceptional flavor infusion, and a compact design perfect for any backyard or balcony.
Discover the art of authentic smoking with a grill that’s built to last.
Crafted from 100% 304 stainless steel, this barrel smoker ensures durability and resistance to the elements. Its innovative design minimizes smoke production by preventing grease from igniting, delivering deliciously tender meats with a rich, smoky aroma. The included accessories and straightforward setup mean you can start grilling and smoking like a pro right out of the box.
The included accessories and straightforward setup mean you can start grilling and smoking like a pro right out of the box.
Pros
- Effortless Operation & Cleanup: Features a simple setup design with optional foil lining for quick ash removal and easy cleanup. The optional addition of sand or beer with spices in the base can further enhance the flavor profile of your smoked meats.
- Precision Flipping with Double-Sided Hooks: The innovative double-sided hooks allow for secure and precise flipping of meats within the smoker barrel, preventing accidental drops and ensuring even cooking without direct contact or risk of burns.
- Complete All-Inclusive Package: Arrives as a full combo, requiring no additional purchases. It includes 15 double-sided hooks, a top grill, charcoal burner, ash catcher, gaff for hook removal, a built-in thermometer, hamburger tower, chicken holder, sausage tower, grate lift, and a bonus bear claw meat shredder.
- Ideal for Compact Spaces with Minimal Smoke: Produces 95% less smoke than traditional grills, making it an excellent choice for apartment balconies, urban backyards, and any outdoor gathering where smoke management is a concern, while still imparting authentic smoky flavor.
- Superior 304 Stainless Steel Construction & Warranty: Constructed from heavy-duty, high-quality 304 stainless steel for exceptional longevity, corrosion resistance, and reliable performance. Backed by a 3-year warranty and dedicated customer support for complete peace of mind.
Cons
- While the design prioritizes minimal smoke, some users might require additional practice to fully master temperature control for specific types of foods or desired smoke levels, though the included thermometer is a valuable guide.
This versatile barrel smoker grill combo is your ultimate solution for creating mouthwatering smoked dishes with remarkable ease. Perfect for beginners and experienced grill masters alike, it brings authentic BBQ flavor to any occasion, whether you’re smoking ribs, chickens, or sausages.
7. Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco 18 in. Heavy Duty Charcoal Drum Smoker
Experience award-winning, authentic BBQ performance with the Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Drum Smoker. Celebrated for its competition-worthy results, this versatile cooker effortlessly transitions between low-and-slow smoking and high-heat grilling, making it an essential addition to any backyard barbecue setup.
This heavy-duty charcoal drum smoker boasts true smoker-to-grill versatility, allowing for seamless cooking method changes. Its industry-leading fuel door ensures no-interruption charcoal or wood additions, crucial for maintaining consistent heat and smoke during extended cooking sessions. Built with quality steel, it offers all-day heat retention for reliable temperature control, ideal for mastering any smoked meat or grilled delicacy.
Pros
- Achieve competition-grade barbecue with an award-winning design, perfect for serious pitmasters seeking authentic smoke flavor and tender results from their charcoal smoker.
- Enjoy unparalleled cooking flexibility with its true smoker-to-grill capability, complemented by an included rib hanging kit, maximizing your vertical cooking space for brisket, ribs, and more.
- Effortlessly add fuel without disrupting your cook, thanks to the innovative horizontal fuel door, a significant advantage for long smoking sessions on this premium outdoor grill.
- Benefit from superior heat and smoke management due to robust steel construction and premium sealing, ensuring consistent temperatures for extended low-and-slow barbecue experiences.
- Maximize your cooking capacity with adaptable grilling space and extensive hanging options, allowing for significantly more food than standard vertical smoker grills.
Cons
- While compact, the 284 sq in primary cooking area might be limiting for very large gatherings or when smoking multiple large cuts simultaneously without utilizing the hanging features.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco 18 in. Heavy Duty Charcoal Drum Smoker is the ultimate tool for barbecue enthusiasts craving authentic flavor and professional results.
8. Royal Gourmet CC1830T 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack
Elevate your backyard barbecues with the Royal Gourmet CC1830T 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill, designed for grill masters and casual cooks alike. This robust charcoal griller offers ample space and intelligent features for an unparalleled outdoor cooking experience, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking the best barrel grill.
Experience superior grilling with the CC1830T’s generous 443 sq. inch main cooking surface, capable of searing up to 23 burgers.
inch warming rack ensures your food stays perfectly heated. The adjustable charcoal pan allows for precise temperature control, crucial for achieving perfect smoky flavors and tender results from your favorite charcoal.
Pros
- Exceptional Cooking Capacity: Accommodates large gatherings with its expansive 443 sq. inch porcelain-enameled steel wire grates and an additional 184 sq. inch warming rack, perfect for party-sized meals.
- Intelligent Storage Solutions: Features a convenient front basket for seasonings, integrated hooks for grilling tools, ample side tables for prep work, and a bottom shelf for charcoal, keeping everything you need within easy reach.
- Precise Heat Management: The adjustable charcoal pan lifting handle allows for effortless distance adjustment between coals and food, effectively regulating cooking temperature and optimizing fuel usage for consistent grilling outcomes.
- User-Friendly Design: Includes thoughtful accessories like a built-in bottle opener for refreshment and a removable grease cup holder, simplifying cleanup and enhancing the overall grilling convenience.
- Customizable Airflow: Integrated air dampers and a smoke stack offer granular control over heat and smoke, empowering you to fine-tune the internal temperature for optimal barbecuing and smoking.
Cons
- As with many charcoal grills, extended assembly time might be a consideration for some users.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830T is more than just a grill; it’s a complete outdoor cooking station. Its thoughtful design and robust construction make it an ideal investment for those who appreciate the authentic taste of charcoal-grilled food and are looking for a reliable, feature-rich addition to their patio or backyard.
9. Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill with 218 sq. in.
Experience authentic barbecue flavor anywhere with the Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill. This compact, tabletop grill delivers powerful performance and robust durability, making it the ideal companion for tailgates, camping trips, or simply enjoying delicious charcoal-grilled meals in your backyard.
Crafted with heavy-duty steel, this portable charcoal cooker boasts 218 square inches of cooking surface, easily accommodating up to 6 burgers or 12 bratwursts. Its adjustable charcoal tray allows precise heat control for everything from searing steaks to slow-and-low smoking, while thick cast iron grates ensure excellent heat retention and those coveted grill marks.
Pros
- Authentic Charcoal Flavor On-the-Go: Enjoy the distinctive taste of real charcoal grilling with a portable design perfect for outdoor adventures and small gatherings.
- Precise Heat Management: The adjustable, height-controlled charcoal tray offers unparalleled control over your cooking temperature, enabling versatile grilling techniques from high-heat searing to gentle indirect cooking.
- Durable, Compact Construction: Built with rugged, heavy-duty steel for lasting reliability, its manageable size makes it easy to transport without compromising cooking capacity.
- Superior Grilling Surface: Thick cast iron grates are designed to hold heat exceptionally well, delivering consistent cooking temperatures and impressive sear marks for perfectly grilled food.
- Convenient Features: Includes a lid-mounted temperature gauge with glow-in-the-dark accents for at-a-glance monitoring, a cool-touch handle for safe operation, and a removable ash pan for effortless cleanup.
Cons
- While durable, the primary material is steel, which may require regular maintenance to prevent rust if exposed to harsh weather conditions consistently.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, portable grilling solution. It’s the best barrel grill for those who prioritize genuine charcoal taste and robust build, offering a fantastic balance of performance, portability, and user-friendly features for delicious meals wherever inspiration strikes.
10. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black – Outdoor
Unlock your inner pitmaster with the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. This iconic 22-inch black kettle offers unparalleled versatility for smoking, searing, and grilling, making it the ultimate outdoor cooking companion for any backyard enthusiast. Experience the authentic flavor and superior performance that has made Weber a legendary name in charcoal grilling.
Crafted for durability and exceptional heat retention, the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl ensure your food cooks perfectly every time while resisting rust and peeling. With a generous cooking area capable of holding up to 13 burgers, this premium charcoal grill is designed for both casual cookouts and elaborate gatherings.
The integrated lid thermometer provides real-time temperature monitoring for precise control, taking the guesswork out of achieving smoky, delicious results. This is more than just a grill; it’s an investment in countless memorable meals and outdoor entertaining experiences.
Pros
- Effortless Ash Management: The innovative One-Touch™ Cleaning System, featuring a deep aluminized ash catcher, makes cleaning up after grilling quick and simple, allowing for less frequent ash removal.
- Built to Last & Supreme Heat Control: The robust porcelain-enameled lid and bowl provide superior heat retention and are built to withstand high temperatures without peeling or rusting, ensuring longevity and consistent cooking.
- Enhanced User Experience: Glass-reinforced nylon handles offer a comfortable and secure grip, while the built-in lid thermometer offers precise temperature monitoring for perfect results.
- Superior Airflow Regulation: Rust-resistant aluminum dampers allow for easy and precise control of cooking temperature by managing airflow, crucial for achieving desired doneness.
- Convenient Features for Seamless Grilling: An angled lid hook keeps the lid conveniently out of the way while cooking, and all-weather wheels ensure effortless mobility.
Cons
- As with most charcoal grills, it requires a learning curve to master temperature control for novice users compared to gas counterparts.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking an authentic charcoal grilling experience. Its thoughtful design, durable construction, and user-friendly features make it a top contender for the best charcoal grill, ideal for backyard barbecues, smoking enthusiasts, and those who appreciate classic outdoor cooking flavor.
Choosing Your Best Barrel Grill
Barrel grill size and capacity
The cooking area’s dimensions fundamentally determine the volume of food you can prepare, directly influencing your grilling experience.
Consider how many people you typically feed. For intimate dinners or solo endeavors, a more compact surface adequate for a few burgers or steaks suffices. However, if you frequently entertain larger groups or host backyard barbecues, maximizing your grilling space becomes paramount.
However, if you frequently entertain larger groups or host backyard barbecues, maximizing your grilling space becomes paramount. You’ll want a model capable of handling multiple racks of ribs, larger cuts of meat, or a diverse spread of appetizers simultaneously. Think about the flow of your cooking process – ample room prevents overcrowding, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing flare-ups, which ultimately translates to better-tasting food.
Beyond serving capacity, the physical footprint of the grill itself is a practical consideration for your outdoor living area. Measure your patio or deck space to ensure your chosen unit will fit comfortably without obstructing pathways or creating a crowded feel. Some models offer expandable cooking surfaces or additional shelving for prep work, further enhancing their utility for various entertaining scenarios.
Ultimately, matching the grill’s cooking area to your lifestyle and available space ensures both culinary success and a harmonious outdoor environment.
Construction materials and durability
The backbone of any enduring outdoor cooking appliance lies in its material composition and how well it’s built to withstand the elements.
Temperature control and heat distribution
Mastering your culinary creations hinges on achieving and maintaining precise cooking temperatures.
The ability to reliably manage heat directly influences the outcome of your grilled foods, from succulent pulled pork to perfectly seared steaks. Inconsistent temperatures can lead to undercooked interiors or burnt exteriors, frustrating both novice and experienced pitmasters.
Look for models that offer intuitive airflow adjustments, often through adjustable vents or dampers, allowing for effortless fine-tuning of the fire’s intensity. This control is paramount for achieving that desirable, even heat spreading across the cooking grate, which is essential for uniform searing and preventing hot spots that can ruin delicate cuts. The right unit will make it simple to pivot from a high-heat sear to a low-and-slow smoke, ensuring your food cooks to perfection every time.
Quick Best Barrel Grill Buying Checklist
- Fuel Type: Decide between charcoal or gas for your grilling style.
- Cooking Surface Area: Ensure enough space for your typical grilling needs.
- Temperature Control: Look for models offering precise heat management.
- Durability: Check materials for rust resistance and long-term use.
- Easy Cleaning: Consider features that simplify maintenance.
- Portability: If you move it often, check for wheels and handles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Advantage Of A Barrel Grill?
Barrel grills offer excellent heat retention and even cooking due to their shape, making them great for smoking and slow-cooking.
Are Barrel Grills Difficult To Assemble?
Assembly difficulty varies by model, but most come with clear instructions. Some setup is usually required.
Can Barrel Grills Be Used For Smoking?
Yes, many barrel grills are designed to double as smokers, providing moist and flavorful results.
How Do I Clean A Barrel Grill?
Typically, you’ll scrape grates, remove ash, and clean the exterior. Some models have removable ash catchers for ease.
What Fuel Source Is Best For A Barrel Grill?
Charcoal is traditional and offers great flavor, while gas provides convenience and easier temperature control.
Final Words
Investing in the best barrel grill opens up a world of delicious possibilities, from perfectly seared steaks to slow-smoked delights. Their robust construction and excellent heat control make them a versatile centerpiece for any outdoor chef. Elevate your backyard cooking and explore new culinary horizons with a quality barrel grill.
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