Pretty much, and smaller and lighter than the usual 55 gallon UDS. I looked into trying to build one myself, and in the end it was just easier to spend a little but more and buy the PBC.
We obviously have different check books, because that is more than spending a little to me!
![Wink ;)](http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/forum/Smileys/default/wink.gif)
One of the local maple syrup producers has SS 50 gallon barrels which he will sell a few of each year for $75, I have been considering making a smoker out of one, probably could do it for under $100 after adding the necessary grates/racks, cutting a hole or two, etc.
Thanks for the review of the Akron, Mike, those have been on my radar for a couple years and I've been considering purchasing one. I collect grills/smokers like other people collect baseball cards.