Smokin’ Guns BBQ

Phil and Linda Hopkins have been competing in barbecue contests as Smokin’ Guns BBQ since 1997. They have competed in nearly 400 contests across 15 states. They also are members of the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) and are certified barbecue judges.

In 1999, Smokin’ Guns took the Grand Champion title at the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue contest. They competed against 41 other championship teams and took 1st in brisket, 2nd in pork, and 5th in ribs. Linda also took 4th place in the dessert category.

In 2000, Phil and Linda launched a line of BBQ rubs. Smokin’ Guns Hot Rub will wow any BBQ fanatic. Perfected during years of competition, it’s great on pork, beef or chicken. It is made in Kansas City.

In 2003, after leaving a 14-year career as a supervisor in a metal fabrication plant, Phil opened Smokin’ Guns BBQ & Catering, a 50-seat restaurant in North Kansas City, Missouri, bringing to the public his world championship barbecue. He feeds hundreds of people a day and caters to local businesses. In 2006, Linda left the corporate world after 25 years as a technical writer and joined Phil full time at the restaurant. Phil & Linda continue to hit the competition circuit on weekends, which frequently results in more awards.