How can I make a barbeque grill with one 55 gal steel drum?

Question

where can i get a metal grate or something for the cooking surface?

Answer 1

With the barrel standing up you split it down the middle in two half's.  Then put hinges between the two half's so you can open and close the two half's.  Add a handle on the opposite side from hinges.  Add legs and a grill and you are in busness.  I prefer gas it doesn't smell and stink up the meat from lighter flued and smoke making it all tasted burnt.

Answer 2

cut it in half top to bottom, drill a few holes in the section you want to cook over a few inches down from the cut you made and two more holes near the bottom of the cooking side (for vents).  The number of holes you drill near the top may change depending on the type of grilling surface you want to use.  attach a few hinges on the back, a handle on the front and get it on a stand.- done.