Hey guys...
I'm considering smoking meat, so I'm completely new to it, though I've done some research and gotten good feedback from this forum to know to move forward. I saw this thread which seemed to be talking exactly my dilemma now, which is:
Gen1 or Gen2? But theres more...
I have an opportunity at getting a used
Masterbuilt 40" Sportman Elite 20073012 on Craigslist. The listing states it's in excellent condition and the photos seems to support that. It's got the 4 racks, remote, probe, windows, etc. Asking $250, but we've settled at $175.
BUT... then I read all these "scare" about the Gen2s. Yet still I heard (at least) one person say there's ways to overcome the issues on the Gen2, but did say what exactly those are nor have I found any topics on that exactly. So I don't know what measures I'd have to take to over come these issues.
From what I can tell (correct me if I'm wrong), it seems like the biggest issue with Gen2s is the air flow having something to do with the side air vents versus the top (as with Gen1). I think other issues seem more related to manufacturing, such as faulty control module and HE failure... and people having to call in for warranty issues.
When I check out this used item, I do plan on seeing it operate to set temperatures and see it it can get up to 275 degrees. I plan on bring an analog temp gauge and put that inside the unit to make sure the digital display is showing the right temp. And if all that pans out... then it seems like I just have to deal with what probably inherently makes the Gen2 inferior to the Gen1 - air flow design?
I also understand that with these electric MES units, you just need to go with AMNS pellets/dust. And after reading all that people said about it, I don't know why I would go with wood chunks (may you can elaborate on the pros/cons of chunks vs AMNS). But if I do plan on using AMNS, is the air flow still a huge issue with the Gen2?
Or am I still missing the big (bad) picture about the Gen2??
The other side of the dilemma is that the Gen1 40" MES 20070311 are available on
Amazon: $309.99 shipped.
Given all this... what's a newbie to do?
- Used 20073012 Gen2 $175
This is already more than I was planning on spending. I'd hate to get into this and find there SO MUCH more I have to do to it to get working properly.
or
- New 20070311 Gen1 $310
Ouch... this may just break the bank. But it is worth $135 more??