1st timer looking for recommendations

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phishguy

Newbie
Original poster
Jun 8, 2013
14
11
springfield, ma
So I have watched bbq pitmasters enough and sure have eaten enough bbq to try it out myself.  I have been looking at a few different models.  I am looking to keep it sub $200 for a gas vertical smoker.  I had kind of decided on the "master forge" from lowes.  Seems a good value at $179.  I dont mind doing a few mods to make it better.  So lets hear what you have to say!  Thanks for your help and I look forward to making good use of this site.

Jon
 
Well I think I have narrowed it down to either the masterforge 2-door or the masterbuilt xl..  The masterforge is a little less $ and I can get locally.. The masterbuilt I have to order and have shipped.  Is the extra width on the racks really worth it?  Thats really the only feature stopping me from going to get the masterforge today.
 
Hi, I recently purchased the Masterbuilt XL. It was $159 + tax and $18 shipping and had it in 3 business days. The extra width is well worth. There is a ton of cooking space. Heats up great and maintains it's temps. Highly recommend it.
 
Well I think I have narrowed it down to either the masterforge 2-door or the masterbuilt xl..  The masterforge is a little less $ and I can get locally.. The masterbuilt I have to order and have shipped.  Is the extra width on the racks really worth it?  Thats really the only feature stopping me from going to get the masterforge today.
Hi phishguy.

I don't know much about either of the smokers you mention, but with all other variables being equal, you won't be sorry with the extra room if you go with the wider/bigger smoker.  Ask someone who has to cut their rib racks in half to make them fit on the grates because their smoker is too narrow.  I know of many people who lived to regret not going bigger.

That's my 2 cents...Good luck with whichever rig you choose!  Be sure to show it off when you get it cooking...

Red
 
I don't know a lot about these smokers, but from my  experience,  bigger is better.   More meat, better air flow. 
 
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