Both of the UDS's I've built have had (3) 3/4" valves. I've never had a problem getting up to high heat temps. Most of the time two of them are closed all the way. On my current UDS I used gate valves to save cost. All three were the same price as one ball valve. If you go the gate valve route make sure your threaded nipple are long enough to allow the handle to turn. I made this one with adjustable shelves. I can also use the rack system to raise and lower my charcoal basket.
