My dad and mom use this about 3 times a week sometimes less but they haven't had any issues with it yet. They've had it about a month. They have been out for a year so someone should have reviews that have owned it that long. My parents also use a traeger at the cottage and have so far been very similar. Biggest thing is to read how to use. Open the lid when you get it started. Price is almost unbeatable.
With my lengthy talks with chargriller, they said there is no difference between them one is exclusive for Lowes.
Your right jeep, but high probability for Pellet smokers that don't have advanced algorithms that combine controlling heat, and auger distribution...for example the Chargriller has a heat control, and then a separate switch for setting the augur's pellet distribution, that has a set timing for each setting no mater the temp or if the pellets are even burning (example on for 60 seconds, off for 140 seconds), the PID just controls the speed and of fan and heat produced (and in my experience not very well), with nothing to stop the pit from overflowing like a mountain as in the pictures I posted.
There is almost always good advice in the old adage "you get what you pay for". Now, that's not to say just because you buy a $3,500 Memphis that your food will taste better, but when you're talking quality, longevity, etc., it does make a difference. My grandmother always told me "it's cheaper to go first class" and I have found if you buy a better product the first time and take good care of it, in the end it can actually save you money. Just talk to the guys that own the stuff like Weber, Memphis, Yoder, etc. You don't see a lot of 20-25 year old Brinkmann's hanging around. Not that there is anything wrong with them but people need to make a conscious choice to pay now or pay over time. Just my $.02, everyone has a different approach.
You're right, sometimes there is a cost for a brand but many times that's because the brand stands behind the product or puts some more quality in. It all comes down to personal choice, the major differences, and things to look for, are gauge of steel, quality of steel, controller, customer service, etc. Especially the steel, all stainless is not equal, that's for sure. When I was looking, I usually found differences to justify cost on everything I looked at. Once I found what I thought was the best at my price limit I chose from those few. I have learned the hard way that $400 usually meant I was sacrificing more than a brand logo.
Mine is the 9040 Chef...
