This is actually only the second thing I have done period on this smoker. I have been making jerky for years on the dehydrator, but with my new purchase I am attempting it on the smoker today. Marinated about 4 1/2 lbs in a soy / teriyaki / Worcestershire / cure mix for two nights. just added the dry seasoning today and loaded the smoker. I was only able to fit about 3 lbs on it, so the rest had to go on the dehydrator. I read a couple of people suggesting to not add smoke until after an hour. So i will do that. I have hickory, mesquite, and apple chips. I'm assuming maybe the hickory or mesquite will work best?