Getting a new smoker, have some questions.

[1chaos52]

I currently have an ECB that has served me well for a while, but am looking at getting a propane smoker since they seem to be a bit easier to maintain temps in than charcoal.

I am looking at the different models of the GOSM and have done a lot of reading on both on this forum, but am having trouble making up my mind which one to get.

My first choice is the big block. I can order this from Home Depot and have it delivered for a bit over $200 but have a nice gift card to use if this is the path I choose to take. My thoughts on it are that it may actually be more than I need. I usually am cooking for only two, but occasionally more, so don't know if I need all that room.

I also have seen the one from Wally World for about 130, the "wide body". I have heard reports that this one has a little bit harder time maintaining lower temps since it does not have the vents on the sides.

The smoker would be used often, but again not usually for bigger affairs. Of course having the big block may inspire me to have more friends over.

Anyway, just looking for suggestions and any information you guys can give me to point me in the right direction. Currently my ECB is out of commission since it is in my shed and there is too much snow on the ground for me to get to the shed and/or open the doors.

 

[fatback joe]

I have never heard anyone say that they wished they had a smaller smoker.

 

[ajthepoolman]

Use the ECB if you need a smaller smoke. Get the big one!

 

[squeezy]

I have the CCSV 24" for big smokes and I have my ECB converted to LP using a burner conversion I bought at www.gassmoker.com

 

[smokeys my pet]

Here are a couple mods you can do for @ 10-20 bucks on your own to the GOSM at walmart that willl help you maitain lower temp. I put a vent on each side and the pitcock valve from the rugulator to allow less gas to temp controller on myself. Worls Great!!!!! Hope this helps!!!!!!!!!

 

[raypeel]

I would go with the bigger. 9 out to 10 times I wish I had more room.

 

[1chaos52]

Those mods don't look too difficult, but think I am going to end up with the big block. I have to agree that it is better to have more room just in case than to run out of room.

Also, is there any good (and not terribly expensive) way of putting a smoker on a wooden deck. Just more convenient.

 

[kookie]

Bigger is always better. As for putting smoker on deck, if your worried about the heat on the wood. You could set the smoker on top of so paver squares. Like the ones you can use to make sidewalks out of. Just a thought.

Kookie

 

[cman95]

I agree with above comments. You can never have enough grill space.

 

[dmger14]

I got the smoky mountain outdoor series propane version at BassPro. I think they are on sale now. Vents on both sides and top (big and medium versions, small doesn't have so many vents), and comes recommended by people in a hunting forum I frequent.

I just seasoned mine and so far so good.

 

[richtee]

Go get a couple of the cement tile backer boards at the Depot. I think they are 4'X2', get the quarter inch thick. Run a screw down thru them into the deck in the corners. Fire and greaseproof.