GOSM Model Confusion - Help!

[wdwms]

Greetings,
I'm not new to smoking, but I am new to this forum and the GOSM models. I've been smoking on a Weber Gold C for awhile. Sure its not the right way to do it, but I did get some very good results. Regardless, it is now time to upgrade to something a bit more suited to take on more meat. I have a propane line from our 500 gallon tank at the location for the smoker, so it makes sense for me to just use propane.

I narrowed it down to some GOSM units, however I'm confused w/the models. I called CFM and the rep was of no help what-so-ever. He couldn't produce any information showing me the differences. Now here is the kicker, I've got $160 in amazon.com gift certificates, so if I can, i'll order from there...Or i could do Wally World.. Here is what I have found:

Amazon.com
3605GD - $225
3405GT - $159.99
3005G - $129.99
3605BGD - $189.99

Wally World
3405BGW - $145.91
3405GW - $99.96

I want to be able to do a few racks of ribs at time, and possibly 2-3 chickens. From what I can tell (from downloading user manuals) the 3606BGD is proably a bit too big for my needs, so I take that one out. The 3005G seems too small? and the 3605GD seems overpriced. So that leaves 3...

The 3405GW and 3405GT seem to be almost identical, only differing in push/rotate ignitor?

Size wise though, which makes the most sense - because of the Amazon GCs, i'm leaning towards the 3405GT, however is the 3405BGW a bit wider so i could do full racks of ribs?

Any info would help greatly. CFM seems to love to hide any information helping you purchase these products!

Thanks!
Todd

 

[jbee-smokin]

My 2 cents would be to purchase the 3605BGD - $189.99, but There has been many complaints from customers who purchased theirs through Amazon. There has been many complaints regarding damages to the units when the customers received the packages. As for the WMart unit some have said they are totally satisfied with the smokers, while others have complained that the units are built with thinner gauge metal. I purchased mine from Bass Pro for $189.00, and was able to buy it at the store in N. Carolina.
JB

 

[richoso1]

I'm with JBee-Smokin, and the reason some units arrive damaged is because of the way they pack them at the factory, not so much in shipping. They also cram the heck out of the parts just to get them to fit in the cabinet. I bought one from Home Depot for $189, and luckily there was no damage to the cabinet, just one broken rack track which was replaced ASAP. Better to have more smokin' room than not enough. Next...

 

[wdwms]

Thanks for the responses guys... I was leaning towards the 3405BGW at WallyWorld. I'd like something a bit more portable to move from the ground up to my deck now and then. I think this one may be the best middle of the road option.. oh decisions decisions.. if amazon sold that one i'd be all set!

 

[av8tor]

I donâ€[emoji]8482[/emoji]t know how they were packed in the past but I just picked up a new GOSM Big Block (3605BGD) from a BassPro Shop in Cincinnati. My name was on a waiting list and they just came in. The packing was not bad, maybe they improved it. All of the internal components were in separate boxes and really nothing loose to flop around.

 

[billyq]

If you can afford it, get the biggest model they have. You'll thank yourself in the future. I've found that a regular old dolly really helps to move my GOSM around.

 

[rw willy]

I bought this last month and am very pleased. I agree w/ Av8tor, the packing was suitable and no damage. I have a freind with a 3605BGD and the differences I see are the two lower vents, the 4th rack, larger smoke box and water pan(on the Big Block). I have moded mine w/ the coffee can and have yet to run out of water.
I would buy my version again. Save the $50 and buy smokable foods with it.
The choice is yours.

 

[red stick bbq]

wdwsm,

If you can afford it, I would advise to stay away from the Wally World models. They're cheaper for a reason. Smaller wood box, no grease pan, no grease deflectors. I have the wide body version from Walmart and it cooks just fine, but the cheaper components make it less than desirable.

If I were to get one again, I'd go for the 3605BGD. It's a nice unit that will hole a full length rib rack or a packer brisket.

 

[monty]

I also have the Big Block GOSM and I am not sorry I went for it. Got mine on a Father's Day Special a few years ago at Home Depot and it was shipped for free arriving in totally pristine condition!

ANother vote for the 3605BGD!

Cheers!