I've been using the MES 30 with AMNTS for supplemental smoke for about a year now and have had some great food off of it. I am now to the point of where I'd like a new smoker ( non-electric) to take my game to the next level and maybe play around in small local competitions that don't allow electric models. Requirements would be: 1. Not costing a ton. 2. Easy to tend to and turns out amazing grub. 3. Better than an MES. 4. Fairly portable for taking camping or to family gatherings ( can haul in the back of my truck) but would like it to be easy to manipulate.
I will still be keeping the MES for things like cheese, nuts, ABT's and maybe even pork shoulders for pulling and in case I want to cook a ton of stuff in two smokers. Like I said I've been pleased with the results and ease of use with the MES, the only items I'm not completely pleased with is the turn out of ribs and sometimes chicken; which is still good but not great. What are your alls opinions for awesome smokers that meet above requirements in the 250 to 550 buck range?
I will still be keeping the MES for things like cheese, nuts, ABT's and maybe even pork shoulders for pulling and in case I want to cook a ton of stuff in two smokers. Like I said I've been pleased with the results and ease of use with the MES, the only items I'm not completely pleased with is the turn out of ribs and sometimes chicken; which is still good but not great. What are your alls opinions for awesome smokers that meet above requirements in the 250 to 550 buck range?