Taking it to the next level... Smoker Graduation.

[monty1269]

I have been smoking on a Brinkman Electric for a couple years now, and I'm starting to feel constrained by it's temperature limitations. I can gain or drop the temp by using different electric cords and making adjustments ...blah, blah, blah... Basically, I think I'm getting bored. I'm definitely annoyed that I cant lay out a decent slab of meat across the dayum thing...

SO.... I'm sure I'm getting ready to start an internal war amongst the group; but here it comes: What is the best smoker type/style?

I've seen the gravity fed..the side boxes.. barrels..reverse flow... water trays... It seems the list goes on and on. 

So...here I am, reading, and reading. Studying smoker designs and trying to understand the reasoning behind the designers decisions; yet couple them with my own limited experiences.

Without building/buying a bunch of different smokers... I'm trying to figure my next investment. I'm not doing any competitions, by any means. But I do enjoy having abunch of people come over for a good afternoon.... Plus it certainly helps when a bunch of guys are talking trash about cars with a cooler full of beer and that beautiful smell of smokey goodness coming. 

I'm sure a bunch of you graduated from your first smoker...second ...or more. haha! ...With the experience you have, what would you shoot for??

I appreciate your input... Thank you for your time.

-Miichael

 

[mdboatbum]

Impossible question to answer. Everyone has different needs, wants and budget concerns. For me, what works at the moment is a mini WSM. In the future, when space and budget allow, I would like to get a Lang 36 stretch patio model. But I'll be keeping the Mini as well.

 

[mummel]

MES 40 BT + AMPS all the way!

 

[jcollins]

Impossible question to answer. Everyone has different needs, wants and budget concerns. For me, what works at the moment is a mini WSM. In the future, when space and budget allow, I would like to get a Lang 36 stretch patio model. But I'll be keeping the Mini as well.

For the short amount of time i have been smoking meat and other things i have gathered that is indeed impossible to answer but ill throw in my 

2 cents...... i personally love the vertical style smokers WSM UDS brinkmann trailmaster and the list can go on. dont get me wrong i have no dislike for any type or style or fuel source, Just my personal favorite  

 

[add2255]

I was in the same boat not to long ago and wanted a smoker I could put meat on and leave it all night and not worry bout it losing temp and hold the same temp all night long and also ease of loading and unloading meat so I bought a back woods party and I absolutely love it