Yoder Cheyenne i have never used but i have heard all kinds of nice things about and almost bought one myself when i bought my Lang. (i really wanted reverse flow) Yoders are a quality product an if you can get one locally then you are in good shape. Go the extra $95 and get the heat management plate. (you may have to order that) it will make huge difference in keep heat even throughout the smoker. Good choice on an offset!
any other questions about that kind of smoker please ask myself or others who have an offset would be good to answer. by the way i tell everyone there are a few things to consider when getting an offset (things you will need)
1. fire extinguisher-- you really don't need one until YOU REALLY NEED ONE! an ABC rated fire extinguisher on
amazon 20-25 bucks get one.
2. a way to light your smoker..i use a
charcoal chimney with a little bit of charcoal and some small wood, you could go with a propane weed burner or a propane/butane pencil torch or something. whatever you are comfortable with
3. you need a supply of wood and more importantly an affordable wood supplier if you can't cut it yourself--i found my supplier on craigslist (small landscaping business)
4. some fire resistant gloves for tending the fire..if you husband welds hes probably got this covered
5. some heat resistant food gloves...these are black and go to the elbow. its for moving the meat around on the smoker.
6. a cover and/or canopy
7. fire poker set or some way to shovel ash and move the wood around in the firebox
Sounds like a lot but when you start smoking with a stick burner you find that there are things that go into it as well.
its going to be a good Christmas for your Hubby!
Happy Smoking,
phatbac (Aaron)