Hey everyone. I'm brand new to this forum and discovered this thread last night. Thank you all for the insight on the bluetooth 2.5 MES 40. I was on the fence about getting one because I heard such bad reviews on the gen 2, but due to everyones experience with the 2.5 I absolutely am getting one. I'm a beginner when it comes to smoking and I have some questions I hope you guys can answer for me.
My first question is what is the difference between an
AMNPS and an
AMNTS? I know one is a tube and the other a box but are the two interchangeable or do you use one in some type of smokers and one in another? Which do I get for the MES 40 and what size? Also when it comes to the pellets what is the "safest" type to get for a beginner that will still put out a great taste? I've seen some people say some flavors are really strong that is why I'm asking. I saw that Todd sells a couple different packages that include a propane torch. Does anyone have it? Is this easy to use to get the pellets started and keep them started? I know I read a few people having trouble with them going out in the beginning. Also, is the Sams Club version a cheaply built version of what they have at Bass Pro shop? The differences I see are Sams is 4 racks and Bass is 6. It says Bass is stainless steel on the outside and Sams has the black coating on the outside. Sams is over $100 cheaper though. Are there any big reasons not to get the Sams Club one? Also as far as the 6 rack and 4 rack model go are the cooking spaces the same and just less room between racks in the 6 or is the 6 rack actually a bigger smoker and you could cook more food on it?
Finally how much food can the MES 40 hold? Like how many boston butts, racks of ribs, tenderloins, etc. The reason I'm asking is I'm having a big party next month and am inviting about 75 people and I really want to do Boston Butts and Ribs. I don't know if 1 MES 40 would be enough to handle the food for that, or if I would have to get 2 of them. Also, has anyone ever used it as a "hot box" to keep food warm/hot when entertaining or would that be a horrible idea? All your insight, help and advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!