For this smoke I used my
Masterbuilt 7-in-1 for the first time as a smoker. I just wanted to throw a couple of opinions out there as to how it compared to using my Char-griller.
Pros:
Easier set up- I didn't have to run foil all over the place to 'plug' holes which I have to do with the Char-griller because the Char-griller is not a dedicated smoker.
Easier to maintain temps- I have always had problems getting the temps maintained in my Char-griller...mainly because I'm not used to charcoal. I also didn't have to babysit the
Masterbuilt as much. Once I got the right combo of fuel and O-2 it babysat itself.
Cons:
Not much smoke-The pan for the wood didn't smoke the wood much since there isn't much room for air to get in and provide a smolder. I got smoke flavor, but not as much as I prefer. I'd have to play around to find out how best to increase the smoke.
Awkward food placement- it was hard to get to the racks to make adjustments to the food during cooking. You have to remove the top to get to the bottom.
Uneven temps- Top rack was 15 degrees warmer than the bottom. I knew this would happen and planned for it so it wasn't a huge deal.
Water pan- Again awkward to fill because of placement.
Overall I would use the
Masterbuilt again for a smoke if I didn't want to hassel w/ the charcoal etc. I just find an odd, masochistic pleasure in sitting and watching the fire burn in the Char-griller. Good stuff all around!
J-
