What smoker to purchase?

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fatdan

Newbie
Original poster
Nov 10, 2012
4
10
Need some advice here guys.   I'm trying to figure out which smoker to buy.  Here is a list of what is available here in Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada

Several  Models of the Bradley, Digital 4 rack at $500.00, the 6 rack at $600.00 and the original unit at $400.00

The Smoke Vault by Campchef, Propane gas, $300.00 and $380.00

The Cajun Injector, Electric, $300.00

The SmokeHouse, Propane gas, $330.00

The Big Chief and Little Chief, Electric, $140.00 to $190.00

Cabela's Premium 7-in-1 Smoker/Cooker, $230.00 to $330.00

If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to weigh in.  I'm kinda locked in spending max $400.00.  So that already excludes the Bradley digital smokers. 

Thanks for your help.
 
One thing to think of that has to come first is how much room do you need?  I can only assume that since you included the Chiefs and the Cabela's smokers that you don't need too much room.  That said, the next thing to consider is you cooking medium, in this case gas and electric.  I personally like gas as it is very easy to control the temp and it, unlike the electrics, will give you that pretty little smoke ring which, in the grand scheme of things, isn't everything!

Next is, do you want it to be a one-trick-pony?  Since you included the Cabela's unit, then I have to assume that you would like the versatility of having a smoker, a grill and a fryer all in one.  Me too.  My first unit (aside from the ECB) was a Brinkmann All-In-One and I loved it simply because we could have a fish fry, grill steaks or smoke just about anything in it!

My vote then is the Cabela's Premium 7-in-1 Smoker/Cooker!

Mac
 
I'm a bit of a newbie myself, but I'm in the market for a new smoker as well and I'm leaning heavily toward the Masterbuilt 30" Electric Smokehouse.  I know a guy who uses it often and loves it and I like everything I've seen.  The digital controls, front-load and increased capacity will be awesome after my last year with the Brinkman Smoke 'N Grill bullet-style smoker.

 
Yikes!  They just jacked the price by almost $100 in the last week.  Still affordable, but at $269 I may as well get the glass front with remote:

 
The electric Cajun Injector is very similar to the electric Masterbuilt.

I am unsure about shipping, but you can either order or a 2 1/2 to 3 hour road trip to Grand Forks, ND and get a 40" electric Masterbuilt from SAM's Club for $299.00 (U.S. Dollars) if you know anyone with a membership.
 
Thanks a lot guys for the insights on buying a smoker.  At least now I have some idea of what to look for.  All the best to you all.  Merry Christmas.
 
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