Well I finally joined after reading a large assortment of threads. I've really enjoyed SMF and can already say I will be learning a lot.
A little about myself - I live in Colorado with my wife and new son (fatherhood rocks). Being from Georgia originally, BBQ is in my blood and I want to start making my own.
First things first, though....
I want to buy a new smoker in the $150-300 range. I live in a townhome so I don't have a lot of space, which limits me to propane or electric. Ease and foolproof operation is a plus right now because I have a new baby. However I realize that this is an artform and some tending will be required no matter what, plus that's what makes it fun, right? I plan to be smoking pork ribs, butts, and chicken and turkey mostly but would like to venture into other areas eventually.
I've been looking at 3 different smokers (based on what I've read on SMF and browsing at Bass Pro) and would like to get some opinions:
1) GOSM. The Big Block is nice but might be too big for my current space and needs. It seems everyone who has one of these loves it. I'd consider the smaller version at Wal-Mart but the construction doesn't seem to be as good.
2) MES 30 (the new one with legs). Looks like a well-built unit and most folks seem to like it. The MES 40 is also a possibility but it's getting up there in my price range.
3) Masterbuilt Vertical Propane Smoker. I saw this one at Bass Pro and really liked the design, plus the construction looks to be of good quality. I'm leaning toward this one as it seems to be a good size for my needs right now. However, I haven't seen many reviews on this one. I also checked out the Masterbuilt website and it's not even on there. Is it new? Does anyone have any info/experience with this smoker? I've checked the forums with very little success finding any info.
I look forward to good discussions and learning "on the job"!
God Bless!
A little about myself - I live in Colorado with my wife and new son (fatherhood rocks). Being from Georgia originally, BBQ is in my blood and I want to start making my own.
First things first, though....
I want to buy a new smoker in the $150-300 range. I live in a townhome so I don't have a lot of space, which limits me to propane or electric. Ease and foolproof operation is a plus right now because I have a new baby. However I realize that this is an artform and some tending will be required no matter what, plus that's what makes it fun, right? I plan to be smoking pork ribs, butts, and chicken and turkey mostly but would like to venture into other areas eventually.
I've been looking at 3 different smokers (based on what I've read on SMF and browsing at Bass Pro) and would like to get some opinions:
1) GOSM. The Big Block is nice but might be too big for my current space and needs. It seems everyone who has one of these loves it. I'd consider the smaller version at Wal-Mart but the construction doesn't seem to be as good.
2) MES 30 (the new one with legs). Looks like a well-built unit and most folks seem to like it. The MES 40 is also a possibility but it's getting up there in my price range.
3) Masterbuilt Vertical Propane Smoker. I saw this one at Bass Pro and really liked the design, plus the construction looks to be of good quality. I'm leaning toward this one as it seems to be a good size for my needs right now. However, I haven't seen many reviews on this one. I also checked out the Masterbuilt website and it's not even on there. Is it new? Does anyone have any info/experience with this smoker? I've checked the forums with very little success finding any info.
I look forward to good discussions and learning "on the job"!
God Bless!