Recent content by ats32

^ I can agree to that! I just finished a 6lber in my MES in 6 hours at 275F. Turned out incredible. 

My local grocery store is 2.59/lb but Sams and Costco are usually around 1.79/lb. Not too bad but I would love to see it as cheap as you two have it.  I do find whole turkey fryers for .99/lb on occasion. 

Great read. Some of you guys find such great deals on pork shoulder/butts its incredible. Here is what I have going right now! 

Neighbors are the worst. 

I crimped the flag connector on and connected everything. It seems to be working but it's a little touchy. I have some beans and a small butt going on it now for testing but I will solder it to have the best connection. 

I decided to join your party! 

Damn that's a great price on the pork! I just got back from the store and spent $2.59/lb!

Another unofficial rule of thumb is every time you open your smoker you might as well add an hour to your cook time,  

BTW I prefer to spatchcook the turkey on the smoker and finish for 15-20 min over hot charcoal. Mmmmm...

Smoke the turkey at 300F (or how high your MES goes) with high smoke until internal temp 160F-165F. At about 140F brush with veg oil mixed with your favorite rub. That should create a good crispy skin.  If you do want to go the smoker then oven route you will likely get a better skin because...

I know it's not "normal" but I run my smoker at 250F for pork butts/shoulders, briskets, and ribs. I run it even higher for poultry. I agree with the above posters- crank it up!!! If you are nervous about any lost moisture wrap it in foil after 4-5 hours of smoke and add a cup of beer, stock...

I'll give it a go and update this afternoon or tomorrow. I've had the smoker for around 5 years if anyone is wondering how long it lasted. 

That sounds more up my alley! I may even pick up the solderless high temp connectors. 

^ I agree. I hadn't read to try microwaving them until now. I will next time...now if I can get my MES40 fixed.  http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/235550/mes40-element-wiring-repair-question

I've never been able to keep it smoking for longer than an hour or so and I've had it for 2+ years whilst using Todds pellets. If you figure it out, post it!  BTW the only thing I haven't tried is the microwaving of the pellets beforehand.