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Hard for me to say, as this was the first one for me. I will say Publix, in Florida, is typically more expensive than others. My brisket was close to $8 a pound (I thought that was high). We do occasionally buy meat from BJs (actually very good quality) - the only problem is the larger quantities (a vacuum sealer helps but still not crazy about freezing meats). The brisket I did yesterday was a bit under 7lbs. Not much left over so next time, for me, 8 or 9lb brisket would be fine. That might get me to the "Fred Flintstone" sizes and packages at BJs.
Thanks Al. I'm really seeing that there is no "firm rule" on smoking a brisket. Temp ranges from 180* to 280*. Time varies as well. What is consistent (and arguably it seems the most important) is internal temperature. No matter how you get there, IT must be right around 200* to be done. Am I looking at it correctly?
Javaaman, your correct there are no firm rules when it comes to brisket. Heck there aren't any firm rules when it comes to smoking hotdogs, cheese or anything else for that matter. What works for one may not work for someone else. The best thing you can do is take in all the information you can and apply it to your equipment and tastes. Then you'll start developing your own methods. Soon you'll be part of the fray and offering up your style to others. It's all part of the fun.
Great job on your first brisket. It's hard to tell from the pictures, but it looks like you maybe cut the flat along the grain, instead of across. No biggie I'm sure it was still great.
If you are a Costco member, many stores carry USDA prime packers for between $2.75 and $3.25/lb. I also get them at Cash and Carry for around $3/lb for choice.