thanks for all the input fellas. it will make the transition from pellet fed smokers to traditional wood smoking easier and less stressful for me. i'm pretty anal about my Q. here's a pic from today.
agreed, there's no better place for a shelf than right in front. Immensely useful when two hands are needed for moving food around over a short distance.Looking good Jerry..... The expanded metal shelf if a great idea... the brackets have a nice design.... several radiused corners.... this smoker looks like it will win best in show....
Dave