I've never thought of lighting both ends of the AMNPS. I might give it a try. But for my own experience, even though I've filled two rows with pellets I've never really used more than one in a 4-6 hour smoke. As for the smoke, I've felt that with on some occasions I've gotten too much smoke with a brisket or with spareribs. I'm still working on getting it right since too much smoke gives the meat a harsh flavor. I own the MES 30 so your mileage may vary.