Advice on a new smoker

[farmerdd]

I am new to smoking meat, but I have read a lot on this forum. I have considered buying a Masterbuilt Cookmaster Propane Smoker. http://www.basspro.com/Masterbuilt-Cookmaster-Propane-Smoker/product/11082605010039/ over an electric model. Does anyone have any trouble holding temperatures steady in propane units? I have seen others have added needle valves to control temps. How much tinkering goes into setting the temperature? I want a smoker that can handle a variety of ranges in temperature, is a propane smoker the best for this? What would I have to do to convert this to a cold smoker?  Thanks in advance.

 

[s2k9k]

I have a GOSM propane smoker and after a few simple mods I can maintain anywhere between 135* and 300* all day long so it's good for drying jerky or putting a crisp skin on some chicken. Ambient conditions can affect it so sometimes there are little adjustments to be made.

 

[mossymo]

What would I have to do to convert this to a cold smoker?

For temps between 35º and 85º don't even ignite the propane in the smoker and use one of these - http://www.amazenproducts.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AMNPS5X8

In the cooler temps I would use pellets in it for smoke and in warmer temps use sawdust... best cold smoker I have found!

 

[seaham358]

Been using propane smokers for over 3 years now and I love them.. They reason I got one was for the ease of setting the temp for long smokes.  I used a Kenmore smoker similar to the one your looking at and it has worked out great. 

I recently picked up a Masterbuilt XL from Bass pro and have only used it once and after a little trial and error I seem to have the temp control figured out, held at 240-245 for 2 hours with no problems.  IMO you can't go wrong with a propane smoker for a set it and forget it unit..

My buddy has an electric smoker and he swears by it.. So I guess it's which type will work best for you..