Competition smoker

[bigpuddin43]

well I have decided I will most likely enter some local BBQ competitions next summer.  I just use my bradley electric smoker right now but am thinking to be a contender I will probably go to charcoal/stick burner.  My question is this what would be better vertical or sidebox style.  I am planning on building a custom one just cant decide which way to go. 

 

[gatewood iron]

I know nothing about competion cooking but most of the smokers people ask for from me have side boxes. I've built a dozen or better so far this year as well as charcoal/stick. Working on a charcoal/stick cooker now and later a reverse flow for a restraunt here.