First post newbie with a new build

[spicy-meat]

I have been reading a lot of posts in the forums on different builds.  I am torn between the UDS and the Big Baby Double Barrel smoker.  I found a local company that sells new metal 18 guage sealed lid drums fairly cheap.  Almost every drum I found is 18 guage.  I have a few questions I hope everyone can help me out with:

1.  Am I better off building a UDS or Big Baby?

2.  Will the 18 guage be sufficient or should I look for a 16 guage.

I like the fact that wood is the preferred method with the Big Baby.

 

[pit 4 brains]

 Am I better off building a UDS or Big Baby?

 Mark one vote for UDS..

Simple to build, you'll be smoking in it in a day or so..

 

[meateater]

UDS, you can always build another smoker later.

 

[walle]

Welcome aboard, SM! 

I would go for a UDS for all the reasons listed above.  I've got a very crude model that I used long before I knew what a UDS was.. and though she aint purdy, she works like a charm.

That'll give you time to plan and build the next one... cuz you can't have just one!

Good to have ya, I look forward to seeing whatever you decide on.