First smoke in a second hand offset

[Habitulsmoker]

So I just finished up a pork top loin in a charbroil offset I bought today for $20. Since I’ve only used an electric smoker till now I was surprised how awesome it came out. It’s definitely more work than my masterbuilt electric but really good result and a nice addition to my addiction. The bark is much better than I get with the electric. I used a lot more charcoal than I thought I would but that’s ok. Need to get some bigger pieces of wood too since I just used the chips I had. Totally hooked on this smoker too now.

 

[kruizer]

Stick burners are a lot of fun and produce very good Q. Welcome to the addiction.

 

[creek bottom]

I'll take the flavor from my stick burner over my MES any time... The MES is convenient for certain things, but if I have the time I'm building a fire!

 

[PorkBones]

So I just finished up a pork top loin in a charbroil offset I bought today for $20. Since I’ve only used an electric smoker till now I was surprised how awesome it came out. It’s definitely more work than my masterbuilt electric but really good result and a nice addition to my addiction. The bark is much better than I get with the electric. I used a lot more charcoal than I thought I would but that’s ok. Need to get some bigger pieces of wood too since I just used the chips I had. Totally hooked on this smoker too now.

I quickly learned that chips don't do much in my offset. They burn up too quickly, even if you soak them. Big chunks are the way to go. Smaller pieces/chips are only good for bringing the temp up if it drops too much. Chunks also significantly cut down on the amount of charcoal I use. They burn hot and long, and give that tasty smoke flavor we all strive for. I love my offset, and wouldn't use anything else at this point. It's fun! I love tending to it, watching the temp, adding and adjusting the charcoal/wood, etc. Then at the end, I can go "Look what I made!"

 

[PorkBones]

I used a lot more charcoal than I thought I would but that’s ok. Need to get some bigger pieces of wood too since I just used the chips I had.

Are you using lump or briquettes?

 

[SmokinAl]

Welcome to your new addiction!!!
Al

 

[Habitulsmoker]

Yeah it could use some help/mods To make it a little more efficient. I used briquettes but will definitely try the lump charcoal. The pork loin I cooked has been a huge hit on the camping trip I cooked it for. I can see many more smoking days with this smoker!

 

[TomCrump]

Congrats on your recent purchase.

My Masterbuilt died this Spring, necessitating the purchase of a new cooker. I moved to an inexpensive offset and fell in love with the process. For me, there's no comparison in flavor.

I hope that you enjoy your new cooker as much as I do mine.