First Time Smoker

[asils]

My name is Andrew and I currently live in Charlotte, NC but grew up in Northeast PA.  I just bought the 18.5" WSM and plan on smoking for the first time this Saturday. As a beginner I have lots of question, but figure they have all been asked before.  Does anyone have links to some threads about how to season the WSM, tips/steps for the first smoke and a list of recommended equipment (gloves, thermometer, etc)?  I can't wait to get started.  

 

[alblancher]

We don't mind answering questions but if you are a bit shy you can use the search function to read threads about some of your basic stuff. 

Welcome to the forum!

 

[GaryHibbert]

Hey Andrew

Welcome to the Smoking  forum.   You’ll find great , friendly people here, all more than willing to answer any question you may have.  Just ask and you’ll get about 10 different answers—all right.  LOL.   Don’t forget to post qviews.

Gary

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[disco]

Welcome from Canada, Andrew.

I don't have any experience with the WSM but don't be embarrassed about asking questions. I was having little success with smoking until I found this forum. The kind members answered many questions, gave great advice and inspired me with may great ideas. Just post your question and someone will likely have an answer or an opinion (some questions are a matter of taste).

I look forward to your posts.

Disco

 

[gary s]

Seasoning it is pretty simple, several different ways, First I would build a fire and burn it out (gets rid of any oils or other stuff they use in manufacturing. after it cools down, can get a can of Pam (Any spray Cooking oil) or just some regular cooking oil, flax seed oil etc.  You can take oil and wipe all the inside and grates, you can spray everything with the spray oil, or get a spray bottle and fill it with which ever oil you like and spray all the inside and grates. Build your fire and bring it back up to temp, you can even spray a little more on everything let it burn for a while or until your coals have burned down. and your ready to go  When we build a new smoker and are ready to season it here is what we use a mixture of bacon grease and cooking oil. Don't know it it's any better than the rest but sure smells good.

Hope this was helpful.

Gary s

 

[asils]

Thanks everyone! I'm excited to get started.

 

[Rafter H BBQ]

Welcome, see ya around the forum !