Fresh pork shoulder cook time

[kieth4548]

Ok I bought a hog from a farmer. Twice now I have tried smoking a 3 pound fresh shoulder. I have smoked them tons of times before but they came from a grocery store. These last two fresh ones have taken way longer to smoke then the store bought ones. Is there a reason for the difference in times from a fresh shoulder versus a store bought shoulder that would totally change the smoked times. I know you smoke to temp not time but usually I can estimate the time but the difference is totally throwing me off and I'm way over shooting my estimated completed times. I smoke them usually around 230. Very frustrating.

Thanks

 

[dirtsailor2003]

Most store bought shoulders have been "enhanced" with a solution. So that may be part of it. Maybe the fresh shoulders are denser, meatier, less fatty?

 

[kieth4548]

That's what my thinking is there less fatier and more solid meat. Just trying to figure this problem out.