I am brand new. I am a home brewer and minor league griller/smoker I have smoked small items on different smokers. Usually a turkey every Thanksgiving. Pork shoulders, ribs, a brisket. I have a Chargriller barrel smoker/grill with a firebox. I am going to do my first whole hog in 2 weeks for my daughter's first birthday party! I am building a cinder block pit for the event at my mother-in-laws. (with her permission). I am very excited and a bit anxious. I am planning on a 60# pig. I am trying to decide between a local butcher or the farm where we get our CSA. The farm, is of course more expensive, 80 bucks more, but if I can swing it, I know it will be worth it. I will be reading posts all week. I am building the pit on July 3rd for a test drive on the 4th. Wish me luck!