Help in deciding on a new smoker

[jstump]

Im llooking at buying a new masterbuilt 40 in electric smoker. They have the new generation at SAMs club for $299. Im sure there are tones of posts on these and I've browsed through a couple but I was wondering what peoples opinion was. I've used a smoke vault gas smoker for years that was a hand-me-down from my dad. I've heard you don't get a smoke ring in electric smokers. Is the taste the same? I mainly smoke brisket and pulled pork, but would love to smoke other things as well. Any help and opinions would be great. Thanks.

 

[old sarge]

Having smoked on both electric and a stick burner, I noticed a difference in taste; the stick burner was a little subtler, to me at least. That may be due to having keep feeding wood chips to keep the smoke going  so at times the smoke was intermittent. With the electric, I use a single 2 ounce chunk of hickory for an entire smoke, be it ribs or butt and smoke is continuous for a minimum of 2 1/2 to 3 hours, sometimes a little longer.  I do not get a smoke ring with the electric, but I don't think that affects flavor. 

 

[bakedbean1970]

I have owned a stick burner, a charcoal bullet smoker, electric bullet, a Bradley electric and a Cajun Injector electric.  If I was only going to do pork shoulders, brisket, ribs, I would prefer to use the offset stick burner.  The reason I currently use an electric is the ease of use for things like smoked sausage and snack sticks.  I also never have seen a smoke ring when using one of my electrics.  Best case would be a stick burner and and electric if you have the space for them. 

 

[rollin smoke]

For the money...and just flat out works perfect...UDS!!! Built mine for $60 and smoked perfect! Holds temp for hrs on little fuel. Lots of room. Just a great smoker! Here's mine...

2012-12-23_11-30-44_480.jpg

• rollin smoke
• Jan 3, 2013

 

[jstump]

I'm not sure I want to go through the hassle of building one! I'm actually thinking of getting a smokin it model 2. Anybody have any experience with these? It seems to get great reviews. One thing my wife and I really like is a good bark on brisket. I know you don't get the smoke ring but does the ends of brisket still char in electrics?

 

[old sarge]

I have not seen too many posts on Smokin-it or for that matter SmokinTex on this site.  They are here, but you really have to dig for the comments.  

 

[jstump]

I've decided to go with the smokin it model 2. I've read lots of reviews about how good they are and how great the customer service is. Hopefully I'll have it ordered this week.

 

[diggingdogfarm]

Good choice!!!!

Far superior quality compared to the Masterbuilts.



~Martin

 

[old sarge]

Congratulations on your purchase. Have fun.