Just bought one..

[kamikazeape]

Literally 15 minutes ago, I ordered an Old Gen 30 MES.  I have spent a few weeks researching smokers and last Saturday, I put an order in for the New Gen 30.  However, this last week many more reviews have came out and those negative reviews along with it out of stock (not much patience here), I just canceled and purchased the Old Gen.  I am new to smoking and felt that the 40 would be a bit much for my small family, but now I am excited to get this seasoned and ready to go. 

I had already purchased Weber Apply & Mesquite wood chips, yet I see some say that not be the way to go.  Any thoughts on going to pellets vs wood chips?  I at least will use up the wood chips as I already have them at home.

Also, is the AMNPS required?  I noticed that majority of the posters on here have the 40, is there any difference (hot spots, drip tray issues...) that are different based on the size of the Old Gen?

Thanks for your time!

 

[smokinhusker]

Hello and congrats on the new smoker. I have an MES40 (old gen) and love it. I use both chips and pellets in mine, so whatever you like is the way to go. I don't know about hot spots etc with the MES30, but get yourself a good thermometer and check the actual cabinet temps against the set smoker temp. Mine runs 8-20 degrees cooler, depending on the temp I have it set for. In regards to the AMNPS, it is a great tool to add to the MES for cold smoking, low temp smoking (under 200 degrees) and long smokes because you simply fill it, light it and let it do it's thing! 

Would you mind heading over to Roll Call   to introduce yourself so we can give you a proper SMF Welcome? Thanks

 

[frosty]

Well welcome and congratulations!  I have the MES40 and love it.  It really is addictive to do smoking.  Lots of friendly folks eager to help if needed.

Good luck!