Looking to Buy First True Smoker... Input & Guidance Appreciated!

[WeSmokinNow]

Hello, all! We are new members to the site. We have been on the sidelines monitoring the amazing input all of the experts and DIY'ers on this site have to offer (we have dipped our toes in the water and made a couple of things posted by memers a time or two as well!).

Over the past few years, we have used a cheap propane smoker and wood packets (foil and cast iron) to smoke various foods. We have decided its time to step our game up and get a true smoker.

We have narrowed the field to a WSM, BGE, or Kamado Joe (not all that narrow, I agree). Thinking the start with the WSM, but not really sure if it would be better to spring on the BGE or Kamado Joe. Seeking the input and wisdom of the folks on this amazing site to help make the final purchase decision.

Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[noboundaries]

I'm not in a position to give a detailed reply right now, but a 22.5" WSM will serve you for decades. Competition level results and practically set and forget with a little knowledge and the right charcoal.

 

[shoebe]

My 22.5 WSM has been outstanding. If I was to do it again, I would get the 18 inch WSM, mainly because it is just my wife and I.

 

[motocrash]

 

[buckaholic84]

My vote also would be WSM....I've only had mine for about 6 months but I started on a propane smoker and never would of thought charcoal would be easier. For the money ease of use I would think it be hard to beat. Wish I would of started with one

 

[WeSmokinNow]

Sweet! Been leaning towards the WSM as well. Thanks!

 

[bdskelly]

The WSM 22” will do anything those eggs will do. Solid. And just think how much charcoal you can buy with the money you save! B

 

[mike5051]

I love my WSM!

Mike

 

[WeSmokinNow]

The WSM 22” will do anything those eggs will do. Solid. And just think how much charcoal you can buy with the money you save! B

True that! Definitely leaves more spending money for my burnt end experiments!

 

[gmc2003]

My vote is for the WSM also. The toughest part will be choosing which size to get.

Chris

 

[phatbac]

My vote is the reverse flow offset..wait i mean the WSM 22.5 ;) seriously though...i have a reverse flow offset and still use my WSM on smaller smokes and for cold smoking jerky. ( yes you can do that too) I suggest the 22.5 because you can use less of the smoker but you can't make it bigger.

Just my $0.02,
phatbac (Aaron)

 

[WeSmokinNow]

Thanks guys. WSM was my gut choice, and you all have confirmed that for us. 22.5 is what we have been thinking too since you can't make it bigger as pointed out above.

 

[drunkenmeatfist]

If you are looking for strictly smoking then I agree with everyone else and say the WSM is right for you. However, if you want to grill as well then you won't be disappointed with a kamado grill. I love the versatility that a kamado provides and I use mine multiple times per week for both purposes. It is also nice being able to reuse the lump charcoal.

 

[motocrash]

You can do all of the above with the WSM.

 

[drunkenmeatfist]

You can do all of the above with the WSM.

I apologize for posting a differing opinion. You are correct. The WSM is capable of doing the same things and is obviously vastly superior to anything else on the market. WSM is always the only correct answer.

 

[motocrash]

Easy killer,simply pointing that out man.

 

[mike5051]

For real guys...is there something that a kamodo/egg does that a WSM can't? I know the ceramic cookers can hold heat better, but that's about it.

Mike

 

[drunkenmeatfist]

For real guys...is there something that a kamodo/egg does that a WSM can't? I know the ceramic cookers can hold heat better, but that's about it.

Mike

There is nothing that the WSM can't do. I don't understand why Weber makes anything other than the WSM. The WSM can indeed grill so why do they keep making kettles?

 

[mike5051]

Thanks for the info, I greatly appreciate it! You've been a great help! "LIKE"

Mike

 

[drunkenmeatfist]

Thanks for the info, I greatly appreciate it! You've been a great help! "LIKE"

Mike

No, thank you. I never realized that the only difference between a WSM and a kamado was the ability to hold heat. Kicking myself for spending a little over $300 for my kamado when I could have gotten a superior product for less.