Looking to dabble in smoking meat

[JAEBR29]

I love eating smoked meat and it's time I stop solely relying on others to allow that to happen in my life. I want to get a smoker. I've TENTATIVELY narrowed my choices down to an 18.5 WSM and a Masterbuilt electric (although I'm seeing tons of different options of those and have no idea which one I need other than a digital version over the analog ones).

I really want set it and forget it. And from what i've read on here both are doable, but the Masterbuilt would be easier. Of course, assuming i can get the hang of smoking, the WSM should taste better. So basically, my thinking is waiting till the spring or a good FSBO deal and buying whichever one is cheaper. Since i cant make up my mind, might as well let my wallet it do it for me. Unless you guys can do that for me! Cost is a concern and by all means if you think of something else i should pursue, I'm open. I'd prefer to stay under $300. I'm not expecting to turn into a smoking circuit champion or anything. Just a guy who wants to occasionally make some smoked ham, chicken, pulled pork,ribs and hopefully someday some heavenly brisket.

Looking forward, is there a best time to buy coming up and or certain price that I should pull the trigger on any of these?

Sorry, I rambled. so many questions and i overthink things=bad combo. Also new here, so hopefully i posted this in the right forum.

 

[old sarge]

Welcome AJEBR29. I have no experience using wither of the smokers you are looking at. If it wasn't for your budget constraints I would recommend a unit from Smokin-it. But you should be fine with what you are looking at.

 

[motocrash]

Welcome to the forum.

Of course, assuming i can get the hang of smoking, the WSM should taste better.

It does taste better,cooking with fire always tastes better.You don't go roastin' wieners,marshmallows and such over an "open MES",now do ya...

 

[kruizer]

Welcome to SMF from Minnesota.

 

[JAEBR29]

Welcome to the forum.


It does taste better,cooking with fire always tastes better.You don't go roastin' wieners,marshmallows and such over an "open MES",now do ya...

Haha... I'll give you that, but I've had some really good meat made by some guys on an mes. So if I can replicate what they did, I'll be a happy man.

 

[JAEBR29]

Thanks for the welcome and advice too

 

[JAEBR29]

Thank you!

 

[JAEBR29]

Thank you! This site has been a wealth of knowledge so far!

 

[fivetricks]

A mes is a great starter smoker. Very set it and forget it. I, along with others modified mine with about 50.00 worth of parts. This includes the amazn tray <-- a MUST have for the mes, a mailbox, a bit of dryer hose and a couple of hose clamps.

Search the forum for "mailbox mod" for more info on that. Turns the mes from a very very frustrating unit into exactly what you're looking for. While your buddies are fretting over having to change chips every 20 mins, you will enjoy 11 hours of uninterrupted smoking time.

 

[JAEBR29]

Found a used 18.5" wsm for $150. Says in good condition. Obviously I wouldn't buy it if it's not actually, but is this a good deal or may I be better off going new and wait for some sales? I want to be penny wise but not at the expense of being pound foolish.

 

[JAEBR29]

A mes is a great starter smoker. Very set it and forget it. I, along with others modified mine with about 50.00 worth of parts. This includes the amazn tray <-- a MUST have for the mes, a mailbox, a bit of dryer hose and a couple of hose clamps.

Search the forum for "mailbox mod" for more info on that. Turns the mes from a very very frustrating unit into exactly what you're looking for. While your buddies are fretting over having to change chips every 20 mins, you will enjoy 11 hours of uninterrupted smoking time.

Thanks for the suggestions. Yes if I end up with an mes, I will absolutely be getting the amazn tray based on the stuff I've read in this forum.
If an mes, what should I be looking for or ruling out?

 

[chopsaw]

Found a used 18.5" wsm for $150. Says in good condition. Obviously I wouldn't buy it if it's not actually, but is this a good deal or may I be better off going new and wait for some sales? I want to be penny wise but not at the expense of being pound foolish.

Yes if it's in good shape I would buy it . I have both WSM and an MES . Love them both . Some guys don't like the MES , don't let that affect what you buy .

 

[JAEBR29]

Well I bought the used 18 wsm for $120. Now time to get some charcoal, a chimney starter thingy and some good temp probes.

Any advice on the temperature probes?

 

[old sarge]

Beside the Maverick and others available at hardware and big box stores, Thermo Works has some higher end units that you might want to consider.

https://www.thermoworks.com/Smoke

 

[chopsaw]

Well I bought the used 18 wsm for $120.

That's a good buy . Post a pic if you get a chance .
I use a TP-08 with the WSM .

 

[Winterrider]

Sale on the Inkbird on Amazon, ends today I believe

 

[old sarge]

Ink Bird Sale ends 9:40 PM Pacific time:
https://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t...-thermometer-ibt-4xs-with-four-probes.284718/

 

[chopsaw]

I use the 4 probe ink bird too . I like it . I use an old tablet with it .

 

[JAEBR29]

Thanks guys! I gave the inkbird a shot.
I don't have it yet, but here's pictures of it.

 

[Braz]

Looks like a good deal for $120. And some leftover cash for accessories.
I have an MES and I often feel like I'm cheating and only the "real" BBQers use real fire.