looking to purchase

[John Mathieson]

Hi all, new to the forum, looking to get a MES..is this one the gen2.5 one?

 

[dr k]

Gen 2

 

[PerazziMx14]

Please delete

 

[SonnyE]

Something you need to know heading in, unless you will be running in the higher end of the temperature range, 225-275,
plan on a 'mailbox modification" or at least an AMNPS, smoke tube, or external smoke maker.
Box Stock, the chip tray has a lot of trouble making smoke.
But with the mod, or AMNPS, or simular, the MES is a great outdoor smoker/oven.
I modified the tin out of mine. And I think I have a near perfect smoker now.

The 2.5 version has a step water pan in it. Imagine a swimming pool model, that's about the shape of the Gen 2.5 innards. When you see that, you know the guts are 2.5ers

I went kind of low ball and got my JMSS version at Lowe's. I had already studied what the guys here did, and figured for the way I like to smoke, cheese to ribs, I was going to be changing things.
So I got what could be called a basic MES 30, no probe business, because there are too many heartbreak stories around the meat probe. And I have a couple of BBQ thermometers to monitor the inside.
I did not want the glass door. I know, I'm weird. I already know what goes on it there. And I didn't need to clean anymore windows than I already have to. ;)
If MES sold stripped models, that's what I'da got. A box, heater, and control. Because that's what I have basically.

Get whatever your heart desires. Nobody out here is going to live with it, you will. So Be HAPPY!
Just know going in you may want to make it work a bit differently after a while.

Just remember the swimmin pool pan. There's your mark. :)

 

[gmc2003]

John before you purchase one read through this thread. Bear knows the MES inside and out. He has many other threads relating to the MES that will also help.

https://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t...cognition-pictures-info-digital-units.246300/

 

[John Mathieson]

Thanks for the replies! I don't care about the window and I have a four probe ink bird temp so I'm looking for the best MES for the money... I need to buy online as I'm in Canada but would pick up in the u. S so any links would be appreciated!