New Guy Looking For Advice: Wood or Propane?

[maquade]

Thanks for taking the time to read and possible offer thoughts and experiences...

I'm ready to dive in and get my first smoker.  I've been able to do a little slow cooking on a grill but it's certainly not the same (both wood and propane).  Adding a wood-chip box to a propane grill has always given me that wood & charcoal flavor that I like and I've found that it's easier to control temperature on a propane grill.

I'm leaning toward one of the simple box smokers from Lowes/Depot- Square, 30" tall, four racks which is plenty for us.  It's propane and comes with a chip box for smoke. Here's the link to it: http://www.lowes.com/pd_411913-95393-MFX784BDP_1z0wekf+2z8vo__?productId=4459479&Ns=p_product_qty_sales_dollar|1&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNs%3Dp_product_qty_sales_dollar%7C1%26page%3D1&facetInfo=$100 - $200#BVRRWidgetID

That being said...  I also like the offset smoker/grill combo (wood burning).  I wonder though if it'll heat evenly (maybe get hotter at the end near the firebox)?  Here's a link to this one: http://www.lowes.com/pd_404330-82210-13201810_4294610366__?productId=3852003&Ns=p_product_qty_sales_dollar|1&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNs%3Dp_product_qty_sales_dollar%7C1&facetInfo=

(I've noticed the reviews on this one aren't quite as raving as the ones for the propane unit; and this does look a little flimsy)

So let's hear the thoughts and opinions...  I'm all ears!

Thanks-

Jason

 

[kc5tpy]

Hello and Welcome to our addiction.  Many good folk here with a load of experience that they are more than willing to share.  If you have specific questions just start a thread and someone with experience will be along soon to offer advice.  All info you can provide us with such as smoker type, location and so on will help us answer any questions you may have, and pictures help a bunch.  Spend some time doing some research on the forums, tons of advice and recipes already available there.  Check out Jeff’s 5 day smoking E-Course ( link below ) that will help you get started.  We look forward to your contributions.  Have fun.  Good luck.  Keep Smokin!

Danny

http://www.smoking-meat.com/smoking-basics-ecourse

 

[gary s]

Hey Jason, welcome to the forum from East Texas, Do look at the build quality, the really thin ones don't last to long. And decide what fits your smoking needs the best.

Gary S