I've been smoking for years, I started on a Kamado smoker and then added a stick burner to my arsenal. Last summer my wife and I had our first baby (late in life as we are both nearly 40). Of course with the addition of him our time has been very limited. I think after he was born in June I only smoked food twice....I used to do it at least once a week. Lately I've been looking at going with something more automated so that I can still enjoy some smoked food while raising my son.
I'm looking for some input on what type (and brand) of smoker I should get. At this point I've narrowed it down to a propane or pellet smoker. I don't think I want to go with electric as I have read they do not provide as much smoke flavor (and in some cases it seems it could be lacking completely). I was looking at a Traeger in hopes of replacing my current propane grill and adding the option of the pellet smoker. Although what is concerning me is the temp range...it doesn't go that high on the Traeger so searing is out so it doesn't exactly serve the purpose of replacing my current propane grill (although I could always sear on my Kamado). Also I'm not sure if I want to spend $1k or more on what is essentially going to be used as a smoker only.
That takes me to a propane smoker. From what I understand it lends better flavor than electric and the price points are lower than the Traeger smokers. I typically do pork butts, ribs and chicken; only occasionally brisket and bacon. I think the propane makes sense due to the price point, the sizes seem convenient as I can move it when not in use and while the shelf size is small they do have multiple shelves.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
I'm looking for some input on what type (and brand) of smoker I should get. At this point I've narrowed it down to a propane or pellet smoker. I don't think I want to go with electric as I have read they do not provide as much smoke flavor (and in some cases it seems it could be lacking completely). I was looking at a Traeger in hopes of replacing my current propane grill and adding the option of the pellet smoker. Although what is concerning me is the temp range...it doesn't go that high on the Traeger so searing is out so it doesn't exactly serve the purpose of replacing my current propane grill (although I could always sear on my Kamado). Also I'm not sure if I want to spend $1k or more on what is essentially going to be used as a smoker only.
That takes me to a propane smoker. From what I understand it lends better flavor than electric and the price points are lower than the Traeger smokers. I typically do pork butts, ribs and chicken; only occasionally brisket and bacon. I think the propane makes sense due to the price point, the sizes seem convenient as I can move it when not in use and while the shelf size is small they do have multiple shelves.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.