I started out cheap with a used El Cheapo Brinkman but bold with a brisket!! I have to say it didn't suck. I can see I will have to make modifications to the ECB because it was hard to maintain heat. The brisket had good flavor but a little chewy in the middle of the roast. I injected marinade and used a simple rub of salt, pepper, onion powder and garlic powder. I used briquettes with hickory and cherry wood. It was nice and juicy but it could have used another hour maybe in the smoker. It was still fun to do and I enjoyed spending the day outside.