New smoker help

[phool45]

Hi all,

New to the community. I was looking through the previous posts/threads and saw some tidbits of info but I was just hoping to get your overall thoughts about buying a new smoker. I have had a MES for years and the 2nd one died again so I wanted to try a different option or company. I was considering going with a propane smoker or maybe a Bradley electric. My wife likes the smoke flavor but would not mind it amped up a bit. Or should I look at a Webber Smokey Mountain. I know Cabelas is having the Bradley on sale for about $200 this weekend. I would like to stay under $300 as my budget. Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[phathead69]

I have never used an elect or propane so cant speak for those. I have seen many reply the most smoke flavor coming from stick burners. Is that an option for amped up?

 

[phool45]

Yeah, I believe that would be an option to get more amped flavor. My brother uses his UDS and gets so much better smoke flavor than my MES ever gave me. I think he uses lump charcoal, but not sure. I have no experience with stick burners. Thanks for the response.

 

[oldsmokerdude]

Having used both propane and electric, I can say in all honesty that I won't use a propane smoker again. At least for me, I found it somewhat difficult to dial in and maintain a constant temperature and the cost of fuel for a long smoke is a bit high IMO.

Since you've had two MES, I infer that you like the "set it and forget it" approach to smoking, and electrics certainly are that. At the price point you are looking at, I would get another MES or one of the store branded clones. You can "amp up the smoke flavor" by adding one of the AMAZIN Pellet products to augment the smoke.

Lastly, while Bradley smokers generally get good reviews and many people love theirs, I wouldn't want to be tied into their "proprietary" and somewhat overpriced wood "pucks". But that's just me.

Good luck. Let us know what you decide on.

 

[SmokinVOLfan]

I have both a MES and a propane smoker. Like both of them for different things. MES is great for long smokes set and forget types and the propane is great for poultry and things I want to get a higher temp on.

I agree with oldsmokerdude in the fact I would stay away from the Bradley's. Most people I know that own one aren't a huge fan just due to the fact you have to buy their wood pucks for smoke. He's also correct on the MES with the AMNPS getting more smoke flavor.

For the money I would either get another MES(get the 40" model) or a UDS. Never used a UDS but everyone I know that uses one loves it.

Check craigslist for good used deals.

 

[JCAP]

I’ve never used an electric smoker but I love my propane smoker (Masterbuilt). Once I found the sweet spot it is just as set and forget as anything. Cranks out some good food! I have the PBC which is great too if a UDS is up your alley.

The 14 inch WSM is under 300 too and everyone loves WSM.