New smoker - store bought vs custom barrel

[Jorge18]

Hey everyone,

I'm in the market for a new offset smoker. I'm looking at a budget below $400. I know it's not much but that's what I have.

I have found a smoker at my local BJs for about 250, but I also have a local place that welds up barrel smokers for about 350.The picture of a dual barrel, but the 350 price is for a single barrel. Between those choices, which would you choose?

 

[Jorge18]

Here's a picture of the BJ's one. It's a Landmann Smokey Mountain.

 

[bbqluvtoo]

Not familiar with any of these. I would consider the material thickness in each and go with the heavier of the two. Right now it looks like the Landmann is the better unit. I only mention it as I don't even see an exhaust on the other. The roll formed ribs on the other one also indicate to me it is a lighter gauge material