I also started out with wood chips on a gas grill, then went to my kettle which I still use and love. Wanted to step up and try the offset stick burner. I don't have the experience or budget for an expensive smoker yet so I went with an Old Country Pecos, I caught it on sale for $350. It does great for me. There will be a few mods you will want to do like any inexpensive offset but it is welded and not a bolt together and it is a thicker steal construction. A good way to see if you like the stick burner without breaking the bank.