reformedvegan
Fire Starter
I have a PB 1000SC (similar to Austin XL). I love it. Never had any issues with the three part grates, it does make it easier to take them out. I think two bigger ones would be heavy and awkward. I've done just about everything on this grill. 20lb brisket to hot dogs. It does a very good job for the price. Would I have a Rec Tec 700 if I could afford it? Absolutely! Instead I have a six month old son, I think I'll keep him. Lol.
Thumps up for another PB pellet cooker enthusiast. Yes, my 700S has two grate sections, but it is also smaller. I'm sure you could easily feed a crowd of ten or more with the Austin XL or 1000 series. I have been scolded for calling these things "grills". Okay, I get it - it's more of an outdoor pellet-fueled oven, but it can do a good smoke, especially with the addition of an AMZN tube. That said, if the OP only wants to do low and slow and smoke, and will never want to use their new cooker as a grill or high-temp oven, then I have to believe one of the vertical pellet "cabinet" smokers will perform a bit better, though I have no experience with one.