Smoker advice needed please.

[martin_b]

Hi Guys after a bit of advice on what smoker to buy.. (even what type).

So I’m looking for something to primarily smoke pork and brisket. I have a Napolean grill so I have steaks etc covered, but there are a couple of requirements that Ime having a problem reconciling.

Firstly I’m an OAP (A senior I think in the states) hence I need my sleep, afternoon naps etc and I also have the attention span of a goldfish and get very easily distracted! .. so I’m afraid throwing logs on an offset all night is out, its auto temp control all the way for me. Secondly I’m normally cooking for just 2, occasionally 4 to 6 but that’s it. I’m afraid natural attrition has taken its toll on my circle of friends, so I don’t need anything large, and I have yet to find a small "quality" smoker.

In my own mind I was thinking pellet but now I’ve seen gravity charcoal, which sounds more “authentic”?

On the plus side my only daughter is doing well in her career so Im sure she wont mind be investing her inheritance, so budget, while not unlimited can be elastic.

I’m in the UK but most major brands are available here, so any advice would be most gratefully received.

 

[GatorAGR]

Sounds like a pellet smoker may be a good fit for you. Others will have brand recommendations and other thoughts I'm sure. I don't have one personally, but will likely go that way eventually for similar reasons that you mention. The "set it and forget it" aspect is great. Another idea would be an electric smoker like an MES (Masterbuilt) with an Auber PID control as a replacement for the electronics that are notoriously terrible. I have one for sausage making that requires very low temps and really like it. Another "set it and forget it" option for you to consider.

 

[Coreymacc]

My opinion is don't fall into the authenticity angle, get what is gonna be best for your physical capabilities. I agree with pellet.

My opinion
Corey

 

[miller51]

I cant speak to the gravity fed charcoal, but I just bought a reteq pellet smoker (Flagship 1100) and so far, so good. It cost a few dollars more than a couple of it's competitors, but the quality and service is what sold it for me. They make a variety of sizes, mine is kind of on the medium/large side, but I'm sure you could find the right size for your needs. I have an "egg" style ceramic cooker and while i love it and it has multiple uses, I do have to babysit it for overnight cooks. The new pellet smoker is almost set it and forget it. I just did a pastrami (brisket) for 16hrs and only lifted the lid to spritz it and take pictures... good luck and happy smoking!

 

[sandyut]

I love my rec teq RT 700. its over 10 years old and runs like new everytime.

When I was researching my top three pellet grills were MAC, Yoder and Rec Teq. that was based on what I wanted and budget.