Smoker buying advice

[doc1453]

Hey everyone. I've had a bottle of Pinot while waiting for my ribs to finish their 6 hours. Mix that with Sinatra records and I'm feeling..... Rambunctious. I currently smoke on a very simple barrel grill and throw chips on top of charcoal with the meat in the far side.

I've been doing it this way for 3 years or so now. And it's been great. Now, I want an upgrade. I'm looking for an actual proper smoking set up. The thing is, the MOST I cook for is about 8 people. I don't need a monstrosity. I'd love recommendations on smokers to buy that would be used for at most two meats (ribs and chicken or brisket and butt or duck and whatever is freaking want).

 

[briggy]

Really depends on what type of fuel you  are looking to use.  I smoke on the 22.5" WSM with charcoal/chunks.  If you prefer electric I would go with the new bluetooth MES 40.

 

[cornman]

I'm happy with my 14.5 WSM. Maybe the next size up is worth your while. The WSM is fairly simple to use and makes great Q.

 

[ab canuck]

You should look through the forum and see what people have to say about the units they are using, Everyone has an opinion so customer reviews and customer service reviews are a very good basis to go on. Also What do you want to spend? You can go a number of ways from charcoal to gas, electric to wood, pellet grills and more. You could tend fire boxes or go set and forget and on we go. I think a bit of research or if you have something particular in mind there are so many options to choose from. Let us know your thoughts. Charlie

 

[SmokinAl]

My vote goes to a WSM 22.5.

However you didn't say what kind of budget you had.

I have a Lang 36 patio model that is perfect for us.

Not too big, but not to small either!

Al