Trailer mounted smoker project

[HisMajesty]

Spent a little time prototyping the fire box door locking mechanism. I may need to tweak it very slightly, maybe change some hardware and design the handle, but otherwise...I like it!

It's solid and eye catching (I think).

Why did this mechanism not make it on the final build.

 

[BigPorkButt]

The welds on this are amazing. what tips would you give to a newbie about to weld for the first time? Im figuring to practice a good bit before getting anywhere close to touching the metal I am using for the smoker.

thanks!