Very much a newbie

[appwsmsmkr1]

Hi, I'm from the east coast and I am brand new to smoking meat.

I've wanted a smoker for quite some time but was debating weather or not to get the WSM 18" or the 22.5". My thoughts were initially, i could do multiple racks of ribs 1-2 times in the summer for a cook out. I did find a lot of great tips on everything on this forum. This site is very helpful!!! Being said, my hubby bought me a 22.5" which came in damaged. (we are working on the replacements)

Basically, im just debating whether or not to return it for the 18" for the following reasons:

Will it be to overwhelming?
Do i have to cook so much meat/chicken etc?
If I do, what do i do with the unused portions?
Do i have to load it up a lot for short smokes, IE. chicken?
Can I also do a side on the smoker as well to make up for the unused space? (suggestions)


Please give me your sucesses, downfalls of having the 22.5". Especially if you have used both tiers. Right now the temperature out here is about 33* so I have to wait a month or two to give it that initial smoke.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my post. Your advise is very much appreciated!!

appwsmsmkr1

 

[bbq bill]

Just my $.02 ... but you aren't really talking about that much of a difference. Go with the bigger one. Better to have the space and not need it than to need alittle extra and not have it...   Good luck! and welcome!!

 

[hambone1950]

I agree.. Since you already went for the 22 , you won't mind having the extra space and once you get used to it you can fine tune your charcoal loads for smaller cooks. The WSM is a real fine cooker . You will enjoy it , I bet.

 

[appwsmsmkr1]

Thank you BBQ bill and hambone1950!