Wood, Charcoal, both or what????

[matts]

I just finished my first smoke on my new reverse flow rig and 95% of the smoke I used straight hickory and oak.  Although everything worked out great, it was a lot of work keeping the fire stoked and a steady heat going.  Towards the end of the smoke and after I fell asleep I needed to add more wood but then decided to throw some lump in there instead.  Once the lump got going I would throw a couple small pieces of wood in there on top.  It seemed to work out good with less smoke and a easier to maintain heat.  My question is, on a rig the size of mine, what should be easier to use?  Or is it just whatever the smoker likes the best.  I know every smoker works different and you should adapt, but should I try next time to get a more consistent heat and the sought after TBS.

 

[pandemonium]

i cant answer your question but it looks like a rig that size would take a ton of fuel to heat it up no?

 

[matts]

Honestly I was surprised with the amount I did use, or didn't use.  It just didn't hold very steady.

 

[matts]

Anyone?

 

[ak1]

You might have an easier time maintaining temps using lump, and just adding wood for flavour.

 

[Dutch]

There is a site that I visit that use a Lang 84 and they burn 20-30 lbs of Kingsford charcoal and use cherry wood for flavor. They maintain a 250° temp and can keep that temp for 6-8 hours. On a smoker that size, it's not a bad trade off when you can load the meat grates up. With all the sales on charcoal right now it's not a bad way to stock up.

Matt-if you want more information PM me and I'll send you the link.