smoker tech - educate me

[ChickenLips]

I'm contemplating getting a smoker. Mainly to do briskets.

I'm also planning on moving in 1-3 years and will be leaving it behind, so super spiffy isn't my agenda.

As with all things I want the best for the least. As with many things I'm ignorant on the subject.

educate me.

[xeninworx]

I just use a little smoker container in my charcoal barbecue. I’m cheap.

[ChickenLips]

I've got a Weber Q1000, barely big enough for a whole chicken. I did a brisket last summer but between temp control and being jammed full it was meh.

I'm also not gonna buy another bbq. I'm addicted to sous vide, which is a bachelors dream. fire and forget, come back a few hours later and it's done.

Back to smokers though. I might just add a surface thermometer to my Weber and toss in some hardwood scraps.

[Laffs]

You looking for techniques or reco’s for smokers?

[Minaccia]

I purchased a propane powered Masterbuilt from Bass Pro Shop about 5 years ago and its still working fine, I paid $249 and it's on sale now for $229.99.

:dragster: https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/masterbuilt-30-two-door-propane-smoker

[ChickenLips]

You looking for techniques or reco’s for smokers?

reco's

[5.4MarkVIII]

Couple options. If avoiding an investment

Cheapest way is to pick up a charcoal bbq

https://www.lowes.ca/product/charcoal-bbq/americana-walk-a-bout-215-in-ocean-blue-kettle-charcoal-grill-1063160

This is the cheap version of an Asado or kettle grill think the big green eggs. You gonna use regular old char coke for head and add wood chunks of your choosing for smoke.

While being the cheapest. This option has a steep learning curve. Temp control will be the biggest issue. Learning how to place the coals how to set the vents. Great if you’re willing to invest the time instead of the money and enjoy learning a new skill. The upgrade would be a proper ceramic kettle for heat retention.


The other option is a basic/ cheap puck or more common pellet grill. There are tons out there now from the entry to the big dollar.
most of these are set your temp and your good to go.

Easter to use

some of the cheap ones are not easy to get parts for