What do you guys use and like? Thanks. BILL
Neither, I would get a Weber Smoky Mountain. Uses charcoal and the best small smoker out there!
You may have more temp control with elec.or propane but you will never beat charcoal for the flavor it adds to the wood.Charcoal is traditional you know what you must do!
I use the barrel smoker, with charcoal add wood for the flavor, go light on the wood because you can over do it.
enjoy
Electric (Cookshack) :thumbsup: : foolproof with delicious results. Of course, I like to eat more than I like to cook. :)
nothing beats the results of doing it the real way, but in this wonderful day and age, I find it nearly impossible to devote the required time and attention to a wood/charcoal system.
Each has its plusses and minuses. An electric, like a Bradley is about as simple as it can get. Problem is that you are stuck with using pucks for wood. Propane is also in that "set it and forget it" system, and usually uses a water pan for moisture control. Both produce a good product.
It all comes down to what time you can devote, what features you are looking for, and what price range do you want to spend.
There are also hybrid systems like the Orion that is really a convection charcoal cooker that you can do some smoking in.
>>nearly impossible to devote the required time and attention to a wood/charcoal system<<
Right on BobW.
What are these pucks? My Cookshack just uses small pieces of wood that I cut and dry. I usually use pecan, apple or hickory.
Nevermind, I went to the Bradley site and saw the pucks.
I use a WSM and after adjusting the air inlets it will hold temperatures very close. I sometimes load it up and let it run all night while I'm asleep. Don't confuse the Weber Smoky mountain with other charcoal smokers.
Bill, excellent topic as I am researching the same thing. We had a Luhr Jensen Big Chief but it is just far too limited in terms of temperature. It can only maintain temperature when it is 70 degrees or warmer!
I have been looking at the propane ones as well, Masterbuilt and Kenmore. I read a lot of reviews for the Masterbuilt electric and many negative reviews applied to the electrical unit burning out and not being replaceable. The propane Kenmore:
Kenmore Vertical Gas Smoker
Sold by Sears | Sears Item# 07115884000 | Model# 810-5525-0
Seemed well reviewed on both the Sears site and another. Basspro seems to offer the Masterbuilt in propane now as well.
I was looking at an electric a couple years ago. In my case it wouldn't work. they recommend NOT using an extension cord and I didn't have an outlet outside or 6' from the garage door. I bought a propane one from Cabelas and have not had any problems with it.
Charcoal and apple wood.
Wood, Wood and more Wood