Need some help!

[es1025]

I am trying to decide what smoker to purchase the #2 or #3.  I have read many reviews/comments on both machines and all are positive.  Is the $100 and the $75 in shipping worth the price for the #3? I plan on smoking ribs and pork. 

• Tweet
• 

[UWFSAE]

I was down between the same two choices as you.  My internal debate was:

- Buy the #2 with the cart.
- Buy the #3 as a standalone product.

Eventually, I settled on the #3 for several reasons.  First and foremost, the depth of the #3 permits me to smoke whole racks of ribs without halving the racks or resorting to rib hooks.  I also like the extra total volume for large cookouts and charity events (golf tournaments and whatnot) I might help cater.  Third, to me the extra height of the #3, higher wattage, and extra shelving were simply too useful to ignore.

I think you'll be thrilled with either choice, honestly.  I may still order the cart for the #3 but it is easy to use and easy to clean even resting on casters.  The relatively small amount of wood needed for a good smoke in these models is astounding, and the impact on my electric bill (running at least one smoke per weekend since I purchased it) has been negligible.

If you have the space, have the need for the increased capacity, and the cost isn't a deal breaker I'd say go big or go home.  You won't regret the #3 ...

[old sarge]

I think you need to assess your needs for now and into the future. Cooking for a couple of folks regularly and maybe a small gathering once in a while?  The number 2 should suffice.  If on the other hand you you cook lots of food at a time, whether it is just for a couple of people or a crowd, then go for the model 3.

Tossing out that idea altogether, keep in mind that you can always cook less in a large smoker but never more in a small smoker.

And to answer the money question:  Yes.  I would personally go for the larger model 3 just in case I ever needed the capacity. But if it is too large for you lifestyle/intended use, then stick with the model 2 and spend the difference on accessories and food.

Happy smoking!

[es1025]

Thanks for the advise UWFSAE and Sarge, leaning toward the #3 based on the higher wattage and the fact that you can't get bigger with the #2.  I figure to order within the next week.  I have a laundry list of accessories to order as well. This will be my first venture into smoking meats. 1st item on the menu ribs.

[Rob Babcock]

I agonized for a couple weeks over the models, and then decided to get the #3.  I couldn't be happier!  It's really large, and for me that's been nice.  Once I cooked 8 racks of ribs for my family and the extra room was nice.  Any Smokin-It will be nice, so don't feel like you're "settling" with any of them.  That said, you can indeed cook less food in a large model more easily than more food in a small one.

[old sarge]

Now is the time to order a model 3; Steve is put of stock so will throw in a cover and rib hooks for free.

[es1025]

Wow, have been busy the past few days. Now is definitely the time. #3 for sure, with a free cover and rib hooks. Now I can start gathering the necessary tools of the trade. Thanks for all your help and guidance.

[mikeinctown]

I have the #2 and I would have gone with the #3 if funds allowed. Whole racks of ribs or even a larger hunk of brisket would be awesome. the #2 cannot take a whole brisket and it must be cut in half.

[es1025]

Thanks all, ordered the #3, need to wait until the 28th. The larger heating element and the freebies, worth the extra cost.