Need some help!
- Thread starter es1025
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UWFSAE
New member
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 ...
- 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 ...
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!
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!
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
New member
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.
mikeinctown
New member
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.
