Lonestar Offset Horizontal Cabinet Options or Similar LSG Pit Options.

[Lobsterbake]

Hello,

I am pondering ordering a LSG 24x36 Horizontal Offset Cabinet smoker and wondering from those who have ordered the same or similar - what options are must have in your opinion. Anything you wish you had gotten or got and regretted?

Options I am considering:

1/2" Firebox. Like the Insulated option but lose the griddle top - not sure if would miss it or not.

Pull handle

Two probe ports

Folding stainless shelf - 12" vs standard 10" and try to get a little wider to cover more of the of the FB side - firebox top griddle area.

8" wheel package

Ash pan

Fire management basket

Items - not sure about:

Gas Assist/Log Lighter

Charcoal S Basket

Guru port - not sure Guru is really practical with offset.

Any feedback is appreciated.

Thanks,

Mark

 

[txsmkmstr]

Ok... I'll bite.

The griddle/grilling top does nothing for me as I've had it on previous pits. I really like my insulated F/B but recommend going to the 1/2" box at a minimum.

The pull handle is mounted too low IMHO. I wanted something on the exhaust stack so I don't have to bend over moving the thing. Still, wouldn't want to go without one regardless.

I'd pass on the SS shelf option - been there thrice and find the money saved will get you other options. Yeah, it looks nice and all but the sun reflection is a killer some days. I ended up covering mine with kraft paper to avoid that (and make cleanup easier). BTW - YES YES YES on going 12" if possible. Even then you'll find life is better if you attach an extension (see sig line - last page).

Ash pan is a non-starter for me.... too heavy and I found an aluminum sheet pan works just as well. Again, this puts more money into your pocket for other options.

The 8" wheel package is a must. Not sure about the all-terrain option as they didn't offer it. Even with the 8" wheels you will likely need some plywood if you plan on transporting across grass areas.

Finally.... I really really really like my gas-assist. No need to lug around and hookup weed burners and the like. Again, check out the option I went for in my sig line - might not be feasible for your situation but you'll be $$$$'s ahead by getting that and taking some other items mentioned off your list.

Best of luck... this is quite possibly the last smoker you'll ever need to buy.

 

[musicmanj]

I've had mine for just over a couple of weeks and have already cooked on it a half-dozen times. I went with a 24x48 and love it. I might recommend going with the 24x40 instead of the 24x36. Not too much more cost for extra space. I like having a bit of space between the firebox and the meat.

Stainless shelf is a must. It's much easier to clean up than expanded metal, and when sliding out the shelves. I have the 10" and that works for me, but I also have a cart that I use for prep, wrapping, etc.

I did not get the gas assist. You can add the gas assist later if you want. I start with a chimney of lump and a couple of splits and am heated up and ready to cook in about 45 mins.

I didn't get the ash pan. I take out the fire grate and sweep all the ash into a bucket. It's easy enough. I can't picture myself trying to hold up the ash pan with one hand and sweeping the ash into a can with another.

I really like the fire management basket. Keeps the coal bed nice and tight. The research I did on this suggests it's a must have.

8" casters are really nice, makes for easy rolling. Pull handle, why not?

I bought the charcoal s basket, but only plan to use it if I every have to cook overnight. If had it to do over, I probably wouldn't get the charcoal basket, but I bought it up front to save money on shipping.

This thing is a cooking machine, it's fantastic!!! So versatile and some of the best BBQ I've ever cooked.