pits

I have an 18" WSM and I love it! ....... But I wanna upgrade to an offset and learn how to use one that the generalised BBQ world uses and loves. Klose? Lang? Gator pit? Looking for about a budget of $1,000-$1,500 Just using it for backyard family get together and challenge myself with...

I am looking to get a new smoker for comps and would like suggestions on the best smoker at a reasonable price. I am looking to start competing in cook offs, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

ok, here's the question, do you scrape the inside of your pits to remove the "seasoning" or do you just let it build up and add unique flavor to the meat? I've heard both sides, never scrape and clean it up so you don't get the creosote bitterness.... What say you?:clap2: