Rickybobby83
Well-known member
Messed around with my UDS for a while then gave to my brother in-law. So I got a OKJ Highlander. Learned quickly the difference between the UDS and a Stick Burner lol.
Normally dont like smoking on a set up thats not been seasoned but this freaking quarantine in MICHIGAN is driving me crazy, so I couldn’t let a good smoke go to waste.
Lessons learned so far:
1. Airflow airflow airflow! Got a dirty cook but I got it figured out towards the end. Still edible.
2. Burns more than the UDS. Was using lump and then wood chunks. Put a light weight expanded metal grate on top of the rack in the fire box. Bigger chunks work better. Got a buddy who has a wood biz in town so I’m picking up some apple wood and cherry Wood tomorrow. We shall see.
3. Got some leaks. Lot of differing opinions out there about sealing up the leaks, or using gasket etc. Once the fire got dialed in didnt notice much of an issue. I’m still on the fence with the gasket.
4. Fire baskets are apparently only recommended for charcoal. Not ideal for this offset.
5. A lot of touch and go. Gotta be patient and treat it like a craft. Got a long holiday weekend, or quarantine in front of me so I may as well use the time smokin. Plus it helps I work from home.
Any tips, ticks, and feedback would be welcome. Ive got much to learn.
Normally dont like smoking on a set up thats not been seasoned but this freaking quarantine in MICHIGAN is driving me crazy, so I couldn’t let a good smoke go to waste.
Lessons learned so far:
1. Airflow airflow airflow! Got a dirty cook but I got it figured out towards the end. Still edible.
2. Burns more than the UDS. Was using lump and then wood chunks. Put a light weight expanded metal grate on top of the rack in the fire box. Bigger chunks work better. Got a buddy who has a wood biz in town so I’m picking up some apple wood and cherry Wood tomorrow. We shall see.
3. Got some leaks. Lot of differing opinions out there about sealing up the leaks, or using gasket etc. Once the fire got dialed in didnt notice much of an issue. I’m still on the fence with the gasket.
4. Fire baskets are apparently only recommended for charcoal. Not ideal for this offset.
5. A lot of touch and go. Gotta be patient and treat it like a craft. Got a long holiday weekend, or quarantine in front of me so I may as well use the time smokin. Plus it helps I work from home.
Any tips, ticks, and feedback would be welcome. Ive got much to learn.