Hello from Dallas, TX

[mikeTRON]

Hello

I'm a n00b who has yet to smoke his first meal or even to purchase my first smoker. I'm all ears (or eyes...since I'm reading).I have been reading the site for a few days and figured I'd go ahead and say hey.

Anyways I am researching smokers at the moment. I am a BROKE @$$ college student so $$ is a big issue for me. I am scrounging around on craigslist but alot of the stuff is plain rubbish. Im strongly leaning towards a WSM but for the $300-400 I could buy a nice used smoker... The big problem is I really dont know what to look for except one that lacks rust.

I am also thinking about building a UDS but damn they are ugly and pretty large which is an issue with my current living situation

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Also if i DO end up buying a WSM should i get the 18 or 22? and why?

Thanks for your help
(Maybe i would be better off posting this in another section?)

 

[frognot]

Welcome aboard Mike!

I'd suggest reposting your question in Q-Talk & more folks will see it. I have an 18" WSM because the 22" wasn't out yet. You'll probably have a lot better luck finding the 18" on Craig's List. WSMs are great smokers and don't take up a lot of room and are excellent smokers to learn on.

 

[BigButzBBQ]

Welcome to the crew!

 

[Westexbbq]

mikeTron,
Welcome to the camp.
Enjoy.

 

[SmokeJumper]

Welcome aboard!
I sorely miss the Q in Dallas - I lived there during school. A used WSM would be a great first smoker. It is hard to find the 22" used but I often see the 18" for less than $200.

 

[thillin]

Welcome aboard. I'd really consider building the UDS. No real size difference than the 22" WSM.

 

[mikeTRON]

Ill continue the questions in the Q talk
Thanks

 

[Rookie'48]

Welcome to our crazy little club house. Ditto on the UDS & WSM.

 

[Phesant]

Howdy, and welcome to our little slice of BBQ heaven. Get the 18" WSM if space is a problem, you can get a lot on it.

 

[chambersuac]

Welcome to the Brethren - a great place to learn and hang out! I used to live in Dallas. I miss Texas. As far as a smoker, what do you WANT to spend on one? You can buy cheap, but then you'll be adding more cookers or replacing in the near future. In the $300-400 range, you've got some good options. I have a 18.5 WSM and love it - It doesn't use near the amount of fuel as the 22, from what I understand - and it can hold a lot of Q.