Inexpensive Electric Smoker

[Got_Wood]

I spent a fair amount of time evaluating meat smokers and trying to decide between the Cookshack SM008 and the SmokinTex 1300. My evaluation between these two smokers seemed like a wash. I even thought about building one since there really isn’t much to a smoker.

In the end, I wasn’t sure that I needed something this expensive, and the stainless steel models seemed like overkill. Smoking meat was going to be an experiment and I wanted to start small and see if I would stick with it.

It as then that I discovered the knock-off/clone model from Gordon.

Here is my comparison of these three thermostatically controlled smokers.

Model: Cookshack SM008, Black
Dimensions: 16.5"x 19" x 24" high
Made: US
Watts: 500
Capacity: 30 lbs
Cost: $465
Cold Plate: $45.95
Shipping: $10
Total: $521
URL: http://cookshack.radius3.com/shopping/pgm-more_information.php?id=4&=SID

Model: Smokin Tex #1300, Green
Dimensions: W=17½" x D=21" x H=29"
Made: China
Watts: 700
Capacity: 33 lbs
Cost: $474
Cold Plate: $46.50
Shipping: Free
Total: $520.50
URL: http://www.smokintex.com/p_smokers.html

Model: Gordon #90898, Periwinkle
Dimensions: 17-3/16'' W x 21'' D x 25-1/16'' H
Made: India
Watts: 800
Capacity: 20 lbs
Cost: $249
Cold Plate: Free
Shipping: $10
Total: $259
URL: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=90898

I bought the Gordon. I smoked a butt for the Superbowl in 30 degree temperatures and it came out beautifully! I’m very happy with this low-end smoker.

 

[Bigmista]

Congrats on the successful smoke! Now go to Cattle CAll and introduce yourself!

 

[Arlin_MacRae]

Yeah, what Mista said!

I find it interesting that the Gordon, with similar external dimensions as the other two, cooks a full third less meat by weight. I wonder why?

 

[jgh1204]

And when you are done, you can store your valuables in it.

Just kidding, though it does look like a safe.

Congrats, I think you made the right choice. If you decide you ever want to ramp up, you can check out the Fast Eddie Smokers or the Winchester smokers(at Sams Club).

 

[Neil]

Nice post on the comparison Wood. How long did it take you to smoke that butt and how big was it?