SmokeytheBear
New member
Hi everyone. New member - thanks to all for contributing to such a quality forum.
After many years of frustration with poorly made Traegers (Costco), I'm stepping up to a better made product. I have another gas grill, so I'd be using the smoker primarily for smoking/roasting (i.e., searing is nice, but not critical).
I've pretty much convinced myself to spend up to a Mak. Probably a Mak 2 - I like the idea of the warming/smoking box as well as the more durable stainless.
Mak-1 might work since the searing isn't critical for me and then I suppose I could use the saved money on a Cambro to replace the warming drawer.
FYI - I was looking at the Memphis Pro and even the Cookshack PG500 - but it seems like those offer better searing in exchange for slightly poorer smoke. Considered Yoder and Rectec as well - obviously less money but I'm willing to spend a bit more for the quality.
So my question is this - what "accessories" do people here recommend adding to a Mak? Here is what I've got in mind as POSSIBLE purchases - would love some feedback since adding all/most of these will make the purchase even more spendy. Obviously, I can buy things over time . . . that's what Father's Day is for.
Upper Grate - seems like a no brainer - leaning towards 3/4 rather than full.
Cover - I'm planning to store outside, so seems like a requirement even though I live in a mild climate (So Cal). But maybe I can get a "generic cover" somewhere else?
Wfi adapter - I think I'd use it, but have read a few posts that it doesn't work great. Is it true that if the wifi disconnects, the unit reverts to smoke? That would be an issue for me since the smoker will be on the edge of my wifi range.
Front Shelf - Not sure I need this?
Cabinet doors - seems like a luxury add.
Extra probes - can I use probes from other manufacturers (i.e., Thermoworks).
Anything else I should consider?
Any input is appreciated (including suggestions for other smokers I should consider).
Thanks!
After many years of frustration with poorly made Traegers (Costco), I'm stepping up to a better made product. I have another gas grill, so I'd be using the smoker primarily for smoking/roasting (i.e., searing is nice, but not critical).
I've pretty much convinced myself to spend up to a Mak. Probably a Mak 2 - I like the idea of the warming/smoking box as well as the more durable stainless.
Mak-1 might work since the searing isn't critical for me and then I suppose I could use the saved money on a Cambro to replace the warming drawer.
FYI - I was looking at the Memphis Pro and even the Cookshack PG500 - but it seems like those offer better searing in exchange for slightly poorer smoke. Considered Yoder and Rectec as well - obviously less money but I'm willing to spend a bit more for the quality.
So my question is this - what "accessories" do people here recommend adding to a Mak? Here is what I've got in mind as POSSIBLE purchases - would love some feedback since adding all/most of these will make the purchase even more spendy. Obviously, I can buy things over time . . . that's what Father's Day is for.
Upper Grate - seems like a no brainer - leaning towards 3/4 rather than full.
Cover - I'm planning to store outside, so seems like a requirement even though I live in a mild climate (So Cal). But maybe I can get a "generic cover" somewhere else?
Wfi adapter - I think I'd use it, but have read a few posts that it doesn't work great. Is it true that if the wifi disconnects, the unit reverts to smoke? That would be an issue for me since the smoker will be on the edge of my wifi range.
Front Shelf - Not sure I need this?
Cabinet doors - seems like a luxury add.
Extra probes - can I use probes from other manufacturers (i.e., Thermoworks).
Anything else I should consider?
Any input is appreciated (including suggestions for other smokers I should consider).
Thanks!