I'm the market for a smoker to supplement my trusty old WSM. I'll keep it for charcoal duty but don't use it as much as I would like, so looking to get a pellet pooper which should see more use since it's much more convenient. After cook quality, ease of use and maintenance is most important. I think I've narrowed my choices down to a MAK or a vertical pellet smoker (most likely a Pellet Pro or a Pit Boss Copperhead). Of course, there's a huge difference in price between the two.
For those who have been in a similar situation, what did you decide? If you ended up with the MAK, what have you used it for that made it worth the extra cost?
Some other details:
One concern I have is the smoke profile compared to charcoal. Besides cost, this an area where I think the verticals have an edge.
If your recommendation is for the MAK, which one? I like the 2 Star, but the I'm having a hard time justifying the extra cost for a smoker box and stainless construction.
Thanks for your help.
- Dave
For those who have been in a similar situation, what did you decide? If you ended up with the MAK, what have you used it for that made it worth the extra cost?
Some other details:
- I have an infrared gasser which I will keep and use for grilling and searing.
- I live in the northeast. Whatever I get will stay outside, covered.
- I would like the ability to cold smoke, though that's not a primary use.
- Besides meat, one of my favorites is pizza. Not sure which smoker lends itself to that.
- Do you think I should get a MAK or does the vertical smoker make more sense? I realize I'm posting to a biased group, but presumably everyone here has made a similar decision before.
One concern I have is the smoke profile compared to charcoal. Besides cost, this an area where I think the verticals have an edge.
If your recommendation is for the MAK, which one? I like the 2 Star, but the I'm having a hard time justifying the extra cost for a smoker box and stainless construction.
Thanks for your help.
- Dave