First BBQ Buy - Bullet v ODS

[andrewj]

Hi
I'm complete newby to low and slow BBQ cooking but keen as mustard to get started. I've been doing a little bit of research online but I'm still a little confused as to which is the best smoker to buy. Narrowed it down to a Frontier Pro Q a WSM or making my own ODS with a kit from Big Poppa's in the States (not skilled enough to manufacture my own but just about manage to drill some holes in steel drum ). Cost is a factor, Pro Q and ODS roughly cost the same with the WSM being the most expensive. Having read some of the threads on the forum I realise that personal preference and individual choice play a big part in recommending a smoker but i'd welcome your advice on choosing something that's reliable, will hold it's temp well and will last.

All the best

Andy

[paulfire]

I have a pro Q excel and I'm guessing its the same as the frontier, although I'm very happy with it there remains a problem hitting the right temp and keeping it there. UDS is the cheaper option and you can adjust it, WSM are so popular and standard competition units, they must be good.
Whichever way you choose the right fuel seems to be a big factor for success , I use heat beads others use restaurant grade charcoal, both DO IT, just take your time, and have fun.
Good cooking

[Steve]

You will not regret going down the BPS route with a drum. If you want simplicity and stability, the drum will be the best option.

[CyderPig]

Ditto Steve
I have built loads of Ugly Drums and they are fantastic cookers ,easy to use, hold temps well.
There are loads of posts on here relating to them, including build guides.
You get a lot of satisfaction cooking off a smoker you built yourself plus saving a load of money.
Ugly Drums work as well as WSM's and ProQ's, I find they need less tending than my WSM.
Build a Drum and spend the money you have saved on a Pit Controller and decent in oven meat probe.
Si

[andrewj]

Hi Guys
Thanks for your advice. Stability and simplicity sounds right up my street so I'm going down the UDS route.
I'll keep you updated on how it goes.

A.