Brinkmann Smoke King Deluxe- Opinions or Tips

[snatcher20]

Just picked up this model model for what appears to be a good price ($169). Most internet sites list it between $300-600. Anybody have any positive or negative experiences with this model or any tips? It's my first smoker so it will be a learning experience. I'm moving on from wood chips in the gas grill. Thanks.

[Mike89]

I have used my Brinkman for several years now and really enjoy it. I do use it year round unless it's really cold! the big thing is go slow and cook low!!

Mike

[snatcher20]

Mike- Thanks for the reply.

I fired it up twice last weekend. Saturday to season it and Sunday I tried some ribs. I'm pretty sure the mounted thermometer doesn't work and I didn't have an oven thermometer on Saturday so I'm not sure how hot I got it. But on Sunday I could only get the temp up to 150 (with an internal oven thermometer) at the base of the smoker. I was shooting for 225ish. It was real windy and cool so that probably contributed to my issues. I used two chimneys of lump charcol. Needless to say I had to finish the ribs on the gas grill. Can you shed some light on how to get the temp up in the smoker? I made a baffle per many websites recommendations. Could this be hampering my temps? Any advice from anyone would be greatly appreciated.

[Mike89]

Sure, I have foiled insulation on the outside (heat resistent), sealed the door with heat rope, and use it in a shed out of the wind. It's a small shed so it works well and smells good too! I also use a thermomter thats electric (battery) from any sport store, fleet farm ect. You can set the temp for how high you want to smoke your meat. It also shows the inside temp if you leave the probe on the rack. I would just get a good basic extra out for the inside air temp. Good luck!

Mike

[ripstick]

Not to sure who makes but I know cabekas had them. Its a temp gauge that mounts on the top of the smoker .All you do is mount it then drill a whole just big enough to put the probe in, then seal the hole with rv sealer. Use it for basic temp or when doing a turkey or ham you can put in the meat. Good luck.