Buying a New Cooker-Need Help

[umpire]

I am thinking about buying a new cooker this week. I was looking at the Fatboy. Is this a good cooker? Also, I noticed you can add additonal racks. Is this something that is recommended? I currently own 4 mega charoal cookers and I wanted to branch out with a BWS. I was wondering which model I should start with?

[RickC]

Unless your are prepping food for 25-50 people I would stick with the Party or Chubby as your first BWS. These smokers hold their value very well and will be snapped right up when you are ready to move up to a larger smoker. The two small ones are much easier to move around than the Fatboys and up. That said the Gator is my next Backwoods. Before you ask , "what is a Gator", it is an unlisted model deeper than a Fatboy, but the same height and width. It comes with expanded metal racks, a commercial fire grate, removeable water pan.

[umpire]

Thanks for the input. However, just ordered a Fatboy. Supposed to pick it up on Friday. I purchased a cover and heat diverter. Also, I have ordered a digiQ guru to use. Can't wait to get started. Is there anything else I need????? What kind of charcoal do you recommend for the Fatboy?

[Braddog]

I find that briquettes give me the longest, most even burn. I typically cook with Kingsford blue bag and add wood chunks for flavor. You'll love the Fatboy. I loved mine until I upgraded to the Pro Jr.

Cheers,
Braddog

[RickC]

I find that briquettes give me the longest, most even burn. I typically cook with Kingsford blue bag and add wood chunks for flavor. You'll love the Fatboy. I loved mine until I upgraded to the Pro Jr.

Cheers,
Braddog

I might have to give the blue bag a try. I have been using lump ever since I got my Chubby. I have to do 4 briskets for a party on the 10th of December.