Masterbuilt Pro Dual Fuel MB26050412 Smoker

[MarkN]

I have been smoking for years with my trusty old dented but reliable Weber Kettle Grill and am thinking about getting a dedicated smoker. This would be my first one so I don't want to spend a lot of money but don't want to end up having it be more work than smoking with a charcoal grill. This one, the Masterbuilt Pro Dual Fuel Smoker caught my eye because a couple of the features (mainly dual fuel and a separate door to add wood and not disturb the smoking meats).

I read about the Masterbuilt Dual Fuel rating here on Amazingribs and it looked pretty good, but of course there seem to be variations on it, some of which are no longer available.

Anyone have any experience with this model or anything close that could give a positive or negative thoughts and/or recommendations?

[Redwng]

One of my first smokers was a gas smoker (Masterbuilt didn't make one at that time) and it worked really well, my only suggestion would be to consider using a water pan. What I experienced was with the gas flame at the bottom it took all the humidity out of the air and my first few cooks the meats were a little dry until I figured out the problem and the water pan definitely helped. Good luck if you get it and send pics and thoughts.

[MarkN]

Thanks Redwng. It does seem that if I'm looking for anything under $500 I'm going to have to accept that some adjustments will be required. I'm also looking at something like the Pit Barrel Cooker. That has some features I like but the review says it runs a little hot and other than capacity I'm not sure how much an improvement it would be over my 22" Weber Kettle.

[sheejo]

I just bought one of these for the cottage over the summer... Right price point and I was thinking easy to use for the less experienced cooks. Did you get one? Am curious of your thoughts. I too normally just use my 22 for these types of cooks.

[Jfrosty27]

The Pit Barrel Cooker is a no lose choice. Read the many threads on it here. A similar, and some would say more versatile option, is the Oklahoma Joe Bronco. Again, many threads on it here. Regardless, good luck with your choice and have fun with it!

[bbqLuv]

Consider a Pellet Grill or a Pellet Grill.