New WSM owner... New(ish) to smoking as well :)

[KrisDecker]

Hi all!

Just got my WSM and have it parked on my patio with the cover. Couple of questions:

1. I have the vents all closed while it sits. I read its best to leave them open. I would think thats an opportunity for bees/wasps to nest if you dont use it regularly. Is that an issue with anyone?
2. As I am upgrading from a cheap offset smoker, I knew it would be easier to make some modifications prior to first fire. I plan on installing the gaskets around the top section and door. I also ordered the cajun bandit door. Are there any other mods that I should do prior to firing this puppy up?
3. I have about 6 pieces of split, seasoned cherry logs. is there any way to use these in the WSM? I was going to take my sawzall and cut them to mini logs for my old COS
4. Speaking of wood... Can I use chunks, or are chips the only recommended wood to use?

 

[Bob Correll]

Welcome aboard Kris!
I'll take a stab at your questions.

1- I leave mine open for ventilation, never had a wasp etc problem.
2- Not much help here, I put garage door handles on the barrel, and that's the extent of my mods.
3 & 4- Most everyone uses chunks in the WSM, fist size on down, chips will burn up fast and give very little smoke to your food.

I'm sure you will really like this. almost runs itself, smoker!

 

[KrisDecker]

are 'mini logs' too big? HD sells bags of those.

(dang... I just bought a TON of chips on sale!!!)

 

[Bob Correll]

Mini logs should be fine.
As far as the chips, you can make foil pouches, punch a few holes in the tops, and place on the coals.

 

[Bob Correll]

here's some good info:
http://virtualweberbullet.com/woods.html

 

[Len Dennis]

Mini logs should be fine.
As far as the chips, you can make foil pouches, punch a few holes in the tops, and place on the coals.

As Bob says, chips are fine. I usually use them (apple, cherry, etc) as my secondary smoke source, hickory (chunks) being primary. Don't soak them (waste of time) and put a handful in a alum foil pouch. There will be enough gaps when you fold it that you don't need to punch holes in it either.

 

[KrisDecker]

thanks for the great info!

 

[Bob Correll]

There will be enough gaps when you fold it that you don't need to punch holes in it either.

Not if you're a good folder.
I do think heavy duty foil is best to withstand the heat without burning through.

 

[Len Dennis]

I guess it depends on what a "good folder" is. I do it that way on purpose otherwise I find that the foil will split along the "punch lines" and spill its guts lol.

 

[Van DeWald]

Would you be able to use pellets in a foil pouch in the same way?

 

[Len Dennis]

Would you be able to use pellets in a foil pouch in the same way?

yes.

But aren't they a lot more $$$ than chips? I think that's one reason why (there are others) why people don't like pellet smokers, because of the cost.