Need advise

[Lemans]

So tomarrow AM I am smoking two Boston butts for xmas .
I am planning to use my Ranch.. should I use a 3x2 snake or
Hook up my pit master IQ?

[Travis]

I'm biased. One, I don't have an automatic temp controller but a snake method is unbelievably consistent. I vote snake with pictures of setup and cook on that bad ass ranch. What are you running them at tomorrow temp wise

[Lemans]

Like 225-250. Two 8 lb butts

[Lemans]

Got some cherrywood from a friend

[Old Dave]

This old lazy cook would probably use 4 Weber charcoal rails (2 on each side) with each side holding about a half chimney of cold all hardwood briquets to start with.



Would then place 2 full size drip pans in the middle of the cooker.



Next step is to call the neighbors to see if they want to purchase some pork butts to cook with my butts as I would have room for about 6 more butts.

Next step would be to pour in one full Weber chimney of hot all hardwood charcoal briquets equally divided between each side and start my cook. Add some hickory chunks and set the vents for a temperature measured on the cooking grid of about 300 degrees and cook the butts. May need to add a little additional charcoal at the 4 hour mark into the cook.

Now, being lazy, I don't stack charcoal briquets for anything period! I also don't wash the street in front of my house! And I never try to push a chain..it's much easier to pull!

[captjoe06]

I don't stack briquettes for the snake method either, just pour them in and push them along the edge.  Very consistent.
like this-

[HoosierKettle]

I had to look up what a pit master iq is. That has all the hallmarks of things I hate. Wires, hoses, weird bowl shape thing and some electronic brain.

If it were me I would use one of the above listed methods.  Snake or banked both sound great.


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[Lemans]

Ended up using Dave's plan of attack.. since the Ranch has the top vent right in the center, it Makes sence


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[Lemans]

2 1/2 hours in cruising at 260 degrees just spritz with maple syrup, apple juice and apple
Cider vinegar


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[Lemans]

Notice the smokey joe I used for
My starter


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[captjoe06]

Looking good!

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[pbe gummi bear]

Looking good, @Lemans. Butts are pretty resilient to temperature so I think you made the right choice for not using the IQ. I think it's more fun that way.

[JDD]

@Lemans How is your temp running so far? What is the outside temperature? I'm doing the same for a new Years Eve cook and would like to know how this work out. Please keep us updated.

[Lemans]

It is holding between 250 and 260 bottom vent 2/3 and top 3/4 open.
Started with 70 briquettes on each side now 3 hours in I have to "refuel" next time I will double the amount. 3x2 snake on each side


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[Travis]

Man, those are some great pics! Keep us updated.
@Old Dave Love your reply if neighbors want to buy some butts to fill up the ranch. Perfect..
I will have a ranch someday.


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