WSM 14” or 18”

[whaascarson]

Good morning group. I've been all over the map with grills, smokers. I picked up a never used 2003 stainless steel Weber performer, giving it to my dad for Christmas.

I also Restored a 1993 Weber Genesis 2000. It took quite a bit of time, decent amount of money, and I love it. Can't see getting rid of it simply to streamline my process.

I was looking into Kamados since they can do everything. Can't justify the cost and fragility (young dogs and kids).

I keep coming back to these WSM's. I could use that for smoking, genesis for searing. I used a WSM years ago and really did well with it.

There's a 14 on craigslist for $100. One cook. Do you think I should pull the trigger on the 14 or bite the bullet and get an 18 new? 22 is definitely larger than what I need.

Is there significantly more functionality to an 18 than a 14? I primarily do ribs, pork butt, tri tip, and the occasional brisket.

Also, can you separate a brisket into the point and flat, perhaps do the point on the top rack and the flat on the bottom rack? Or vice versa?

Thank you all.


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[HoosierKettle]

Sounds like you have a handle on what you like.  The 18 is handier for large cuts but the 14 will be efficient.


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[padlin00]

Just one persons opinion, but I'm finding my 14 a bit too small. It's fine for ribs and such where 7 or 8 hours is enough but I find I need to add coals several times during longer cooks like a butt. Between that and needing to cut racks in half or roll them has me thinking of a bigger smoker after a year with the 14.

[DaveG74]

My opinion, if you plan on doing multiple racks of ribs hanging or laid out 18.5" or bigger is the way to go. Maybe for the price you can buy it and trade up for a larger WSM. Good luck!

[KevinInStL]

I'm no WSM expert...but Chris Allingham over at TVWBB definitely is, and he says 18"

https://tvwbb.com/showthread.php?79236-Worth-it (scroll down to the 3rd post)

Keep watching CL and FB marketplace. There are almost always several 18" WSMs for sale in my area, usually for $150-200 in very good condition.

[whaascarson]

Thank you all. 18" it is. You da best!


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[Walchit]

Ive found 3 18s for 50 or less. And an e-code for 90.

Where are you located? I know there are a couple in my area for less than 100, but they won't budge on the price so I havent bought them.

[whaascarson]

Bozeman Montana


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[Walchit]

https://billings.craigslist.org/hsh/d/billings-weber-185-smokey-mountain-john/7041006007.html

[Walchit]

Haggle, nevermind it says firm lol. But nothing runs like a deer lol