1998 Smokey Mountain 18.5

[tibas92017]

I'm a newbie to the WSM but know my way around the kettles. I just purchased a 1998 18.5" WSM sight unseen (had my brother pick up) for $80.00 on Craigslist. I bought it because of the wooden handle and was thinking it may be sturdier than the newer models. Now I realize the legs are not as beefy as the new models and there is no ash pan. I'm sure it was a good deal for the price but am I wrong in thinking older is better?

I have almost the same WSM which I bought new in the year 2008 and the original legs are still going strong! My WSM has a plastic handle but all the rest is about the same as your WSM.  Good luck with your WSM.