Vertical vs Horizontal smokers

Admitedly, it’s my first smoker but everything turns out great.  Actually, I followed a very good tutorial on www.wiviott.com , and I followed it to the letter.  I also purchased a few books like yours and This is my first full season of smoking and generally learning more about bbq and I’m loving it.  In your opinion, is the Charbroil Silver a better smoker than the Weber?  The reason I ask is b/c the Charbroil is actually cheaper than the Weber.  Also, generally, do you have an opinion on vertical vs. horizontal smokers?  I hope I’m not taking too much of your time but this stuff just gets me going. 

No heat problem with Char-Broil Silver

hi bill

I had this type of smoker and did not like it. I could not get my cooking chamber temp up past 160 degrees, no matter how much heat I had in the fire box. I had so much heat in the fire box that i peeled all the paint of the outside of the fire box. I had all the vents open to. What did i do wrong. Do you think the temp gauge does not work properly?

Michael

Smokestack damper – open or closed?

Bill in your review of the Lang smoker you said to leave the damper 100% open all the time.  I have a Lange smoker and do not understand why you say this.  Ben originally told me to leave it open when starting the fire and then turn it to 25-40% to control the temp.  I also find by setting the damper to just under the air intake it holds the smoke longer, uses less wood and still holds the temp.   I am very open to what you have to share with me to help improve my process.

Thank you Charles

Bluffton, SC.

What is the edible meat yield for pork shoulders?

Hi Bill:

I have a quick for ya ??? Planning to smoke Pork Shoulders.

Looking to do a 4 oz. Sandwich, Do you think 8 – 8 lb. Pork Shoulders will be OK ?

I was thinking I would loose 2 lbs. in the cooking process, 4 oz.,into 6 lbs. would yield 24 sandwiches, 8 Pork Shoulders x 24 = 196 Sandwiches….????

Thanks for your help,,,this is my first catering job.

Bob K.