Let's Talk BBQ

Outdoor Cooking Equipment => Grills & Smokers => Pellet Grills and Smokers => Topic started by: slothritis on December 02, 2017, 08:25:34 AM

Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 02, 2017, 08:25:34 AM
Hey All. So I am in the market for a new pellet smoker/grill. I currently have a rec tec mini but I am looking to get a bigger smoker that can handle more meats. I would love to hear about any products you all may recommend. I've been looking at the new Traeger timberline, the larger rec tec, or a Yoder smoker. Honestly, I want one that gives me the least amount of problems. Thanks in advanced.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 02, 2017, 08:57:51 AM
The Traeger Timberline has had some early issues on low smoke production and on the grease system. While it is nice to see Traeger get "serious", I think the Timberline is overpriced for what you are getting.

Yoder??  Get yourself a part-time job to pay for pellets.....that 1/4 inch steel makes pellet consumption a big issue. I did pellet testing on a YS480 and I was amazed at how the hopper was always empty.

Now of course if you want to spend the coin and have the best, go get a MAK. They are simply the best.

However if you like your Rec Tec mini, why not go for the Rec Tec 680.......a solid performer at a great price.

Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 02, 2017, 09:29:57 AM
The Traeger Timberline has had some early issues on low smoke production and on the grease system. While it is nice to see Traeger get "serious", I think the Timberline is overpriced for what you are getting.

Yoder??  Get yourself a part-time job to pay for pellets.....that 1/4 inch steel makes pellet consumption a big issue. I did pellet testing on a YS480 and I was amazed at how the hopper was always empty.

Now of course if you want to spend the coin and have the best, go get a MAK. They are simply the best.

However if you like your Rec Tec mini, why not go for the Rec Tec 680.......a solid performer at a great price.
Thanks for the reply. That's too bad about the traeger. Kinda was really interested in that timberline. I've heard good things about the mak, I just don't think I'm ready to drop that much money yet. The rec tec is looking better and better to be honest.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 02, 2017, 09:39:09 AM
I too was excited to see the Timberline, but once you get past the initial presentation (it is a good looking unit) it loses its luster. Kind of like an engine with 300,000 miles on it in a new car body.

I look at it this way, if a pellet grill is going to be your main way to grill and smoke outdoors, then cry once. You get the MAK 1 star General and you are done. You have a grill/smoker that will last a lifetime. It is just that plain and simple.

Look at it this way, your Rec Tec mini and a Rec Tec 680 combined price is that of a One Star.

I also have a One Star General in my cross-hairs................and trust me, with the pellet grills I have previously owned I could already have a loaded One Star with all the goodies. You are talking to the poster boy for impulsive grill purchases...............

Yes, the Rec Tec 680 is one heck of a grill.........Love the rear hopper, stainless in all the right places, good controller.........and even with all of its good points.....it is not close to the quality of a MAK. Not even in the neighborhood.

Swing over to the MAK forum sponsor section and see for your-self. I am sure many MAK owners will be here shortly................
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 02, 2017, 09:42:53 AM
I too was excited to see the Timberline, but once you get past the initial presentation (it is a good looking unit) it loses its luster. Kind of like an engine with 300,000 miles on it in a new car body.

I look at it this way, if a pellet grill is going to be your main way to grill and smoke outdoors, then cry once. You get the MAK 1 star General and you are done. You have a grill/smoker that will last a lifetime. It is just that plain and simple.

Look at it this way, your Rec Tec mini and a Rec Tec 680 combined price is that of a One Star.

I also have a One Star General in my cross-hairs................and trust me, with the pellet grills I have previously owned I could already have a loaded One Star with all the goodies. You are talking to the poster boy for impulsive grill purchases...............

Yes, the Rec Tec 680 is one heck of a grill.........Love the rear hopper, stainless in all the right places, good controller.........and even with all of its good points.....it is not close to the quality of a MAK. Not even in the neighborhood.

Swing over to the MAK forum sponsor section and see for your-self. I am sure many MAK owners will be here shortly................

The thing is, I need a large cooking area. I don't think the mak 1 is large enough.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: KJRsmoker on December 02, 2017, 10:03:29 AM
I believe the 1 Star has the same exact size cooking area as the 2 Star.  Even if it doesn't, with the upper grate, there should be more than enough room.  By the way, I have a 2 Star and I love it.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: sparky on December 02, 2017, 10:37:20 AM
I have owned 1 stars and 2 stars.  Great pellet smokers.  And the cooking area of the 1 stars is the same size has the 2 stars.  I myself don't use the child smoking box.  A 1 star is perfect.  Smaller foot print.
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on December 02, 2017, 11:24:00 AM
One star will hold 8 butts with the upper shelf. Which is a much have accessory


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Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 02, 2017, 06:00:31 PM
If I am correct, the new one stars are the same size as the two stars...............
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 03, 2017, 08:25:29 AM
Thanks for everyone's input.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 03, 2017, 09:26:33 AM
So I get to thinking, I know you are concerned about capacity and the one thing everyone seems to be ecstatic about the Timberline is how much food it holds.

Diva Q and Meat Church are using the Timberline in competitions and all seem happy with it.

Here is a review from Scott Thomas from Grillin Fools. He had a beta model from Traeger that he reviewed:

https://grillinfools.com/blog/2017/03/29/review-of-the-new-traeger-timberline/
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 03, 2017, 10:46:34 AM
So I get to thinking, I know you are concerned about capacity and the one thing everyone seems to be ecstatic about the Timberline is how much food it holds.

Diva Q and Meat Church are using the Timberline in competitions and all seem happy with it.

Here is a review from Scott Thomas from Grillin Fools. He had a beta model from Traeger that he reviewed:

https://grillinfools.com/blog/2017/03/29/review-of-the-new-traeger-timberline/

I saw that, but I'm just wondering if they were paid to use the equipment.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 03, 2017, 11:07:44 AM
So I get to thinking, I know you are concerned about capacity and the one thing everyone seems to be ecstatic about the Timberline is how much food it holds.

Diva Q and Meat Church are using the Timberline in competitions and all seem happy with it.

Here is a review from Scott Thomas from Grillin Fools. He had a beta model from Traeger that he reviewed:

https://grillinfools.com/blog/2017/03/29/review-of-the-new-traeger-timberline/

So after doing some math, if you take the top rack out of the timberline 1300, it's actually smaller space than the rec tec 680 with the top shelf. So I think I'm leaning more towards rec tec.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 03, 2017, 11:11:56 AM
True. But Grillin Fools showed in their review that the Timberline can hold 6 spare ribs laying flat on all three racks. The Rec Tec can hold a bunch of ribs as well.

We have many happy Rec Tec owners around here that hopefully will chime in with cooking capacities.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 03, 2017, 11:17:54 AM
True. But Grillin Fools showed in their review that the Timberline can hold 6 spare ribs laying flat on all three racks. The Rec Tec can hold a bunch of ribs as well.

We have many happy Rec Tec owners around here that hopefully will chime in with cooking capacities.

I'm more into cooking brisket. As far as ribs go, I like to use my PBC.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: bspitt on December 04, 2017, 08:14:11 AM
Ive been very pleased with my Green Mountain Grills Jim Bowie - Can fit a lot on meat on it.

And the sale they are having now it SWEET!

BP
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 04, 2017, 09:55:46 AM
The Traeger Timberline has had some early issues on low smoke production and on the grease system. While it is nice to see Traeger get "serious", I think the Timberline is overpriced for what you are getting.

Yoder??  Get yourself a part-time job to pay for pellets.....that 1/4 inch steel makes pellet consumption a big issue. I did pellet testing on a YS480 and I was amazed at how the hopper was always empty.

Now of course if you want to spend the coin and have the best, go get a MAK. They are simply the best.

However if you like your Rec Tec mini, why not go for the Rec Tec 680.......a solid performer at a great price.

I'm also surprised to hear about the yoder smoker. I think you might be the first person that has said something negative about it.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on December 04, 2017, 12:01:18 PM
The Traeger Timberline has had some early issues on low smoke production and on the grease system. While it is nice to see Traeger get "serious", I think the Timberline is overpriced for what you are getting.

Yoder??  Get yourself a part-time job to pay for pellets.....that 1/4 inch steel makes pellet consumption a big issue. I did pellet testing on a YS480 and I was amazed at how the hopper was always empty.

Now of course if you want to spend the coin and have the best, go get a MAK. They are simply the best.

However if you like your Rec Tec mini, why not go for the Rec Tec 680.......a solid performer at a great price.

I'm also surprised to hear about the yoder smoker. I think you might be the first person that has said something negative about it.

No my friend. I am one of many. They have had over 40 revisions to their controller that I last heard of over 4 years ago. The 1/4 inch thick steel is a major flaw. Tee (our forum founder) used to own a YS640. He is out on a road trip currently. He got rid of his as well. I did extensive pellet consumption testing on a Yoder YS-480 and a Rec Tec simultaneously for a local grill shop. He provided all the different pellets. My payment was being able to use both grills for my family meals. I always went to the Rec Tec. It was a blast to cook on. It was about 200 square inches more in space than the Yoder and just sipped the pellets.

The GMG Jim Bowie is on sale right now and I also reviewed both GMG offerings. The Rec Tec is hands down the best bang for the buck.

Whatever you decide be prepared for some fantastic tasting grub.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 04, 2017, 01:53:46 PM
The Traeger Timberline has had some early issues on low smoke production and on the grease system. While it is nice to see Traeger get "serious", I think the Timberline is overpriced for what you are getting.

Yoder??  Get yourself a part-time job to pay for pellets.....that 1/4 inch steel makes pellet consumption a big issue. I did pellet testing on a YS480 and I was amazed at how the hopper was always empty.

Now of course if you want to spend the coin and have the best, go get a MAK. They are simply the best.

However if you like your Rec Tec mini, why not go for the Rec Tec 680.......a solid performer at a great price.

I'm also surprised to hear about the yoder smoker. I think you might be the first person that has said something negative about it.

No my friend. I am one of many. They have had over 40 revisions to their controller that I last heard of over 4 years ago. The 1/4 inch thick steel is a major flaw. Tee (our forum founder) used to own a YS640. He is out on a road trip currently. He got rid of his as well. I did extensive pellet consumption testing on a Yoder YS-480 and a Rec Tec simultaneously for a local grill shop. He provided all the different pellets. My payment was being able to use both grills for my family meals. I always went to the Rec Tec. It was a blast to cook on. It was about 200 square inches more in space than the Yoder and just sipped the pellets.

The GMG Jim Bowie is on sale right now and I also reviewed both GMG offerings. The Rec Tec is hands down the best bang for the buck.

Whatever you decide be prepared for some fantastic tasting grub.

Awesome! Think I'm gonna go for the larger rec tec with the extra shelf. Thanks again for your input.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 23, 2017, 07:45:48 AM
Just wondering.....what is the difference between the 1 star mak and the 2 star? Also, for those of you who have the rec tec and a MAK, does the Mak put out more smoke flavor than the rec tec? Thanks!
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: mikeharold on December 23, 2017, 11:24:21 AM
I have a Mak 1 star and am very happy with it. The differences between the 1 and 2 stars are, the 2 star uses all stainless steel if i'm not mistaken and the one star is alumanized steel which is very efficient in heat retention. 2 star comes with the flame zone, but haven't looked and not sure if the new 1 star does as well? The hopper box is a little different on the 2 and the 2 has a smoker/warmer box. You can also add a smoker cabinet to the 2 star as well, check out Smoker Pete's. The cooking areas are the same size and both use the same controller. Great units and can't go wrong if you can swing the coin for one. 
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: NativeTxn on December 23, 2017, 03:17:47 PM
I have a Mak 1 star and am very happy with it. The differences between the 1 and 2 stars are, the 2 star uses all stainless steel if i'm not mistaken and the one star is alumanized steel which is very efficient in heat retention. 2 star comes with the flame zone, but haven't looked and not sure if the new 1 star does as well? The hopper box is a little different on the 2 and the 2 has a smoker/warmer box. You can also add a smoker cabinet to the 2 star as well, check out Smoker Pete's. The cooking areas are the same size and both use the same controller. Great units and can't go wrong if you can swing the coin for one.

I’m in the middle of deciding on a new pellet and the 1-Star and 2-Star are on the list.

1-Star doesn’t come with flame zone but you can add it for $400.

If I’m doing it correctly, building out a 1-Star similar to the 2-Star (ie add bottom shelf, side shelf and tool hook, flame zone, etc.) results in about $300 difference or so.

You, of course, don’t have the warmer box or all stainless construction on the 1-Star but other than that you can get 1-Star built out pretty similar to a 2-Star.

Seems to me that the biggest thing is if you don’t need/want the flame zone, the 1-Star would probably be more than sufficient for the lower cost compared to the 2-Star.


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Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 31, 2017, 12:14:59 PM
So I think I narrowed down my options to a new rec tec or a Mak 2 Star. Only thing pushing me towards rec tec is larger cooking space.
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on December 31, 2017, 12:23:09 PM
I get 8 pork butts in my Mak with the upper shelf. If you can swing the Mak, you will never be disappointed. I promise :)


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Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on December 31, 2017, 12:31:52 PM
I get 8 pork butts in my Mak with the upper shelf. If you can swing the Mak, you will never be disappointed. I promise :)


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How many briskets could you put on it?
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on December 31, 2017, 03:54:48 PM
I get 8 pork butts in my Mak with the upper shelf. If you can swing the Mak, you will never be disappointed. I promise :)


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How many briskets could you put on it?
I've never done more than one at a time. But 4 Packers should fit
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: KJRsmoker on December 31, 2017, 06:33:27 PM
I get 8 pork butts in my Mak with the upper shelf. If you can swing the Mak, you will never be disappointed. I promise :)


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How many briskets could you put on it?
I've never done more than one at a time. But 4 Packers should fit

Agreed.  I have only ever done one at a time but with the upper shelf, 4 should fit.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: UWFSAE on January 01, 2018, 02:17:47 AM
If I may be so bold, if you're looking for extra space you may wish to look at the Blaz'n Gridiron with the Pro Shelves.  For about three years I had my heard set on a Yoder YS640 but I had the chance to play around with it and it does chew pellets like no one's business (despite being an awesome machine in many other respects); it's also a chore to update with their controller being non-Wifi and a proprietary design.  I also played around with a RecTec and liked it but had concerns with the space limitations and the lack of WiFi. 

The Blaz'n hit the best of all worlds for me and I got the feedback of more than a few owners before I made the decision to purchase.  With WiFi, Proshelves, the Lid Insulator, and what not you can hit a sub-$2000 price point with over 2250 sq. inches of cook space.  Just as important, the customer service on the front side of the sale is about as good as it could get.  I will freely admit that mine is still somewhere between Texas and Nebraska on a truck (should arrive mid-week) but I am an exhaustive researcher by nature and have zero qualms about my investment.

The Maks are wonderful machines, as are the new Pitts & Spitts pellet cookers.  But the Blaz'n hit all the right notes for me at a price I could handle.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 01, 2018, 07:52:52 AM
If I may be so bold, if you're looking for extra space you may wish to look at the Blaz'n Gridiron with the Pro Shelves.  For about three years I had my heard set on a Yoder YS640 but I had the chance to play around with it and it does chew pellets like no one's business (despite being an awesome machine in many other respects); it's also a chore to update with their controller being non-Wifi and a proprietary design.  I also played around with a RecTec and liked it but had concerns with the space limitations and the lack of WiFi. 

The Blaz'n hit the best of all worlds for me and I got the feedback of more than a few owners before I made the decision to purchase.  With WiFi, Proshelves, the Lid Insulator, and what not you can hit a sub-$2000 price point with over 2250 sq. inches of cook space.  Just as important, the customer service on the front side of the sale is about as good as it could get.  I will freely admit that mine is still somewhere between Texas and Nebraska on a truck (should arrive mid-week) but I am an exhaustive researcher by nature and have zero qualms about my investment.

The Maks are wonderful machines, as are the new Pitts & Spitts pellet cookers.  But the Blaz'n hit all the right notes for me at a price I could handle.

Thanks....I'll check them out.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Hub on January 01, 2018, 09:19:04 AM
For fewest problems I'd definitely have to nominate my Memphis.    Eight years old.  Has never failed to light or cook just as directed.  Heavy, heavy insulated construction.  Fantastic controller locks onto temps.  Broad heat range.  American made.  Trophies for ribs and chicken cooked in it.  Hearthland, the manufacturer, doesn't have the ad budget or following that MAK does but they take great care of customers and make a great pellet machine.

Hub
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 01, 2018, 09:34:32 AM
I checked out the Pits and Spits cookers (made in Houston)

now if Yoders have terrible pellet consumption with a 10 gauge body the Pits and Spits might be worse. They have a 7 gauge body on their offerings. That mass is going to take a great amount of time to come up to heat.

Pellet grills do not have to be built like stick burners to be efficient.

Have you narrowed your list down any???  Would like to see which way you are leaning.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Jaxon on January 01, 2018, 11:49:26 AM

Pellet grills do not have to be built like stick burners to be efficient.

Please tell me more about this Smoke.
I'm thinking just the opposite, but what do I know? 
Are you saying a lightweight pelletizer can be efficient?
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 01, 2018, 12:26:59 PM
Well, the best way I figure it is that when burning wood, you need the metal mass to heat up so you don't burn half a tree to keep your temps constant.

When I was testing the Yoder for Simi Pellet Grills all those years ago, I was also testing a Rec Tec and a Camp Chef and a GMG Daniel Boone. The pellet consumption on the Yoder was pretty bad. Even at 225. If cranked up for grilling, you better have a bag nearby to refill the hopper.

Well, I might be over-dramatizing it a bit but during the testing the large Rec Tec had great pellet consumption at 700 square inches vs the 480 square inches of the Yoder.

I think having a constant clean burning fire in a pellet smoker you do not have the drastic temp changes that a stick burner has.

I am sure Tee and Tent and Hub will get on here and probably explain it better, but I have had all units going at the same time and the Yoder just ate the pellets like a hungry bear.

In fact, Eric brought over the Yoders 200 dollar thermal blanket and we used it on the Yoder and the consumption was still not near as good as the other units. Also keep in mind that it was springtime in So-Cal when I was doing the testing and the weather was usually in the mid 70's.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 01, 2018, 12:48:23 PM
The actual size of the fire is smaller..but much more efficient use of BTU output in a pellet grill. Just look at the size of the typical pellet grill burner. Total volume ( which is NEVER full...) is probably 2 cups of pellets? But - again you will never see one with more than 1 cup of smoldering pellets in it.
But, because the fan is controlled by a temperature probe, feeding this data to a microprocessor "controller" to adjust the needed  amount of BTU's. Much more efficiently than we could do using splits by hand. For a number of reasons. Variablity in wood itself too dry? Not dry enough? Species? Growing condition/nutrition/cellular density unknowns?
One of the things that we do know about pellets is a pretty close BTU output based on oak, and some of the other woods have been tested.
The controller, fan and auger don't get sleepy or forgetful. If the temp is above or below the hysteresis or "dead band" - then the grill adjusts the rate of pellet feed, and or fan on/off or fan speed on variable speed models. They really cook like a wood fired convection oven - constantly moving the heated air around rather than relying on jus the convection/drafting of the chimney on a stick burner.

I know that the common belief is held that the thicker the steel...the better a grill is. That is only partially true. It is more durable perhaps. But, it does not "hold heat" much better. Steel is a great thermal conductor. We know this from the scars on body parts that have come in contact with a hot grill... :D :D :D It radiates the temperature right thru it. Steel is not a window or door that can be closed and contain heat. It is more like a screen door. Yes, it will slow it down a little....But the thicker the steel - the MORE BTUs required to "load" or pre-heat the steel of the cooker itself in order to get it up to the decide heat. AND....the more BTUs required to maintain the desired level of heat.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 01, 2018, 04:24:04 PM
Thanks Tee. I knew it could be explained better....heck..I even understand it...............
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on January 01, 2018, 04:53:27 PM
Thanks Tee. I knew it could be explained better....heck..I even understand it...............
Now if you could just explain it to me. ;)
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 01, 2018, 05:09:48 PM
Thanks Tee. I knew it could be explained better....heck..I even understand it...............
Now if you could just explain it to me. ;)

(..pssst.....Pappy....I can explain it to you...but I can't understand it for you.... ;) ;D :D)
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 01, 2018, 05:47:47 PM
Well one thing is for certain.......overly thick metal+high pellet consumption= unhappy grill owner
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: TentHunteR on January 01, 2018, 08:11:10 PM
Here's another MAK recommendation.

We've owned a MAK since 2011 and have never regretted our decision ever.  We now have the latest MAK 1 Star with the optional 2017 FlameZone and dang does it rock!  I can hot-smoke, do low & slow BBQ, or get great grilling results with it.  It is truly an all-in one grill/smoker.

With the full upper shelf in place, it can easily fit 8 pork butts.  Pellet consumption is moderate, and smoke production is pretty impressive for a pellet cooker.

Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 02, 2018, 10:10:32 AM
I checked out the Pits and Spits cookers (made in Houston)

now if Yoders have terrible pellet consumption with a 10 gauge body the Pits and Spits might be worse. They have a 7 gauge body on their offerings. That mass is going to take a great amount of time to come up to heat.

Pellet grills do not have to be built like stick burners to be efficient.

Have you narrowed your list down any???  Would like to see which way you are leaning.

yes....rec tec or mak....still leaning more towards rec tec, but I would love to see a mak for myself before I make a decision.  Plus I am in no rush, and I hear rec tec is releasing new pellet grills this year so I may wait for those.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 02, 2018, 10:45:50 AM
I would lean towards the Rec Tec due to what you get for the price......however I did see a MAK 1 Star at a fireplace store in San Bernardino, California.

There was a Green Mountain Grill Daniel Boone sitting next to it.

The MAK made the GMG look like a kids toy...................

I mean, you can actually see the quality from across the room.

MAK or Rec Tec.........smoked foods will taste great off of both.........MAK you cry once.............Rec Tecs however have modular components and are very easy to work on when replacing parts...................

............and ALL pellet grills will need part replacements throughout the years of ownership......................

some just need to be worked on more than others..................
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Jaxon on January 02, 2018, 05:13:06 PM
I almost understood what Tee said...Howsomever, I'm wondering if a pelletizer with thinner steel will be harder to hold the cooking temp than one of thicker steel. Is there a definite correlation there?

Using the Max and Daniel Boone examples - Certainly there is a difference in quality and build, but is there going to be a big difference in the way they heat and cook?  That's my question and I'm sticking to it.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 02, 2018, 09:03:52 PM
Most pellet grills are 16-14 gauge Jack. They have no problems holding temp with this gauge of steel. The monster pellet grills that have the 10 gauge and thicker bodys use the most pellets. It just takes to long for that little clean burning fire in the fire-pot to get that thick metal hot.

Now I have noticed that even though most pellet grills have 16-14 gauge bodies, the lids are thicker, more closer to 12 gauge.

So I get to thinking, is the thicker lid to give us the "feel" of a stout build or since heat rises the thicker lid helps retain heat in the cooking chamber.

We ran our pellet grill the other day when it was 30 degrees outside and it had no problems getting to temp and staying there................now if I had a 10 gauge body pellet grill that darn thing would probably still be heating up...............
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Jaxon on January 02, 2018, 10:25:33 PM
And you almost told me which pellet grill...if it's a secret, please send me a PM

What I'm getting at is this:  will it take a Pit Boss or GMG long to get to temp and will it hold there?
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: bspitt on January 03, 2018, 08:11:24 AM
And you almost told me which pellet grill...if it's a secret, please send me a PM

What I'm getting at is this:  will it take a Pit Boss or GMG long to get to temp and will it hold there?

Ive been running my GMG Jim Bowie in sub freezing weather without a blanket with no issues whatsoever. It gets to 225 within less than 10 min after start-up and holds well. Granted its under a covered deck with protection from wind on two sides. However, Its the only pellet grill I have ever owned, so I have nothing to compare it to.

BP
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Jaxon on January 03, 2018, 09:23:25 AM
And you almost told me which pellet grill...if it's a secret, please send me a PM

What I'm getting at is this:  will it take a Pit Boss or GMG long to get to temp and will it hold there?

Ive been running my GMG Jim Bowie in sub freezing weather without a blanket with no issues whatsoever. It gets to 225 within less than 10 min after start-up and holds well. Granted its under a covered deck with protection from wind on two sides. However, Its the only pellet grill I have ever owned, so I have nothing to compare it to.

BP

There you go...
I have a covered patio protected on 2 sides like yours.  I can tuck it into the corner to keep it out of the wind on most days.

Thanks for the input.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 03, 2018, 09:28:05 AM
Grab a Pit Boss on sale Jack. Won't break the bank and will put out great smoked grub on cold days while you are toasty warm in the house.

Take a look at the Grilla Grills Silverback.  Shane Draper has joined them as their pitmaster and their pellet offerings have stainless lined barrels to help with pellet consumption. Solid grills for the money. I have checked out their Facebook page and the owners just love them. A little biased maybe, but ya can't go wrong with an owners opinion of the pits operations.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 03, 2018, 12:08:49 PM
So I went to a BBQ supply place in New Symerna last weekend. Very nice place! They had Yoders in stock and I wanted to see them for myself. I met the owner I told him I had a rec tec and was planning on getting a new pellet smoker. I asked him what he thought of the Yoder and he told me as far as build quality they are tanks, built very well and I can agree, when I went to see and touch them, they are monsters! However he told me as far as food, it puts out the same quality as any other pellet smoker. No better no worse. In fact, he told me, if I wanted a more "smokier" tasting food, to go with the green mountain grill, only because it has a fan that pulses instead of continuous blowing. My rec tec mini does that. So, I think that helped my decision a lot and I'm gonna stick to rec tec.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 03, 2018, 04:37:18 PM
Well there you go. I cooked on both GMG offerings and never noticed more smoke cooking on them. The fan does pulsates on and off....would drive me nuts :)

I understand that Rec Tec has a smoke setting when you cook between 180-250 for more smoke. Correct me if I am wrong.

Get that Rec Tec on order and buy yourself some large chunks of meat and lets get smoking :) 
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: NativeTxn on January 03, 2018, 06:58:48 PM
I’m looking at a pellet grill. I know the virtue of the MAK and am strongly considering the 1 Star as an option. I also like what Rec Tec offers for the price.

Anyone familiar with Smoke Daddy Deluxe 1190 (https://smokedaddyinc.com/product/smoke-daddy-pellet-pro-deluxe-stainless-steel-pellet-bbq-grill-model-1190/)?

It seems compelling for what you get for the price.

Anyone have experience or thoughts on it?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 03, 2018, 08:55:53 PM
Smoke Daddy is a company that started of making a very cheesy smoke generator, that requires you to drill hole in your pit - and use an aquarium air pump to make smoke....When a better solution already existed with the Amazen smoker. No power needed, no moving parts.

Then they started importing a cheap knock off of the Chines built Treager......

It looks to me that they have added a stainless lid, and upsized the hopper. But it is still a product of "questionable" manufacture, and unknown value for support/parts, as the actual manufacturer in China could stop making parts tomorrow - and Smoke Daddy can't do a single thing about it. It happens. It happened to me with a less than 2 year old al stainless - "Kitchen-Aid" brand name gas grill. ( Several companies have sold the rights to use their names to companies in China - who produce crap questionable quality goods- then you cannot get parts. They look nice - but don't hold up.

In your case...I would strongly advise that you could spend very little more - and buy a MAK 1 Star - and be very happy with durability, support, and capacity. I have never known anyone to be unhappy with e purchase of a MAK.
All made here in the USA, and the best engineering and controller available.
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: NativeTxn on January 03, 2018, 09:12:03 PM
Smoke Daddy is a company that started of making a very cheesy smoke generator, that requires you to drill hole in your pit - and use an aquarium air pump to make smoke....When a better solution already existed with the Amazen smoker. No power needed, no moving parts.

Then they started importing a cheap knock off of the Chines built Treager......

It looks to me that they have added a stainless lid, and upsized the hopper. But it is still a product of "questionable" manufacture, and unknown value for support/parts, as the actual manufacturer in China could stop making parts tomorrow - and Smoke Daddy can't do a single thing about it. It happens. It happened to me with a less than 2 year old al stainless - "Kitchen-Aid" brand name gas grill. ( Several companies have sold the rights to use their names to companies in China - who produce crap questionable quality goods- then you cannot get parts. They look nice - but don't hold up.

In your case...I would strongly advise that you could spend very little more - and buy a MAK 1 Star - and be very happy with durability, support, and capacity. I have never known anyone to be unhappy with e purchase of a MAK.
All made here in the USA, and the best engineering and controller available.

Thanks. That was what I couldn’t figure out about Smoke Daddy - the background of the company and where the grills come from.

Appreciate it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 03, 2018, 09:21:00 PM
My pleasure. Not "knocking" Smoke Daddy. But as a fellow Native Son of the Republic of Texas.....I felt compelled to give you all that I know about the company, and to advise you the best I can.

There always 1 prices in any purchase:

1. The cost of acquisition.

2. The cost of maintaining.

3. The cost of replacement.
MAK is a brand that you will not need to replace. And the cost of maintenance will be extremely low - as the components are all very high quality. Ask them about the Flash Fire ignition.... ;)
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on January 03, 2018, 10:17:04 PM
Smoke Daddy is a company that started of making a very cheesy smoke generator, that requires you to drill hole in your pit - and use an aquarium air pump to make smoke....When a better solution already existed with the Amazen smoker. No power needed, no moving parts.

Then they started importing a cheap knock off of the Chines built Treager......

It looks to me that they have added a stainless lid, and upsized the hopper. But it is still a product of "questionable" manufacture, and unknown value for support/parts, as the actual manufacturer in China could stop making parts tomorrow - and Smoke Daddy can't do a single thing about it. It happens. It happened to me with a less than 2 year old al stainless - "Kitchen-Aid" brand name gas grill. ( Several companies have sold the rights to use their names to companies in China - who produce crap questionable quality goods- then you cannot get parts. They look nice - but don't hold up.

In your case...I would strongly advise that you could spend very little more - and buy a MAK 1 Star - and be very happy with durability, support, and capacity. I have never known anyone to be unhappy with e purchase of a MAK.
All made here in the USA, and the best engineering and controller available.
Really surprised you bought a KA grill.  can't get distracted by shiny grills or women. Neither last


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Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 03, 2018, 10:24:30 PM
At the time...I believed the the name Kitchen Aid - was an American company - and that the product would be representative of the "brand"....I was after I need parts - that I found out that a Chinese company named Nexgrill had purchased the rights to use Kitchen Aid on their outdoor cooking equipment. There are other former American brand name companies that have also sold the right to use their name on equipment that they have nothing to do with.
IMHO - this is ethically culpable and morally reprehensible. And it SHOULD be illegal to do so without adequate disclosure to the consumer.
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: Pappymn on January 03, 2018, 11:17:23 PM
At the time...I believed the the name Kitchen Aid - was an American company - and that the product would be representative of the "brand"....I was after I need parts - that I found out that a Chinese company named Nexgrill had purchased the rights to use Kitchen Aid on their outdoor cooking equipment. There are other former American brand name companies that have also sold the right to use their name on equipment that they have nothing to do with.
IMHO - this is ethically culpable and morally reprehensible. And it SHOULD be illegal to do so without adequate disclosure to the consumer.
Just pulling on your peaches. At least somebody will. ;)


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Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 03, 2018, 11:56:36 PM
I think your ..."tug"....made me recognize that a bit more explanation was in order. ;D

Seriously - it would surprise most to find out how many brands of "American" sounding products have sold these rights to Chinese companies to produce a lesser product - but reliant on the marketing strength of the establish name brand.

If you or I as individuals tried such, it would be deemed "Theft under false pretense"...and is a crime. Companies....not so much. ::)
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: rwalters on January 04, 2018, 12:22:00 AM
I think your ..."tug"....made me recognize that a bit more explanation was in order. ;D

Seriously - it would surprise most to find out how many brands of "American" sounding products have sold these rights to Chinese companies to produce a lesser product - but reliant on the marketing strength of the establish name brand.

If you or I as individuals tried such, it would be deemed "Theft under false pretense"...and is a crime. Companies....not so much. ::)
I must have my head in the sand... had no idea that this stuff happens. I know that companies will send production overseas... but sell out to a Chinese company and do it silently... WOW!!
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 04, 2018, 08:10:19 AM
I think your ..."tug"....made me recognize that a bit more explanation was in order. ;D

Seriously - it would surprise most to find out how many brands of "American" sounding products have sold these rights to Chinese companies to produce a lesser product - but reliant on the marketing strength of the establish name brand.

If you or I as individuals tried such, it would be deemed "Theft under false pretense"...and is a crime. Companies....not so much. ::)
I must have my head in the sand... had no idea that this stuff happens. I know that companies will send production overseas... but sell out to a Chinese company and do it silently... WOW!!

Worse....
The companies do not sell out in this case. They only sell the rights..or sell a license to use their name.
It is not illegal of itself, tho it makes you feel that fraud has been committed when you need a part and you discover that the company whose name is in the grill.... had nothing to do with the manufacture, sale, marketing or support...including any knowledge about parts.
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: rwalters on January 04, 2018, 08:24:19 AM
I think your ..."tug"....made me recognize that a bit more explanation was in order. ;D

Seriously - it would surprise most to find out how many brands of "American" sounding products have sold these rights to Chinese companies to produce a lesser product - but reliant on the marketing strength of the establish name brand.

If you or I as individuals tried such, it would be deemed "Theft under false pretense"...and is a crime. Companies....not so much. ::)
I must have my head in the sand... had no idea that this stuff happens. I know that companies will send production overseas... but sell out to a Chinese company and do it silently... WOW!!

Worse....
The companies do not sell out in this case. They only sell the rights..or sell a license to use their name.
It is not illegal of itself, tho it makes you feel that fraud has been committed when you need a part and you discover that the company whose name is in the grill.... had nothing to do with the manufacture, sale, marketing or support...including any knowledge about parts.
As a consumer, is there no way to figure out which companies have done this, prior to us making a purchase?  Just thinking of the various things I own now, and wondering which items I got suckered on...lol. Think I am at least safe with my MAK :)
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 04, 2018, 08:38:19 AM
I think your ..."tug"....made me recognize that a bit more explanation was in order. ;D

Seriously - it would surprise most to find out how many brands of "American" sounding products have sold these rights to Chinese companies to produce a lesser product - but reliant on the marketing strength of the establish name brand.

If you or I as individuals tried such, it would be deemed "Theft under false pretense"...and is a crime. Companies....not so much. ::)
I must have my head in the sand... had no idea that this stuff happens. I know that companies will send production overseas... but sell out to a Chinese company and do it silently... WOW!!

Worse....
The companies do not sell out in this case. They only sell the rights..or sell a license to use their name.
It is not illegal of itself, tho it makes you feel that fraud has been committed when you need a part and you discover that the company whose name is in the grill.... had nothing to do with the manufacture, sale, marketing or support...including any knowledge about parts.
As a consumer, is there no way to figure out which companies have done this, prior to us making a purchase?  Just thinking of the various things I own now, and wondering which items I got suckered on...lol. Think I am at least safe with my MAK :)

Yes! There is...*BUT*  you have to be aware of the issue first.  Frankly - I was not. Once I learned of it - the hard way...I began to look into he matter. If you photo the manufacturer's plate usually inside the grill cabinet door or on the back of a grill - you can Google that part number - and usually find the actual company that makes it.
Several major appliance companies - big name - have followed this same pattern. I understand it IS about making a profit. And I am very much a free market economy supporter.
It is shameful though, that the onus of responsibility falls on US as consumers - to find the truth about WHO actually made the grill - vs the manufacturers/sellers offering full disclosure. It all becomes a problem when looking for parts - and you are told..after finding the actual manufacturer has ONE warehouse in America, on the West Coast - and they tell you that they do not have the part, do not know *IF* they will ever have the part - as they show it is out of production and the manufacturer that made it for them ( parts are often sub-contracted to smaller manufacturers in most products we own ) has decided not to continue making said parts.
THAT incident drove me to look at products I purchase thereafter a little differently. And - to research them from an additional perspective.
Yes - MAK will always be a safe bet. They will not even buy a screw from China. I am not anti-Chinese. But as illustrated by this..."saga".. ;) :D you can see that our living in a modern world of conveniences also offers some unintended consequences.
"Buyer Beware" is a multi-dimensional phrase nowadays.
1. Cost of purchase/acquisition.
2.Cost of maintenance/repair.
3.Cost of replacement.
None of this is based on "feeling" and emotions. It is a logistical viewpoint of "ownership".
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 04, 2018, 11:50:12 AM
Has anyone cooked on a rec tec and a Mak and can tell me if there is a difference in smoke flavor? I keep hearing that the mak puts out alot of smoke.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: smokeasaurus on January 04, 2018, 12:00:14 PM
Has anyone cooked on a rec tec and a Mak and can tell me if there is a difference in smoke flavor? I keep hearing that the mak puts out alot of smoke.

Tim, I believe has a Rec Tec and a couple of MAKS, he should be on shortly to give you all the 411 on smoke production for both pits............
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: TentHunteR on January 04, 2018, 02:58:07 PM
Has anyone cooked on a rec tec and a Mak and can tell me if there is a difference in smoke flavor? I keep hearing that the mak puts out alot of smoke.

I have cooked on both. Not extensively like Tim has, but enough to know that I think the MAK does just a little better job with smoke production. This is partly due to the difference in baffling/venting between the two grills.  And with the new 2017 FlameZone design being more efficient, not only is grilling improved, but the smoke production is better than ever.

Keep in mind it's NOT going to be what you'd get with a stick burner or WSM. Instead it's a very clean smoke flavor.



I have no problem getting enough smoke flavor for smoking sausages, bacon, hams, etc. on our MAK.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fh4ARi6wXgqRH4CqAhM1sxl7wGSgu9SBIuO3xAdmafW_N7fDwDwNz8uZs2q4G5KKZZiZe3u6cQ0_MwHBqMwadlUrV5kKvPN-9uDPrG9jmJi33he2kSdbuLvarUENEEsasSYMP1tpNw-KPAS-eqUr5CD3KW6sbMwMKO1Qg7brObtERcnZq-9AWvp5lgBRKZm0WDSU40IEUaOVH4uBF9cGe9_T8yWWAK6ob-YtMoyHPPfjkE8qxJWehtUx2vGFcHJqObWtrIHVJR4ll9rRE4Car2BfbVZtlDb4kmSX97NdLBejBv8KPbOMN12iI6j3PanaMMDRf2TqrMtGDgJNbB1dzJh3VKmpUXNC283eL8q3kTKzLtGZdTfb22U_Vyg3urYYbko1LbjEUKQr36hYyhmcTImjfRrVTUJb79iZD2xZkFy5-2RjsqvddDu33JAhvjfOruCKo6ielQGaY6_93bmKKSGduan7DaUVjeS5PMhRnIUacnqdV-Keyvg6h-JWO8IrOzZPW9yq3k5GcnNGPSSsSG2iABXkc6AvKDsC_-H-AFsvuaHggW9Y9MYLz1lCWNt5hPFk8EwhhXIoukzTrl8J_w8eN2DdmCOBVmKPsYc=w640-h355-no)

Granted for Bacon, Hams and the like where I want a deeper smoke flavor, then I do use an A-Maze-N pellet tube and start with a cold smoke, BUT that is no different than any other type smoker where you'd also start with a cold-smoke to get a deeper smoke profile.


For most smoked sausages, I get enough smoke just with the MAK alone in Smoke Mode that I do not need the A-Maze-N tube.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NihbwBdgfka66zmHjEcIwSthZ7pOTkG8nw4vQWLX0D8ITv3UEGi0MtABBEXAC39-vkARhq30sa9sNxoacEmZZM8apqADdD1ELODkTKxRT0mt-QtvanArVT7DkL0cOP9JtDTBPq-fyh4d5o7ntAWFUsNB4UXiDS4Q1z42mSk2Ng7dI3U8mtSlCMuit-PSfXYYRH2q2PcNi0Pa-NkPFQluLjKcr71_vaZTgvZJTDux8QF7u86OGKTDavjzwLGgO1t9pREluGFedI2L-1wII0vxqiu0TPAB-Z-wMJ-Quvh4l4q5nsTCBMCBS-On64DMd466Su080F__xyZgTodfwRkzSbBFc5NiJVTaxyvd245j87Wmj6_p_qSa6SoXWIlqcPj3bCxgtfnmstOhdutRoHfpx6gePPXdzHYi9NQjxcv2QHbqnPjFoHdCUaQR2k8-_cmE29hKACj81uy9MdlO2_Ma-tRJg8fnmjCWYh7xP6veA0LpssdizAX6-SIEW3ejW3w1smJN02J6_THtsjkEhHMZbFTEMAmwHfiTwZPenvJY7Z5Rpe9Qy6k2iCCiS_1BNQsM5pIYl634MWYsLj0drSfnnVSQP1ZlRoncP_IrYOs=w400)(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0hHt2QL3it86dtOAkx9_Nh8-VEEJPSC6pv1EKZxJc3SDdZUHRakbMdylfcLGT7bIilmjq_ltatoI3V8TXJbBcElBszWZ9qACeSijO86fLMM5OSLp_81HYqDLd4cpeRmeJMMG40MeoE9ILcALQYY-djQCY4K3d8X4uq_-OzovKsI136M7ntF8U2N7_0DMjMn3iW1wBShbEQ9wzhA9g6xIV40woujSOkgxPWWPF-Gsn31BwFNaispUWIGBottSV5hjxwCx1pKaT83D-KVj59S3lrLweOkP2B4mepFSEL1FJZrNfKQ53HJnnWJHcOc5GU9gVlG4_OJzvMZtO4pwVkRWEY-dIdsZsRwDopNhu2eZJETI4LlorWrhEq3A7-q4gt3ykg_yOB3YojpzrgmiElV0mswhR_nnz8PrPOlBjfVvP_7hsJXYODM3HTENKda2EGrnnna8mgNe4yFrgYXopFo3--2uWCAFfElKhp2qLYbx2NPtQQvKqtKrJmnXPdzRIjnpdaIc5xV3Z_tKfRbP1K5Fcg_J_FRTYiyOXY8qRKyGXZRiFbUgdCXSTe2EhnaO7qE4rVIhXiYEOfdQCYIMDcX6MoVFQnbn6xMQnmpXOyQ=w400)


(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3GL-I_b8gBmm4SOx2brdV7zi_xQAF9flM7BbMrwPSzvZfy6N_yJPQZUciVVQ8mrGQIdqSgsGlZN4uRdPqJexOkylf6h6W3t8srOVhqp2rwBKZUVIUP5OxFXmGB_lFqfTj6yWibjJYTpbHRc-EcFOqwus2a0SiR2aW_17qvrKz6jxGGLGUnsMi1l1bl-abUQQ-EbOW3iV280z5Rme3peyzb2qJD-us_k5Xdj50piL-HPaGq--OpvRHgGMD6PCxuZwYsjXlwNyA98RmqGbadeL6ulLfXnlXguvMtSiWMPhVRrjHFkz1QjQep-bXCLXzPCcQVVOCxicTIETKWPJJOINlMTt2o2rx3YUG01eL4xA034oYOTShM0WesBvCmeZYdstnOCCZo_HsaV5nnhHpBZZlFXlg4DHp9iBgN82ZU1rgPN_JDgqe-BpS3t4r65ETKLxv6gzLvc2aJhXVsQFzC2hAFpvwYuF607FBP0Gz9qJM0UKVAneMxLz1iurxgrzBk41yQ5o8GwRJBklWG2PSCvdNWdw2VHd_JVVf1pSZ_NuA6VrE7nY9LqY2qtW1crk2Mbza7-fKm4neS0JZyzRj0rOMUKf4jKOd7Qi2HtNk_I=w400)(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LsJbB949YDDYWpuVT7RldBUzYfLULyHKiNYR_xUScBX5aMXh9fVJKzu3wgyztyJmzNaDcUKwKrNQFRf2rLccV4ctkTHFkboXhZr3D6JFCglY3B2g3M6DYZUC3cmzDKua9n3r2LmxCrUDZe1GHCfAl20Wix183pf7ZDh_0L_YWZfWS19lR_OiF3wFVtnFqMCEEWXIyycDL13ToHGDFuDuK1MrhZxO0ciFsKHAG6-u2dU2-pMN6rnLWG3vZpCeZ-KFr4ZEZqMvrW8la4oEMmdIpMbn8Tqug7-ll5luAzmyJccetcqeAhdqh1ZF3Rr5st3n48_OrQ724vDriqGJazk84VGlxC4Kn9Y37wHIq0q8Ov-ZwAf7lb6iNwgDVfXpQMgcSnwYCukoRZ2zKZzlqoq34qx4tT-89ZZ7AW3G6SWT6uP7FsNxczMFJbKUHIcuUPijG_44EF8g5Fge2a7xJ-2SPmLrev0ZYbVC9_xtKmXC2APuFP7RffEDdp6mu4lax0NkFO6eyqfJKKI2QBTAGCV5vBZIjaRjw3eZRm_qkgUvp09inIs-qKvoeSugPIbmrWSddsUsaxhIfR-Na_Qk3OnMT7UEVNUaLnE1_UZiRWE=w400)



The point is I use our MAK extensively as a smoker, if that makes sense.

Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 04, 2018, 08:04:53 PM
Has anyone cooked on a rec tec and a Mak and can tell me if there is a difference in smoke flavor? I keep hearing that the mak puts out alot of smoke.
I have owned a number of different brands. Just sold my RecTec recently.
Not knocking the Rec Etc ...it has a nice look, and I like the big hopper. But - that is the only thing it has over a MAK. It cannot compare to the MAK grills smoke production. The MAKs actually have a programmed setting for smoke that is more than just a temperature setting. They produce a great deal of the right kind of smoke. Not the white, acrid creosote flavored stuff...the nice blue-gray smoke which gives us the flavor and aroma we all love.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 05, 2018, 07:32:10 AM
Has anyone cooked on a rec tec and a Mak and can tell me if there is a difference in smoke flavor? I keep hearing that the mak puts out alot of smoke.
I have owned a number of different brands. Just sold my RecTec recently.
Not knocking the Rec Etc ...it has a nice look, and I like the big hopper. But - that is the only thing it has over a MAK. It cannot compare to the MAK grills smoke production. The MAKs actually have a programmed setting for smoke that is more than just a temperature setting. They produce a great deal of the right kind of smoke. Not the white, acrid creosote flavored stuff...the nice blue-gray smoke which gives us the flavor and aroma we all love.

Hmmm...alright. Thanks for your information! Like I said before, I am in no rush, but I still would rather physically see the Mak if I decide to buy one, but in Florida, there are no dealers.  I think I will probably make a final decision once the new rec tecs come out. But thanks everyone for all your input and opinions. Seems like a lot of Mak owners out there, so in case I do get one there is a large community for that.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 05, 2018, 07:54:53 AM
Aside from Big Poppa's Smokers....I think MAK is going direct - Just like Rec Ten is doing.

SO a far as I know ( to about the end of my arms.... ;D ) there are no other "dealers" for either product any longer. There may be a few MAK dealers out there...but I just don't know of any.
Call MAK and ask....You can help keep us educated on this too! ;)
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: slothritis on January 07, 2018, 09:04:28 AM
How easy is it to put together a Mak 2 star?
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: KJRsmoker on January 07, 2018, 09:49:37 AM
How easy is it to put together a Mak 2 star?

Very easy.  They even supply the allen wrenches to put it together.  A second person helping is a must.
Title: Re: New Pellet Grills
Post by: teesquare on January 07, 2018, 12:09:19 PM
How easy is it to put together a Mak 2 star?

Very easy.  They even supply the allen wrenches to put it together.  A second person helping is a must.
I agree with HJR.....
A second person is recommended...I managed to do it without help. BUT....I do not advocate doing so. A MAK 2 Star is  shaped in a way that that would required a lot of effort on your part to be safe- and not drop/damage the MAK...or yourself ;). I just happen to be a little stronger than I am smart. :D :D :D
Title: New Pellet Grills
Post by: rwalters on January 07, 2018, 12:49:33 PM
The MAK is easy to put together IF you follow the directions. After completing the build of my 2 Star I had about a dozen screws leftover. I contacted MAK to ask if that was to be expected... needless to say, they very gently showed me where I had missed a “step”... lol.