Taken from the : "Amazing Ribs" web site : "At the end of 2014, to address the dramatic increase in demand, Pit Barrel moved manufacturing from Colorado to a much larger facility in California. They also changed from 20 gauge to thicker 18 gauge steel, and from powder coating to more durable porcelain enamel coating. Additionally, the charcoal basket was upgraded from expanded metal to a heavier steel rod grate" . To support the construction / production improvements there is a modest price increase to $299.00 (which still includes free shipping ) .
* Although I have not actually seen the "new" model PBC upgrades - it appears to be a natural progression in taking a good product and making it even better . As a owner of the previous version PBC , my main consideration is to take care of the PBC I have (i.e. keep the PBC out of the elements , line the bottom of the PBC each cook with a sheet of HD foil to collect ashes / drippings and promptly empty the charcoal basket when cooled down - all of should prevent or at least slow down corrosion and allow the PBC to last as long as possible !) . Your thoughts ?