Let's Talk BBQ
General => General Discussion & Topics => Product Reviews => Topic started by: smokeasaurus on September 20, 2016, 05:54:55 PM
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So at 5:30 this morning it is off to the 24 hour Walmart to grab the Pit Boss and guess who was in the Jeep waiting to roll?
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_063059%202_zpsky9vphdm.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_063059%202_zpsky9vphdm.jpg.html)
Smoochy won't move until that bad boy is out of the Wrangler
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_064444%202_zpszsv6ci2c.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_064444%202_zpszsv6ci2c.jpg.html)
Got er back on the patio (very heavy box), Smoochy helped the best he could
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_065055_zpsrjcqbcgs.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_065055_zpsrjcqbcgs.jpg.html)
Cut the ties and opened that carton. Weber quality packaging. It is like a box pallet. The box slips right off after the ties are cut and the bottom is like a cardboard pallet. Everything is wrapped nicely and there was no damage to the contents.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_070203%202_zpsakuqastw.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_070203%202_zpsakuqastw.jpg.html)
Assembly is simple. While the well detailed instructions called for more steps, most work was done for me. Just the 4 legs, bottom rack, 2 wheels and the handle needed to be installed. Everything is pre-threaded and all holes were exact.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093536_zpsr1tlwsjs.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093536_zpsr1tlwsjs.jpg.html)
No surprises with this set-up
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093029_zpsggtxltfr.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093029_zpsggtxltfr.jpg.html)
Haven't seen this before. The sensor is protected.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093036_zpsunek8u6c.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093036_zpsunek8u6c.jpg.html)
Far side of the barrel has the smoke-stack hold template and hardware installed for a side shelve. I think these two items come with their "Deluxe" models so they use this set-up for other models.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093403_zpsyk10z42s.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093403_zpsyk10z42s.jpg.html)
So no smoke stack huh? Nope, holes in the back that run along the door
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093048_zpslusmyvwj.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093048_zpslusmyvwj.jpg.html)
Speaking of the door. Very thick and fits super snug. Real snug. Gives you an idea of the quality of this pit
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093558_zpszc46dzez.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093558_zpszc46dzez.jpg.html)
Nice grates. This unit could hold six racks of ribs laying flat.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093307_zps2nft1tvq.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093307_zps2nft1tvq.jpg.html)
Moving over to the hopper. Here is the dummie grate installed in the hopper. It is mounted much higher than Camp Chef. Will take it out after the review.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093419_zps5bradjpb.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093419_zps5bradjpb.jpg.html)
Couple items of interest on the back side. Nice set up to roll up the power cord. See the little rubber square on the lower left corner?
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_102556_zpstjotzpft.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_102556_zpstjotzpft.jpg.html)
That is the pellet clean-out. Nothing fancy but it will work.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_102604_zpsqpxvworu.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_102604_zpsqpxvworu.jpg.html)
Here is the star of the show in my opinion. The grease deflector. It is curved. Pit Boss claims that the grease will roll over to the channels and sizzle and add a different flavor profile. The Flame Broil insert is standard on all Pit boss units. Just slide the top pc over to the right and get your sear on.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_071230_zpsboiqsexx.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_071230_zpsboiqsexx.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093145_zpsthhorzh9.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093145_zpsthhorzh9.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_093158_zpsrengnrz7.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_093158_zpsrengnrz7.jpg.html)
Our Wal-Mart carries the Pit Boss Cometition Blend pellets. 19.76 for 40 lbs. That will work. 50% Maple, 25% Hickory and 25% Cherry.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_065654%202_zpsutwexmjk.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_065654%202_zpsutwexmjk.jpg.html)
I burned it in on high for 30 minutes per Mfg instructions. The door must be open when starting and shutting down. When starting you set it to smoke (175-225), when three dots stop blinking you close the door and set the pit to high. They recommend this for a better heat up and pre heat. When your pit gets to your desired temp, set your dial to that on the controller. Let it stabilize and you are off to the races. There is no shut off increment on the dial. You just set it to off and fan continues for a while. They recommend raising the lid for this feature.
The controller dial probably will seem primitive even to Camp Chef and Traeger offerings(obvious competitors in this price range). Off-smoke (175-225 no added smoke at this setting per Mfg...so why have it), 200-225 (the so-called smoking sweet spot), 250-300-350-400-450-High (500). That is it. I am looking at this review like a backyard Jack or Joe or Jill ;D, just setting it to my desired temp and letting it rip. There is a P-setting adjustment button and a full explanation in the manual. I am leaving it on factory settings for this review.
Start up for the first time. The pit took 15 minutes to get to 500. This is where the mounted thermometer fooled me. I figured it would be nothing more than a hood ornament. That darn thermo was 10-15 degrees higher than the read-out on the controller. Makes sense to me. It is mounted in the center of the door directly over where the fire-pot is placed. Seems to be a pretty accurate set-up.
Fit and finish is excellent. This is a really heavy sturdy pit. Thick 14 gauge all throughout and the door sits snug and perfect. While not a deal breaker if it doesn't sit flush but it speaks volumes to the quality of this unit.
I will leave my final impressions at the end of the review but for where I am at right now, this is tons of quality for a little money. Yeah the controller is simple and probably outdated compared to the big boys out there but the MSRP for this model is 499 bucks and I got it way cheaper and there are good prices to be had on-line. In fact, the sales lady at Dansons told me that they set up the MSRP but their dealers all sell for way under that. Best initial quality I have seen so far. Easily as solid as Rec Tec and blows away the offerings in between.
However the proof is in the cooking, so a bunch of cooks are coming up.........and The Smooch is on board for the entire review :)
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I'll be watching you and Smoochie closely on this one.
Maybe one of the Walmart in middle Georgia will have it and at this price.
I may set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical bills when Deb finds out.
Just sayin'...
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I'll be watching you and Smoochie closely on this one.
Maybe one of the Walmart in middle Georgia will have it and at this price.
I may set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical bills when Deb finds out.
Just sayin'...
This pit might be worth the pain Jack ;D ;D I will do a bunch of different cooks on it so I won't steer you wrong :)
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Looks like a great pit. Congrats
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Very interesting I like the probe protecter could use that on my Rec Tec
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Pitt boss is the lower line of cookers from Louisiana Grills .
Looking forward to seeing how the searing function works.
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Grabbed some Rib-Eyes and Wendy made some stuffed mushrooms.
I checked with the Pit Boss crowd on Facebook and they said to leave the Flame Broiler closed during the heat up process and then open it when the pit reaches 500.
Here is the smoke during the heat up.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_165422_zpsiommxnld.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_165422_zpsiommxnld.jpg.html)
I put the mushrooms on the top rack and tossed the steaks onto the fire
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_171916_zpsjfu57xtc.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_171916_zpsjfu57xtc.jpg.html)
All done. Did not take long.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_172419_zpscjohkzuu.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_172419_zpscjohkzuu.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_172421_zps0ccxyb33.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_172421_zps0ccxyb33.jpg.html)
These reviews make a fella hungry
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160920_172841_zpslogadfrp.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160920_172841_zpslogadfrp.jpg.html)
OK, the flame broil is awesome. Due to the size of the fire pot you can do two good sized steaks at a time. I did put a little foil on each side of the deflector and the grease puddled a bit and flamed. Not bad but I think the foil let it puddle. Pit Boss does not recommend foil on the deflector. I will call them tomorrow and find out their reasoning for that.
The pit controller reached 520 and searing this way was not a problem. Had to flip fast. Those flames were hot.
The PB took only 12 minutes to get to 500. Pretty quick in my book.
Do I like the Flame Broil deflector? Yup. It is nice. You can sear and then set them off to a "safe" spot. Kind of like a 2 zone charcoal fire.
To add to the versatility of the Flame Broil is that you can easily raise up one rack and then use tongs to slide the insert over to grill something up after smoking it.
Based on today's cook, it is safe to call this a grill as well as a smoker.
Spare ribs tomorrow. Time to see how she smokes and how these pellets are at smoking temperatures...........
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Looks like a great pit for the price!
I like the flame zone feature and how you can just slide the insert over while cooking.
Steaks look real good!
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Lookin good Smoke!!! Will be lookin for some more cooks on it!!! Don
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Agree, looks like you got a good bang for your bucks!
Congrats on your new cooker Smoke, for the 312th time! :D ;) ;D
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Killer looking steaks
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Looking awesome so far! I enjoy you calling like it is as your work through things, and you aren't afraid to take back earlier statements.
I am also jealous of the Jeep. There are times where I miss my Wrangler, nothing like cruising with the doors off at the shore (aka beach)
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Looking forward to the ribs...
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Looking awesome so far! I enjoy you calling like it is as your work through things, and you aren't afraid to take back earlier statements.
I am also jealous of the Jeep. There are times where I miss my Wrangler, nothing like cruising with the doors off at the shore (aka beach)
Thanks for the kind words. I have found that my reviews have swayed people into purchases and I really want to say things like they are.
We got the Wrangler last year before winter. With snow tires on and 4H, I never chained up once. Now we are in the Inland Empire and don't really "need' the Jeep, but she aint going anywhere 8)
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The Pit Boss Facebook group is pretty adamant about lining the grease deflector in foil. The old "foil or not to foil" debate has reared its ugly head ;D
I read somewhere on-line that Pit Boss does not suggest this. So I piped a call into tech support. While helping with clean-up, the downward curved design of the deflector along with the slide tab of the Flame Broiler pc does not let the foil set flat. This can cause little pockets where grease can catch and little fires can start.
I did have this little problem last night when I grilled the steaks.
Pit Boss recommends when you are finished cooking to set the pit on high for about 10 minutes to help burn stuff off the deflector then turn the unit off to shut-down mode and raise the lid. A wire brush the next day will catch the rest.
So from here on out I will cook without any foil.
I also asked about the "dummie" grate in the hopper. I was told I could take it out but it is not advised. I figure if I am dumb enough to get my finger in the hopper I should keep it there, but the last time I checked I was not that dumb. I will keep it in during the review.
Last but no least we talked about the "P" settings. Factory default is P4. You can choose from P0-P7 changes will change the time the auger stays idle. So you can go longer to increase smoke and keep lower temps or you can shorten the time so you get a hotter "cleaner" burn. I will stay at P4 factory setting for the review.
Pit Boss (Dansons) will be checking in to watch the review and see everyones reactions and questions.
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How about a wood fired breakfast. Got the PB to 350 degrees and set a veggie/shrimp tray on the grill and grilled up some sausage
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_074947_zpsbhzjhyzv.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_074947_zpsbhzjhyzv.jpg.html)
brought them in and cut up and set em in a small foil pan. Added hash browns and green onions and grated cheese. Hit it with some Fagundes and poured bisquit batter on top and into the PB for a 50 minute ride at 400 degrees
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_080739_zpsqipupq4u.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_080739_zpsqipupq4u.jpg.html)
50 minutes later
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_085342_zpswnrtj4xf.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_085342_zpswnrtj4xf.jpg.html)
Cooked perfectly and evenly. See how clean the bottom of the pan was
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_085903_zpsunujfw64.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_085903_zpsunujfw64.jpg.html)
Breakfast
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_085925_zpsfct1ozle.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_085925_zpsfct1ozle.jpg.html)
As shown in one of the pictures this cooked perfectly without any burning to the bottom. Shows me that the deflector plate works real well.
Had some temp swings from the digital readout. When I cooked the sausage at 350, the swings were 330-390 but the hood temp stayed at 350. When the breakfast casserole was in at the 400 setting, the swings were 375-450.....however the hood thermo was locked in at 400. I verified that temp with other thermos of mine and it is spot on. How about that!! A factory thermometer that actually is accurate.
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Slide me a square of that breakfast
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Very nice! I'm still a little suspicious of the long term use on the curved grease tray. maybe burning it off after a cook will work on a short cook but I wonder about a long cook, say pork shoulder or couple that could start a heck of a fire. Not knocking it, for the price and what it does I'm actually jealous.
Just wondering.... :)
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Is there a grease catch with the curved deflector? Or did I miss it in the introduction?
I know have filled my grease tray almost full when doing several butts.
And at the lower temps used for smoking butts the grease is not going to burn off of the deflector.
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Inquiring minds want to know...
I'm watching this one - it may be the one.
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There are lips on the sides of the curved tray that run the grease down to the outlet that goes into the obligatory grease pan.
Pit Boss recommends 10 minutes of having the pit on high and 15-20 after a greasy cook before going into the shutdown mode.
After last nights cook, I went to high for about 5 minutes and we had a little smoke from the deflector for a minute or two and it cleared up.
Pit Boss guarantees the FlameBroiler/deflector will not warp. That sucker is thick and beefy.
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Lots of deflector questions and I hopefully have your answers.
This picture shows the Flame Broil/Deflector after the rib cook I did. I did do the clean process by switching the grill to high. I only did 5 minutes on the high setting. Just a wipe down with a paper towel and I am ready for the next cook.
You can see the lip at the top of the picture where the grease will channel down.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160922_073002%201_zpsngxrwgo8.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160922_073002%201_zpsngxrwgo8.jpg.html)
Here is a close up of the grease lip. The Flame Broil stays in place for indirect cooking. If you want to sear, just slide it right or left using the tab
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160922_073036_zpso2syddfk.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160922_073036_zpso2syddfk.jpg.html)
I would also like to add the the deflector removes and installs easily
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After two high cooks and one baking cook and one 7 hour lo and slo cook, here is the fire pot and the bottom of the barrel.
The computer does a good job of blowing enough of the burned pellets out that the hot rod is exposed for the next cook.
Not too much dust either.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_113545%202_zpsygxyavsv.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_113545%202_zpsygxyavsv.jpg.html)
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As time goes on I am wondering how that flame zone cover will slide back and forth with the build up of grease and such.
Also grease making it's way between there?
Still liking the design of this pit.
Also wondering if a Savannah Stoker will be compatible with this pit? If it has the same controller setup as a Traeger for wiring and such? That would be a nice upgrade for sure!
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Good points Mike. I do slide the Flame Broiler back from time to time and so far so good. It fits snug and with the curve to it, that might help with grease building up and gumming up the Flame Broil slider.
don't know about the sav stoker mod. I don't know if Pit Boss is as proactive with their revisions to their controllers like GMG and Yoder is. I think my controller is a Rev 3.
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Time to smoke something. Trimmed up some spares to St.Louis. Could not remove the membrane on this rack. I just scored the underside with a knive. Smothered in yellow mustard and a generous coating of Fine Swine and Bovine.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_115049_zpsllqbjmkn.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_115049_zpsllqbjmkn.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_185515%201_zpstmzmnhoz.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_185515%201_zpstmzmnhoz.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160921_185900%201_zpskzik8ls9.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160921_185900%201_zpskzik8ls9.jpg.html)
I ran the pit on the 225 setting and the pit ran closer to 235-240. I set it down to 200 and the pit ran around 212-217. I did the ribs for 6 hours uncovered. The Competition pellets are real nice. Nice smoke output when the auger turned on during the cook. The ribs were not oversmoked for being in there all that time.
I sauced em and foiled em and returned them to the pit for 30 minutes. Wendy said these were the best ribs I have ever done. I have to agree. They were perfect. The Pit Boss worked quite nicely in the 200 degree setting. No issues with the Broiler/Deflector being uncovered. So far so good...........
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Great review so far Smoke
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Great review so far Smoke
Thank You. Wendy and I are having fun with this grill and I think this will be a pretty extensive review when I am finished. :)
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Nice looking bones
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Very nice! I'm still jealous! :)
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We appreciate all the time and hard work you're putting in for this review.
Google isn't helping me find this grill at the price you paid...even at Wal-Mart.
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We appreciate all the time and hard work you're putting in for this review.
Google isn't helping me find this grill at the price you paid...even at Wal-Mart.
Here you go Jack. Just have this shipped to store for free shipping. Same controller hopper set-up. 440 square inches. This model comes with the smokestack and a cool side shelve that has a built in serving tray. Pretty much the same animal in a fancier package. I grabbed mine at a clearance price but this a loaded grill for 400 bones........
https://www.walmart.com/ip/46716277?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227036859394&wl0=&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=82516936592&wl4=pla-162511838432&wl5=9031499&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=46716277&wl13=&veh=sem
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We were ready to pull the trigger on the model in the link I sent to Jack but stumbled upon three of the PB700FB in the nursery at our local Wal-Mart. Never hurts to swing over to your local store and see if one is setting around. That is how I got our Akorn on the cheap as well.
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We appreciate all the time and hard work you're putting in for this review.
Google isn't helping me find this grill at the price you paid...even at Wal-Mart.
Here you go Jack. Just have this shipped to store for free shipping. Same controller hopper set-up. 440 square inches. This model comes with the smokestack and a cool side shelve that has a built in serving tray. Pretty much the same animal in a fancier package. I grabbed mine at a clearance price but this a loaded grill for 400 bones........
https://www.walmart.com/ip/46716277?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227036859394&wl0=&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=82516936592&wl4=pla-162511838432&wl5=9031499&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=46716277&wl13=&veh=sem
Jack the $404 free shipping to home is a GREAT price on the upgraded model!
AS far a getting the same deals smoke does just get a 4 leaf clover tattoo like he has ::)
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We appreciate all the time and hard work you're putting in for this review.
Google isn't helping me find this grill at the price you paid...even at Wal-Mart.
Here you go Jack. Just have this shipped to store for free shipping. Same controller hopper set-up. 440 square inches. This model comes with the smokestack and a cool side shelve that has a built in serving tray. Pretty much the same animal in a fancier package. I grabbed mine at a clearance price but this a loaded grill for 400 bones........
https://www.walmart.com/ip/46716277?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227036859394&wl0=&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=82516936592&wl4=pla-162511838432&wl5=9031499&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=46716277&wl13=&veh=sem
Jack the $404 free shipping to home is a GREAT price on the upgraded model!
AS far a getting the same deals smoke does just get a 4 leaf clover tattoo like he has ::)
...or move to the Inland Empire in Southern California (where everything is priced just a tad bit cheaper for us "seniors") ;) ;) :D ;D :) 8)
......and the four leaf clover needs to be located "where the sun don't shine" ???
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Heck of a good deal! Wish it was available 8 months ago, :)
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I may go to Walmart tomorrow to see what they have.
$400 +tax is a right smart. I may have to wait till Christmas...not that Deb would spring for it, but she'll probably be more apt to say "yes". Maybe Tomcrete can write a note for me.
Looks like a good deal to me.
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I may go to Walmart tomorrow to see what they have.
$400 +tax is a right smart. I may have to wait till Christmas...not that Deb would spring for it, but she'll probably be more apt to say "yes". Maybe Tomcrete can write a note for me.
Looks like a good deal to me.
It is a good deal. Got some more cooks coming up. The jury is still out on it but there are guys on the Pit Boss Facebook page that have had theirs two years and have not had to do a thing to em. Hot rods are still going strong.
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Okay. Found out some model differences the hard way. The Pit Boss "Deluxe" models come with a smokestack, a bottle opener and a side shelve. The side shelve is sweet. It has a built in serving tray you can set your food on and carry into the house.
I ordered a side shelve for my unit. If the model number ends in FB, it does not have a side shelve or smokestack. The unit works fine without it. I ordered a side shelve and it is solid with 4 utensil hooks and a cool towel rack.
In a previous post in this thread I posted a link to a deluxe version. It comes with all the goodies and is a great bargain for only 400 bucks.
So I get my cover and side shelve and put the cover on first. Nice material and fits like a glove.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160923_083250_zps6olc35ib.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160923_083250_zps6olc35ib.jpg.html)
I remove the 4 bolts on the side and attach the side shelve. Very heavy duty. Gonna like it.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160923_083712_zpsesigjhq4.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160923_083712_zpsesigjhq4.jpg.html)
Go to put the cover on and it does not cover my side shelve.......bummer
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160923_083759_zpsygnd7fg2.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160923_083759_zpsygnd7fg2.jpg.html)
Call customer service. They are very nice and helpful. They explained that the cover I ordered is for the right model without the side shelve. The PB700D deluxe grill cover will fit my unit now that I have added the side shelve and made it a "deluxe" model.
No worries just return your cover and we will send you the correct one.
OOOPS......I unwrapped the cover. They wont take it back. "Really" I tell them. nothing they can do.
Not the end of the world. The unit is covered and my side shelve isn't. I have a covered patio now so I am cool.
So the moral of the story is: before you order a cover, call Pit Boss. Tell them your model number.............and if you have added a side shelve to it, just tell em and they will get you the right one. :)
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I may go to Walmart tomorrow to see what they have.
$400 +tax is a right smart. I may have to wait till Christmas...not that Deb would spring for it, but she'll probably be more apt to say "yes". Maybe Tomcrete can write a note for me.
Looks like a good deal to me.
Not a problem! Just say the word ;)
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Got this link from Walmart for the big deluxe PB820 deluxe.
Comparable size comparisons would be to the Traeger Texas and GMG Jim Bowie.
This grill has 820 square inches of cooking space and it will feed a hungry crowd.
You can get free ship to store. Just have a buddy at the house to unload this heavy beast
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Pit-Boss-820-Pellet-Grill-Black/39086991?adid=1500000000000038955180&veh=eml&sent_time=1474824686833&campaign_id=rpb_3-0-9-67-3-13-8-7-0-0-0-0-optcr&e_id=e9473f54334b40eb3f1f68669ad59453
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You're going the wrong way on the budget, Smoke.
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As long as your willing to spend just a little more.
The Louisiana Grill ( higher end from same company) 800 elite, stainless with double wall construction looks GREAT FOR THE MONEY !
http://www.louisiana-grills.com/tablet/800-elite.html
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Keeping it simple tonight. Grilled some brats and dogs without using the flame broiler
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160926_181040_zps6rttpali.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160926_181040_zps6rttpali.jpg.html)
15 minutes and one flip I got these. Pit was set at 400 and the deflector really does the job for grilling/searing
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160926_182205_zpsg4gnfu2n.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160926_182205_zpsg4gnfu2n.jpg.html)
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Oh yeah very tasty looking! Three B's .....bun, brat, beer! :D
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Good and simple. I'll take one of each
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Very nice searing for a pellet grill :D
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Very nice searing for a pellet grill :D
Thanks Tom. I only had the temp set at 400 and I had the flame broiler insert closed. :)
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Where can I get a grill like that?
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Where can I get a grill like that?
I found my model on Wal-Mart site for 499.99 Now keep in mind this is not a deluxe model. You can get a deluxe model for only 404.00 with free site to store shipping. It is 420 sq inches and has the side shelve and a bottle opener. Nice two tone finish. This is a steal.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Pit-Boss-440-Deluxe-Pellet-Grill-Black/46716277
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Grabbed a frozen pizza and put the stone in the Pit Boss. Set it for 450 with the flame broiler closed. Took 12 minutes to cook
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160927_172119_zpstprcbyol.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160927_172119_zpstprcbyol.jpg.html)
crust came out nice
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160927_172137_zpsysxmn2cs.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160927_172137_zpsysxmn2cs.jpg.html)
This pit cooked the pizza nicely. The crust did not burn and came out crispy. The deflector really radiates the heat at higher temps.
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Nice lookin Pizza
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Wendy made a meatloaf today. She uses maybe 4 ingredients. Simple and tasty. Let me throw it on the pellet grill for my review. OK she says but cook it like I cook it at 425.
425 degrees it is. took 25 minutes to get to 160 internal. Was worried about the bottom burning......nope.....came out great.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20160928_172509_zpsfwivmxjs.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20160928_172509_zpsfwivmxjs.jpg.html)
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I'd eat that!
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Meatloaf kind of day here, please ship me some!
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Smoke, if you still want a cover take a look at these. I bought one for my Weber Genesis and was amazed at the quality for the price. The price depends on the size. They offer several depending on the W, H, L of your grill or smoker.
https://smile.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-Veranda-Grill-Cover/dp/B000HCNEWM/ref=sr_1_6?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1475168529&sr=1-6&keywords=grill%2Bcover&th=1
[attachments deleted after 6 months]
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Smoke, if you still want a cover take a look at these. I bought one for my Weber Genesis and was amazed at the quality for the price. The price depends on the size. They offer several depending on the W, H, L of your grill or smoker.
https://smile.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-Veranda-Grill-Cover/dp/B000HCNEWM/ref=sr_1_6?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1475168529&sr=1-6&keywords=grill%2Bcover&th=1
What he said. High quality at a fair price
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Smoke, if you still want a cover take a look at these. I bought one for my Weber Genesis and was amazed at the quality for the price. The price depends on the size. They offer several depending on the W, H, L of your grill or smoker.
https://smile.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-Veranda-Grill-Cover/dp/B000HCNEWM/ref=sr_1_6?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1475168529&sr=1-6&keywords=grill%2Bcover&th=1
I sure will.........thanks :)
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Tossed on a 4 lb bone in pork shoulder. Simply seasoned with S-P-G and set the PB for 200. 7 hours later it was at 191 so we foiled wrapped and held for 2 hours.
Came out real good. The Pit Boss works very nicely on long cooks.
Would like to add that again no foil was used on the deflector. I did have the butt stick in a small section on the grates that are directly over the area where the burn pot is at. I wonder if a deflector should be added to sit over the burn pot like most units have. Not a big deal. Will keep on smoking and see if this is a problem.
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20161004_151504_zpsfgow39as.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20161004_151504_zpsfgow39as.jpg.html)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc469/s1cott11/20161004_181451_zpsz0evqkpp.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/s1cott11/media/20161004_181451_zpsz0evqkpp.jpg.html)
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Nice color. Cute little butt
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Nice looking PP Smoke!
Although I'm not going to go so far as Pappy did saying you have a cute little butt! ???
That's just wrong! :D ;D
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Nice looking PP Smoke!
Although I'm not going to go so far as Pappy did saying you have a cute little butt! ???
That's just wrong! :D ;D
:D :D :D :D
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Well, I decided when I started the review, that it would last as long as a bag of pellets. Sorry it took me so long to wrap this up, but I work part time for a Estate Sale outfit and have been kinda busy. Got 2-3 weeks until the next sale so back to posting.
I did not do any pellet consumption testing but overall I figure the consumption on this unit is on par with similarly priced models.
Temp control: super wide temp swings. Worked with the mfg and adjusted P-settings to no avail.
Overall Quality: pretty impressive for this price point. Solid unit.
Bells and Whistles: not too many......Just set your temp and cook. No extra probes. About as plain a controller as possible. However the grill does have a pellet dump. The Flame Broiler/deflector plate is really nice and is unheard of at this price point
Do I like it?
Yes I do...in fact I like this pellet grill alot. Even with the crazy temp swings and outdated controller, everything that has come off this grill has been outstanding. I just set the temp and worry about the internal temp of the meat.
If I wanted a pellet grill to be my primary cooking tool, I would be going towards Mak,Memphis,Cookshack and Firecraft. I mostly use this grill for when Wendy and I are both working and I can have it smoking away while we are out and about.
This grill has performed admirably since assembled and I really have no complaints. There are folk on the PitBoss Facebook page that use there grills almost every day with no problems.
At this price point with the quality you get, it is a great pellet grill to test the waters.
How long before I have to replace something? Will update the review when that happens.
Thanks for your interest and I feel I called it like I see it 8)
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Fantastic review, I sometimes wonder about what I could've had with what I spent on the Rec Tec Mini. I don't regret my purchase but I'm envious of yours. :thumbup:
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Fantastic review, I sometimes wonder about what I could've had with what I spent on the Rec Tec Mini. I don't regret my purchase but I'm envious of yours. :thumbup:
Well, you won't find Rec Tecs clearance priced at Walmart. You got a great pit Tom 8)
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Great review very thorough. It helped lead me to this site. Now that you've had it for little while I have a few questions if you don't mind. How has the pellet consumption been. I also read your review of the Camp Chef and in it you talked about the good smoke you got up to about 300°. How would you compare the smoke with the Pit Boss. Also, I know the Camp Chef was a more deluxe model but how would you compare the 2 strictly on a cooking ability basis. Any other info you might think useful would also be appreciated.
My local Walmart has the basic model Camp Chef and the Pit Boss 700fb. The Pit Boss is on clearance and is about $50 cheaper than the entry model Camp Chef. I all but have my mind made up on the Pit Boss
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Well, six months in and no problems. Pellet consumption has been a little heavy as of late. Of course the cold weather does not help. The flame broiler deflector tray is so handy.
I have high regards for Camp Chef and you will be happy with either. Pit Boss is a great way to jump into the pellet game and have money left over for pellets 8)
Time to go buy one my friend......and thank you for the kind words.
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I sure would like to see a Pit Boss in person. Our local Walmart does not sell them nor does the one 25 miles away. This part of Texas seems to be non-pellet smoker country. Today I went to Walmart, Lowes and Home Depot to see if anyone stocks pellets. Nothing. I may just buy the unit and pellets from Amazon.
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I sure would like to see a Pit Boss in person. Our local Walmart does not sell them nor does the one 25 miles away. This part of Texas seems to be non-pellet smoker country. Today I went to Walmart, Lowes and Home Depot to see if anyone stocks pellets. Nothing. I may just buy the unit and pellets from Amazon.
You can order the Pit Boss from Wal-Mart and get free site to store shipping. I think Amazon has free freight. You can also order the Pit Boss comp pellets from Wal-mart and Amazon.
You can also check and see if there is a local Traeger or Green Mountain Grill dealer locally. You should be able to get pellets from them as well.............
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I sure would like to see a Pit Boss in person. Our local Walmart does not sell them nor does the one 25 miles away. This part of Texas seems to be non-pellet smoker country. Today I went to Walmart, Lowes and Home Depot to see if anyone stocks pellets. Nothing. I may just buy the unit and pellets from Amazon.
You can order the Pit Boss from Wal-Mart and get free site to store shipping. I think Amazon has free freight. You can also order the Pit Boss comp pellets from Wal-mart and Amazon.
You can also check and see if there is a local Traeger or Green Mountain Grill dealer locally. You should be able to get pellets from them as well.............
Costco in San Antonio stocks the Traeger pellets but that is 130 mile roundtrip. ??? I've got a buddy with a pickup truck so I might need to get a full load. lol. Going to call around in San Antonio to see if anyone sells the Pit Boss as I sure would feel more confident if I could just rub one with my hands. :D
I asked the people here at Lowes and Home Depot if they had any pellet grills. They had this funny look, like what is that? One of these days this part of the country will join the modern world. Walmart said they had a couple on the way but it was a brand I've never heard of. It wasn't Camp Chef. Can't recall the name right now.
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The Pit Boss is quite well built for its price-point. Lid is heavy and mine sits perfectly with no gaps. Barrel is 16 gauge..same as Camp Chef and GMG and Traeger. Flame Broiler/deflector is solid. Easy to build. All holes are pre-threaded and everything lines up nicely. Great bang for the buck.
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Well, six months in and no problems. Pellet consumption has been a little heavy as of late. Of course the cold weather does not help. The flame broiler deflector tray is so handy.
I have high regards for Camp Chef and you will be happy with either. Pit Boss is a great way to jump into the pellet game and have money left over for pellets 8)
Time to go buy one my friend......and thank you for the kind words.
Well I decided to follow your advice. I picked up my PB 700 FB and a bag of PB competition blend pellets yesterday. Did my burn in and as I write this I have a pork shoulder on it for my first cook.
I'm feeling pretty confident using this for the first time after reading all the great info you and some others have posted.
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Well, six months in and no problems. Pellet consumption has been a little heavy as of late. Of course the cold weather does not help. The flame broiler deflector tray is so handy.
I have high regards for Camp Chef and you will be happy with either. Pit Boss is a great way to jump into the pellet game and have money left over for pellets 8)
Time to go buy one my friend......and thank you for the kind words.
Well I decided to follow your advice. I picked up my PB 700 FB and a bag of PB competition blend pellets yesterday. Did my burn in and as I write this I have a pork shoulder on it for my first cook.
I'm feeling pretty confident using this for the first time after reading all the great info you and some others have posted.
Congrats. We like pics of new toys
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What were your impressions with this purchasing? Packaging? Fit and finish? Ease of assembly? Bang for the buck? Did The Smoke steer you wrong?
One thing, I have not foiled my deflector like I do on my Traeger. I feel the downward curve and lip for the flame broiler is cumbersome. It sure scrapes clean the next morning quie easily :)
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I picked up my Pit Boss Saturday night. You cut the straps on the box and the lid pulls off. It was packaged very well and there were no dings or scratches on it. I read the book first and assembly was very easy. It was mostly together and all I had to do was attach the legs and a few odds and ends like the handle on the lid and the lid stop. I did the burn test. Almost forgot about the deflector and grates. Simple enough to install and did that after the burn test. The deflector is pretty heavy duty. Fit and finish on my Pit Boss is very good and the lid closes perfectly. This thing is built pretty sturdy.
Did the Initial burn in Sunday morning and then started my first cook. I didn't foil the deflector. I set the temp to 225 and didn't change the P setting. There were temp swings from about 220 to 250, 260 and sometimes 270 and I think I saw 290 once or twice. That was on the controller readout and the lid thermometer seemed to hang about 10° below that. I didn't have my Maverick so I couldn't check temps. On the down swing is when you would get pretty heavy smoke.
Everything was going fine and about 2 hours into the cook something happened and I'm not really sure what it was. I came out to check things and saw the temp said 160. When I opened the lid there was a lot of heavy dark smoke and after the lid was opened for a little bit it flamed up and all the smoke cleared. The flames were pretty high and coming around the deflector so I shut it down. After the fire went out I gave it a little time and then fired it back up and continued on with my cook without further incidence. Looking back I've been thinking maybe the fire went out and the pellets filled up and after I opened the lid they were able to ignite. Not really sure but it happened when I was away from it for about 10 minutes. Well the pork shoulder was pretty good for kind of throwing it together and my first cook using this thing.
I would say I am pretty happy with this Pit Boss 700FB pellet grill/smoker and is a lot of bang for the buck that I paid for it. I look forward to many more cooks on it, learning some new things and fine tuning my cooking ability with it. I took the grate out of the hopper, put the screws back in the holes and set the grate on top of the screws. Now if I need to I can just lift the grate out of the hopper and put it back when done. Got that tip from the Pit Boss FB group
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Nice. I also took out the "finger guard" that is in the hopper. Makes it easier to level your pellets out. I have never adjusted my P settings. The temp swings I think are programmed in for more smoke. Temp swings mean more smoke. Smoke means more flavor :thumbup:
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Great review! I've had a pit boss 820 for coming up on 5 years. They changed the style to the slide to sear rather than mine that didn't have that option. My drip tray was not curved like they currently offer. I didn't have to replace anything in the time I've owned it. Pellet consumption did increase in the winter, but nothing drastic. You mentioned a cover over the burn pot, my model had that and was the first thing to burn through. Overall great bang for your buck. I managed to get a free cover and 4 20lb bags of pellets when I bought mine. I was sold on the solid construction. I didn't alter the P settings much, if any. Enjoy your unit!!