Is there a good reason they built the barrel in 3 pieces? Cheaper shipping from China maybe? If you don't need to break it down you could JBweld the barrel together to stop the leaks. I heard the story of this particular on The Rick and Bubba radio show. A guy who has a well known company that builds deer feeders, game cameras, etc. saw a homemade one at a deer camp. He patented the idea then partnered with Masterbuilt to make them.
Two, they tried to make this do too many things, work as a smoker , a higher temp hanging chicken cooker & a grill!
The way the sections join is poorly thought out, the access door sounds like a good idea but even my WSM door leaks & would be better without it.
Some good things the bottom of cooker is 5-6 in above the floor I can hold my hand under cooker without burning ( wish they used 3 not 4 legs though.
It has a heavy bottom that expends 1-2 in up side of cooker.
Heavy charcoal grate , no ring however.
Has removable heat shield for smoking.
Has two grates for smoke mode, & hangs chicken.
Would I recommend , only if you're CHEAP, like to tinker & have spare time!
Sounds perfect for you Two