Thinking of taking the leap.

[FrugalQ]

So with everyone talking pellet cookers lately and the fact I haven't bought a new cooker in at least 7 months. (Unless you count anova and IP) Which I don't  for reasons of household peacekeeping.  I keep seeing the prices dropping on entry levels and have read some good reviews on a few like PB and CC.  However, I like to buy for the long haul or not buy. Rec-tec mini is getting some serious attention. I've got the PBC which can cook a million pounds of meat at once for entertaining feeding the masses but mostly there's just 2 of us.  Feel like the size is good enough for me and their quality seems to be good at that price point. you guys(and or ladies) seem to have some experience with all kinds. So any advice tips opinions would be awesome.

[teesquare]

Nothing wrong with the Rec-Tec line!

And there are lots of others on the market to consider as well....so, the world is your oyster ( or pellet grill in this case... )

I would recommend that you list in order of importance for YOU - the things you want from a grill. That list may help you decide what unit will serve you best. Here are a few ideas, but - you ultimately need to make the list in the order you perceive the importance of each issue.

Reliability
Suport - with from the maker and other ( like here on LTBBQ )
Durability
Size
Features
Portability
Expandability/accessories
Price.

You will notice I placed price last. My personal reason for this is because I think we often are swayed by price before anything else is considered. But, price IS important....in that we can often be deluded by buying the cheapest or most expensive. Both can disappoint for different reasons .

[smoker pete]

I have no experience with the Rec-Tec Mini so I won't comment. Although I will say that what I have read has been positive.

I do however have extensive experience with a Green Mountain Grill Davey Crockett (DC). It was a perfect fit for the 2 of us at home (when not using my MAK) and on the road in my RV. I have posted many DC cooks on this forum and on my Blog. You might note that I said "... It was a perfect fit for the 2 of us ...". The reason being that while visiting my Son's family in Rhode Island last Summer I left him my DC to use and enjoy. So I highly recommend that you look at the DC before you buy and you should consider a unit with the Wi-Fi.

I have not replaced the Davey Crockett as of yet cause I'm waiting for the new MAK-Mini   

[Old Dave]

Here is another vote for the Green Mountain Davy Crockett pellet grill. They do a great job with about any type of cook or bake. Here is some information and cooks from my site that shows some of the many items that can be cooked on this fine little cooker. There are 22 articles here: http://olddavespo-farm.blogspot.com/search/label/Davy%20Crockett%20Pellet%20Grill

[tomcrete1]

I have had the Rec Tec Mini for about 9 months and I have not been disappointed it truly is a pellet miser and the PID controller is dead on accurate. I have posted many cooks and modifications to it in the video section if you are interested. 

[LarryO1947]

Another vote for the Rec Tec Mini. It is 32 degrees here in upstate New York. I have a Turkey Breast on the mini as I write this. Have the Mini set at 225, and it has been holding between 225 and 228 the whole cook. Have a ET-733 probe on grill to verify temps. I think it is a great little grill.

[smokeasaurus]

I think if you want to test the waters and keep some money in the bank, go with Pit Boss or Camp Chef or Green Mountain Grills. All three offer great bang for the buck and produce great food......also all three are made from established companies. Pit Boss is owned by Dansons. Dansons brought out the Louisiana Grill line right after Traegers patents expired. Green Mountain Grills was next and they have some really cool features at a great price point. Camp Chef.....well if you have ever cooked outdoors, you know about Camp Chef 

[FrugalQ]

I have had the Rec Tec Mini for about 9 months and I have not been disappointed it truly is a pellet miser and the PID controller is dead on accurate. I have posted many cooks and modifications to it in the video section if you are interested. 

Tom, your vids on the mini are what has put it on my shortlist. 

[FrugalQ]

Tee had a great list of priorities for me build to help narrow my options and I think I've narrowed that list down to what's most important  to me. Reliability, support(from you's guys and vendor), features,  and of course price.  I am really thinking I only want a mini or junior/small size for this cooker.  As I said I have other cookers for big cooks and also other portables and bought my mom an Akorn for when We visit so that's covered. I'd like to stay sub $600 but since I only want a smallish cooker I'm thinking maybe I can get the small Lexus instead of the big Toyota. Obviously nothing wrong with either and I can drive to flavortown in either one!!

[muebe]

I have heard/seen great things about the Rec-Tec mini

I was wondering if the MAK mini has come out yet... could be an option

[smokeasaurus]

While the Mak mini will be sweet, I doubt it will be in the price range you are looking for.

Tom's cooks on the Rec Tec mini and the cooks Old Dave has done on his GMG Davey Crockett seems to make this a two horse race................

[Jaxon]

Small Lexus vs large Toyota   
I'm feeling you,man.

Take some time to figger it out.  It'll come to you.

[tomcrete1]

I have had the Rec Tec Mini for about 9 months and I have not been disappointed it truly is a pellet miser and the PID controller is dead on accurate. I have posted many cooks and modifications to it in the video section if you are interested. 

Tom, your vids on the mini are what has put it on my shortlist.

 

[FrugalQ]

Thanks for the confirmation guys. Gonna look at some of Dave's stuff as well and may be hitting those guys up for some more in depth info if it's ok.?

[smokeasaurus]

you keep asking away and we will keep answering