Dufus.
Don't own a Smokin'Tex. Can't say much good or bad about them. We can tell you about CS.
CS has this forum, ST doesn't.
CS is made in the US (hand made in Ponca City from sheet stainless steel by the way), ST is made in China
CS has THE best Customer Service (read the forum posts about these) don't know about ST customer service
CS has a 100% return policy...you don't like it, send it back. ST...???
Get the idea.
And if you're in doubt, call CS and ask. They'll answer any questions about manufacturing, etc
Hope it helps.
Smokin'
p.s. you can still join us here in the forum, you'll just have to put up with a little friendly ribbing now and then.