I finally got my 55 from Cabela's today and have started to document my journey...
Packaging
First of all, these things are packaged very well. I cut all of the straps and lifted the box off of the unit, and there it was.... glistening in the sun. Dang this thing is purdy! I got it out of the box and put on the wheels and rolled it into place. I opened up the unit and took a look at the goodies inside. It came with 12 rib hooks, Rib rub, Brisket Rub, the famous "Spicy BBQ Sauce" (can't wait to try that), an owner's manual, a cookbook, 5 pounds of hickory and the racks.
Quality
The quality of the unit was very impressive. It is built like a tank! The latches that hold the door shut are huge and very sturdy. I can't say enough about the build quality.
Break in
So I got everything ready for the break in. I filled up the wood box (it tells you to put in 10 oz to season it) and put it in. I also dropped the temp sensor from my Maverick E-73 in there to watch the temps, shut the doors and turned it up to 200 degrees. I plan on seasoning it for 5-6 hours tonight before I begin smoking my first boston butt and picnic that have been sitting in my fridge all night, rubbed down and ready to go.
Here are some pics for your and I have to tell you the smell of smoking wood is awesome. Enjoy!
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