is the AmeriQue the right choice?

To me, the appeal of the AQ versus an 08 or a 50 was the temperature probe. I liked the idea of not having to hang around the house waiting for a butt or brisket to finish. The AQ will go into a hold mode (140 degrees) when your desired internal temp has been reached. This feature is really only useful on large (several pounds) cuts of meat.

If this feature is appealing to you, then I highly recommend the AQ. If it doesn't excite you, then I would consider an 08 or 50. Based on your described use, any of them would be a good fit.

Good luck with your decision.

Matt

For four to eight people, either Smokette will work just great.. However, when you start hitting the bigger numbers you mentioned.. you'll need something larger.. unless you have a lot of sides. I have both an 008 and the AQ. I haven't used the AQ much as I don't cook large amounts often.. however, it was free.. so, what the heck

I started with an 08 but I out grew it.

Bought an Amerique because of features
Probe with cook and hold.
Racks are 14x18 no more folding Brisket in half.
Temp goes to 300 deg.

I out grew it and bought a SM150 18x18 racks.
Durning the hoildays I have used all three at the same time.

If bigger racks, hold feature, higher temp is worth $1200 to you, then get the AmeriQue.

With butts and briskets, you don't have to be precise as to an exact time to take them out of the smoker. With ribs, you can't really use the probe, not enough meat.

Whatever smoker you decide on, get a cabinet/stand and cover.

Many thanks for your help! Will be ordering the AmeriQue the first part of next week, and can't wait to start using it! Thanks.

Hello tigerfan,

Does your user name reference a football team by chance?

You will love the AQ! I have had mine for about a year now and it is great. I don't use the probe munch anymore now that I got the feel for using the AQ. But the 14x18 racks were the selling point for me. Plus the the abilty to hold my cook at 140 when either the probe or timed cook was finished.

Tom

Toms:
The user name does indeed represent my team...LSU. Born and raised in Shreveport, went to LSU and love the Tigers! The bigger racks made up my mind also, but I use a probe on several different meats already. Can't wait for the unit!!!

Tigerfan

It had to be LSU!

I am only 75 miles north of Baton Rouge just east of Natchez.

You will never be sorry you got the AQ it is a great smoker.

Enjoy
Tom