Cookshack sells pellets also. They are very similar, or perhaps even then same as the FE ones.
I got a half-ton from candy sue at BBQ delight, she has bulk deals, and it was actually pretty cheap, but a ton would have been cheaper.
Cookshack can sent bulk too and it's always cheaper then just a bag or two.
I see on your profile that you're military., me too, finishing up my last deployment and will return this summer and process for retirement. Cookshack is a great family.
I'd borrow several bags of pellets from your brother, under the guise of being new to the 'pellet' world and not yet knowing what your doing. At least you'd get free pellets.