I have never posted a review, I have never had an item that I paid as much for and warranted a review, having said that, here it is.....
Review of the SM025
Shipping
Container was sturdy, foam packing kept the unit about 3” from the side of the
carton, however this did not stop something protruding through the carton and
slightly dinging the side of the unit. I would suggest a cardboard wrapping of
the smoker as an extra layer of protection.
Construction
Most all of the unit was, as promised 304 stainless, the inside rails and grates,
wood box and wood box cover are not, but this is not an issue as they will be
soon coated with smoke residue. The fasteners may be stainless but are not
304 (they are now on mine). I think the extra cost would be minimal and for
a unit that is stored out side, beneficial. These fasteners go through the outer
stainless skin into a ferrous frame and the possibility for internal rust is present
if the fasteners start to rust over time. The safety on the latch (which is now
gone on mine) is a nuisance, a must for a home with children. It would be
better if this were a no cost option (unless there is some regulation that requires
it). Other than that it is built like a tank and should last a long time if not forever.
A handle on the wood box (which I added) would be a nice touch, easier to
pull out when HOT. Provide a permanent stainless drip pan, I do not even see a
need to supply a disposable tin pan.
Operation
Temperature control is OK, as with any thermostatically controlled device there
will be some swing up and down. This unit seems to spend a bit of time cycling
on and off to determine what it needs to do. It cycles on-off then goes to full
on up to temp and cycles again. I have not measured the swing but it is there.
(Possible update in the future). Temperature of the out side of the cabinet seems
even side to side, my IR Thermometer would not read it due to the reflective
sides so this was done by feel.
Overall
This is a bullet proof machine, could use a few tweaks to make it better, Tighter
temperature control, 304 stainless fasteners, wood box handle, permanent drip
pan. I see no regrets and it may well last a lifetime (I am 52). On a scale of 1-5....
4.75
Now off to check on my smoked Meatloaf!!
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