re: Buying my first smoker... need advice **UPDATED 1st smoke w/ pics

yeah I thought that seemed like a long time for only 5 pounds, especially with the temp being at 265 for much of the cooking. the end result was very juicy though, so apparently my meat therm was accuarate. I question the accuracy of the WSM one, so it may not have been as hot as it read. I'm getting the Maverick from amazon soon, and that should give me better readings.

For those who use the Maverick, where do you put your probe? By coals, water pan or cooking area? And what temp do you like to achieve based on your placement?


ETA: just saw some other responses, so here it goes...

Yes I used minion method. I loaded the entire coal chamber up and then lit half a chimney. poured those on top and spread evenly. I wonder if I used too many lit? I used Stubbs coals btw.

Interesting that the dome is actually hotter than grill. Since it took so long to finish, I was thinking the opposite. I considered the Franklin method, but I like sweetness on my pork