I spent a fair amount of time evaluating meat smokers and trying to
decide between the Cookshack SM008 and the SmokinTex 1300. My
evaluation between these two smokers seemed like a wash. I even
thought about building one since there really isn't much to a smoker.

In the end, I wasn't sure that I needed something this expensive, and
the stainless steel models seemed like overkill. Smoking meat was
going to be an experiment and I wanted to start small and see if I
would stick with it.

It as then that I discovered the knock-off/clone model from Gordon.

Here is my comparison of these three thermostatically controlled
smokers.

Model: Cookshack SM008, Black
Dimensions: 16.5"x 19" x 24" high
Made: US
Watts: 500
Capacity: 30 lbs
Cost: $465
Cold Plate: $45.95
Shipping: $10
Total: $521
URL:
http://cookshack.radius3.com/shoppin....php?id=4&=SID

Model: Smokin Tex #1300, Green
Dimensions: W=17½" x D=21" x H=29"
Made: China
Watts: 700
Capacity: 33 lbs
Cost: $474
Cold Plate: $46.50
Shipping: Free
Total: $520.50
URL: http://www.smokintex.com/p_smokers.html

Model: Gordon #90898, Periwinkle
Dimensions: 17-3/16'' W x 21'' D x 25-1/16'' H
Made: India
Watts: 800
Capacity: 20 lbs
Cost: $249
Cold Plate: Free
Shipping: $10
Total: $259
URL:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=90898


I smoked a butt for the Superbowl in 30 degree temperatures and it came
out beautifully! I'm very happy with this low-end smoker.