On 2004-01-15, Jack > wrote:
> I am thinking about buying a Bandera smoker.
> I have been using a cast iron smoker with a side fire box for several
> years and it's just about worn out. Don't have the money to buy a new
> cast iron smoker like the style Klose sells. Was checking to see what
> other folks think about the Bandera? I smoke mostly baby backs and
> chicken.

Bought a Bandera last summer. If you are used to cast iron, you may be a
little disappointed with the Bandera. Even though it is very well made,
it's only 14gauge steel and is not very good at holding heat. This not
usually an issue in the summer. But in cooler weather, and with any wind,
the thing just loses heat like crazy. This translates to a real fuel eater.
OTOH, it does hold a lot of meat! So, look at your needs. If you are going
to do a lot of meat per batch, the Bandera is a nice rig. If your are going
to just do family sized sessions, a WSM may fit your needs better.

BTW, New Braunfels is now Char-Broil. On the good side, their customer
service is undoubtedly the best I've ever dealt with.

nb