I currently have a Brinkmann's Pitmaster Deluxe (offset smoker like the SnP but the fire box has a side door as well as top) for smoking and a Brinkmann's Professional Charcoal Grill for grilling/indirect BBQ. 

 

I've made the usual SnP modifications to the smoker, including extending the smokestack down to the level of the grate and installing a baffle between the firebox and cooking chamber.  I've pretty much maximized the functionality of this smoker but it still has its limitations.  (I hear Scotty saying "she's giving all she's got, cap'n")

 

I have my eye on a Lang 60 or similar but it's such a huge leap (in cost) to move up to that level!

The BGE is an excellent product and if I could only have 1 cooker/grill/smoker/etc to cook for the family, I would probably select the XL BGE.  I've come very close to getting rid of my smoker and my grill, replacing them with a BGE.  But I'm concerned I would spend the $ and still want to upgrade further to a bigger cooker, like the Lang.

 

I want the flexibility to be able to cook for large groups and keep my options open for catering or competition.  IMHO the Lang 60 is better suited because it has more capacity (twice as much as the XL BGE), is more portable (tow package), and is more flexible (fire box more suitable for burning split logs).  But investing $2,500 to $3,000 is a big step.

 

BGE is a good cooker, no doubt about it. It's used in contests all the time. But when it comes to capacity and ease in carting around, it comes up short.

 

We currently cook on a Lang 84 Deluxe, the 84 with the grill. It's a great cooker and turns out a great product, every time. It's food capacity is impressive as well. The last party we cooked for we had 14 tri tips, 45 chicken thighs, 27 slabs of ribs and a large pan of beans going, with more room if needed.

 

Cost is a consideration, but you really do get your monies worth with the Lang. We researched Meadow Creek, Austin, Klose, etc.. Dollar for dollar the Lang gave us more bang for our buck.

 

If it's within your budget, I would highly recommend the 60. I'm sure you'll be happy with it.

 

 

Steve,

 

I'll eat my words and they taste delicious. 

 

I ended up going with a BGE, the Large with the cypress long table.  In the 48 hours since getting it, I have made ribeyes, spare ribs, gorgonzola stuffed burgers, and a roast beef eye round. 

 

Every single one has been incredible.  The unit is great, even on cold windy days.  I am very, very, very impressed! 

 

Chris