Mine is a homemade smoker as well. It does a pretty good job and actually holds temperature better than I expected.

Agreed. We use to have the best butcher shop for miles. When the guy retired another took over but soon drove it in the ground. I work about 45 miles from home but there are some quality shops there. Like you said, more expensive but better cuts and better selection. Although it is miles from home I am already there with work.

Like most things the quality is worth the extra money. EWO