Size of wood chunks

[volfan]

My question pertains to the ideal size of wood chunks for optimal use in the 2600....It looks like the chunks that most folks are using in the videos are noticeably smaller than the ones that I'm finding at Home Depot. Since I'm a bit of a newbie to real smoking, can someone tell me if there is a "specific brand" that bags their chunks smaller (So that they might better fit into a smokenator 2600)? If not, what do most of you do to reduce the size of the chunks (Hammer & Chisel...etc.).

Also, should I smoke with the bark on or off the chunks? If off, does any producer bag them without tree bark (Or does it even matter)? Thanks in advance!

[piggedy81]

I get my wood chunks at Home Depot also. The largest chunks are about the size of a small fist. I don't think I'd consider any wood chunks too big unless I couldn't fit them into the Smokenator. When you use the Smokenator, there's a metal skewer included in your order that you use to knock the coals around to remove ash and such. When you do this, it kind of resets the coals as well as the wood chunks, so the wood will come in contact with hot coals again and continue to smolder. If/when I need to make my chunks smaller so they'll fin in the Smokenator, I just use a hatchet and split them like I would with larger firewood. Obviously you don't want to swing so hard that you smash your hatchet into the ground or you'll ruin it. Wood chips are another product that's out there. The only thing I don't like about the chips is that they burn way too fast and put off a ton of smoke (too much of a good thing is quite possible when smoking meat, I've found that out firsthand). Another thing that you didn't ask about, but I want to mention it anyway is this....Get one of these, or something similar to it! www.surlatable.com/product/PRO-563148/Sur-la-Table-Oven-and-Roasting-Digital-Thermometer-with-Timer Both ends of this thermometer take temperature readings, so you know how hot the inside of the meat is, as well as the temperature right where the meat is cooking. I have had no issues with the cord causing a seal problem with the kettle and the lid. I love this thermometer! Good Luck and have fun. The Smokenator is the best invention since the discovery of fire!!!

[volfan]

Once again....Thanks for the help....I was just concerned that none of the "Home Depot" sized chunks would ever fit into the smokenator along with all of the charcoal. Based off what you are saying it sounds like there is enough room for most of the chunks (As it pertains to size) that I'm seeing (small fist sized). Either way I don't have a problem with busting them up a little bit....Also, I tried the link and it didn't connect ....It sounds like a GREAT Thermometer! I just can't figure out how the seal doesn't get messed up with cords....I'd like to see the demo....Once again thanks for your help...I can't wait to get started with the 2600!

[piggedy81]

This forum won't let me reply to you with a picture, either that or I just can't figure out how, so I started a new thread titled "thermometer". Check it out and let me know what you think.