Locally-owned stores for barbecue smoker

[hendersj31]

Texas Original Bar-B.Q. Pits on the north loop. As already mentioned these things get expensive fast.

[astrohip]

Originally Posted by PinkLadyK

OK, to be fair, I didn't say they don't work, only that I read they aren't the best way to get smoke to the mean.

You are correct. I misquoted your post, and it made it come out different sounding than what you had said. Apologies.

For a first smoker, and with a realistic budget ($400), just get one at Academy within your price range. It won't be a custom Pitts & Spits, but it also won't be $1495! And it will smoke just about as well as the more expensive one. If/when your husband becomes a pro, or really gets hooked, he can blow a year of college money on a fancier smoker.

Originally Posted by hendersj31

Texas Original Bar-B.Q. Pits on the north loop. As already mentioned these things get expensive fast.

I've heard good things about this place. I need to check it out sometime.

[Social D]

Vasbinders Pits located on Hwy 90 between Sugar Land and Richmond.

link to an old article but they are still in business:

Fixin’ to BBQ: D.W. Vasbinder’s in Richmond | Houston Press

[azzo]

My wife bought one for me at Academy. It was a smaller but heavier offset smoker for under $500. Expect to pay a shipping or delivery fee as well (think they charged $85). A necessary accessory is a thermometer that more accurately monitors the meat and grill temps (maverick is std and costs around $60). Hope this helps.

[PinkLadyK]

Thanks azzo. Which one did she get?

[rusty2006]

I would check with the nearest Ace Hardware. They are locally owned and most have a selection of grilling/BBQ/smokers.

[mechteach]

If you don't care about it looking flashy, the Pit Barrel Cooker is absolutely amazing, and a super value for the money (here's a review of it, but you can also google for lots more praise and info). It's $300 (including shipping), and is a complete set-it-and-forget-it contraption. The ribs that we've made with the PBC are really incredible.

It isn't locally made, but the company was started (and is run) by a veteran, and employs a lot of vets.