First impressions - Pony Express (adjustable tray model)

Pony Express vs. Big Green Egg
� Adjustable tray does not hold as much charcoal as I was hoping. You have to pile it in the middle until it falls over the edges of the tray. Ash pan catches this so it can be re-used.
� I had to add charcoal after about 3 hours. During a 9-hour smoke I added wood once and charcoal twice. I used wood chips instead of chucks, so when I added chips I added charcoal. I think if I had used wood chunks. I would have only needed to add charcoal, and then only once.
� Damper adjustment gives immediate control over heat in smoke box. Minor adjustments make a big difference.
� Excellent heat control. I set it a 250 and it stayed right there with minimal adjustments as charcoal burned down

Pony Express vs. Big Green Egg
� Charcoal in BGE lasts much longer. I can smoke a pork butt for 14 hours without adding charcoal or wood.
� Very easy to add charcoal and/or wood to Pony as needed
� I use BBQ Guru with BGE. Need to determine if there is value in adding this capability to Pony. At this point I am not sure there is enough bang for the buck
� I thought the Large BGE was heavy. It is a lightweight (140 lbs) compared to Pony Express (238 lbs)

Overall

� Very impressed with Pony Express

� I am happy I made the investment in this addition to my BBQ toys (no buyer's remorse). This is my personal reward to myself for quitting smoking cigarettes. (4 months on Friday!)
� I saw a few complaints on The Good One forum about the charcoal grate being welded in and not easy to replace on most Good One models. The charcoal tray appears to be replaceable on the adjustable tray Pony Express model.
� Excellent design. Good quality. Well made (but Pony Express is made in China). American made would be much preferred, but that is the same with most things we buy these days.
� If you often smoke for large gatherings, you may want to consider the Open Range model. It is a nearly identical design, but larger. Since I already own the BGE, the Pony Express size serves my occasional large feed needs quite well, uses less charcoal and takes less room to store than the Open Range. The Pony Express would EASILY serve the everyday needs of a family of four (or more).
� I can't declare a "favorite" at this point. I think both the Pony and BGE will get equal usage, but time will tell.

Next Test - Steaks!

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For more infomation on recipies and tips and hint from current owners go to the BBQ Forum on the Ace of Hearts Webs site.

The Good-One BBQ Forum Link