I am Ron. My very thoughtful children bought me an SI #1 for my birthday last month. I have been wanting a smoker for a long time, my wife was sort of against it, so I never really pursued it. My kids surprised me when a large box showed up at my front door. I (or my wife) had no idea. I was thrilled. I had to come up to speed in a hurry and this forum has been wonderful. I feel I can find information on just about anything to help me. Such a confidence builder. I have made about a half dozen things so far. They have been good (except one) but not outstanding. I still have much to learn. I am guilty (as probably most newbies are) of still trying to use too much wood. I am still having trouble getting my head around using only an ounce or two of wood. My failure was grossly over smoked Italian Sausage with only three ounces of hickory. I am getting better and expect some really good food in the future. The #1 is perfect for just me and my wife. My son did an excellent job researching smokers to come to this conclusion. In the few weeks I have had it, what research I have done leads me to the same conclusion.
Thanks to all who have contributed to this forum. I feel way ahead of the curve in this new world of smoking. It would be a long road of trial and error without the input of all of you so we don't have to make the same mistakes. I will make enough of my own, but hopefully minor thanks to all of you. I am expecting to have lots of fun with it.
By the way, my wife is starting to like the food a lot. I thing she is having a change of heart.
