For those of you out there looking for a way to freeze meat you buy in bulk, or save the leftovers from a smoke, I suggest you check out FoodSaver vacuum sealers! I personally have the "pro" model (a little harder to find, but worth it), but the models you get at WalMart, Sam's or Costco will work well, too. I've owned various models of these since 1989, and swear by them! Saved us a ton of money.
When you vacuum pack your raw meat, it removes all of the air. It will last in the freezer for up to a year! When you thaw it out, it's every bit as good as fresh-from-the-store! Try freezing hamburger meat by just wrapping it, or in its original packaging; when you thaw it, it's watery and won't hold together. When it's been frozen in a FoodSaver bag, it comes out just like it was the day you bought it!
Extra butts, ribs, or whatever, will be fresh when you thaw them! Also, you're leftovers from a smoke will last in the fridge much longer - and taste like the day you smoked it!
If anybody knows of a more economical vacuum sealer than the FoodSaver models, chime in!
...just my 2-cents worth on food preservation!
