What's the most food you've ever cooked in a #3?

[RG]

I ask this because when I bought it, I read that it can hold up to 45 pounds of food. This confuses me since I would think as long as you have shelves that hold food and a lot of shelves TO hold food, where does this number come from? I don't know how many packer briskets could fit into a #3 but I would think that it could hold more than 45 pounds worth. I would think the same would be true for butts. Could you not load 3 shelves up with about 20-30 pounds per shelf?

 

[SuperDave]

One could fit a lot of people in a studio apartment but the air conditioner would have a tough time keeping up with the heat load.  I visualize the smoker element design the same but in reverse. 

 

[Pork Belly]

I did two hog heads standing nose up on the lowest shelf. Total load was likely 60 pounds, they turned out good (12 hours @250) however it was obvious the head near the back of the smoker was getting more heat.

 

[RG]

So, that's where an electric smoker falls short. I didn't even consider that about the heating element. I just looked at it as having the room to cook versus the ability to cook. 

 

[Pork Belly]

I don't think it "fell short". I knowingly pushed it's limits. The results were still good.

 

[RG]

Not referring to your cook PB. Just a general statement. I come from a lump/wood/pellet background so that's why I ask these questions ;D

 

[Pork Belly]

I know you were not  talking about my smoke. I realize your were talking about electric units in general. I kind of understand what your saying but the limitations do not outweigh the convince. 

 

[MarkF]

For me, 48 lbs of beef and pork spare ribs. Used the rib shelves. Tight fit but it worked! Wish I had taken pictures.

Mark

 

[DivotMaker]

Wish I had taken pictures.

Me too. :-\  There's always next time!! ;D