Would not heat up past 150 Fahrenheit and we used two rounds of the standard charcoal briquettes. In addition, we purchased a chimney starter for $27.00, that was highly recommended by a professional local smoker. I felt lame that my spouse purchased an additional item, since I assumed this would be a complete rocking smoker. He is already looking into another smoker that is not too much more than yours. 😳 Oh well, I failed in the smoker gift category.

It was relatively easy to put together and even easier to use. I'm really glad I went with this choice