Blown away by all the comments. I’m elk hunting right now but hiked out of the woods to respond to comments. I’ll do my best to respond before hiking back in the morning.
F pellets, be a man and man a fire. I’d rather use saw dust like a PK smoker (it’s electric like your trager). Trager doesn’t burn like lump to sear, doesnt smoke like real wood etc. it does a lot well, but nothing great.
I just did a price comparison: - Costco Traeger Premium - $0.78/lb - Lumber Jack Hickory - $1.61/lb - CookinPellets Perfect Mix - $1.00/lb - Knotty Wood Almond Wood - $1.47/lb Use that for what it is worth.
Crazy to see how this channel has exploded! Started watching in 2016 when I was trying to do my first brisket (I was 15) and found your channel around 2k subscribers. Thanks for the continued dedication and quality
I've been an authorized LumberJack dealer for about four years now. This video validates the reason I became a dealer. I don't hate Traeger pellets, but after I found LumberJack pellets, I never looked back. Thanks Jeremy!
I have smoked food for several years. I used Traeger pellets when I first purchased my Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker a few years ago. Smoking often and the $19 per bag prompted me to find pellets at a lower cost. Fortunately, I came across Lumberjack pellets at a local Rural King store, 3 miles from my home. They cost approximately $9 per bag there, which is a significant difference. I am extremely satisfied with the results of the Lumberjack pellets. I have used their Competition Blend, Pecan, Cherry, Apple and Mesquite blends for various types of foods, sometimes mixing flavors to get the desired results. I highly recommend Lumberjack pellets for use with a Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker, to which I have no financial benefit.
@@michaelstevenson881 happen to see your comment about rural king selling lumberjack my store has all blends in stock never thought of checking there just like to say thanks an $8.88 a bag great deal 👍
Thanks Jeremy for the amazing honest video. Straight message for Traeger to step up their game. I love their Ironwood grill but not the pellets. Lumber Jack for me. Great job sir!
Great job on this vid explaining the difference about pellets. I have used a pellet smoker for 7 years now and I use nothing but lumberjack pellets and trust me I have tried all of them except for the knotty wood you mentioned. Lumberjack has given me consistent performance and smokeyness that I desire from them. The oak is very good but for my taste their competition blend is the best and most versatile one they make and I use it on everything from fish, pork, chicken, lamb, duck and beef. The best part is I have a local store that carries them for $8.99 a 20 lb bag. To any who may read this and are looking for a great pellet that will up your game and not break the bank, you gotta try Lumberjack Pellets.
I'm brand new to this pellet cooker/smoker thing. I purchased a Traeger 575 and was excited to get home and try it out. After the initial auger priming (Traeger Cherry/Apple wood pellets) and raising the temperature as suggested (400 degrees), I heated the Traeger back up to 300 degrees and smoked some salmon. No smoke!! I then took the cooked salmon in and chowed down. The salmon tasted like it just came out of the microwave! At that point, I went back to Ace Hardware thinking my Traeger was broken. The manager talked me into keeping the smoker and making sure I continued using the Traeger pellets. After watching your very informative video, I will definitely purchase the CookinPellets or the Lumber Jack pellets. Plus, turning the heat down to around 180-250 degrees will help. BTW, I'll continue to follow your videos. Thanks!!
Good video, do you know if the brand of pellets you recommended run well in a Trager grill? For example, Do they gum up as you say or create a lot of ash?
From what I have seen, Traeger brand makes way more ash than others. And you use way more pellets for the same cook. I think if you use a cheaper hard wood, there is less BTU per lb than a real hardwood.
Dude, greatly appreciated as to the labeling of the bags. The ones that say flavor added woods is a great tip, thanks. And ya I pick up my new searwood TODAY! Can’t wait to try !
Hey Jeremy, good job. Two years ago, you did "The Ultimate Smoker Comparison". Do you think that with better pellets, the results might be closer (the pellet grill comming a distant third)?
I think the results would be closer. I need to do some testing with different pellets to see how they perform head to head. There is a pretty stark difference I think in flavor from traeger pellets and other brands.
@@MadScientistBBQ are you going to use a smoke tube or tray in the cook sometime soon? I’ve had great success with the tray. Key for me was to make sure the pellets are well lit but not over the top so that they are smoldering. Thanks for the videos!
I’ve just got myself a Traeger pellet smoker so thank you for unbiased video. Certainly opened my eyes on certain things about flavoured pellets that I would have never known.
I’ve been working at a corn refinery for 16yrs and I make feed pellets in my area. The process of making pellets is the same, no matter the material. Every material needs moisture added in the conditioner before it enters the pellet mill. Otherwise, you risk premature equipment failure or overheating that can result in a fire in the mill due to a lack of moisture. The difference with Traeger pellets is definitely the additives used as binder during the pelletizing process. For them it’s cheaper to add oil than steam inside the conditioner before it enters the pellet mill. Also they likely don’t have to replace the rolls and dies as often as other companies. So basically they sacrifice flavor for saving money on equipment maintenance. It’s easily $10k per pellet mill for a roll and die set each time they get replaced. So if they’re operating 4 mills that have to be rebuilt every 3 months vs 1.5 months, you can see why they prefer to add oil. It saves them a ton of money on maintenance!!!
That savings on maintenance costs could potentially have a negative impact on their bottom line though. For instance, I tried their pellets and was not impressed... So instead of getting my $20 a month (give or take) on pellets, they don't get a dime from me... Now multiply my money by how ever many other people like myself who went with another brand, and that maintenance cost savings potentially cost them more than they saved... I do appreciate the explanation...I had no idea about that stuff.
@@chris_favreau you learned from your purchase not to buy again. Some people and lots of them will buy blindly because of the name abs think it’s the best they’ll use.
@@MountainMcCumbee totally agree with you.... But for "real" bbq folks... The ones that buy a crap ton of bags a year anyway, you know that we like to find what works best overall... So they may not go out of business, but idk that it's so cut and dry that they are "saving" money in the long run by using their current alleged business practice.
I may come back and comment on this when I have time to do so. Been in the business 23 years and have made BBQ pellets for all the major brands. You do not need to add moisture if controlled with the drying process. Only need to add moisture or oils if your product is already kiln dried or below around 6% moisture
@@jimsonnenburg7440 which brands would you consider to be the best? Maybe the most filler free? I'm not even sure if what I'm asking isn't stupid, but I have no ideas about that industry other than how to fill my hopper 🙂
I have smoked food for several years. I used Traeger pellets when I first purchased my Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker a few years ago. Smoking often and the $19 per bag prompted me to find pellets at a lower cost. Fortunately, I came across Lumberjack pellets at a local Rural King store, 3 miles from my home. They cost approximately $9 per bag there, which is a significant difference. I am extremely satisfied with the results of the Lumberjack pellets. I have used their Competition Blend, Pecan, Cherry, Apple and Mesquite blends for various types of foods, sometimes mixing flavors to get the desired results. I highly recommend Lumberjack pellets for use with a Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker, to which I have no financial benefit.
Thanks for the video and I appreciate your open and honest approach! I cook on a Traeger 780 and and 885. I have used most brands of pellets and agree with your video. For my “big or special” cooks I use 100% oak pellets from lumberjack or cookin’ pellets. For every day cooking I use Traeger pellets because they are so available. When it comes to Traeger pellets I like the Texas Beef blend for heavier smoke. I like apple or cherry for sides and desserts. I don’t keep any of the Costco blend around. Also… the Turkey pellets are great! The addition of rosemary really helps the poultry shine. I have a lot of experience with pellets and at this moment have more than 1800 lbs at home.
hey I'm looking at getting a smoker (first time) and I'm not sure what to chose and what to look for because there is so many, what would be a recommendation for one?
I have been using CookinPellets Perfect Mix for the last three years and my family and friends love the flavor. My cousin usually uses Traeger pellets since he has some weird loyalty since he uses a Traeger grill, but he always comments and asks questions about the pellets I use because he says not only do they seem to produce better flavor, he thinks they smell better while they are burning/cooking. Plus they seem to be a decent price on Amazon for a 40 pound bag and they always seem to arrive within a couple of days. Great video Jeremy!
Just starting to look for a pellet grill. Question, what about mixing different pellets to make your own blend? Ie cherry and oak, Good idea or just stick with one type while cooking
I'm relatively new to pellet grill smoking and the first bag that I bought was Pit Boss competition blend pellets. Pretty good flavor and burns good. Looking to "branch" out however and try a oak pellet. Nice video.
Jeremy, thank you for this video and all of those who have commented. This will save me a lot of money and time. I have a big green egg, Pitmaker Vault, UDS, and a PK360 grill and know nothing about pellet smoking. I recently acquired a Louisiana Grills founder series pellet smoker through a vendor point rewards system in my business. My first few cooks on my smoker I thought were ok, but limited flavor and smoke and I used Trager pellets simply from the name, availability, and my overall ignorance of the process. This video and viewers response was a gold mine find for me and the knowledge I received from the video and viewers comments will save me time, money and definitely fewer disappointed meals!! Thank you all!!
looking for this answer everywhere. can you use other brand pellets on a traegar grill? they write in big letters to never use other pellets. i’m sure that’s just marketing. but i don’t want to ruin my brand new Traegar grill. thanks
I started out using Traeger pellets and seen an ad for Rural King where they sell Lumberjack for 1/2 the price of Traeger. Tried them on a whim and I was very surprised at the difference in smoke flavor. Lumberjack is what goes in my pellet grill now!
@@Spmccoy13 They can't void your warranty for not using their pellets. No way to prove it. Just don't offer them the info. Say "yes" when asked. LOL. I've been using other brands since mine was just a few months old. It is 14 years old now and still going.
What do you think would be good PELLETS to use to smoke a PASTRAMI Brisket on a traeger In my research it says to use a mild wood so not to over power the PASTRAMI? Any help would be greatly appreciated... Thanks...
Down here in Texas we have B&B pellets. I use their competition blend and it seems like a great pellet. I use my CC pellet grill about twice every week for the last 3 years. No problems with the pellets.
Jeremy - might be time for a follow up video on pellets. This one was super helpful for me. Have tried the hickory Cookinpellets so far. Was using Bear Mountain beforehand. On my Traeger, the cookinpellets have some trouble getting started. Need to clean out ash after every cook. Need to set initial temp to 500 to get it above target temp. Then once over target by 50 degrees, I set to my target. Also am seeing wider temp range on my traeger so it’s a bit more “fire management” on the pellet grill for me. These aren’t complaints but would love to see you survey your subscribers and summarize what people are saying.
I did my first cook on the smoker side of my PitBoss KC Combo yesterday. Used PitBoss pellets as I had bought those with that unit at a big-box retailer (it’s a dual electric smoker/propane griddle). Wish I had seen this comment first. I had a similar problem getting the pellets burning steady at 225F, because the smoker kept shutting down (I had done a burn-in on the smoker side a while back without issues, but have been cooking on the griddle half before yesterday). I was considering changing out the pellets in case it was a moisture issue, but first I tried running it up to 450F for about 20 min, and after that if worked fine when it came back to 225F. I smoked the ribeye at 225F to a 105F internal temp (found my smoker probe and my Thermapen agreed within about 2F), then I seared it on the propane griddle side. Unfortunately, I overshot the steak temp during searing so it was medium rather than medium rare. The ribeye was still quite moist, and pretty good although not at the doneness I prefer. Didn’t think that I was getting a lot of smoke flavor though. Next time I’ll probably pull it from smoker at 100F and then sear it on the griddle. The griddle really puts a nice sear on it due to the large area of surface contact! This morning I’ve been watching pellet reviews to see if I might want to make changes. Very interesting to note that in the review Jeremy did with TheBBQHQ, Traeger pellets were the top-rated ones using multiple tasters. I’d suspect that might be influenced by what the tasters use at home, as mentioned in the review.
I have a potentially dumb question. I have a Traeger and I love it. But are other pellets such as lumberjack okay to use? I just don’t want to break the smoker.
Glad I saw this , have always used Traeger pellets and have not been real satisfied with the smoke flavor. I looked to see what we have locally, we have Royal Oak pellets and I noticed that besides wood pellets they have a product called charcoal pellets using the same process for lump charcoal, would love to hear your opinion on that if you have tried them.
I’ve been using kingsFord. I get at my grocery store $15. It says 100% wood no fillers or binders. They carry hickory and cherry. I have tried Treager I can’t say I notice a difference except price. I just ordered hickory cookinpellets. A couple of bucks more but free shipping. I’m cooking on a ZGrill. Everything I’ve cooked has come out good but I don’t have anything to compare it too. I’ll see if I notice any difference.
@@shawngillogly6873 Yeah, my local place had Kingsford reps out earlier this year - they gave me a 6# bag to try. Asked my guy what he thought about them & he said "They're great, Lumberjack makes them." Tried the hickory and they were indeed quite good. I usually go with a local supplier here (I get some awesome mesquite pellets from W. TX), but LJ & KF are my other go to pellets. I did just order some of those hickory CookinPellets to try!
Thoughts on Kingsford pellets? I've been using their cherry, hickory, and oak blend which smell amazing during the smoke. Taste wise? I can't really pick up on it but that's mostly because of how heavy I season briskets and ribs.
I’ve had some issues maintaining heat/fluctuating temps and been using Traeger pellets, will have to try your recommended brands to see if the pellet is the issue. Appreciate your commentary!
I’ve had my pellet smoker for about a year and after trying about 7 different pellets I settled on Kingsford. All natural, no fillers, little ash. I’m willing to pay for shipping but these happen to be available at some of the nearby Walmarts. Their hickory pellets have the most smoke flavor.
I will agree with you there, I regularly use Kingsford hickory and cherry. I always get good consistent results and the flavor is just as good as the $$$ brands. I just received a couple bags of the Royal Oak Charcoal Pellets and will be doing a pork shoulder with a mix of charcoal and hickory. I'm looking forward to the results!
I’ve settled on Kingsford too. Good flavor and super availability. I find it funny Treager Pellets are more expensive as a rule. Treager good grills not so good pellets.
Same - I've had really good luck with the 100% Kingsford Hickory and Cherry. Sometimes the 20lbs bag goes on sale at Publix for like $7. I will usually mix the hickory and cherry 50/50 when I don't want as intense smoke for poultry. I just wish they made a 100% Oak pellet, but the hickory is pretty strong smoke flavor for red meat.
We think B&B pellets are an incredible value. Haven’t found a better pellet for the price. We recently upgraded from Traeger Timberline 1300 to a Yoder YS640S and boy oh boy what a difference!
I just got my traeger smoker and when I opened it up it says to only use trager pellets on it. now my question is do other pellets work and feed into without any problems?
I use the Gourmet Traeger blend from Costco and the bag itself says Hardwood Pellets. Then in the description it describes that their U.S. mills process pure hardwood. The bag for it is also heavier duty than the normal bags. Just food for thought. Great vid!
I also should mention that Jack Daniel's makes a whiskey barrel charcoal pellet that you mix half and half with your regular and it tends to give a better bark and closer feel to traditional smokers
I’m not saying you’re wrong, but Jeremy did a video where he cooked with a straight up bourbon barrel - that was still saturated with bourbon - and it made no difference lol. I think that is just a marketing sham
@@GM-122 you're right. I think the advantage to Jack pellets is that they're a widely available decent quality oak. I use them (chips and pellets) blended with fruit tree wood, but I don't think the whiskey adds anything.
Thanks for video. i've been struggling with flavor and bark. not sure if the pellet will help the bark but going to give it a try. Can't find the link for the hoodie!! I'm a hoodie guy! Where to go?
I have tried several brands myself, and Bear Mountain BBQ pellets has a good flavor, burns hit and clean. Much less ash in burn pot, which you didn't get into in your video.
Just got a camp chef pro and their signature blend pellets. Since this pellet grill has the smoke box I’m not sure if the signature pellets are doing a great job. I am concerned about by buying a brand that has fillers in it. Can you post a list of brands that do not use fillers or oils that could be harmful to the grill or most importantly my gut?
Thank you Jeremy! For someone that's fairly new to the backyard pellet smoker this video was super helpful. Makes you think about aspects of the product you buy and how it effects the flavor and overall out come. Super informative!
I have a Traeger but have always hated their pellets. I use kingswood. Would u suggest we put a smoke diffuser in with real wood to add real smoke flavor? I saw someone use it and I’ve purchased it but haven’t used it yet. I will try lumberjack next.
Was looking forward to seeing the results of the Pellet Smoker VS Offset smoker face-off. Are we getting a video soon about that? Thank you for all the amazing content!
When I add my smoke tube to my pellet smoker I just purchased recently with half chips and half pellets it is just a good if not better than my offset. That’s because I been using a offset for 25 years.
I have been using a pellet smoker for about five years and have used Traeger pellet pit boss pellet and lumberjack. Out of all three I have all ways notice lumberjack to be better. Lumberjack does have a blend and some of There flavors. I love watching your videos and have learned a lot from them. Thank you
BBQers Delight Peach Pellets! I smoked a turkey with them two years ago and then again last year. BEST by far we've ever had. Their pellets are 100% wood, the peach are actually 30% peach/70% oak. Really nice flavor.
Just watched the video, really appreciate your insight. Went on line and purchased the lumberjack Oak pellets. You mentioned on another video that you are going to offer more insights on smoking brisket on a pellet smoker, I have a cook for a team Christmas party on the 3rd, any chance of learning additional insights that i could use for the cook?
Can you try Sam’s brand “smokehouse” pellets the bag says natural with no flavors or oils. I really like them and would like to see how they stack up compared to some of the other top of the line brands.
I like the Smokehouse pellets also. I have also used the traeger and pit boss pellets. I personally think the smokehouse has a better flavor and I also realized this summer that the smokehouse pellets must have a harder pellet. I made pulled pork twice this summer, 10 hour smoke time. The first time was with pit boss and my hopper was almost empty by the end. The smokehouse hopper was just under half the second time. I've only had my smoker for about 2 years now but personally I think the smokehouse gives pretty good flavor
Jeremy, Do you have any preference on brand of wood chunks? I mostly cook on my traeger and use lumberjack pellets but I have been getting back into cooking on my ceramic grill.
I have a Pit Boss Pro Series 4 smoker, and I’ve only used the pit boss branded pellets. However I’ve learned with this smoker if I cook at 225-ish I get awesome smoke ring and flavor. I plan on trying some of the brands in this video to see how they turn out, but my lower and slower method with my smoker provides awesome flavor with the Pit Boss branded pellets.
I’ve been using Lumberjack, mainly oak and pecan for years, so it”s gratifying to have my decision validated by other meat smokin’ folk! I look forward to trying out the brands you mentioned that I had not heard of…THANKS!
Jeremy Iam trying tovdecide between a Gilla Chimp Pellet Smoker or a Masterbuilt Gravity Charcoal Smoker. Like to know your thoughts Thanks, Russell Thiel Massachusetts
I have been using the BBQr’s Delight pellets. I’ve enjoyed the flavor they give and the selection of different woods they have like sassafras and orange. I’ve been using my pellet grill for over a year and I’m always wanting to try different things to improve the quality. Good luck on your elk hunt Jeremy.
I’m new to pellets I would definitely want to try out the best pellets to get the best experience. So Is there any differences when using Traeger pellets vs the other brand you have used other than smoke? Like do they perform the same
@@darthbane3557 I've been satisfied with grillas pellets...got them when I got the grill. I've only had them though, they've produced good flavors on everything I've made. Definitely looking forward to trying other brands once I go through these!
Awesome rundown on the Pellet issue. I've tried Knotty and Lumberjack and like them both. I'm going to have to order some Cooking Pellets brand and try them as well. I've also been using B&B pellets in my Yoder as well and really like the flavor they give the proteins as well. Quick question though, It's getting time to look into a new pellet smoker and was wondering if you've had any success with any brand over another giving more smoke flavor to the proteins? I've heard a lot of great things about the Lone Star Pellet smokers, but wanted to see if you had any input on the topic....thanks in advance.
Here is my 2 cents: Cookinpellets- great flavor and smoke ring BUT my pit boss tends to flame out on overnight cooks with them. Bear mountain- awesome pellets. I mix oak and hickory for my cooks when I use my pit boss. Pit boss - lots is dust at the bottom and flavor is not quite there Sams brand pellets - good all around pellet with great flavor and cheap. My preference: bear mountain I have not use lumberjack yet.
Jeremy - Nice job on this subject. Difficult to sort through brands for anything BBQ. Thanks for educating us. We have used Cookin’ Pellets in three generations of Traeger smokers with good success.
Cookin Pellets Perfect Blend is my favorite too. I'd like a good cherry or pecan pellet for ribs. But I can't complain about anything I've cooked with Cookin Pellets.
I Totally agree, im a Stick Burner guy and here in Texas its Post Oak, I have a Traeger Pro-780 and I have the Traeger Pellets and No Smoke Flavor at all..I need some type of Smoke taste, will be getting a bag of Lumber jack Pellets Thanks for the information..
I have also found B&B post oak pellets to be a great, affordable option. However, as important as the quality of pellet you’re using is, it doesn’t automatically equate to a great smoke ring or that bark that you’re looking for to replicate the results of a stick burner. To do that, you have to slow the process way down in a pellet cooker if your going to get that “Texas brisket” bark that we all love. Forget 12 hour cooks. Think in the 16-20 hour ballpark. Malcolm Reed does a great pellet cooker brisket video that helped me understand how to extend the cook to help create that Texas style bark that’s still a massive crowd pleaser when there just isn’t time to manage the offset.
B&B post oak are the best I have found. They don’t give off a cardboard smell like others I have tried. I use the same technique also smoke for at least 12 hours then turn up and cook to tenderness
I've had good results in my GMG DB Prime with Lumber Jack, Bear Mountain, and B&B. B&B Championship has become my "standard" pellet right now because of burn rate, heat output, and the blend of post oak, pecan, and cherry taste great and give great color, bark, and most of all great smoke flavor to everything I cook.
I just got my first smoker and a bag of bear mountain pellets, ganna make pulled pork this weekend. Hopefully they're good, they had a great smell when i did my burnin
I'm thinking about getting a pellet smoker and should I season it like I did my regular offset smoker I sprayed it all over with cooking spray and burn up a bunch of bacon to get that bacon flavor in there
Thanks for the video Jeremy! I have a Blazn Grid Iron [similar in size to a Yoder YS640] and have almost always used Lumberjack pellets, mostly sticking to the Competition Blend [Maple Hickory Cherry Blend] (1/3, 1/3, 1/3). Good smoke flavor and have never had a clog or issue with them. And can be found fairly cheap at Rural King for around $9/20lb bag.
Wow this was eye opening as someone that only uses Traeger Pellets.. Do you think it affects bark at all too? It seems I just can't get a nice bark off my pellets smoker.
I typically run the better pellets during the first 4 hours when you absorb the most smoke flavor, and then if I finish on my pellet smoker I switch to one of the cheaper blends, more recently it's been Sam's Club competition blend. From a cost and flavor perspective this is the best I have found so far.
@@AnontheGOAT Does your house smell like smoke over the next week or two? I did that once and got tired of the smell. I mean, I love the smell and all, but not heavily 24/7. If I had a spare oven in the garage or something, this would be what I do as well.
I use my pellet smoker at least twice a week and I hated the pit boss pellets and have used traeger pellets for the most part. I typically run out faster then I think and end up having to run up to the store just prior to a cook or during one. In my area it’s one or the other in store’s so that’s why I tend to use traeger pellets. I also really liked the one bag of lumberjack pellets that I got awhile back I’ve gotta try to stay more on top of my supplies. With that being said how do you suggest storing a surplus of pellets?
Lumber Jack are my go to pellets...I get them at Dick's Sporting Goods of all places. Competition blend is probably my favorite overall...fruit woods are my second favorite.
I've actually been waiting for you to do a video like this one. I wasn't sure if you would because I know pellet smokers are not your favorite. I've used Traeger pellets, and they are ok, but not great. I've also used Knotty Wood, and I LOVE them. I've tried both their pellets, almond and plum. I find the plum to be great for smoking bacon (which is a BIG consumer of my smoker time in this house). So it was good to hear someone who knows a lot more than I do give kudos to the pellets I use. I am interested in trying the CookinPellets, so those might just be my next purchase. Thank you!
@@re1ner you can buy bacon racks online. I bought mine from Pit Boss's website, as I have a Pit Boss pellet smoker. What I love is that the racks have grease trays on the bottom that capture the bacon grease, which I put in mason jars and save for cooking with.
@@JSFurst nice. Looking at one on Amazon right now. How long does the grease last for you and do you refrigerate? Also, what's your cook time for the bacon? All the online recipes tend to overcook.
@@re1ner I leave it on the smoker for about an hour and a half at 225-250. I flip it on the racks half way through the cook. And yes, I refrigerate the bacon grease. It's hard to tell how long it lasts because I make a lot of bacon and use the grease pretty quickly. Though I really only keep 16 oz on hand at any time. This last one has been in the fridge about 3 weeks.
Thanks for giving pellet smokers some airtime. An offset is in my future, but only after I'm done working 80 hours a week. Hope to see more pellet pit vids. Always very good results with pitboss, but will try the others.
I’m pretty sure B&B pellets have the same characteristics of those Lumberjack. It even says on their website for their Oak pellets. No Scrap Wood No Bark No artificial flavors/smoke No Alder or Soft Wood Real Wood Less Ash Cleaner-Longer Burn
My first bag of pellets was a Bear Mountain mesquite and I was very happy with the results. Wanting to try something new, I bought Pit Boss from WalMart... Underwhelmed to say the least. Bear Mountain went on sale at my local grocery store for @ $12 a bag and they never raised the price back up so I've been buying their varieties and have never been disappointed.
I've had good results with bear mountain too, will definitely grab a bag of lumberjack to try next spring/summer though (I have at least 40lb left to use, and the smoker doesn't see much use in the winter).
Awesome video. I just found you and subscribed. Ask your pellet Guru what he thinks about Bear Mountain pellets. I just ran across their Bear Mountain bourbon flavor and I'm wanting to try a bag but was curious what his opinion about Bear Mountain was. Thanks!
I got a Camp Chef SG24 last month. Before my first cook I extensively researched different types of pellets. I came to the same conclusion as you, look for bags that say "Natural hardwood". I really wanted Lumberjack but in a small town my local store didn't have any. The second best I found was Bear Mountain pellets, specifically Hickory and Mesquite. I went with the Hickory and had 5 successful cooks so far with amazing flavor and smoke rings. I really want to try Pecan, might have to order online. Thanks for confirming and adding to the knowledge I already had.
Thoughts about Bear mountain pellets? I have just started with a pellet smoking that is the only brand I have tried so far. Tastes pretty good but I want more smoke flavor
Bear Mountain Pellets are my go to. Just bought a bag of charcoal pellets to experiment on next. Great videos And still using Wagyu Beef Tallow in almost everything I make - including 4 racks of short ribs yesterday. Off the charts. Sidebar: thoughts on using the Meater wireless thermometer? I have become addicted to them. Smoked my short ribs to 170's and then wrapped them in butcher paper smeared with Wagyu Beef Tallow, inserted a Meater probe into each rack and sat back till they hit 203 degrees. Each rack was perfect - Let the racks rest in a cooler for 4 hours. And off to the races. Best to all, David/
I have had a Traeger, Yoder, GMG and now I have the new Long star pellet grills and I have tried just about all brands pellets and the ones I like is Lumberjack and Smoke ring. Thanks Mad for the really well done videos you do.
Lumberjack and Bear Mountain in that order. I want to add that not all pellet smokers are equal and Traeger is generally now considered to be less than stellar. If you get a chance to play with a Recteq I'd recommend it. You've used a Yoder before in an older video about a year ago but Yoder and Recteq are your best bang for your buck.
Ive moved over to France in the last year. Before my departure, I sold my old offset smoker and now am joansen for some home-smoked BBQ. I can get a Traeger 575 here at a reasonable price however, Pellets are not so plentiful in variety. Aside from Traeger pellets, I can get Pit Boss and Louisiana Grill Pellets. Can anyone advise me on which may be better than the much-discredited Traeger Pellets? Thanks in advance.
Blown away by all the comments. I’m elk hunting right now but hiked out of the woods to respond to comments. I’ll do my best to respond before hiking back in the morning.
Legend
Elk meat episodes coming hopefully
nice bbq game meats
F pellets, be a man and man a fire. I’d rather use saw dust like a PK smoker (it’s electric like your trager). Trager doesn’t burn like lump to sear, doesnt smoke like real wood etc. it does a lot well, but nothing great.
@@jasonj6568 your not wrong but it is convenient, electric smokers are the crock pots of bbqs
I just did a price comparison:
- Costco Traeger Premium - $0.78/lb
- Lumber Jack Hickory - $1.61/lb
- CookinPellets Perfect Mix - $1.00/lb
- Knotty Wood Almond Wood - $1.47/lb
Use that for what it is worth.
$10.99 for 20# of Lumberjack pellets comes out to $.55/lb. About a third of the $1.61 you posted.
@@steveterranova8500 lumberjack is $25.00 for a 20 pound bag where I am. So i guess it depends on the price in your area.
@@Hacky2447 you should move here. 😀
🔥💨🔥
Crazy to see how this channel has exploded! Started watching in 2016 when I was trying to do my first brisket (I was 15) and found your channel around 2k subscribers. Thanks for the continued dedication and quality
Which "wood chips" do you recommend for in a Smoke tube? Or just use the same pellets??
Use the same one
I've been an authorized LumberJack dealer for about four years now. This video validates the reason I became a dealer. I don't hate Traeger pellets, but after I found LumberJack pellets, I never looked back. Thanks Jeremy!
Just bought my trigger it says inside only used Traeger pellets some people tell me it's not a big deal to use other things is this true
I have smoked food for several years. I used Traeger pellets when I first purchased my Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker a few years ago. Smoking often and the $19 per bag prompted me to find pellets at a lower cost. Fortunately, I came across Lumberjack pellets at a local Rural King store, 3 miles from my home. They cost approximately $9 per bag there, which is a significant difference. I am extremely satisfied with the results of the Lumberjack pellets. I have used their Competition Blend, Pecan, Cherry, Apple and Mesquite blends for various types of foods, sometimes mixing flavors to get the desired results. I highly recommend Lumberjack pellets for use with a Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker, to which I have no financial benefit.
@@michaelstevenson881 happen to see your comment about rural king selling lumberjack my store has all blends in stock never thought of checking there just like to say thanks an $8.88 a bag great deal 👍
@@anthonycash8172 .
@@anthonycash8172 use what ever you want man!! You will have no problem.
Thanks Jeremy for the amazing honest video. Straight message for Traeger to step up their game. I love their Ironwood grill but not the pellets. Lumber Jack for me. Great job sir!
Great job on this vid explaining the difference about pellets. I have used a pellet smoker for 7 years now and I use nothing but lumberjack pellets and trust me I have tried all of them except for the knotty wood you mentioned. Lumberjack has given me consistent performance and smokeyness that I desire from them. The oak is very good but for my taste their competition blend is the best and most versatile one they make and I use it on everything from fish, pork, chicken, lamb, duck and beef. The best part is I have a local store that carries them for $8.99 a 20 lb bag. To any who may read this and are looking for a great pellet that will up your game and not break the bank, you gotta try Lumberjack Pellets.
Amazon selling 20lb bags of Lumberjack for $30-$32. You stated you get it locally for $9? Wow!
@@StingerPat Amazon has sellers selling 40 pound bags of pit boss, which are $15 at walmart, for over $40...lol
Amazon is hustling us on that Lumberjack. How about I pay you to buy and ship it to me at a lower price? Lol
😅 9:14
I'm brand new to this pellet cooker/smoker thing. I purchased a Traeger 575 and was excited to get home and try it out. After the initial auger priming (Traeger Cherry/Apple wood pellets) and raising the temperature as suggested (400 degrees), I heated the Traeger back up to 300 degrees and smoked some salmon. No smoke!! I then took the cooked salmon in and chowed down. The salmon tasted like it just came out of the microwave! At that point, I went back to Ace Hardware thinking my Traeger was broken. The manager talked me into keeping the smoker and making sure I continued using the Traeger pellets. After watching your very informative video, I will definitely purchase the CookinPellets or the Lumber Jack pellets. Plus, turning the heat down to around 180-250 degrees will help. BTW, I'll continue to follow your videos. Thanks!!
Good video, do you know if the brand of pellets you recommended run well in a Trager grill? For example, Do they gum up as you say or create a lot of ash?
From what I have seen, Traeger brand makes way more ash than others. And you use way more pellets for the same cook. I think if you use a cheaper hard wood, there is less BTU per lb than a real hardwood.
Dude, greatly appreciated as to the labeling of the bags. The ones that say flavor added woods is a great tip, thanks. And ya I pick up my new searwood TODAY! Can’t wait to try !
Hey Jeremy, good job. Two years ago, you did "The Ultimate Smoker Comparison". Do you think that with better pellets, the results might be closer (the pellet grill comming a distant third)?
If he had the LSG pellet grill, perhaps?
I think the results would be closer. I need to do some testing with different pellets to see how they perform head to head. There is a pretty stark difference I think in flavor from traeger pellets and other brands.
@@MadScientistBBQ I would be interested in an updated comparison video with the best available pellets too
@@MadScientistBBQ are you going to use a smoke tube or tray in the cook sometime soon? I’ve had great success with the tray. Key for me was to make sure the pellets are well lit but not over the top so that they are smoldering. Thanks for the videos!
@@MadScientistBBQ ya we need a pellet test.
I’ve just got myself a Traeger pellet smoker so thank you for unbiased video. Certainly opened my eyes on certain things about flavoured pellets that I would have never known.
I have a RecTeq and love it. I use the RexTeq blend. Red oak, whit oak and hickory. Great smoke ring/taste and always burns clean.
Hello, thank you for video. Can I use other brands of pallets on Traeger?
I’ve been working at a corn refinery for 16yrs and I make feed pellets in my area. The process of making pellets is the same, no matter the material. Every material needs moisture added in the conditioner before it enters the pellet mill. Otherwise, you risk premature equipment failure or overheating that can result in a fire in the mill due to a lack of moisture. The difference with Traeger pellets is definitely the additives used as binder during the pelletizing process. For them it’s cheaper to add oil than steam inside the conditioner before it enters the pellet mill. Also they likely don’t have to replace the rolls and dies as often as other companies. So basically they sacrifice flavor for saving money on equipment maintenance. It’s easily $10k per pellet mill for a roll and die set each time they get replaced. So if they’re operating 4 mills that have to be rebuilt every 3 months vs 1.5 months, you can see why they prefer to add oil. It saves them a ton of money on maintenance!!!
That savings on maintenance costs could potentially have a negative impact on their bottom line though. For instance, I tried their pellets and was not impressed... So instead of getting my $20 a month (give or take) on pellets, they don't get a dime from me... Now multiply my money by how ever many other people like myself who went with another brand, and that maintenance cost savings potentially cost them more than they saved...
I do appreciate the explanation...I had no idea about that stuff.
@@chris_favreau you learned from your purchase not to buy again. Some people and lots of them will buy blindly because of the name abs think it’s the best they’ll use.
@@MountainMcCumbee totally agree with you.... But for "real" bbq folks... The ones that buy a crap ton of bags a year anyway, you know that we like to find what works best overall... So they may not go out of business, but idk that it's so cut and dry that they are "saving" money in the long run by using their current alleged business practice.
I may come back and comment on this when I have time to do so. Been in the business 23 years and have made BBQ pellets for all the major brands. You do not need to add moisture if controlled with the drying process. Only need to add moisture or oils if your product is already kiln dried or below around 6% moisture
@@jimsonnenburg7440 which brands would you consider to be the best? Maybe the most filler free? I'm not even sure if what I'm asking isn't stupid, but I have no ideas about that industry other than how to fill my hopper 🙂
I used Bear Mountain pellets the last few times. I really haven't compared it to other brands yet. What are your thoughts?
I have smoked food for several years. I used Traeger pellets when I first purchased my Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker a few years ago. Smoking often and the $19 per bag prompted me to find pellets at a lower cost. Fortunately, I came across Lumberjack pellets at a local Rural King store, 3 miles from my home. They cost approximately $9 per bag there, which is a significant difference. I am extremely satisfied with the results of the Lumberjack pellets. I have used their Competition Blend, Pecan, Cherry, Apple and Mesquite blends for various types of foods, sometimes mixing flavors to get the desired results. I highly recommend Lumberjack pellets for use with a Traeger Timberline 1300 smoker, to which I have no financial benefit.
what are your thoughts on mixing pellets .. is it ok for the pellet smoker.. have you ever done it.?
Thanks for the video and I appreciate your open and honest approach!
I cook on a Traeger 780 and and 885. I have used most brands of pellets and agree with your video. For my “big or special” cooks I use 100% oak pellets from lumberjack or cookin’ pellets. For every day cooking I use Traeger pellets because they are so available.
When it comes to Traeger pellets I like the Texas Beef blend for heavier smoke. I like apple or cherry for sides and desserts. I don’t keep any of the Costco blend around. Also… the Turkey pellets are great! The addition of rosemary really helps the poultry shine.
I have a lot of experience with pellets and at this moment have more than 1800 lbs at home.
hey I'm looking at getting a smoker (first time) and I'm not sure what to chose and what to look for because there is so many, what would be a recommendation for one?
I have been using CookinPellets Perfect Mix for the last three years and my family and friends love the flavor. My cousin usually uses Traeger pellets since he has some weird loyalty since he uses a Traeger grill, but he always comments and asks questions about the pellets I use because he says not only do they seem to produce better flavor, he thinks they smell better while they are burning/cooking. Plus they seem to be a decent price on Amazon for a 40 pound bag and they always seem to arrive within a couple of days. Great video Jeremy!
Love my Perfect Mix. I have been using for like 7 years now.
Just starting to look for a pellet grill. Question, what about mixing different pellets to make your own blend? Ie cherry and oak, Good idea or just stick with one type while cooking
I'm relatively new to pellet grill smoking and the first bag that I bought was Pit Boss competition blend pellets. Pretty good flavor and burns good. Looking to "branch" out however and try a oak pellet. Nice video.
What are your thoughts on the Jack Daniels pellets? I use a 50/50 of JD and whatever I feel like using as the other-depending on the meat I use
Jeremy, thank you for this video and all of those who have commented. This will save me a lot of money and time. I have a big green egg, Pitmaker Vault, UDS, and a PK360 grill and know nothing about pellet smoking. I recently acquired a Louisiana Grills founder series pellet smoker through a vendor point rewards system in my business. My first few cooks on my smoker I thought were ok, but limited flavor and smoke and I used Trager pellets simply from the name, availability, and my overall ignorance of the process. This video and viewers response was a gold mine find for me and the knowledge I received from the video and viewers comments will save me time, money and definitely fewer disappointed meals!! Thank you all!!
looking for this answer everywhere. can you use other brand pellets on a traegar grill? they write in big letters to never use other pellets. i’m sure that’s just marketing. but i don’t want to ruin my brand new Traegar grill.
thanks
I started out using Traeger pellets and seen an ad for Rural King where they sell Lumberjack for 1/2 the price of Traeger. Tried them on a whim and I was very surprised at the difference in smoke flavor. Lumberjack is what goes in my pellet grill now!
It’s not a big deal adding different pellets to your traeger? Just don’t wanna ruin it
@@Spmccoy13 They can't void your warranty for not using their pellets. No way to prove it. Just don't offer them the info. Say "yes" when asked. LOL.
I've been using other brands since mine was just a few months old. It is 14 years old now and still going.
@@Spmccoy13 I started with Traegers pellets then switched to lumberjack and have only been using them for a year now with no issues.
What do you think would be good PELLETS to use to smoke a PASTRAMI Brisket on a traeger In my research it says to use a mild wood so not to over power the PASTRAMI? Any help would be greatly appreciated... Thanks...
Down here in Texas we have B&B pellets. I use their competition blend and it seems like a great pellet. I use my CC pellet grill about twice every week for the last 3 years. No problems with the pellets.
I use B&B pecan for chicken, post oak mixed with some JD pellets for beef.
B&B competition blend is my go to as well
I use B&B competition blend too - any idea why it's cheaper than their other wood varieties?
@@andrewlennane3411 The other only come in 20lb bags in my area at $9.99 a bag. Buy a 40lb. and get it cheaper per pound.9
What's the best flavor of pellets for beef chicken and pork?
Jeremy - might be time for a follow up video on pellets. This one was super helpful for me. Have tried the hickory Cookinpellets so far. Was using Bear Mountain beforehand. On my Traeger, the cookinpellets have some trouble getting started. Need to clean out ash after every cook. Need to set initial temp to 500 to get it above target temp. Then once over target by 50 degrees, I set to my target. Also am seeing wider temp range on my traeger so it’s a bit more “fire management” on the pellet grill for me. These aren’t complaints but would love to see you survey your subscribers and summarize what people are saying.
I did my first cook on the smoker side of my PitBoss KC Combo yesterday. Used PitBoss pellets as I had bought those with that unit at a big-box retailer (it’s a dual electric smoker/propane griddle). Wish I had seen this comment first. I had a similar problem getting the pellets burning steady at 225F, because the smoker kept shutting down (I had done a burn-in on the smoker side a while back without issues, but have been cooking on the griddle half before yesterday). I was considering changing out the pellets in case it was a moisture issue, but first I tried running it up to 450F for about 20 min, and after that if worked fine when it came back to 225F. I smoked the ribeye at 225F to a 105F internal temp (found my smoker probe and my Thermapen agreed within about 2F), then I seared it on the propane griddle side. Unfortunately, I overshot the steak temp during searing so it was medium rather than medium rare. The ribeye was still quite moist, and pretty good although not at the doneness I prefer. Didn’t think that I was getting a lot of smoke flavor though. Next time I’ll probably pull it from smoker at 100F and then sear it on the griddle. The griddle really puts a nice sear on it due to the large area of surface contact! This morning I’ve been watching pellet reviews to see if I might want to make changes. Very interesting to note that in the review Jeremy did with TheBBQHQ, Traeger pellets were the top-rated ones using multiple tasters. I’d suspect that might be influenced by what the tasters use at home, as mentioned in the review.
I have a potentially dumb question. I have a Traeger and I love it. But are other pellets such as lumberjack okay to use? I just don’t want to break the smoker.
Glad I saw this , have always used Traeger pellets and have not been real satisfied with the smoke flavor. I looked to see what we have locally, we have Royal Oak pellets and I noticed that besides wood pellets they have a product called charcoal pellets using the same process for lump charcoal, would love to hear your opinion on that if you have tried them.
Which wood gives the most smoke flavor. Thanks, good video.
I’ve been using kingsFord. I get at my grocery store $15. It says 100% wood no fillers or binders. They carry hickory and cherry. I have tried Treager I can’t say I notice a difference except price. I just ordered hickory cookinpellets. A couple of bucks more but free shipping. I’m cooking on a ZGrill. Everything I’ve cooked has come out good but I don’t have anything to compare it too. I’ll see if I notice any difference.
Kingsford are great pellets…they’re made by Lumberjack 👍
Same here, very happy with Kingsford pellets!
@@tank4dacubz799 Did not know this. I will try them, because I see Kingsford pellets around here. But not Lumberjack.
@@shawngillogly6873 Yeah, my local place had Kingsford reps out earlier this year - they gave me a 6# bag to try. Asked my guy what he thought about them & he said "They're great, Lumberjack makes them." Tried the hickory and they were indeed quite good.
I usually go with a local supplier here (I get some awesome mesquite pellets from W. TX), but LJ & KF are my other go to pellets.
I did just order some of those hickory CookinPellets to try!
Ditto on Kingsford. They go in and out of stock but I can usually find them at one of the Walmarts in my area.
Thoughts on Kingsford pellets? I've been using their cherry, hickory, and oak blend which smell amazing during the smoke. Taste wise? I can't really pick up on it but that's mostly because of how heavy I season briskets and ribs.
I’ve had some issues maintaining heat/fluctuating temps and been using Traeger pellets, will have to try your recommended brands to see if the pellet is the issue. Appreciate your commentary!
I am thinking about getting a Treager grill, do you have to use their pellets?
I’ve had my pellet smoker for about a year and after trying about 7 different pellets I settled on Kingsford. All natural, no fillers, little ash. I’m willing to pay for shipping but these happen to be available at some of the nearby Walmarts. Their hickory pellets have the most smoke flavor.
I will agree with you there, I regularly use Kingsford hickory and cherry. I always get good consistent results and the flavor is just as good as the $$$ brands. I just received a couple bags of the Royal Oak Charcoal Pellets and will be doing a pork shoulder with a mix of charcoal and hickory. I'm looking forward to the results!
I’ve settled on Kingsford too. Good flavor and super availability. I find it funny Treager Pellets are more expensive as a rule. Treager good grills not so good pellets.
@@pughs5star643 love to hear about your results.
I found Kingsford 20 lbs bag at Kroger for $5. Just FYI.
Same - I've had really good luck with the 100% Kingsford Hickory and Cherry. Sometimes the 20lbs bag goes on sale at Publix for like $7. I will usually mix the hickory and cherry 50/50 when I don't want as intense smoke for poultry. I just wish they made a 100% Oak pellet, but the hickory is pretty strong smoke flavor for red meat.
Can i use these types of oak for ageing beverages, or it just for BBQ use only ?
We think B&B pellets are an incredible value. Haven’t found a better pellet for the price. We recently upgraded from Traeger Timberline 1300 to a Yoder YS640S and boy oh boy what a difference!
B&b are excellent
It’s the only brand I’ve seen around me, I wondered how how they compared.
I have never tried B and B. I’ll have to give it a shot
B and B Championship blend is the best I use them on my Lonestar Pellet Grill
B&B lump oak is the best there is as well.
I just got my traeger smoker and when I opened it up it says to only use trager pellets on it. now my question is do other pellets work and feed into without any problems?
I use the Gourmet Traeger blend from Costco and the bag itself says Hardwood Pellets. Then in the description it describes that their U.S. mills process pure hardwood. The bag for it is also heavier duty than the normal bags.
Just food for thought. Great vid!
I’m going to give this blend a try. Did not like any traeger pellets. My go to is bear mountain
Forgive my ignorance im new to bbq, on my treager pellet grill im able to use different types of pallet brands?
I also should mention that Jack Daniel's makes a whiskey barrel charcoal pellet that you mix half and half with your regular and it tends to give a better bark and closer feel to traditional smokers
I’m not saying you’re wrong, but Jeremy did a video where he cooked with a straight up bourbon barrel - that was still saturated with bourbon - and it made no difference lol. I think that is just a marketing sham
@@GM-122 you're right. I think the advantage to Jack pellets is that they're a widely available decent quality oak. I use them (chips and pellets) blended with fruit tree wood, but I don't think the whiskey adds anything.
Thanks for video. i've been struggling with flavor and bark. not sure if the pellet will help the bark but going to give it a try. Can't find the link for the hoodie!! I'm a hoodie guy! Where to go?
I have tried several brands myself, and Bear Mountain BBQ pellets has a good flavor, burns hit and clean. Much less ash in burn pot, which you didn't get into in your video.
Just got a camp chef pro and their signature blend pellets. Since this pellet grill has the smoke box I’m not sure if the signature pellets are doing a great job. I am concerned about by buying a brand that has fillers in it. Can you post a list of brands that do not use fillers or oils that could be harmful to the grill or most importantly my gut?
Thank you Jeremy! For someone that's fairly new to the backyard pellet smoker this video was super helpful. Makes you think about aspects of the product you buy and how it effects the flavor and overall out come. Super informative!
I have a Traeger but have always hated their pellets. I use kingswood. Would u suggest we put a smoke diffuser in with real wood to add real smoke flavor? I saw someone use it and I’ve purchased it but haven’t used it yet. I will try lumberjack next.
Was looking forward to seeing the results of the Pellet Smoker VS Offset smoker face-off. Are we getting a video soon about that? Thank you for all the amazing content!
He did a pellet vs offset vs weber a few months ago. ruclips.net/video/WDHLV7EaHCE/видео.html
There's no comparison...
When I add my smoke tube to my pellet smoker I just purchased recently with half chips and half pellets it is just a good if not better than my offset. That’s because I been using a offset for 25 years.
@@Jordanfiend361 this is what i do, i get a good smoke ring doing this. The taste is still better with lump and wood chunks on my wsm imo.
I have been using a pellet smoker for about five years and have used Traeger pellet pit boss pellet and lumberjack. Out of all three I have all ways notice lumberjack to be better. Lumberjack does have a blend and some of There flavors. I love watching your videos and have learned a lot from them. Thank you
I picked up a big of royal oak charcoal pellets. Just bought a pellet grill and this is my first kick at the cat. Thoughts on charcoal pellets.
BBQers Delight Peach Pellets! I smoked a turkey with them two years ago and then again last year. BEST by far we've ever had. Their pellets are 100% wood, the peach are actually 30% peach/70% oak. Really nice flavor.
Just watched the video, really appreciate your insight. Went on line and purchased the lumberjack Oak pellets. You mentioned on another video that you are going to offer more insights on smoking brisket on a pellet smoker, I have a cook for a team Christmas party on the 3rd, any chance of learning additional insights that i could use for the cook?
Can you try Sam’s brand “smokehouse” pellets the bag says natural with no flavors or oils. I really like them and would like to see how they stack up compared to some of the other top of the line brands.
I like the Smokehouse pellets also. I have also used the traeger and pit boss pellets. I personally think the smokehouse has a better flavor and I also realized this summer that the smokehouse pellets must have a harder pellet. I made pulled pork twice this summer, 10 hour smoke time. The first time was with pit boss and my hopper was almost empty by the end. The smokehouse hopper was just under half the second time. I've only had my smoker for about 2 years now but personally I think the smokehouse gives pretty good flavor
Jeremy,
Do you have any preference on brand of wood chunks? I mostly cook on my traeger and use lumberjack pellets but I have been getting back into cooking on my ceramic grill.
I have a Pit Boss Pro Series 4 smoker, and I’ve only used the pit boss branded pellets. However I’ve learned with this smoker if I cook at 225-ish I get awesome smoke ring and flavor. I plan on trying some of the brands in this video to see how they turn out, but my lower and slower method with my smoker provides awesome flavor with the Pit Boss branded pellets.
If you want more smoke in the meet just use the smoker tube
Just got a pit boss and 6 flavor pellets .. gotta lotta smoking to do before I can try another brand haha
I live in the Louisville area, could you please share where you buy your wood for your smokers? Thanks.
I’ve been using Lumberjack, mainly oak and pecan for years, so it”s gratifying to have my decision validated by other meat smokin’ folk!
I look forward to trying out the brands you mentioned that I had not heard of…THANKS!
Jeremy Iam trying tovdecide between a Gilla Chimp Pellet Smoker or a Masterbuilt Gravity Charcoal Smoker. Like to know your thoughts Thanks, Russell Thiel Massachusetts
I have been using the BBQr’s Delight pellets. I’ve enjoyed the flavor they give and the selection of different woods they have like sassafras and orange. I’ve been using my pellet grill for over a year and I’m always wanting to try different things to improve the quality. Good luck on your elk hunt Jeremy.
Do you still like bbqrs delight? Trying to decide what pellets to go with
I’m new to pellets I would definitely want to try out the best pellets to get the best experience. So Is there any differences when using Traeger pellets vs the other brand you have used other than smoke? Like do they perform the same
I'm using Bear Mountain in my Grilla Grills smoker. Mostly Pecan, but sometimes Oak and I've tried a few others.
I have a grilla! 💪
I've been using Bear Mtn as well, definitely better than Traeger. Was hoping others could rank if they've tried some brands he mentioned
@@darthbane3557 I've been satisfied with grillas pellets...got them when I got the grill. I've only had them though, they've produced good flavors on everything I've made. Definitely looking forward to trying other brands once I go through these!
Awesome rundown on the Pellet issue. I've tried Knotty and Lumberjack and like them both. I'm going to have to order some Cooking Pellets brand and try them as well. I've also been using B&B pellets in my Yoder as well and really like the flavor they give the proteins as well. Quick question though, It's getting time to look into a new pellet smoker and was wondering if you've had any success with any brand over another giving more smoke flavor to the proteins? I've heard a lot of great things about the Lone Star Pellet smokers, but wanted to see if you had any input on the topic....thanks in advance.
Here is my 2 cents:
Cookinpellets- great flavor and smoke ring BUT my pit boss tends to flame out on overnight cooks with them.
Bear mountain- awesome pellets. I mix oak and hickory for my cooks when I use my pit boss.
Pit boss - lots is dust at the bottom and flavor is not quite there
Sams brand pellets - good all around pellet with great flavor and cheap.
My preference: bear mountain
I have not use lumberjack yet.
CookinPellets have been very good on my ZGrill. But I wouldn't mind testing Lumberjack if I could find them in my area.
Agree with your assessment. I've been using BM for years, since before they were Bear Mountain.
My husband doesn’t love the taste of “smoked meat” what would be the BEST pellet to use for grilling or smoking?
Jeremy - Nice job on this subject. Difficult to sort through brands for anything BBQ. Thanks for educating us. We have used Cookin’ Pellets in three generations of Traeger smokers with good success.
I know I never get smoke flavor from my treager. What smoker do you jave?
Love Cookin Pellets and BBQrs Delight. I'm really excited to open this bag of Wine Country BBQ pellets which is wine infused oak.
Love Cookin pellets ultimate blend is all I use!
BBQrs Delight is the same people who make B&B
Cookin Pellets Perfect Blend is my favorite too. I'd like a good cherry or pecan pellet for ribs. But I can't complain about anything I've cooked with Cookin Pellets.
I Totally agree, im a Stick Burner guy and here in Texas its Post Oak, I have a Traeger Pro-780 and I have the Traeger Pellets and No Smoke Flavor at all..I need some type of Smoke taste, will be getting a bag of Lumber jack Pellets Thanks for the information..
I have also found B&B post oak pellets to be a great, affordable option. However, as important as the quality of pellet you’re using is, it doesn’t automatically equate to a great smoke ring or that bark that you’re looking for to replicate the results of a stick burner. To do that, you have to slow the process way down in a pellet cooker if your going to get that “Texas brisket” bark that we all love. Forget 12 hour cooks. Think in the 16-20 hour ballpark. Malcolm Reed does a great pellet cooker brisket video that helped me understand how to extend the cook to help create that Texas style bark that’s still a massive crowd pleaser when there just isn’t time to manage the offset.
B&B post oak are the best I have found. They don’t give off a cardboard smell like others I have tried. I use the same technique also smoke for at least 12 hours then turn up and cook to tenderness
We’re happy we can find B&B available here in Florida.
@@rickylozano891 cool first name yo
I love their mesquite and their pecan pellets 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
I 100% agree. Pellet smoker make it easy to cook overnight too!! I’ll have to give the B&B a try
I use Kingsford Classic Blend. I have NEVER been left wishing there were more flavor. Try them out!
That's the Walmart special
@@mikewhitmore4502 I've never been to Walmart. I buy them at Meijer.
I bought a whole pallet of Kingsford pellets from Lowe's it's never let me down on my hundreds of brisket cooks.
@@thegrillace I've never seen them on the west coast.. Walmart has putt boss and lowes has traeger
@@mikewhitmore4502 I have seen lowes have the pitboss 40 pound bags for 14.99.
But my traeger manual says to not use anything other than their own pellets because of the size etc, so what can I do..?
I've had good results in my GMG DB Prime with Lumber Jack, Bear Mountain, and B&B. B&B Championship has become my "standard" pellet right now because of burn rate, heat output, and the blend of post oak, pecan, and cherry taste great and give great color, bark, and most of all great smoke flavor to everything I cook.
I just got my first smoker and a bag of bear mountain pellets, ganna make pulled pork this weekend. Hopefully they're good, they had a great smell when i did my burnin
I'm thinking about getting a pellet smoker and should I season it like I did my regular offset smoker
I sprayed it all over with cooking spray and burn up a bunch of bacon to get that bacon flavor in there
Thanks for the video Jeremy! I have a Blazn Grid Iron [similar in size to a Yoder YS640] and have almost always used Lumberjack pellets, mostly sticking to the Competition Blend [Maple Hickory Cherry Blend] (1/3, 1/3, 1/3). Good smoke flavor and have never had a clog or issue with them. And can be found fairly cheap at Rural King for around $9/20lb bag.
Wow this was eye opening as someone that only uses Traeger Pellets.. Do you think it affects bark at all too? It seems I just can't get a nice bark off my pellets smoker.
I typically run the better pellets during the first 4 hours when you absorb the most smoke flavor, and then if I finish on my pellet smoker I switch to one of the cheaper blends, more recently it's been Sam's Club competition blend. From a cost and flavor perspective this is the best I have found so far.
Very good idea! I have some pellets that I don't like that I've been trying to get rid of.
@@TheTruth27536 that should work great
I go beyond that and finish my brisket in the oven once it hits the stall.
@@AnontheGOAT Does your house smell like smoke over the next week or two? I did that once and got tired of the smell. I mean, I love the smell and all, but not heavily 24/7. If I had a spare oven in the garage or something, this would be what I do as well.
@@TheTruth27536 nope. Once the brisket is done, the Smokey smell dissipates pretty quickly. Do you wrap yours in foil or butcher paper?
I use my pellet smoker at least twice a week and I hated the pit boss pellets and have used traeger pellets for the most part. I typically run out faster then I think and end up having to run up to the store just prior to a cook or during one. In my area it’s one or the other in store’s so that’s why I tend to use traeger pellets. I also really liked the one bag of lumberjack pellets that I got awhile back I’ve gotta try to stay more on top of my supplies. With that being said how do you suggest storing a surplus of pellets?
Lumber Jack are my go to pellets...I get them at Dick's Sporting Goods of all places. Competition blend is probably my favorite overall...fruit woods are my second favorite.
Pro tip...Dicks will price match with Rural King who sells a 20lb back of Lumberjack for $8.88
@@Boots267 I wish I'd known that sooner! I bought probably 20 bags of Lumberjack this year from Dick's at $15 a bag.
Won't set foot in dick's they are anti 2nd amendment and anti American. Lets Go Brandon!!
What about bear mountain pellets are those pretty good?
Yes I had success with them
I've actually been waiting for you to do a video like this one. I wasn't sure if you would because I know pellet smokers are not your favorite. I've used Traeger pellets, and they are ok, but not great. I've also used Knotty Wood, and I LOVE them. I've tried both their pellets, almond and plum. I find the plum to be great for smoking bacon (which is a BIG consumer of my smoker time in this house). So it was good to hear someone who knows a lot more than I do give kudos to the pellets I use. I am interested in trying the CookinPellets, so those might just be my next purchase. Thank you!
May I ask how you prepare bacon in your smoker?
@@re1ner you can buy bacon racks online. I bought mine from Pit Boss's website, as I have a Pit Boss pellet smoker. What I love is that the racks have grease trays on the bottom that capture the bacon grease, which I put in mason jars and save for cooking with.
@@JSFurst nice. Looking at one on Amazon right now. How long does the grease last for you and do you refrigerate? Also, what's your cook time for the bacon? All the online recipes tend to overcook.
@@re1ner I leave it on the smoker for about an hour and a half at 225-250. I flip it on the racks half way through the cook. And yes, I refrigerate the bacon grease. It's hard to tell how long it lasts because I make a lot of bacon and use the grease pretty quickly. Though I really only keep 16 oz on hand at any time. This last one has been in the fridge about 3 weeks.
Is there any option with a pellet smoker to creates heat and alot less smoke. What pellets would be best?
Thanks for giving pellet smokers some airtime. An offset is in my future, but only after I'm done working 80 hours a week. Hope to see more pellet pit vids. Always very good results with pitboss, but will try the others.
Wow, this video is gold. I 100% agree with you about the Traeger pellets. It would be great for Traeger to be more transparent about them too.
I’m pretty sure B&B pellets have the same characteristics of those Lumberjack. It even says on their website for their Oak pellets.
No Scrap Wood
No Bark
No artificial flavors/smoke
No Alder or Soft Wood
Real Wood
Less Ash
Cleaner-Longer Burn
I have tried B&B and they are great, I am not an expert but price-wise and now adding the fact that they are 100% wood makes them a go-to brand.
I tried B&B and was disappointed with the burn. They produced a lot of Ash and it seemed like I went through them rather quick as well.
I found B&B post oak at HEB and will buy more. I like the flavor and feel like they lasted longer than other brands I've tried.
Been using LumberJack char/hickory blend and love the flavor.
Lumber jack is by FAR the best from everything I've tried over the last 10 years
can I use any pellet brand on traeger?
Bear mountain gourmet blend is my go to. I need to buy locally, I’m using 200lbs a month.
Same here..all i use is bear mountain.
Try Bear Mountain Bourbon BBQ!
@@marlostanfield1087 I will for sure!!
Question: if we use different brand of pellets on a traeger, will it gum up easier than actually using traeger brand pellets?
My first bag of pellets was a Bear Mountain mesquite and I was very happy with the results. Wanting to try something new, I bought Pit Boss from WalMart... Underwhelmed to say the least. Bear Mountain went on sale at my local grocery store for @ $12 a bag and they never raised the price back up so I've been buying their varieties and have never been disappointed.
The Bear Mountain Oak and Pecan are staples for me.
I've had good results with bear mountain too, will definitely grab a bag of lumberjack to try next spring/summer though (I have at least 40lb left to use, and the smoker doesn't see much use in the winter).
I came here to also endorse Bear Mountain. I typically use Oak, Maple, or Alder.
Awesome video. I just found you and subscribed. Ask your pellet Guru what he thinks about Bear Mountain pellets. I just ran across their Bear Mountain bourbon flavor and I'm wanting to try a bag but was curious what his opinion about Bear Mountain was. Thanks!
I got a Camp Chef SG24 last month. Before my first cook I extensively researched different types of pellets. I came to the same conclusion as you, look for bags that say "Natural hardwood". I really wanted Lumberjack but in a small town my local store didn't have any. The second best I found was Bear Mountain pellets, specifically Hickory and Mesquite. I went with the Hickory and had 5 successful cooks so far with amazing flavor and smoke rings. I really want to try Pecan, might have to order online. Thanks for confirming and adding to the knowledge I already had.
Thoughts about Bear mountain pellets? I have just started with a pellet smoking that is the only brand I have tried so far. Tastes pretty good but I want more smoke flavor
Bear Mountain Pellets are my go to.
Just bought a bag of charcoal pellets to experiment on next.
Great videos
And still using Wagyu Beef Tallow in almost everything I make - including 4 racks of short ribs yesterday.
Off the charts.
Sidebar: thoughts on using the Meater wireless thermometer? I have become addicted to them.
Smoked my short ribs to 170's and then wrapped them in butcher paper smeared with Wagyu Beef Tallow, inserted a Meater probe into each rack and sat back till they hit 203 degrees.
Each rack was perfect -
Let the racks rest in a cooler for 4 hours.
And off to the races.
Best to all,
David/
I have had a Traeger, Yoder, GMG and now I have the new Long star pellet grills and I have tried just about all brands pellets and the ones I like is Lumberjack and Smoke ring. Thanks Mad for the really well done videos you do.
I agree!! I have been a Lumberjack and Smoke ring dealer for years and have had excellent results with my customers. No complaints yet.
Lumberjack and Bear Mountain in that order.
I want to add that not all pellet smokers are equal and Traeger is generally now considered to be less than stellar. If you get a chance to play with a Recteq I'd recommend it. You've used a Yoder before in an older video about a year ago but Yoder and Recteq are your best bang for your buck.
I have used rec Teq! I was at Rec Teq fest this year. Good smokers
Ive moved over to France in the last year. Before my departure, I sold my old offset smoker and now am joansen for some home-smoked BBQ. I can get a Traeger 575 here at a reasonable price however, Pellets are not so plentiful in variety. Aside from Traeger pellets, I can get Pit Boss and Louisiana Grill Pellets. Can anyone advise me on which may be better than the much-discredited Traeger Pellets? Thanks in advance.
Lumberjack all day.
Friends don’t let friends burn traeger pellets.
What about the meat church traeger blend 💀
@@junior09medina JUST SAY NO!!
Agreed. I ran Traegers forever. Haven't turned back since my first bag of LJ.
Underrated comment!