Thanks for the input! I appreciate it. I’m still on the lookout for a reasonably priced stainless drum and when I come across one will stash it for a rainy day just like you have done!JPinSTL wrote:I have 2 straight walled carbon steel UDS. Got the barrel and the parts from Frank Cox who runs smokerbuildermfg since he's local. Its been about 4yrs now sitting outside year round on the patio. Need a new coat of paint, but so far no rust issues. I put a $20 metal22in water heater pan in the bottom to catch grease and ash. You will want to hose the UDS out occasionally and keep the ash cleaned out. You'd be surprised how much water collects in there from condensation with temp and humidity changes.
I bought the bolt together kit this Spring since I picked up a straight wall stainless drum from a local butcher that closed for $150. Never see those come up for decent money so its stashed in the loft. I figure I will build when I have some free time and it will be my FOREVER drum Carbon will be fine for MANY years, but if you can find/swing a stainless drum GO FOR IT!!