Well, you asked for it. Here, Smoky answers the most commonly asked questions. He is direct, honest and offers an insite into the time proven techniques to preparing great barbecue that is unavailable elsewhere. If you are unable to locate the exact answer you are seeking, feel free to contact him directly and ask!
He returns all questions . . . . . . .

Topic: Starting with an all-wood heat source . . . .
From: Jeff Burrows,
Subject: Re: Sources of Wood

Dear Smoky,

Up to now I've been using charcoal with soaked wood chips or chunks when smoking, but I'd like to start experimenting with an all-wood heat source. My question is where to purchase wood logs for smoking? I can't seem to find anything other than chips or chunks. Can you offer any suggestions on where I might look?

Thanks,

Jeff Burrows

Hi Jeff,

I don't know where you live, so I can't be too specific about sources for wood. However, before you get too carried away with "smoking" please read the Glossary and the FAQs Re: Too Much Smoke, Bitter, etc.

You will find that I only advocate cooking over the coals of woods, not while the wood is burning. If you don't live in South Florida or S. CA. there are folk who sell wood for heating. You ought to be able to pick up a quarter cord reasonably. Cabinet shops, pallet manufacturers and other manufacturers using hardwood have lots of scraps. They'd be happy for you to haul them off. Tree trimming services have lots of limbs to dispose of. When you travel, keep an eye peeled for wood. I ran across about 200 cords of pecan that had just been trimmed and was free for the asking.

Remember, unless you intend to reduce the wood to coals, a little goes a long way.

Charlie is thinking of adding wood to the Barbecue Store. Problem is freight.

Luck,
Smoky