im confused. So i light up the charcoal and like get it going then i shut this thing and open the vents on the side and it will just heat up the big part?
You bought a smoker.
grilling <> bbq
You'll figure it out
For BBQ - start with a pork shoulder.
Can't go wrong.
I’ve never used pellets. I use wood chips soaked in water, toss them on top the charcoal keeps the fire/temp under control and makes lots of smoke. DO NOT use wine corks sure they make smoke but I’m willing to assume that smoke is not nearly as nice as mesquite chips
Some ppl do not soak there wood chips. I find that un-soaked wood chips burn quickly and to hot. Really it’s all about finding the style you prefer.
Soaking chips or wood makes more soot which tastes like shit, to avoid that on long smokes use dry wood for smoke and keep the water trays under the meat if u need moisture. Smoke should be thin rather than thick and white like steam at the exhaust.