I bought my first Brinkmann gas smoker for a little north of $100. worked great for at least 3 years until I switched over this year to the Traeger. I knew at that point I really wanted to get more cooking surface and more features.
did a smoke on sunday for football with 20 lbs of pulled pork, chicken thighs and a whole chicken. omg smoked chicken thighs are freaking ridiculous. I just have to find a way to get crispy skin. When the thighs hit 155, I turned up the heat to max but at 165, the skins were still meh. I might take them over to the grill next time.
Edit: Btw, if anyone wants the old smoker, please let me know. it still works great and, while beat up a little, can definitely get the job done for someone who wants to get into smoking food! uses a propane tank (not included). Free to someone who wants to give it a go. will need some cleaning