Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 vs. Traeger Ironwood 885: Full Packer Brisket Review

Overview

When it comes to smoking a full packer brisket, both the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 and Traeger Ironwood 885 offer impressive capabilities. This comparison looks at their features, performance, and overall value for this specific cooking task.

Features

Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800:

• Gravity Fed System: Utilizes a gravity-fed hopper for continuous fuel supply, allowing for longer cooking times without constant refueling.
• Temperature Control: Features digital controls and an adjustable temperature range (up to 700°F) for precision smoking and grilling.
• Versatile Cooking: Can be used for smoking, grilling, and even baking, making it a multifunctional unit.
• Large Cooking Surface: Offers ample space for a full packer brisket and additional sides.

Traeger Ironwood 885:

• Pellet Cooking: Uses wood pellets, which infuse food with rich, smoky flavor.
• WiFIRE Technology: Connects to an app for remote monitoring and control, making it easy to manage cooking from your phone.
• High-Quality Build: Durable construction designed for longevity and consistent performance.
• Cooking Versatility: Capable of grilling, smoking, baking, and more, with precise temperature management.
• Performance with Full Packer Brisket

Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800:

• Heat Retention: The gravity-fed system maintains steady temperatures, essential for slow-cooking brisket.
• Bark Development: Excellent for achieving a great bark due to high temperature capabilities.
• Ease of Use: Digital controls simplify the process, allowing for easy adjustments during the cook.

Traeger Ironwood 885:

• Flavor Profile: The use of wood pellets provides a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the brisket.
• Consistent Cooking: WiFIRE technology helps maintain temperature stability, leading to even cooking throughout.
• Convenience: The app connectivity allows for monitoring the brisket without needing to be near the grill.

Pros and Cons

Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800:

Pros:

• Versatile for different cooking methods.
• Great heat retention and temperature control.
• Ideal for larger cuts like full packer briskets.

Cons:

• May require a learning curve for optimal use.
• Initial setup can be more complex compared to pellet smokers.

Traeger Ironwood 885:

Pros:

• Exceptional flavor from wood pellets.
• User-friendly with app connectivity for remote monitoring.
• High-quality build with solid performance.

Cons:

• Higher price point.
• Pellet supply can be a concern depending on location.

Conclusion

Both the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 and Traeger Ironwood 885 excel at smoking a full packer brisket. If you prioritize versatility and a gravity-fed system for consistent heat, the Masterbuilt is a great choice. However, if you want rich flavor and the convenience of smart technology, the Traeger Ironwood is hard to beat. Your decision will ultimately depend on your cooking style and preference for flavor.