This is my third kamado joe, if I had purchased this first it would probably be my only one. The big joe is the perfect size for an average family. If you are grilling for a family this is the perfect size. You are able to utilize the divide and conquer system to have hot and cold zones. My one hang up before purchasing was the hinge. I can confidently say the weight of opening the hinge is not much and I can easily open it with one hand. I would recommend this to anyone in the market for a kamado style grill, I love it.