This is my third smoker in the last 10+ years and my first charcoal smoker.  I took advice I found online about sealing it up with high heat silicone and tape during assembly and I couldn't be happier with the results from my first few attempts.  It only took a few hours to dial in the heat regulation and I've made brisket, pork should and chicken on it.  I would definitely recommend it to anyone just starting out or an experienced smoker looking for a larger capacity option.