Sounds great Jake. Lump charcoal is readily available in many stores, but I've found it's made with inferior hardwoods. You're in IL so you should have no shortage of access to oak - which is the best choice for lump. I posted the charcoal process on the forum a while back, and have gotten my cook times for two barrels down to 4 hours 100% conversion which provides about 6 months of charcoal [approx 60 lbs]. Oak will burn hotter due to the density of the wood, imparts a nice, mild taste, and will burn a lot longer than any of the packaged stuff. Feel free to call me anytime for some tips - there's a little learning curve and I'm happy to help.

When you fire up something amazing with your own charcoal it's a deeply gratifying...can't wait to see your first project!

Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after. ~ Henry David Thoreau

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