Thanks for the reply, Mike, I've looked at the Akorn multiple times and I'm sure it would work fine. The negative reviews seem to revolve around the bottom rusting out, (those with pics appear to show people don't know to empty the ash pan after use), and the hardware pulling out, (be aware and don't drop the lid backwards without supporting). I would be interested in info on how long it holds temps. Chumley's report reflects others I've read online, that it's a "set it and forget it" as the ceramic allows temperatures to be maintained with little variance over a period of many hours. That's what has me interested in the Primo, plus it's the only model I've found that is made in the USA. And I'll go out of my way and spend more to support US manufacturing.
david