I'm building a smoker and ...............

I would like to know if it is safe to use expanded metal (not stainless steel) for the grate. I know some people use it but it seems like it would rust. Stainless is too expensive.

Are there plans to build a smoker and where can I get them?

Go to this site, ( http://www.lownslow.com/Pits.htm ) and look under "build your own". I am doing the double 55 gallon barrel smoker.

I have used both, the stainless last alot longer and is easier to clean, but the expanded metal works great and it is cheap to replace as it will burn or rust through. I had to replace my expanded metal about every summer cooking 2-3 times per week. But you dont have to worry about getting it all that clean just steel brush it every time you use it and leave the grease's onit untill next time and that helps keep it from rusting.