I got my own barrel and had already ordered my components. I didn't know about the threaded stack when I initially built mine but ordered one when I saw it. I can patch a hole or two left from drilling. It's much cleaner looking this way and of course, shipped very fast and packed well. The folks at Smokerbuilder know what they're doing and build quality stuff. If I couldn't weld I'd have them build any pit that I wanted. I have nothing but respect for Frank and the boys!