I'm considering buying a Viprati - I'm used to Stanwells and Rattrays and like them. You guys think I'll like Viprati? Seem to dislike Ashton for some reason - the oil curing maybe? They irritate my palette somehow.
I have never owned a Viprati, but I can't imagine them being less than a giant step up from a current production Rattray's. My Rattray's needed Dremel and needle file work to be made smokeable.
I only have one, a large volcano freehand "Fiamatta". Unique design and one of my best smokers and probably the nicest grain of my whole herd (which includes Dunhills, Radice Clear F, Cavicchi ccc, Ardor venre, JU etc etc).
There tended to be more on ebay about 5 years ago from private sellers but now there seems to be offerings mainly from dealers (and "buy it now" prices up accordingly).