Built an XL for a buddy and then just built a standard for myself. I'm 5'10" 160lbs and the standard is perfect. See the pic - in 70 minutes the temp was up to 240 degrees. For my first time, I let it drop to 190 degrees jumped in 15 minutes it was 210 degrees. I love it. Instructions and videos are outstanding. I'm not going to say you don't have to think for yourself from time to time. Stick to the recommended materials and I would pick them out yourself from home depo. I would say all in all I have about $1200 and 30 hours into the standard. That does include weekend dog distraction, soccer and football on TV and an occasional libation.