Newbie needs guidance on casings and online supplier suggestion

[Old Frenchie]

Hi folks ...

I would like to "dive-in" and make my first smoked sausages. I'd like to make kielbasa and hot dogs.

What kind of casings (size and type) should I use for these two sausages?

Also, can you give some suggestions on an online retailer to purchase casings cure#1?

Thanks for any and all help  :)

Roger (new, new , new newbie)

[bille]

Roger

First of all welcome to the forums. There are alot of on line suppliers, I personally like the Sausage maker.com, they have pretty much everything you need for sausage, I use both natural and collagen casings so I guess it will come down to what you prefer. Im sure others will be along to give their input as well, good luck.     Bill

[Kevin A]

Hi Roger

I like 20-22mm sheep casing for hot dogs or franks. Many others here have had good success with the inedible removable casings (you can read about those in the some of the 'hot dog' threads here). For kielbasa, I've used 32 to 38mm natural pork casings—it just depends how 'fat' you want them to be.

I like to shop here for a wide variety of supplies ("one-stop" shopping!), from casings to spices (including cures) & many other items: http://www.butcher-packer.com/

Good luck!

Kevin

[cobra6223]

HI Roger
Welcome to the best place on EARTH !! The ideas are awesome and the pepole are even greater. Just a word of advice, step away quick from the sausage light before it's to late or it will consume every second of your life trying think of your next project !! Which is awful dang fun, in fact I cut myself the other day and a snack stick came out ;D. I like Kevin have had great success with Butcher-Packer, customer service was very friendly and helpful since I was a newbie. Good Luck with your sausage making and welcome to forum.

Tim

[Habanero Smoker]

I like Sausage Makers, but since you are in Nebraska, Allied Kenco is closer and will save you some money on shipping.

Vendors

[Old Frenchie]

Thanks everyone ... the suggestions are greatly appreciated !

Habanero Smoker - Thanks for the list of vendors ... that is fantastic ... a great "gift"  for newbies.

Roger