How long for a 8# butt ?

[ttownump]

I am going to to do my first smoke in my new BS. How long do i want the total cook time to be including the FTC.

[bsolomon]

Of course you will need to cook until it reaches the internal temperature you desire (usually in the mid to high 180's), but as a rule of thumb, probably between 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours per pound for the cooking time.  Smoke for up to the first 4 hours, and then try to FTC for at least 1 hour, but preferably at least 2.  With a 1 hour preheat, I would guess you are looking at 1 + (10 to 12) + (1 to 2) hours, or 12 to 15 hours from refrigerator to table.  If you are shooting to be ready for dinner, that would typically mean starting late the night before, and then just extending the FTC time until you are ready to shred.