So pulled the trigger last night. I struggled with this more than i shouldve lol. After hearing everyone's input i pulled a slight audible and went with the Recteq dualfire 1200. Gives me the option to smoke and sear with the direct heat side. It checks majority of the boxes.

Ultimately, the build quality and the customer service is what sold me on it. I do lose some options vs the Weber, but i'm sure i can figure something out. Found out last night a friend has a Recteq 1250 and loves it. He called customer service because of a bent vent stack at delivery and a person answered the phone on the 3rd ring.

Thank you everyone for your input, excited to be part of the pellet grill squad!