I dont lik emy jerky chopped and made with the shooter.I think the best jerky is made with 1/4 inch thick slices and soak over night int he fridge.I use my own jerky recipe and it tastes pretty darn good if you ask me and anyone else who has tried it.it doesnt last long in my home.This year I will spend weeks making it though so I have some for the whole year.I usually cook mine over night leaving the vent about half open.Put it in just before going to be and checking it first thing in the morning.Then check it every so often after that until it is what you want.Besides you get to try a lot when you check it.I let mine cool off for about 5 minutes before eating..Lets you know about what it will be when you turn it off then.I dont know what recipe you use but I have never liked store bought pre mixed stuff.You might want to try to google recipes and see what is out there.I took a couple different recipes I tried and made one out of them and it is pretty darn good.Very easy to make.You will love what you end up with and you will have to buy a dehydrator for yoursself so you can make it whenever you get the urge for some.