Debate: rub first or sauce first on brisket?

I was at a comp in Kansas City last Saturday and overheard two pitmasters arguing. One said rub only, let the bark form, then sauce after slicing. The other said sauce before wrapping every time. I've always done rub only but their results looked solid both ways. Which side do you lean on for competition cooks vs just backyard?

2 comments

2 Comments

patking1mo ago

Sauce before wrap every time if you're competing. Locks in the moisture and gives you that clean bite you need for a score.

sullivan.abby1mo ago

Buddy of mine did sauce last, judge docked him for messy edges.