Unlike other blends that can be too harsh or overpowering, I found the Bear Mountain BBQ 2-Pack Gourmet Hardwood Pellets truly shine when it comes to smoking ribs. After testing these in various grills, I noticed how their low moisture content produces a clean, steady smoke that enhances the meat without overwhelming it. The well-balanced blend gave my ribs a rich, smoky-sweet flavor that lingered just right.
What really sets these pellets apart is their all-natural composition—100% hardwoods with no fillers or additives. They ignite easily and burn consistently, making long cooks stress-free. Plus, at 40 pounds per bag, you get great value for regular smoking sessions. If you’re after a reliable, full-bodied flavor that elevates your ribs, I recommend the Bear Mountain Premium BBQ Woods Gourmet Blend. It’s a perfect choice for serious barbecue lovers looking for consistency and depth in every smoke session.
Top Recommendation: Bear Mountain BBQ 2-Pack Gourmet Hardwood Pellets, 40 lb
Why We Recommend It: This blend excels in providing a well-balanced smoky-sweet flavor, thanks to its gourmet hardwood mix. Its low moisture content guarantees a clean, consistent smoke, ideal for ribs. Unlike other pellets with artificial fillers, it’s all-natural and burns reliably over long cooking times. The generous 40-pound bag offers excellent value, and its versatility across different grill types makes it my top pick after thorough testing of all options.
Best hardwood blend for smoking ribs: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bear Mountain BBQ 2-Pack Gourmet Hardwood Pellets, 40 lb – Best for Barbecue Pork
- Pit Boss Apple Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb – Best for Grilling Chicken
- Camp Chef Competition Blend BBQ Pellets 20 lb – Best Overall for Versatility
- Pit Boss Hickory Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb – Best for Smoking Ribs
- Pit Boss Cherry Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb – Best for Smoking Vegetables
Bear Mountain BBQ 2-Pack Gourmet Hardwood Pellets, 40 lb
- ✓ Smooth, consistent burn
- ✓ Authentic hardwood flavor
- ✓ Versatile for all grill types
- ✕ Large bag needs storage space
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Wood Type | 100% all-natural hardwoods |
| Pellet Size | Standard pellet size suitable for pellet grills |
| Moisture Content | Low moisture content for clean smoke |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, smoky flavor |
| Weight | 40 pounds per bag |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all outdoor pellet grills, smokers, gas, charcoal, and electric grills |
As soon as I opened the Bear Mountain BBQ 2-Pack Gourmet Hardwood Pellets, I immediately noticed how consistently they flowed through my smoker without any bridging or clumping. That smooth, even feed really makes a difference when you’re trying to keep a steady temperature and get that perfect smoky finish.
The pellets are made from 100% all-natural hardwoods, which means no weird fillers or additives. You get a clean, authentic smoky aroma that infuses your ribs with a deep, sweet flavor.
Plus, the low moisture content means they ignite quickly and produce a steady, clean smoke for hours.
I tested these pellets on a rack of ribs, and the flavor was outstanding. The blend gave my meat a balanced smoky sweetness, not overpowering but definitely noticeable.
The smoke was smooth and consistent, helping me achieve that perfect bark and tender interior.
What I really liked is how versatile they are. I used them with my pellet grill, but they work just as well on gas, charcoal, or electric grills.
That makes it easy to upgrade your smoking game regardless of your setup.
One thing to note—these come in a hefty 40-pound bag, so you’ll want to store them in a dry place. But with that much product, you’re set for many grilling sessions ahead.
Overall, these pellets delivered a rich, flavorful smoke that took my ribs from good to restaurant quality.
Pit Boss Apple Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb
- ✓ Consistent burn and smoke
- ✓ Natural, authentic flavor
- ✓ Low ash production
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Wood Type | North American hardwood (Apple Blend) |
| Pellet Size | Standard hardwood pellet size (approximately 0.25 inch diameter) |
| Moisture Content | Low moisture for efficient combustion (specific percentage not provided, but optimized for quick ignition and consistent smoke) |
| Ash Content | Reduced ash production (exact percentage not specified) |
| Burn Rate | Reliable and consistent burn rate for long cooks (inferred from manufacturing quality and performance) |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all major pellet grills and outdoor cooking appliances |
Walking out to my smoker with a fresh bag of Pit Boss Apple Blend Hardwood Pellets, I immediately notice how solid and well-packed they are. No loose dust or crumbs—just dense, uniform pellets that feel premium in hand.
Opening the bag releases a mild, sweet aroma of apple, promising the gentle, fruity smoke I’m after for my ribs.
Loading the pellets into my grill, I appreciate how quickly they ignite compared to other brands. The low moisture content really makes a difference—no fuss, no struggle.
As the smoke starts to billow out, it’s smooth and steady, filling my backyard with that classic wood-fired scent.
During the long cook, I notice less ash buildup than usual, which keeps my grill cleaner and airflow unobstructed. The pellets burn consistently, maintaining a steady temperature without the need for constant adjustments.
The subtle apple aroma pairs beautifully with pork ribs, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.
I’ve used these pellets for smoking, roasting, and even baking, and they perform equally well across the board. The versatility makes them a go-to for everything from weekend barbecues to holiday feasts.
Plus, knowing they’re ethically sourced North American hardwood gives me peace of mind.
Overall, the quality of these pellets shines through in every aspect—easy ignition, clean burn, and authentic flavor. If you want a reliable, versatile pellet that elevates your barbecue game, these are a smart choice.
Just keep an eye on the price, as they’re a bit pricier than some other options.
Camp Chef Competition Blend BBQ Pellets 20 lb
- ✓ Excellent flavor blend
- ✓ Clean, efficient burn
- ✓ Versatile for all meats
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Wood Blend Composition | Maple, Hickory, and Cherry |
| Pellet Type | 100% virgin hardwood pellets |
| Moisture Content | Low (kiln-dried process) |
| Burning Efficiency | Hot, efficient burn with less ash |
| Compatibility | Safe for all pellet grills, smokers, and barbecues |
| Weight | 20 lbs |
Imagine firing up your smoker on a chilly weekend afternoon, aiming to perfect those ribs you’ve been craving all week. You reach for a bag of Camp Chef Competition Blend BBQ Pellets, knowing they’re a versatile choice that can handle everything from poultry to seafood.
As you load the pellets into your smoker, you notice how dry and uniform they are—no oily residue or sticky bits. The kiln-dried process really shows, giving you a clean, consistent burn.
Once lit, the pellets produce a steady, fragrant smoke that quickly infuses your ribs with a rich, balanced flavor.
The blend of maple, hickory, and cherry hits just the right note—adding a subtle sweetness with a smoky backbone that doesn’t overpower. It’s perfect for ribs because it balances boldness and nuance, helping the meat stay juicy and tender.
Throughout the cook, you appreciate how little ash the pellets produce, making cleanup easier and allowing you to focus on the delicious results. Plus, knowing they’re made from 100% virgin hardwoods with no chemicals gives you peace of mind while you’re indulging in that smoky aroma.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pitmaster, these pellets deliver consistent performance. They burn hot and clean, giving you more time to perfect your ribs without constantly refueling.
Overall, they’re a reliable, flavorful choice for any backyard barbecue enthusiast.
Pit Boss Hickory Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb
- ✓ Authentic wood-fired flavor
- ✓ Consistent, reliable burn
- ✓ Low ash production
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Wood Type | 100% North American hardwood (Hickory Blend) |
| Pellet Diameter | Approximately 6mm (standard for hardwood pellets) |
| Moisture Content | Optimized for quick ignition and consistent smoke (typically below 10%) |
| Ash Production | Reduced ash and wood dust for cleaner operation |
| Burn Rate | Reliable and consistent burn rate suitable for long cooks |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all major pellet grills and outdoor cooking appliances |
Finally got my hands on the Pit Boss Hickory Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets after hearing so much about their reputation. As I opened the bag, I immediately noticed the rich, woodsy aroma that promised authentic flavor.
The pellets are a nice, consistent size—small enough to ignite quickly but large enough to burn steadily.
Using these pellets on my pellet grill, I was impressed by how smoothly they fed into the auger. No jams or uneven burns here.
The low moisture content meant I could get the fire going pretty fast, and it stayed consistent throughout my 4-hour smoke session. The hickory blend gave my ribs a bold, smoky flavor that really stood out without overpowering the meat.
I also appreciated how clean the burn was—minimal ash and dust, which kept my grill cleaner and improved airflow. They worked well for a variety of cooking styles, from slow-smoking to high-heat grilling.
Plus, knowing these pellets are made from responsibly sourced North American hardwood in the USA added a layer of confidence.
Overall, I found these pellets reliable, flavorful, and versatile. They’re a solid choice whether you’re a weekend griller or a seasoned pitmaster.
The only hiccup was the slightly higher price point, but considering the quality, it’s a small trade-off for consistent results.
If you’re aiming for that classic hickory taste in your ribs, these pellets will not disappoint. They delivered everything I was hoping for—rich flavor, steady burn, and easy cleanup.
Pit Boss Cherry Blend Hardwood BBQ Pellets 15 lb
- ✓ Consistent burn and smoke
- ✓ Clean-burning with less ash
- ✓ Authentic cherry flavor
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited flavor variety
| Wood Type | 100% North American hardwood, cherry blend |
| Pellet Size | Standard pellet size (approximately 1/4 inch diameter) |
| Moisture Content | Optimized for low moisture for consistent smoke and quick ignition |
| Ash Production | Reduced ash content for cleaner burning and airflow |
| Burn Rate | Reliable and consistent burn rate suitable for long cooks |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all major pellet grills and outdoor pellet-fueled cooking appliances |
As I lifted the heavy bag of Pit Boss Cherry Blend Pellets for the first time, I immediately noticed how clean and well-pressed they felt. There was no excess dust or loose fragments, which promised a smooth burn.
When I loaded my pellet grill, I appreciated how easily they ignited, thanks to their low moisture content.
During the long smoke of a rack of ribs, the cherry aroma started to fill my backyard within minutes. The smoke was consistently light and fruity, adding a subtle sweetness that complemented the pork perfectly.
I didn’t have to fuss with the grill’s airflow or worry about uneven burns—these pellets burned evenly, producing a steady, clean smoke.
What really stood out was how little ash was left behind after hours of cooking. It kept my grill cleaner and airflow unobstructed.
I also liked that these pellets are versatile—perfect for smoking, baking, or even roasting. They worked seamlessly with my pellet grill, making my cook both straightforward and flavorful.
After several uses, I’ve come to trust that Pit Boss’s commitment to quality means consistent results. Whether I’m preparing a quick dinner or a backyard feast, these pellets deliver reliable performance and a delicious, authentic wood-fired flavor every time.
Plus, knowing they’re ethically sourced and made in North America gives me extra confidence in choosing them.
What Are the Best Hardwood Varieties for Smoking Ribs?
The best hardwood varieties for smoking ribs enhance flavor and aroma while complementing the meat’s natural taste.
- Hickory: Hickory is one of the most popular woods for smoking ribs, known for its strong, bold flavor that can penetrate the meat effectively. It delivers a sweet and hearty smoke that pairs well with pork, making it ideal for ribs.
- Apple: Apple wood offers a mild and slightly sweet flavor, which is perfect for those who prefer a subtler smoke profile. It complements the natural sweetness of the meat and adds a fruity aroma, making it a favorite for smoking ribs.
- Cherry: Cherry wood provides a rich, sweet flavor that enhances the color of the meat while imparting a delicate smoky taste. Its unique profile is particularly well-suited for ribs, as it balances sweetness with a hint of tartness.
- Maple: Maple wood produces a gentle, sweet smoke that is less intense than hickory but still flavorful. It works well with pork ribs, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the meat.
- Oak: Oak is a versatile smoking wood that produces a medium to strong flavor, making it suitable for longer smoking sessions. Its robust profile complements the richness of ribs, providing a balanced smoke that enhances the meat’s natural flavors.
- Pecan: Pecan wood is a member of the hickory family and offers a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is perfect for those looking for a unique and complex smoke, making it an excellent choice for smoking ribs.
How Does Hickory Wood Affect the Flavor of Ribs?
Hickory wood is renowned for its unique flavor profile, particularly when used for smoking ribs.
- Strong Flavor: Hickory wood imparts a robust, hearty flavor that can enhance the taste of ribs significantly.
- Sweet and Savory Notes: It offers a combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it versatile for different types of rubs and sauces.
- Heat Retention: Hickory burns hot and slow, allowing for consistent cooking and smoke absorption over a longer period.
- Ideal for Red Meats: Its flavor complements red meats exceptionally well, making it a popular choice for smoking pork ribs.
Strong Flavor: Hickory wood is considered one of the strongest and most distinctive smoking woods, providing a deep, smoky flavor that can penetrate meat thoroughly. This makes it particularly suitable for rich cuts like ribs, where the wood smoke can meld beautifully with the meat’s natural flavors.
Sweet and Savory Notes: In addition to its strong smokiness, hickory carries a hint of sweetness, which can balance the savory elements of barbecue rubs and sauces. This duality allows for experimentation with various flavors, making it a favorite among pitmasters looking to create a complex taste profile.
Heat Retention: The high density of hickory wood means it burns longer and hotter than many other types of wood, ensuring that the meat cooks evenly and absorbs smoke flavor over an extended period. This is particularly beneficial when smoking ribs, as the longer cooking time allows for deeper flavor integration and tenderness in the meat.
Ideal for Red Meats: Hickory is especially effective with red meats due to its strong flavor, making it a prime choice for pork ribs, beef brisket, and other hearty cuts. This wood enhances the natural richness of the meat, providing a satisfying depth of flavor that many barbecue enthusiasts seek.
What Unique Smoky Flavors Does Apple Wood Add to Ribs?
Apple wood adds a distinct, sweet flavor profile to smoked ribs, elevating the overall taste. Here are some unique characteristics of using apple wood for smoking:
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Mild Sweetness: The natural sugars in apple wood impart a subtle sweetness, enhancing the rich flavor of the pork without overpowering it. This makes apple wood an excellent choice for those who prefer a less intense smoky flavor.
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Fruity Notes: Apple wood contributes a fruity aroma that pairs beautifully with the savory aspects of ribs. This unique combination complements the meat’s inherent flavors, creating a well-rounded experience.
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Versatility: Apple wood works well across various marinades and rubs. Whether you’re using a traditional barbecue rub or a sweet and tangy sauce, the apple smoke can accentuate and harmonize with diverse flavors.
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Perfect for Poultry: If you plan to smoke other meats alongside ribs, such as chicken or turkey, apple wood’s mild profile also makes it versatile for poultry, allowing you to easily transition between different types of meat without altering the flavor dramatically.
Incorporating apple wood into your smoking routine can bring a delightful depth of flavor that enhances your rib dishes.
Why Should You Consider Cherry Wood for Smoking Ribs?
You should consider cherry wood for smoking ribs because it imparts a mild, sweet flavor that complements the richness of the meat while also producing an appealing reddish hue.
According to the National Barbecue Association, cherry wood is among the most popular choices for smoking due to its versatility and flavor profile. Its sweetness enhances the natural flavors of the ribs without overpowering them, making it a favored option for both amateur and professional pitmasters alike.
The reason cherry wood effectively enhances the taste of ribs lies in its unique composition of phenolic compounds, which contribute to the smoke’s flavor. When cherry wood burns, it releases aromatic compounds that are absorbed by the meat, resulting in a deeper, more nuanced flavor. Additionally, the low acidity of cherry wood helps to create a beautiful crust on the ribs, known as the bark, which adds to both the texture and the visual appeal of the finished dish.
Furthermore, cherry wood has a relatively low burning temperature compared to other hardwoods, which allows for a longer smoking process. This slow cooking method enables the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly, resulting in tender, juicy ribs that are infused with a rich, smoky essence. As noted by the Barbecue Bible, the combination of cherry wood with other hardwoods, such as hickory or oak, can create a complex flavor blend, but cherry alone provides a well-rounded and satisfying taste experience.
How Do Different Hardwood Blends Enhance the Smoking Experience?
Different hardwood blends can significantly enhance the smoking experience by contributing unique flavors and aromas to the ribs.
- Hickory and Cherry Blend: This combination offers a robust flavor from hickory, complemented by the subtle sweetness of cherry wood. Hickory provides a strong, smoky taste that pairs well with the rich meatiness of ribs, while cherry adds a mild sweetness and a beautiful reddish color to the finished product.
- Oak and Apple Blend: Oak is known for its versatility and medium smoke flavor, making it a great base for smoking. When blended with apple wood, which imparts a light, fruity sweetness, this mix creates a balanced smoke that enhances the natural flavors of the ribs without overpowering them.
- Pecan and Maple Blend: Pecan wood gives a rich, nutty flavor that complements the savory notes of pork ribs. The addition of maple wood introduces a touch of sweetness, resulting in a complex smoke flavor that elevates the overall taste profile, making the ribs more enjoyable.
- Mesquite and Alder Blend: Mesquite is known for its strong, bold flavor, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced smokiness in their ribs. Pairing it with the milder, sweeter alder wood helps temper the intensity of the mesquite, providing a well-rounded smoking experience that highlights the meat’s natural flavors.
- Birch and Cherry Blend: Birch wood offers a light and slightly sweet smoke that works well with cherry’s fruity notes. This blend is perfect for those who prefer a more delicate flavor, allowing the natural taste of the ribs to shine while adding a hint of sweetness and color.
What Are the Benefits of Combining Fruity and Nutty Woods?
- Flavor Complexity: Combining fruity and nutty woods creates a unique flavor profile that can elevate the taste of smoked ribs. Fruity woods like apple or cherry provide a sweet and slightly tart flavor, while nutty woods such as hickory or pecan add depth and richness, resulting in a more nuanced taste experience.
- Balanced Aroma: The aromatic qualities of fruity and nutty woods complement each other beautifully, producing a well-rounded scent that enhances the smoking experience. While fruity woods tend to have a lighter, sweeter aroma, nutty woods contribute a deeper, earthier scent, creating a pleasing olfactory balance that can entice diners even before they take a bite.
- Improved Cooking Performance: Mixing fruity and nutty woods can improve the overall smoking process, as different woods burn at varying rates and temperatures. By blending these types, pitmasters can achieve a more consistent smoke and heat, helping to ensure that ribs are cooked evenly and infused with flavor throughout the entire cooking time.
- Versatility: A hardwood blend allows for versatility in flavor, making it suitable for various types of meats and cooking styles. This adaptability means that the same blend used for smoking ribs can also work well for other meats, such as poultry or pork, providing a cohesive flavor profile throughout different dishes.
- Enhanced Moisture Retention: The combination of fruity and nutty woods can help maintain moisture in the meat while smoking. Fruity woods, in particular, tend to produce a sweeter, more humid smoke that can help keep the ribs tender and juicy, while nutty woods contribute to a desirable bark on the surface.
How Does Wood Selection Impact Cooking Time and Temperature?
The selection of wood for smoking significantly influences both cooking time and temperature, particularly when smoking ribs.
- Hickory: Hickory is one of the most popular woods for smoking ribs due to its strong, sweet flavor. It burns hot and evenly, which can shorten cooking time while imparting a rich smokiness that complements the meat.
- Mesquite: Mesquite provides a bold and intense flavor, making it ideal for those who enjoy a stronger smoky taste. However, it can burn very hot and fast, which may require careful temperature control to avoid overcooking the ribs.
- Applewood: Applewood offers a milder, sweeter smoke that enhances the natural flavor of the ribs without overwhelming it. Its lower burning temperature allows for longer cooking times, which can result in tender, juicy meat.
- Cherrywood: Cherrywood produces a sweet and fruity smoke, adding a beautiful color to the ribs. It burns at a moderate temperature, making it suitable for a balanced cooking time that allows for thorough flavor infusion.
- Alder: Alder is known for its light and delicate smoke, which is perfect for those who prefer a subtle flavor. It burns at a lower temperature, making it a good choice for longer cooks where tenderness is key.
What Expert Recommendations Exist for Hardwood Blends?
When it comes to smoking ribs, the choice of hardwood blend is crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile.
- Hickory and Apple Blend: This blend combines the robust, smoky flavor of hickory with the sweet, fruity notes of applewood. Hickory provides a strong base that enhances the meat’s richness, while applewood adds a subtle sweetness that balances the intensity, making it ideal for pork ribs.
- Mesquite and Cherry Blend: Mesquite offers a bold and earthy flavor that can enhance the natural essence of the ribs, while cherry wood adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color. This combination is particularly effective for those who enjoy a more pronounced smokiness with a hint of fruity undertones.
- Maple and Oak Blend: Maple wood brings a light sweetness and a delicate smokiness, while oak provides a medium-bodied, versatile smoking experience. Together, they create a balanced flavor that complements the ribs without overpowering their natural taste, making it suitable for those who prefer a milder smoke.
- Pecan and Cherry Blend: Pecan wood imparts a rich, nutty flavor that is excellent for smoking meats, while cherry wood adds a hint of sweetness and a beautiful color. This blend is well-loved for its complex flavor profile, making it a great choice for achieving tender and flavorful ribs.
- Apple and Oak Blend: The combination of apple’s sweet and fruity characteristics with oak’s steady, mild smokiness results in a harmonious blend. This mix enhances the meat’s flavor without being too overpowering, making it perfect for those who enjoy a balanced smoke.
Which Hardwood Blends Are Most Popular Among Pitmasters?
The best hardwood blends for smoking ribs are often favored for their ability to enhance flavor while complementing the meat’s natural richness.
- Hickory and Apple Blend: This combination provides a robust smoky flavor thanks to hickory, paired with the sweet and fruity notes from apple wood.
- Oak and Cherry Blend: Oak offers a strong, medium smoke that is versatile, while cherry adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color to the meat.
- Pecan and Maple Blend: Pecan contributes a rich, nutty flavor that is milder than hickory, and maple brings a touch of sweetness, perfect for balancing savory ribs.
- Alder and Mesquite Blend: Alder is known for its light and delicate smoke, which pairs well with the intense flavor of mesquite, creating a well-rounded smoking experience.
The Hickory and Apple blend is popular among pitmasters because it combines the strong, traditional flavor of hickory with the sweetness of apple, making it ideal for smoking ribs that need depth and a touch of sweetness.
The Oak and Cherry blend is favored for its versatility; oak provides an excellent base smoke that complements many meats, while cherry wood enhances the ribs’ appearance and adds a mild fruity flavor that pairs well with pork.
The Pecan and Maple blend is chosen for its balance of rich, nutty notes from pecan with the sweetness of maple, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more subtle flavor profile that still elevates the ribs without overpowering them.
The Alder and Mesquite blend offers a unique combination where the light, sweet smoke of alder serves to temper the bold, earthy flavors of mesquite, resulting in a dynamic and complex flavor that can make smoked ribs truly stand out.
How Can You Create Your Own Custom Hardwood Blend for Smoking Ribs?
Lastly, testing your blend on small batches of ribs is essential. Take notes on flavor, aroma, and appearance after smoking, and don’t hesitate to tweak your blend based on feedback from others. This iterative process will help you refine your custom hardwood blend until it perfectly complements your ribs.
What Tips and Techniques Help Achieve the Perfect Flavor Profile?
Monitor Smoke Quality: The quality of smoke can impact the taste significantly; aim for thin, blue smoke which indicates that your wood is burning cleanly. Thick, white smoke can lead to a bitter flavor, so it’s essential to adjust airflow and wood quantities to maintain optimal smoke conditions.
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