VENTING, BLOCKING PLATE? NEW 2 this

[baltimorechip]

this is my 3rd post, im new learing as i go but there are so many ways to skin a cat I just want to know my options without someone selling me...

I was given a grizzy wood burning stove insert..i can not find an info on it beside what they some of you gave on here...it looks great but now i'm ready to install..I have a masory fireplace that has a damper 18-30 inches long by 4 inches wide..

my 1st thought...just shove it in open the damper and burn...that would save on the liner.
2nd...just cut out the damper...make a blocking plate vent. the 8" top stove to the blocking plate ( less then a ft)and burn....
3rd...cut the damper out...make this plate...buy the liner..$$$...i know this is the proffesional way i just dont know if i want to get into all that..that seems like a permanit job..this stove was free and i may want a pellot stove or i just may want to be cheap and not spend the 500 or more...

can you please give me the quick pro and con on these? I'm leaning on #2

not to mention i can find info on the stove

 

[Jags]

#2 is what is referred to as a "Slammer" install, though most went at least a few feet up the chimney. It was common in the past (and even to some degree present). Most worked. The condition of your flue must be up to snuff or this one will get ya dead or without a house. Drafting can be compromised also, depending on the size of the flue. Your BEST bet (and I think you already know this) is #3. It will facilitate a much easier cleaning, better draft and a safer install. Yeah, its more bucks, but safety alone is worth that, in my opinion.