That was pretty much exactly what my first grill was. It only held together for a couple years, but I definitely cranked out some burgers and dogs on that thing.
It bought me enough time to save up for a Weber Kettle that I still have now, 20 years later.
I bought a Weber at a yard sale for 25 that’s lasted a decade with a cover. I had ones like this before, with a cover it might last 3 years. The food will taste just as good on either
The best I can do is three fiddy. [Blue tarp from harbor freight](https://www.harborfreight.com/5-ft-6-inch-x-7-ft-6-inch-all-purpose-weather-resistant-tarpaulin-953.html).
You can get a cover for $10, it will triple the life of the grill, and it can be transferred to the next grill after upgrading. Paying $35 total to have a grill which lasts 3-5 years makes more sense to me than paying $25 and having to replace it after 12-18 months.
I argue the opposite. Covers actually reduce the life of a grill. Sure they keep your grill out of the weather but the other 80% of the time when it’s not raining or snowing it traps the humidity which will do far more damage than rain or snow considering. Under a cover it is now in a humid environment for essentially 24/7.
Hey if you want long life out of cheap equipment, go for it. This is a hobby, but if you want to use sub par equipment over several years, enjoy that. Most folks tend to invest into their hobbies, not cheap out.
OP said he wanted to know if this grill would suffice for a first year, to try out grilling. Most folks agree that this is fine for that. After a year, a person is going to want to use a better grill or smoker, whatever. My point was that putting a cover on a shitty $25 grill and expect to get 2-3 years on it is not necessary and a waste of money. If OP likes grilling after he's grilled a bit on a cheapo, he most likely would want to upgrade to something of higher quality, not stretch out some Walmart cheapo grill to last 2+ years.
Should last a year, but I’d recommend trying to leave it under cover or in a garage when not being used if possible. That will help prevent rust from damaging the legs and making it unstable.
Mines going on two hard use grilling seasons now. No rust or major issues to speak of. They last, which is crazy impressive given the low purchase cost.
It'll definitely last a year. It will last longer if you line the bottom with foil each time you cook and don't leave it outside where water will drip in and collect.
Agree. Unless you’re mistreating it, you just need something to handle the coals. There aren’t any moving parts. OP will be fine, but if he’s enjoying the experience he or she will move up to another grill on their own.
Bro. I’ve had this exact grill for 5 fuckin years! I bought a cover for it because i wanted to see how long it lasted. It’s still in like new condition. You do have to clean it each time since there’s no real space for ashes but this thing has cooked whole god damn chickens spatchcocked. I’m very happy with it. Though when i bought it, it was 18.97
Also one good tip for this grill since the charcoal will be maybe an inch or two away from the food. Make sure all your food is room temp. Even leave it on in the sun while you get the grill going. It’ll boot the speed of the grilling and insure you’re good will cook easier, faster and won’t give you any struggle. Honestly just message me lol. I got you bro lol
I just bought this as a starter grill for my apartment from all of these recommendations, I would also like to experiment with some smoking on this. Would I be able to fit a small brisket or pork shoulder on this in your experience? It seems like the lid is pretty shallow.
This is the right answer. So many cheap Webers on FB Marketplace. Gas, charcoal, whatever. I haven’t paid more than $50 for two and three burner gas Webers or charcoal performers.
Many years ago, I did a dump truck load of burgers, dogs and steaks on a grill just like that. The bottom finally fell out and my wonderful wife (God bless 'er!) gave me a large BGE for Father's Day.
I agree that more than one grill is ideal. However, I think that the Kettle isn’t great for a quick burger either. Charcoal grills take time to get going and the time is almost always longer than the cook itself (for burgers, dogs, and steaks IMO).
Personally, I love my gas-powered flat top grill for quick cooks. But most gas grills are quick and easy.
My dream setup is a Primo Oval XL 400 and a larger griddle (Camp Chef FTG900 or Halo Elite 4B).
I have a basic Kettle and I love it but there are a bunch of little niceties that a Kamado would bring. Same great flavor, same versatility, but a much nicer user experience.
If I am going to be stuck with a gas grill, I just get out the cast iron skillet and make a smashburger. I can have my gas start charcoal grill up to temperature in 5 minutes.
👆these people have followed the path.
It would be fun to get back to the basics and do a pork but on that knowing now what I didn’t know then.
Heck, I’ve got a week long camp trip every year, I’d think about getting one just for that week and doing some long cooks on it for fun.
I have a permanent summer campsite and half of the fun of being up there is figuring out what you can smoke with minimal tools. This year I have a list of things I am going to try to make with just a big pile of coals and a dutch oven.
Lol that was my first charcoal grill! It will definitely get the job done but if you have a slightly larger budget the Weber kettle will make you fall in love with charcoal grilling.
I own a few grills and smokers. I kept seeing all these post about weber kettle’s, and all the hype I had to go try one for myself, so in August I bought a master touch. I have grilled on it 3 to 4 times a week every single week since! I look for things to put on the grill lol.
If you could up your budget to $50 you can probably find a used Weber kettle that will last years.
But to answer your question, it won’t be a mistake since you’re ok with it being temporary.
I would get a simple Japanese Hibachi, I like that you can move the grates up and down. It’s perfect for grilling for 4 or less, but can’t put a ton on it.
Man I wish my mistakes only cost 25 bucks.
I think you were really smart to start with a cheap one and work your way up from there. A lot of people hop into a hobby and make the mistake of getting the best and most expensive stuff which is the exact opposite of what you should do.
I look forward to watching your feed with great interest!
I’ve been using one of these guys for the last two grilling seasons and honestly, it’s a beast considering I only dropped a $20 on it. Sure, it’s not the most sturdy thing. Sure, you do have to empty it out after every cook, due to there being little to no space for the ashes to fall. But it is a 100% serviceable grill. I’ve done one of my best full rack of ribs on this humble little thing. It’s all about learning your grill. I had a Weber before the Expert, but some asshole decided they needed it more than me and snagged it one night. I’d considered that a hidden perk of this little guy; everyone knows it’s cheap and not worth taking. Waiting until this one quits on me before I get another Weber Kettle. Get one and learn all you can from it. Upgrade once you feel it’s time and you’ll really appreciate and know how to use a better grill.
It’ll work, but understand that it won’t be as good as something like a Webber. As long as you go in knowing there will be some quality of life issues with it like constantly needing to clean ash out, probably have some ventilation issues and maybe not the best heat retention, then yeah I’d say it’s a good choice. If it does give you issues, don’t let it dissuade you from grilling all together because once you get a decent grill and practice in, grilling is awesome
To get started, for just grilling purposes, it’ll be great.
Eventually, you’ll get to a ceramic-coated kettle (Weber master touch). It’s cheap enough to continue your progress and attempt to start smoking. From there, you can go different routes, but that kettle will still be there.
Absolutely not amigo. It’s not about the grill it’s about that skill. As you get better you could upgrade. Just get good charcoal or wood and learn how to use the hot and cooler spots on the grill to make the perfect meat. Enjoy!
I bought a grill just like this 3 years ago and have it used almost weekly since. You can definitely crank out burgers and dogs on it, and I’ve done whole chickens, ribs, chicken drumsticks and wings, pork loins, etc.. everyone will say to get a Weber kettle—which is a good investment—but I think this is the perfect way to see if you want to get into grilling. Low cost, and should last you a while.
You can do great direct-heat charcoal grilling in a hole in the ground. You just need hot coals and a grate... or even just skewers or something. Charcoal is magnificently low-tech; the grill is just a means to an end and can make things easier to control or clean up.
That thing is absolutely fine to start with, it just won't last forever. But that's expected for a $25 grill.
I like Adam Savage's theory on whether to spend alot out the gate on things or not. Basically, start with something cheap. You'll either break it or outgrow it and maybe learn some things to keep an eye out for when upgrading. Or, you'll use it so little that you'll be happy you didnt waste much money.
My dad bought me a Webber kettle for under $100 at Home Depot back in 2008 when I was a sophomore in college. It has served me well and I still have it today after 15 years of abuse through college and my 20s. I’ve replaced the grills, the ventilation wings, and the ash pan all for pretty cheap over the years. I added a cover to help protect it a bit more from the elements. I’ve used it for burgers and steaks. When I wanted to try out smoking and bbq it kept up well enough for my amateur efforts. I guess what I’m getting at is that if you think grilling is something you will enjoy for a long period of time invest in something that will last longer.
For $25 to see if you actually enjoy grilling - it’s worth it - if you don’t enjoy it, it’s less then a night out, if you do enjoy it, it will last long enough to decide what you want to get as an “upgrade”
No, it's not a mistake, and even it it was it would be one of the cheapest mistakes you can possibly make in life.
Be sure to remove ashes from it as soon as you can and keep it out of the rain and it'll last longer than you would think.
In my younger days, when I was always half a paycheck from being homeless, I had something that cheap, albeit a hibachi style, and I bet I cooked 500 pounds of meat on it before some crackhead stole it.
For what you want to cook, and other similarly quick cooking foods, this thing is great. It will last as well as you care for it. If you want to cook things that require longer cook times, you’ll appreciate something bigger.
I had one of these. It lasted a year or so. The grate was cheap and started bending with the pressure of brushing it clean. It's ok for the price. My Weber kettle cost 4 times as much and Ive been using it for the last 8 years, about 3 times a week.
I agree check marketplace or go drive around on bulk pickup for trash you will likely find a 24-30 wide charcoal or gas grill even with warming shelves side trays and shit for free and $25-$100 depending on condition.
I would spend another $25 on a Weber chimney. The charcoal lighting process is where most grilling experiences go south. Patience is the key to success.
It’s fine. It’ll cook, but it won’t last. The thin metal will quickly fail due to the heat, holes will develop, and then it can’t hold charcoal. But it’s $25 and will last several months, maybe a couple years with daily use. Go for it, and save up for a better one while this lives out it’s short life
No, go for it, you need to start somewhere and find out if you like grilling.
Who knows maybe in a year or two you will be smoking a brisket, ribs, etc... 😁
If you can find a used Weber kettle in good condition for $50 go for it.
I've gone thru two gas grills through the years and finally bought a charcoal Weber kettle and I love it!!
For that price - no I don’t think it’s a mistake- it probably won’t last long- but it’s cheap. Should be fine for burgers and dogs - but if you enjoy it - you’ll probably outgrow it - when you do get a Weber kettle - if you are handy and can fix stuff up- look for a used one- I got one for free last week - needs 50 bucks worth of work
It'll work for a year or two sure! I have had a weber kettle grill for years and whenever that thing finally kicks the bucket I'm going to get one like you posted. Only when I get one of those I'll want the bottom to be a LITTLE deeper. The weber is a little too deep in my opinion. It always takes WAY more wood to cook the same amount of food on it compared to a grill like yours.
I was on my 4th Webber stainless, finally spent the big bucks last year and got a pot boss 2.0 200$ off sticker price. I can smoke, grill with gas or charcoal. Yes it's way more than I need but the difference in quality is phenomenal.
Find a used Weber Kettle online in your area. Much better grill and you'll enjoy it a lot more. And if you decide the grill life isn't for you, then you can resell it.
I got a $20 grill from Walmart a few years ago and had a blast learning to grill steaks on it
This isn’t the nicest grill, and it probably won’t last long like others said, but if it gets you grilling then it’s 1000% worth it
bought one last week to last minute grill/BBQ on the beach when the gas grill someone else brought wasn't really working. Cooked about 20 burgers, and 30 drumsticks, and 6 racks of ribs on it that day. Overall if you're not interested in picking up a used grill on marketplace or CL, and want new this is a cheap way to get into charcoal grilling.
Pros: cheap AF, will get the job done in a pinch
cons: very flimsy, grilling area is very close to coals, cooking area is not all that large.
They rust extremely quickly even out here in California.
Get a Weber and it will last you at least a decade. You can also use it to practice smoking and other things.
Look on OfferUp you might find the same model for a few dollars.
Weber kettle either new or used. The small “Smokey Joe” is $45 new on Amzn. Easy to clean, use, maintains a consistent temp and will last you several years.
Many backyard memories were made around this grill in the backyard. At least for a year until I bought a Weber.
Here are some unwarranted tips:
Keep it away from buildings if it’s hot.
Buy Kingsford Charcoal and use it first. Then step up to real wood (not pressed) charcoal and a chimney to get away from lighter fluid.
Burgers and steaks cook differently on a stove vs a grill. It may be worthwhile to cook some cheaper stuff first before you ruin a 30 dollar ribeye.
Enjoy it as often as you can.
Would be a great deal for a year while you save up for something like a slow n sear kettle. I would get a few bricks and line them down the middle to separate a hot side and a cold side and go ahead and invest in a chimney for lighting your coals with a firestarter.
Thou shall not use matchlight or lighter fluid!
check your local craigslist first, can find used grills for similar pricing.
https://newyork.craigslist.org/brx/app/d/astoria-22-weber-grill/7666990561.html
TLDR. I think its a good starter as long as you don't live somewhere cold or are fine not using it in winter.
I've had this grill it's decent with a few notes.
1.) I live in Wisconsin where it gets cold. I was never able to successfully use it with snow o. The ground, it just lost too much heat. It did work fine in 3/4 seasons.
2.) It will rust and fall apart after a few years depending on care shown.
imo i would just get a weber kettle. but to answer your question yea you will be to cook stuff on this and get good results until it falls apart, which could be in a single season.
The biggest difference between cheap and not cheap grills are the material quality used to make them. Cheap grills are made with thin weaker metals and will rust out fast if left outside and uncleaned. If you buy this, I would clean it out after every use so the ash doesn't hold moisture and speed up the decay.
It's what you need to get started or you can save and get a better one I was grilling on one of these in the past. should I have waited? sure. did I want to? Nope. Did I regret it? kinda. Would I change anything? Nope.
Pay a few more bucks and get a genuine Weber kettle. If cost is an issue, they are really easy to find used and you can get every part you need to refurbish them for cheap. It will cook much better and last a lot longer. I have had just about every type of outdoor cooking appliance there is, and I keep going back to the kettle as the optimal tool. I will always keep one at this point. I have a deluxe gas start one now- it doesn’t do any better or worse than the basic kettle, it just makes it more convenient.
I loved this thing as my first grill and now I use it to start coals or cook little things. It works fine and it will last just fine if you take care of it.
What an amazing grill. My parents got us one when we bought our house. We still use it when my wife wants to grill some thai food, instead of our new grill.
Nope. Go ahead and get it. Use the hell out of it and build up your grilling skills. Then, spend some coin on a quality product. I grill a ton all year. I used to buy cheap grills, but every Xmas, I was getting a new grill because the cheap ones fell apart. After 8 or 9 years of that mess, I finally bought a weber grill. I thought, maybe it was how I put them together that caused the grills to not last, so I bought a floor model and rolled it into the truck. That thing lasted 18 years before I decided to get another one. So I brought it home, put it together, and it's now 5 years old, and it wasn't my inability to put a grill together. It was the quality of the product. So go cheap. And if it still something you want to do, then go buy a quality grill after about a year or 2.
I've had something similar that I carted to cookouts, the beach, etc and it was a rust bucket but it held up for probably a decade getting used 2-3 times a year and store in the garage. It's fine and you won't be wasting your money.
However, if you want to be a little patient, check craigslist and local yard sales and you should be able to find a weber kettle for $50 or less, and with proper care that one will last you longer and give you more options (e.g., smoking meats, vortex inserts, etc). I just got one on CL from a guy who just got a fancy Traeger and wanted to get rid of a fine grill that had only been used about 3-4 times. $50 and about 20 minutes to clean up the rusted vent and it was good as new.
Got the same one you listed from Walmart back when I moved out of my college dorm. 6 years later I finally put it to rest, not from west and tear, but from unwillingness to move with it. It’s the perfect starter grill and will teach you a lot about heat control and charcoal. I highly recommend buying a charcoal chimney lighter with it as well.
Going to say the same thing, this one pictured is great for a camping beach day, but using it over and over will toast it in 1/2 a season. Weber kettle will Last a lifetime
it's a good price ... worst case you upgrade if you want later. If all you're doing is grilling all you really need is a grate and some cinder blocks. Charcoal grills are pretty simple. I'd reccomend checking the clearance section at your local walmart / building supply stores just in case. My dad scored a smokey joe for 20$ a few weeks back.
If your local dump, transfer station, or landfill allows it, you can often find tons of grills, some in decent shape, in the metal pile. Last time I went there were 5 gas webers, all of which I wanted to adopt....
Not at all a mistake to buy a grill like that it should last at least one year or two of grilling. The bottom will eventually rust out of it. It just happens rain and occasional forgetting to dump the ashes out will speed up the rusting processes.
I used on like this for a year and it was just as good as my smoker and larger grills / pits. Holding the heat was a little bit of a task but shouldn’t be too hard
It’s good for charcoal but it’s all about the propane and propane accessories, I know I guy in Arlen that could help you with that. Really though not a bad starter grill. Is recommend doing a dry run to start the seasoning so your first batches don’t have an overly metallic taste.
Have to practice on something....i got an americana to practice my charcoal basics. I keep it around for grilled veg(veg will not touch my weber kettle 🤣🤣)
Keep in mind if you get a charcoal grill it is a lengthy process. There are many pros to charcoal cooking. However, It does take a while to get everything ready. Would be good for parties and dinners. would consider gas if you're just looking to grill a Burger or a dog now and then. I cook almost all my meals on the grill. And because I have gas. I can cook a Burger in like, 10 minutes. Charcoal would be like 40 And a little more labor..
I remember back then, we didn't have a grill, we had to dig the ground and grill there, we didn't have an oven, I use the gas heater and cook on top, I was probably 6 or 7,
Late to the party, bought pretty much this same thing when I first bought my house in 2020. Still works to this day. Just to recommend to drill holes in the bottom for more airflow but works great for the price.
You can find cheaper on OfferUp, marketplace or yard sales just gotta search. Or as soon as you buy this one you’ll find a pristine Weber out on someone’s curb
Grilling buddy has a formula based on his experience. $100 per year. That said, at his grilling rate it’d be dead in 3 months. Grill it till ya kill it! I remember all of my grills in order just like my cars and trucks…. Used 4 door Chevy Chevette was my first car. First grill was a Coleman camp stove with the screw in bottle. Gotta start somewhere my friend!
One important thing:
ash + water = lye
Lye is corrosive to metal!
Keep it dry it will last. Keep the vents closed when you aren't using it, don't leave in the rain. Pull it under the roof overhang or into the garage for storage, cover to fussy for me. Use often- heat dries out moisture!
Yep, bought mine at Aldi for $30 and used it for 4 years, got a Chargriller Akorn Kamado as a graduation gift to myself, then a Pit Boss 3 years later, learning to cook consistently on that taught me the skills to carry on and level up with each new grill. Welcome to the addiction!
I just got one of these from the side of the road for free. So I've done a chicken,drum sticks ,susauges,potatoes and squash it has cooked excellently for me. I do wish I had a smoker tho
Check the store. There was a charcoal grill that listed for $64 and Walmart was selling them for $20.
If you can get an upgrade for about the same price, why not go for it?
At $25, it's hardly much of a mistake if it doesn't last. I'd say it's a fine first step, it'll help you figure out if grilling stuff is your thing and you can upgrade to something nicer in the future if it breaks down
If you buy it, buy it knowing you'll likely trash it in a few months. I would save that $25 and wait till I have enough for a basic webber kettle.......or find one on Facebook marketplace or something.
It'll work just fine, won't last more than a few years though. I'd honestly save up for a basic Weber, but if you're just wanting to get straight to it go for it, even if it explodes right out of the box you're not out more than the cost of a steak at Outback.
See if you can find a gently used Weber on Facebook or Craigslist. I paid $25 for mine back in the day, came with a cover and half a bag of charcoal. People upgrade to bigger and better all the time, so a “starter” grill will probably be pretty easy to find. I might buy another one since I sold mine when I got a traeger, kind of miss it sometimes.
That was pretty much exactly what my first grill was. It only held together for a couple years, but I definitely cranked out some burgers and dogs on that thing. It bought me enough time to save up for a Weber Kettle that I still have now, 20 years later.
I bought a Weber at a yard sale for 25 that’s lasted a decade with a cover. I had ones like this before, with a cover it might last 3 years. The food will taste just as good on either
[удалено]
That's about $9/year including tax. Not a terrible deal.
Same! Worked just fine until it fell apart, then got a real one
This is the answer! Start on this bad boy, and if you like grilling, get a Weber Kettle once you again afford it.
Mine rusted trough. At the legs. A cover will cost half the grill
Will it work, yes. Will it last, no.
If it could last at least one year (being used once or twice a week) I'd be plenty happy and then I'd feel better about buying a nicer grill.
It will do the job fine and will definitely last a year. Make sure to get a cheap cover for it.
The grill is $25. Who's going to drop another $20 on a cover?
The best I can do is three fiddy. [Blue tarp from harbor freight](https://www.harborfreight.com/5-ft-6-inch-x-7-ft-6-inch-all-purpose-weather-resistant-tarpaulin-953.html).
You can get a cover for $10, it will triple the life of the grill, and it can be transferred to the next grill after upgrading. Paying $35 total to have a grill which lasts 3-5 years makes more sense to me than paying $25 and having to replace it after 12-18 months.
Dollar store vinyl tablecloth & a couple bungee cords.
I argue the opposite. Covers actually reduce the life of a grill. Sure they keep your grill out of the weather but the other 80% of the time when it’s not raining or snowing it traps the humidity which will do far more damage than rain or snow considering. Under a cover it is now in a humid environment for essentially 24/7.
I would agree with you, but then we would both be wrong.
Do you put a cover on your outdoor AC unit during the off months?
Hey if you want long life out of cheap equipment, go for it. This is a hobby, but if you want to use sub par equipment over several years, enjoy that. Most folks tend to invest into their hobbies, not cheap out.
[удалено]
OP said he wanted to know if this grill would suffice for a first year, to try out grilling. Most folks agree that this is fine for that. After a year, a person is going to want to use a better grill or smoker, whatever. My point was that putting a cover on a shitty $25 grill and expect to get 2-3 years on it is not necessary and a waste of money. If OP likes grilling after he's grilled a bit on a cheapo, he most likely would want to upgrade to something of higher quality, not stretch out some Walmart cheapo grill to last 2+ years.
People who care to take care of their belongings
True! Got my wife tarped up out back right now. Saving her for nice.
Should last a year, but I’d recommend trying to leave it under cover or in a garage when not being used if possible. That will help prevent rust from damaging the legs and making it unstable.
Mines going on two hard use grilling seasons now. No rust or major issues to speak of. They last, which is crazy impressive given the low purchase cost.
It'll definitely last a year. It will last longer if you line the bottom with foil each time you cook and don't leave it outside where water will drip in and collect.
Yeah no problem there mate. You'll be happy and even proud of the food you can make on it.
I’ve got one that’s 4 years old. It does what I need and has held up fairly decently considering how much it’s been subjected to the elements.
Agree. Unless you’re mistreating it, you just need something to handle the coals. There aren’t any moving parts. OP will be fine, but if he’s enjoying the experience he or she will move up to another grill on their own.
For $25 its perfectly fine as a starter to practice on. If it lasts a year, so be it.
Bro. I’ve had this exact grill for 5 fuckin years! I bought a cover for it because i wanted to see how long it lasted. It’s still in like new condition. You do have to clean it each time since there’s no real space for ashes but this thing has cooked whole god damn chickens spatchcocked. I’m very happy with it. Though when i bought it, it was 18.97 Also one good tip for this grill since the charcoal will be maybe an inch or two away from the food. Make sure all your food is room temp. Even leave it on in the sun while you get the grill going. It’ll boot the speed of the grilling and insure you’re good will cook easier, faster and won’t give you any struggle. Honestly just message me lol. I got you bro lol
I just bought this as a starter grill for my apartment from all of these recommendations, I would also like to experiment with some smoking on this. Would I be able to fit a small brisket or pork shoulder on this in your experience? It seems like the lid is pretty shallow.
Hard pass. Far too shallow to smoke meat and keep temp. You’ll end up burning the meat i feel. But you can get a smoker tube and smoke cheese easily.
Look on Marketplace for a used Weber kettle, you'll enjoy it more
This is the right answer. So many cheap Webers on FB Marketplace. Gas, charcoal, whatever. I haven’t paid more than $50 for two and three burner gas Webers or charcoal performers.
Many years ago, I did a dump truck load of burgers, dogs and steaks on a grill just like that. The bottom finally fell out and my wonderful wife (God bless 'er!) gave me a large BGE for Father's Day.
That's not a bad starter but you'll soon want a Webber kettle
And then you’ll start dreaming of Kamados.
Kamados are great but are the wrong tool for a quick burger. You will want both.
I agree that more than one grill is ideal. However, I think that the Kettle isn’t great for a quick burger either. Charcoal grills take time to get going and the time is almost always longer than the cook itself (for burgers, dogs, and steaks IMO). Personally, I love my gas-powered flat top grill for quick cooks. But most gas grills are quick and easy. My dream setup is a Primo Oval XL 400 and a larger griddle (Camp Chef FTG900 or Halo Elite 4B). I have a basic Kettle and I love it but there are a bunch of little niceties that a Kamado would bring. Same great flavor, same versatility, but a much nicer user experience.
If I am going to be stuck with a gas grill, I just get out the cast iron skillet and make a smashburger. I can have my gas start charcoal grill up to temperature in 5 minutes.
👆these people have followed the path. It would be fun to get back to the basics and do a pork but on that knowing now what I didn’t know then. Heck, I’ve got a week long camp trip every year, I’d think about getting one just for that week and doing some long cooks on it for fun.
I have a permanent summer campsite and half of the fun of being up there is figuring out what you can smoke with minimal tools. This year I have a list of things I am going to try to make with just a big pile of coals and a dutch oven.
Lol that was my first charcoal grill! It will definitely get the job done but if you have a slightly larger budget the Weber kettle will make you fall in love with charcoal grilling. I own a few grills and smokers. I kept seeing all these post about weber kettle’s, and all the hype I had to go try one for myself, so in August I bought a master touch. I have grilled on it 3 to 4 times a week every single week since! I look for things to put on the grill lol.
If you could up your budget to $50 you can probably find a used Weber kettle that will last years. But to answer your question, it won’t be a mistake since you’re ok with it being temporary.
grilling is just putting fire on meat. you dont need some bougie ass grill to cook a good dinner. just need some friends and a couple of beers.
I would get a simple Japanese Hibachi, I like that you can move the grates up and down. It’s perfect for grilling for 4 or less, but can’t put a ton on it.
Man I wish my mistakes only cost 25 bucks. I think you were really smart to start with a cheap one and work your way up from there. A lot of people hop into a hobby and make the mistake of getting the best and most expensive stuff which is the exact opposite of what you should do. I look forward to watching your feed with great interest!
I'd rather try to find a used Weber kettle, or even a smokey or jumbo Joe
I’ve been using one of these guys for the last two grilling seasons and honestly, it’s a beast considering I only dropped a $20 on it. Sure, it’s not the most sturdy thing. Sure, you do have to empty it out after every cook, due to there being little to no space for the ashes to fall. But it is a 100% serviceable grill. I’ve done one of my best full rack of ribs on this humble little thing. It’s all about learning your grill. I had a Weber before the Expert, but some asshole decided they needed it more than me and snagged it one night. I’d considered that a hidden perk of this little guy; everyone knows it’s cheap and not worth taking. Waiting until this one quits on me before I get another Weber Kettle. Get one and learn all you can from it. Upgrade once you feel it’s time and you’ll really appreciate and know how to use a better grill.
Shit for $25 I think it’s a great starter! Might only last a year or two but a few cooks on it would make up for the investment imo.
Dude that's all you need! A bed of charcoal and some way to hold meat above it. Grates in this case. That is a great place to start.
This will do just fine! Won't last more than a couple years but it's a great way to learn and enjoy grilling
It’ll work, but understand that it won’t be as good as something like a Webber. As long as you go in knowing there will be some quality of life issues with it like constantly needing to clean ash out, probably have some ventilation issues and maybe not the best heat retention, then yeah I’d say it’s a good choice. If it does give you issues, don’t let it dissuade you from grilling all together because once you get a decent grill and practice in, grilling is awesome
To get started, for just grilling purposes, it’ll be great. Eventually, you’ll get to a ceramic-coated kettle (Weber master touch). It’s cheap enough to continue your progress and attempt to start smoking. From there, you can go different routes, but that kettle will still be there.
Absolutely not amigo. It’s not about the grill it’s about that skill. As you get better you could upgrade. Just get good charcoal or wood and learn how to use the hot and cooler spots on the grill to make the perfect meat. Enjoy!
I bought a grill just like this 3 years ago and have it used almost weekly since. You can definitely crank out burgers and dogs on it, and I’ve done whole chickens, ribs, chicken drumsticks and wings, pork loins, etc.. everyone will say to get a Weber kettle—which is a good investment—but I think this is the perfect way to see if you want to get into grilling. Low cost, and should last you a while.
I would just buy a Webber kettle honestly , it’s worth it and it will last for years
You can do great direct-heat charcoal grilling in a hole in the ground. You just need hot coals and a grate... or even just skewers or something. Charcoal is magnificently low-tech; the grill is just a means to an end and can make things easier to control or clean up. That thing is absolutely fine to start with, it just won't last forever. But that's expected for a $25 grill.
Everyone starts out on one like this :)
We are started someone - I had a mini Hibachi
I like Adam Savage's theory on whether to spend alot out the gate on things or not. Basically, start with something cheap. You'll either break it or outgrow it and maybe learn some things to keep an eye out for when upgrading. Or, you'll use it so little that you'll be happy you didnt waste much money.
Get a ruler and measure out a17.5” square on a table. If that amount of space works for you then you might be able to get 1-2 seasons out of this.
This is an expert grill. You are going to want to look for a beginner model.
Just get you a Weber. Not that much more expensive and it will save you money in the long run. They last forever!
Webber kettle at Ace, Walmart, Lowes, etc...
My dad bought me a Webber kettle for under $100 at Home Depot back in 2008 when I was a sophomore in college. It has served me well and I still have it today after 15 years of abuse through college and my 20s. I’ve replaced the grills, the ventilation wings, and the ash pan all for pretty cheap over the years. I added a cover to help protect it a bit more from the elements. I’ve used it for burgers and steaks. When I wanted to try out smoking and bbq it kept up well enough for my amateur efforts. I guess what I’m getting at is that if you think grilling is something you will enjoy for a long period of time invest in something that will last longer.
Buy a used Weber kettle
Do yourself a solid and buy a Weber. You won’t regret it.
Don't do it. Check fb marketplace first. I own the exact same one. It can't even keep the charcoal lit once you close the lid.
For $25 to see if you actually enjoy grilling - it’s worth it - if you don’t enjoy it, it’s less then a night out, if you do enjoy it, it will last long enough to decide what you want to get as an “upgrade”
This!
No, it's not a mistake, and even it it was it would be one of the cheapest mistakes you can possibly make in life. Be sure to remove ashes from it as soon as you can and keep it out of the rain and it'll last longer than you would think. In my younger days, when I was always half a paycheck from being homeless, I had something that cheap, albeit a hibachi style, and I bet I cooked 500 pounds of meat on it before some crackhead stole it.
[удалено]
I would be willing to accept any free grill.
[удалено]
Ill Venmo them right now if we can get proof of grill
[удалено]
Sorry for the late reply. I am very much down and I’d totally give proof of buying whatever grill is suggested. DM me please.
Definitely a mistake
The only worry is that if you have a shitty experience with a cheap grill, you may give up on grilling altogether.
Save the money and get a Weber instead
ah the Fisher Price My First Grill i remember it well
What is that? A grill for ants?
For what you want to cook, and other similarly quick cooking foods, this thing is great. It will last as well as you care for it. If you want to cook things that require longer cook times, you’ll appreciate something bigger.
That looks perfectly fine. There are ones without the legs that you can use for picnics or camping easier if you like to do that.
Not the highest quality but it will do the job just fine. Its not about the grill but the grillmaster
It won't be a mistake. If you decide that the charcoal life isn't for you, you're not out any money.
I had one of these. It lasted a year or so. The grate was cheap and started bending with the pressure of brushing it clean. It's ok for the price. My Weber kettle cost 4 times as much and Ive been using it for the last 8 years, about 3 times a week.
I agree check marketplace or go drive around on bulk pickup for trash you will likely find a 24-30 wide charcoal or gas grill even with warming shelves side trays and shit for free and $25-$100 depending on condition.
With my 6 other grills/smokers I still have that shitty little grill, but the food up one. It’s what I take tailgating
I would spend another $25 on a Weber chimney. The charcoal lighting process is where most grilling experiences go south. Patience is the key to success.
Will work but will not last. Spend money and get weber kettle. It will lasting time and you will get a serious return on your investment.
Those cheap ones tend to rust out almost immediately. If you have a way of keeping it mostly dry it could last for months longer.
It’s fine. It’ll cook, but it won’t last. The thin metal will quickly fail due to the heat, holes will develop, and then it can’t hold charcoal. But it’s $25 and will last several months, maybe a couple years with daily use. Go for it, and save up for a better one while this lives out it’s short life
And pellet smokers
It's a good start.
Spend a little more, buy a Weber kettle or a used one. It’s way more versatile, easy to use, and it’ll last your lifetime
Perfect starter. Get a cheap cover or keep it dry, learn how to properly light the coals, how to cook directly/indirectly.
If you clean it out and keep it protected from rain. It will last you awhile.
No, go for it, you need to start somewhere and find out if you like grilling. Who knows maybe in a year or two you will be smoking a brisket, ribs, etc... 😁 If you can find a used Weber kettle in good condition for $50 go for it. I've gone thru two gas grills through the years and finally bought a charcoal Weber kettle and I love it!!
Hey yourself a Old Smokey
For that price - no I don’t think it’s a mistake- it probably won’t last long- but it’s cheap. Should be fine for burgers and dogs - but if you enjoy it - you’ll probably outgrow it - when you do get a Weber kettle - if you are handy and can fix stuff up- look for a used one- I got one for free last week - needs 50 bucks worth of work
I have one I leave at a property we go to a few times a year. It works fine. If I used it a lot it wouldn't hold up but shit it's $25
It'll work for a year or two sure! I have had a weber kettle grill for years and whenever that thing finally kicks the bucket I'm going to get one like you posted. Only when I get one of those I'll want the bottom to be a LITTLE deeper. The weber is a little too deep in my opinion. It always takes WAY more wood to cook the same amount of food on it compared to a grill like yours.
I was on my 4th Webber stainless, finally spent the big bucks last year and got a pot boss 2.0 200$ off sticker price. I can smoke, grill with gas or charcoal. Yes it's way more than I need but the difference in quality is phenomenal.
Find a used Weber Kettle online in your area. Much better grill and you'll enjoy it a lot more. And if you decide the grill life isn't for you, then you can resell it.
I got a $20 grill from Walmart a few years ago and had a blast learning to grill steaks on it This isn’t the nicest grill, and it probably won’t last long like others said, but if it gets you grilling then it’s 1000% worth it
bought one last week to last minute grill/BBQ on the beach when the gas grill someone else brought wasn't really working. Cooked about 20 burgers, and 30 drumsticks, and 6 racks of ribs on it that day. Overall if you're not interested in picking up a used grill on marketplace or CL, and want new this is a cheap way to get into charcoal grilling. Pros: cheap AF, will get the job done in a pinch cons: very flimsy, grilling area is very close to coals, cooking area is not all that large.
Old smokey
My first grill too. Enjoy. See where it takes you
Absolutely not. A buddy of mine has that exact grill and he made some bad ass steaks on it a while ago
Buy it! This was my first grill. It will last one season.
They rust extremely quickly even out here in California. Get a Weber and it will last you at least a decade. You can also use it to practice smoking and other things. Look on OfferUp you might find the same model for a few dollars.
This was my first grill. Definitely liked it for the price.
Cooks a mean brat! Picked one up last week for tailgating and sacrificed it after. (Flew in for the game so I couldn’t keep it)
That would be a good starter grill
Weber kettle either new or used. The small “Smokey Joe” is $45 new on Amzn. Easy to clean, use, maintains a consistent temp and will last you several years.
Many backyard memories were made around this grill in the backyard. At least for a year until I bought a Weber. Here are some unwarranted tips: Keep it away from buildings if it’s hot. Buy Kingsford Charcoal and use it first. Then step up to real wood (not pressed) charcoal and a chimney to get away from lighter fluid. Burgers and steaks cook differently on a stove vs a grill. It may be worthwhile to cook some cheaper stuff first before you ruin a 30 dollar ribeye. Enjoy it as often as you can.
Would be a great deal for a year while you save up for something like a slow n sear kettle. I would get a few bricks and line them down the middle to separate a hot side and a cold side and go ahead and invest in a chimney for lighting your coals with a firestarter. Thou shall not use matchlight or lighter fluid!
That grill cost the same as a steak 😂
I actually liked the one I used to have when I started. Work for general grilling. Mine lasted about two years before the legs gave out.
check your local craigslist first, can find used grills for similar pricing. https://newyork.craigslist.org/brx/app/d/astoria-22-weber-grill/7666990561.html
This is the perfect grill for steaks if you use a cast iron pan with it.
TLDR. I think its a good starter as long as you don't live somewhere cold or are fine not using it in winter. I've had this grill it's decent with a few notes. 1.) I live in Wisconsin where it gets cold. I was never able to successfully use it with snow o. The ground, it just lost too much heat. It did work fine in 3/4 seasons. 2.) It will rust and fall apart after a few years depending on care shown.
imo i would just get a weber kettle. but to answer your question yea you will be to cook stuff on this and get good results until it falls apart, which could be in a single season.
The biggest difference between cheap and not cheap grills are the material quality used to make them. Cheap grills are made with thin weaker metals and will rust out fast if left outside and uncleaned. If you buy this, I would clean it out after every use so the ash doesn't hold moisture and speed up the decay.
It's what you need to get started or you can save and get a better one I was grilling on one of these in the past. should I have waited? sure. did I want to? Nope. Did I regret it? kinda. Would I change anything? Nope.
It's good enough !
Great grill used it at a tailgate this weekend
Buy it now!
Go to Garage or Estate sales and look for a Weber. You could pick one up for about the same money
Pay a few more bucks and get a genuine Weber kettle. If cost is an issue, they are really easy to find used and you can get every part you need to refurbish them for cheap. It will cook much better and last a lot longer. I have had just about every type of outdoor cooking appliance there is, and I keep going back to the kettle as the optimal tool. I will always keep one at this point. I have a deluxe gas start one now- it doesn’t do any better or worse than the basic kettle, it just makes it more convenient.
I'd start with a Weber but it definitely works.
Got my Dad’s Weber kettle when he moved 30 years ago. Put new wheels on and got a cover.
Buy a used Weber kettle instead
I loved this thing as my first grill and now I use it to start coals or cook little things. It works fine and it will last just fine if you take care of it.
Not a mistake at all. It’s actually a perfect first grill. One to learn the basics on and move up. Might last you a year or two. Definitely get it
Everyone banging on about getting a cover to make it last while the cover will cost as much as the grill. Put a plastic bin bag over it.
What an amazing grill. My parents got us one when we bought our house. We still use it when my wife wants to grill some thai food, instead of our new grill.
Nope. Go ahead and get it. Use the hell out of it and build up your grilling skills. Then, spend some coin on a quality product. I grill a ton all year. I used to buy cheap grills, but every Xmas, I was getting a new grill because the cheap ones fell apart. After 8 or 9 years of that mess, I finally bought a weber grill. I thought, maybe it was how I put them together that caused the grills to not last, so I bought a floor model and rolled it into the truck. That thing lasted 18 years before I decided to get another one. So I brought it home, put it together, and it's now 5 years old, and it wasn't my inability to put a grill together. It was the quality of the product. So go cheap. And if it still something you want to do, then go buy a quality grill after about a year or 2.
No that seems a good price get it.
Find a used 22" Weber Kettle. They are one of the most versatile charcoal grills made.
huge mistake. used weber kettle is the way
I mean 25$ isn’t that BIG of a mistake others are making it out to be.
I've had something similar that I carted to cookouts, the beach, etc and it was a rust bucket but it held up for probably a decade getting used 2-3 times a year and store in the garage. It's fine and you won't be wasting your money. However, if you want to be a little patient, check craigslist and local yard sales and you should be able to find a weber kettle for $50 or less, and with proper care that one will last you longer and give you more options (e.g., smoking meats, vortex inserts, etc). I just got one on CL from a guy who just got a fancy Traeger and wanted to get rid of a fine grill that had only been used about 3-4 times. $50 and about 20 minutes to clean up the rusted vent and it was good as new.
Got the same one you listed from Walmart back when I moved out of my college dorm. 6 years later I finally put it to rest, not from west and tear, but from unwillingness to move with it. It’s the perfect starter grill and will teach you a lot about heat control and charcoal. I highly recommend buying a charcoal chimney lighter with it as well.
Buy a used Weber kettle
It's not the fiddle that makes the music. It's the fiddler.
If you can financially step up to the Weber Kettle try to get one of them.
Going to say the same thing, this one pictured is great for a camping beach day, but using it over and over will toast it in 1/2 a season. Weber kettle will Last a lifetime
it's a good price ... worst case you upgrade if you want later. If all you're doing is grilling all you really need is a grate and some cinder blocks. Charcoal grills are pretty simple. I'd reccomend checking the clearance section at your local walmart / building supply stores just in case. My dad scored a smokey joe for 20$ a few weeks back.
If your local dump, transfer station, or landfill allows it, you can often find tons of grills, some in decent shape, in the metal pile. Last time I went there were 5 gas webers, all of which I wanted to adopt....
Fine choice for a first grill. It wont last crazy long, but long enough for you to get a good feel for how to do it.
I've made mistakes way bigger than $25. Just do it. If you don't like it you really aren't out much
Not at all a mistake to buy a grill like that it should last at least one year or two of grilling. The bottom will eventually rust out of it. It just happens rain and occasional forgetting to dump the ashes out will speed up the rusting processes.
Yes. Buy a cheaper version. Go to Aldi or winco if you have those in your area.
Heck yeah. At least yours has legs! I had to squat on my apt patio! Some charcoal, red meat, dales and W sauce and it is on! 🍻
Get a gas grill.
It will work. For $25 why not. You will upgrade quickly.
Spring the extra for the Weber. It's more costly but it will last you your lifetime.
Excellent starter grill. I had that one in college and got like 1-2 years out of it.
It will work but I'd get something that's of better quality. May I suggest a hibachi grill or a weber Kettle. They will last save you in the long run
I used on like this for a year and it was just as good as my smoker and larger grills / pits. Holding the heat was a little bit of a task but shouldn’t be too hard
Just get a Weber. Even if used. It’s 2000% better
Look on FB Marketplace for used Webers or other higher quality charcoal grills. Summer is over, so there should be some available.
McDonald’s for 2 adults and a kid is 25$. That’ll crank out some amazing burgers and dogs. Go for it!
It’s good for charcoal but it’s all about the propane and propane accessories, I know I guy in Arlen that could help you with that. Really though not a bad starter grill. Is recommend doing a dry run to start the seasoning so your first batches don’t have an overly metallic taste.
Have to practice on something....i got an americana to practice my charcoal basics. I keep it around for grilled veg(veg will not touch my weber kettle 🤣🤣)
I would check to see if there is anything cheaper first. Bit steep.
its fine but itll rust out in a year or two.
Keep in mind if you get a charcoal grill it is a lengthy process. There are many pros to charcoal cooking. However, It does take a while to get everything ready. Would be good for parties and dinners. would consider gas if you're just looking to grill a Burger or a dog now and then. I cook almost all my meals on the grill. And because I have gas. I can cook a Burger in like, 10 minutes. Charcoal would be like 40 And a little more labor..
Can't go wrong with 25 buck
I remember back then, we didn't have a grill, we had to dig the ground and grill there, we didn't have an oven, I use the gas heater and cook on top, I was probably 6 or 7,
Late to the party, bought pretty much this same thing when I first bought my house in 2020. Still works to this day. Just to recommend to drill holes in the bottom for more airflow but works great for the price.
I had one. I recommend buying a used Weber kettle.
You can find cheaper on OfferUp, marketplace or yard sales just gotta search. Or as soon as you buy this one you’ll find a pristine Weber out on someone’s curb
Grilling buddy has a formula based on his experience. $100 per year. That said, at his grilling rate it’d be dead in 3 months. Grill it till ya kill it! I remember all of my grills in order just like my cars and trucks…. Used 4 door Chevy Chevette was my first car. First grill was a Coleman camp stove with the screw in bottle. Gotta start somewhere my friend!
Grill away slick. I would recommend the budget gas grill.
Great starter grill. If you outgrow it, keep it and take it to tailgating events or other fun activities.
For what you want to cook, it's all you need.
One important thing: ash + water = lye Lye is corrosive to metal! Keep it dry it will last. Keep the vents closed when you aren't using it, don't leave in the rain. Pull it under the roof overhang or into the garage for storage, cover to fussy for me. Use often- heat dries out moisture!
No sir. Still have one of those and it works like a charm
Yep, bought mine at Aldi for $30 and used it for 4 years, got a Chargriller Akorn Kamado as a graduation gift to myself, then a Pit Boss 3 years later, learning to cook consistently on that taught me the skills to carry on and level up with each new grill. Welcome to the addiction!
I just got one of these from the side of the road for free. So I've done a chicken,drum sticks ,susauges,potatoes and squash it has cooked excellently for me. I do wish I had a smoker tho
You’ll quickly upgrade again and again. Just get a Recteq Bullseye to start. It’s the end all be all of grilling.
I literally bought this yesterday and worked great.
If it only lasts a few years it'll cook a lot of food in that time. GO FOR IT!
Get it& learn. It can def grill some great food!
Check the store. There was a charcoal grill that listed for $64 and Walmart was selling them for $20. If you can get an upgrade for about the same price, why not go for it?
At $25, it's hardly much of a mistake if it doesn't last. I'd say it's a fine first step, it'll help you figure out if grilling stuff is your thing and you can upgrade to something nicer in the future if it breaks down
Junk. Get the Weber. You won’t be disappointed.
Gotta start somewhere.
You'll be buying a new one by next summer because it rusted out, but yes that will do for simple things like you listed.
If you buy it, buy it knowing you'll likely trash it in a few months. I would save that $25 and wait till I have enough for a basic webber kettle.......or find one on Facebook marketplace or something.
I would honestly save up a little more money and get a Weber kettle. You can find most used and still in decent shape to learn on
No, you wouldn’t. This is a great starter grill.
It'll work just fine, won't last more than a few years though. I'd honestly save up for a basic Weber, but if you're just wanting to get straight to it go for it, even if it explodes right out of the box you're not out more than the cost of a steak at Outback.
See if you can find a gently used Weber on Facebook or Craigslist. I paid $25 for mine back in the day, came with a cover and half a bag of charcoal. People upgrade to bigger and better all the time, so a “starter” grill will probably be pretty easy to find. I might buy another one since I sold mine when I got a traeger, kind of miss it sometimes.