Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill review for outdoor enthusiasts

Description

Portable Design for Grilling on the Go

The Char-Griller E1816 King-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill truly lives up to its “portable” promise. As someone who’s constantly on the move, I can’t stress enough how much I appreciate the folding cart design. It’s ridiculously easy to fold and transport, whether I’m heading to a tailgate party, a camping trip, or just grilling in the backyard. The large wheels and integrated handle on the side shelf make it feel like I’m just wheeling around a small suitcase rather than a full charcoal grill. It’s lighter than you’d expect for something this sturdy, weighing in at around 39.6 pounds, which is manageable for most people.

Cooking Surface and Heat Retention

Let’s talk about the grill’s performance. The 320 square inches of cooking space is more than enough for my typical weekend BBQs. I’ve comfortably cooked burgers, chicken, and even some veggies all at once without feeling cramped. The cast iron cooking grates are a standout feature. They retain heat incredibly well and give the food that classic charred flavor you just can’t get with some other grills. Plus, the stainless steel thermometer on the lid is surprisingly accurate, making it easy to maintain the ideal cooking temperature.

Convenient Features

One of the highlights of this grill is the Easy Dump Ash Pan. Cleaning up after a grilling session can be a nightmare, but with this feature, I just slide out the pan and dump the ashes without any hassle. It’s such a simple addition, yet it makes a world of difference. The side shelf is another feature I didn’t realize I needed until I had it. It’s perfect for holding tools, seasoning, or even a plate of food. The built-in hooks for BBQ tools are a nice touch, keeping everything within arm’s reach.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality is impressive for something in this price range. The stainless steel frame and handles give it a robust feel, and the painted finish has held up well against the elements so far. I’ve left it outside a couple of times (oops), and it hasn’t shown any signs of rust or wear. That said, it does require some assembly, which wasn’t too difficult, but it’s worth noting if you’re not a fan of putting things together.

Key Benefits

• Portable design with folding cart and large wheels for easy transport.
• 320 sq. in. cooking area, ideal for small to medium gatherings.
• Cast iron grates for excellent heat retention and flavor enhancement.
• Easy Dump Ash Pan and side shelf for convenient use and cleanup.

Areas for Improvement

While I’m generally satisfied with this grill, a few things could be better:

• The lid doesn’t seal perfectly, which can cause some heat loss during cooking.
• Assembly instructions could be clearer; it took me longer than expected to put it together.
• The cooking surface area is great for a small family but might feel limiting for larger gatherings.

Competing Products

In the world of portable charcoal grills, there are a few rivals worth mentioning. The Weber Smokey Joe is a popular alternative, and while it’s more compact, it doesn’t offer the same cooking area or features like the ash pan and thermometer. Then there’s the Cuisinart CCG-190, which is lighter and even more portable, but its build quality doesn’t come close to this one. The Char-Griller Gambler strikes a great balance between portability and functionality, which gives it an edge over many competitors.

Value for Money

If you’re looking for a cost-effective charcoal grill that doesn’t skimp on features, this one is hard to beat. The combination of portability, cooking performance, and ease of use makes it a solid investment. Sure, you might find cheaper options, but they often lack the durability or thoughtful design elements like the side shelf and tool hooks. This grill feels like it’s built to last, and that’s worth paying a little extra for.

From my experience, this product is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves grilling but doesn’t want the hassle of a bulky or hard-to-transport setup. While it’s not perfect, the pros far outweigh the cons, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned grill masters and casual cooks alike. Whether it’s a weekend BBQ or a last-minute camping trip, this grill has proven to be a dependable companion.

Additional information