BTG Gear BTGBBQ-1500 propane grill review portable stainless steel BBQ for camping

Description

Built for Adventure: Design and Portability

Testing the Tailwaves Marine Grill BTGBBQ-1500, I immediately noticed its sleek stainless steel construction. This isn’t just for looks—it’s marine-grade stainless steel, designed to handle salty air, road trips, and even rough outdoor camping conditions. The fold-away legs and carrying handle make it surprisingly easy to pack and move. Whether you’re tossing it in the back of a car for a tailgate or securing it to a boat’s rod holder, this grill feels like it’s built for mobility and convenience.

What stood out during my use was the rod holder mount. It’s a clever addition for those who love grilling on their boats. The grill easily attaches to 15, 30, or 90-degree rod holders, keeping it stable even when the waves are less than forgiving. The setup process was straightforward, though you’ll need to assemble some parts, which took me about 15 minutes. All in all, it nails the balance between portability and durability.

Grilling Performance and Heat Control

Grilling with this unit was more than satisfying. The 12,000 BTU burner packs a punch, heating up quickly and evenly. I grilled everything from burgers to thick steaks, and the results were consistently impressive. The 196 square inches of grilling space felt spacious for its size, comfortably fitting multiple items at once. Given its compact nature, I didn’t expect such a generous cooking surface.

The built-in thermometer was a game-changer. It allowed me to keep the temperature just right without constantly guessing or lifting the lid. Combined with the adjustable burner, it ensured that my food was cooked to perfection. Even on windy days, the push-start ignition worked effortlessly, which I found to be a blessing compared to some grills that struggle in the elements.

Positives

• Portable design with foldable legs and a carrying handle for easy transport.
• Marine-grade stainless steel resists corrosion in harsh environments.
• Versatile mounting options, including compatibility with rod holders.
• Generous grilling area of 196 square inches for a compact grill.
• Efficient 12,000 BTU burner with a built-in thermometer for precise cooking.

Weaknesses

• The grill requires assembly, which might be tedious for some users.
• No included storage bag for extra portability or protection.
• While sturdy, the rod mount may not fit all boat setups perfectly.

Cooking Versatility and Features

I tested a variety of meals on this grill, and its versatility really shone through. The adjustable burner allowed me to sear steaks at high heat while also maintaining a steady, lower temperature for delicate items like fish. The push-start ignition worked like a charm, making startup frustration-free, even in breezy outdoor conditions.

One of my favorite features is the fold-away legs, which transform it into a tabletop grill when needed. Whether I placed it on the sand during a beach cookout or on a picnic table at a campsite, it felt stable. The polished finish adds a touch of refinement, making it look as good as it performs.

Competing Brands

Comparing the Tailwaves Marine Grill to similar propane grills, I found it holds its own in many ways. For instance, the Weber Q1200 offers comparable grilling power but lacks the rod holder mount, which makes the Tailwaves a better choice for boaters. Another competitor, the Cuisinart CGG-180T, is lightweight and portable but doesn’t match the marine-grade durability offered here.

While some grills in this category provide additional features like side tables or storage compartments, they often sacrifice portability. The Tailwaves Grill strikes a perfect balance between being compact and functional, especially for those who value an adventure-ready design.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the quality and features packed into this grill, I’d say it delivers excellent value for money. Its stainless steel build, powerful burner, and versatile mounting options justify the investment. It’s particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable, portable grill that doesn’t compromise on performance.

While there are cheaper options on the market, few can match the durability and adaptability of this grill. If you’re someone who camps, tailgates, or spends weekends on the water, this is a worthy addition to your gear.

Additional information