Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22-Inch Black detailed review

Description

A Classic Charcoal Grill with a Modern Twist

Testing the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black has been a delightful experience for me as someone who loves outdoor cooking. The timeless design of this kettle grill immediately caught my attention. It’s simple yet elegant, with a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that not only retain heat efficiently but also resist rust and peeling. While it may look like a throwback to classic grills, its modern upgrades make it stand out in today’s market.

Merits

The grill offers several winning points that make it a joy to use:

• Hinged cooking grate: This feature is a lifesaver when grilling for long hours. I could easily add more charcoal without disturbing the food.
• One-Touch cleaning system: Cleaning up after a cookout can be a nightmare, but the high-capacity ash catcher made it effortless to dispose of ash.
• Built-in lid thermometer: This addition helped me maintain the perfect temperature for grilling steaks and burgers.
• Heat shield: The glass-reinforced nylon handle stayed cool to the touch, which was a fantastic safety feature.
• Spacious cooking area: The grill held up to 13 burgers, which was perfect when I hosted a small gathering.

The charcoal-powered setup gave my food a rich, smoky flavor that I simply couldn’t replicate with gas grills. For me, that’s the essence of grilling.

Room for Improvement

While testing the grill, I noticed a few flaws that could be addressed:

• Assembly required: Putting the grill together was a bit tricky without help, and the instructions could have been clearer.
• Lack of portability: At 32.3 pounds, moving the grill around wasn’t as easy as I’d hoped, especially on uneven terrain.
• Single cooking rack: While sufficient for most tasks, having an extra rack would have expanded its versatility.

These issues didn’t ruin the experience, but they are worth considering if you’re particular about convenience.

A Versatile Design for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The design of this grill is both functional and stylish. Its rust-resistant finish ensures durability, even when left outdoors. I appreciated the lid hook, which kept the lid off the ground while grilling—a small but thoughtful feature. The 22-inch cooking surface offered ample room, and the porcelain material retained heat exceptionally well. The grill isn’t just a cooking tool; it’s a centerpiece for outdoor gatherings.

Performance That Delivers Every Time

When it comes to performance, this grill is a powerhouse. The superior heat retention ensured even cooking, whether I was grilling brats or slow-cooking ribs. The 8000 BTU heating power may sound modest compared to gas grills, but the flavor it delivers is unmatched. The hinged grate made it easy to add wood chips for an extra smoky flavor, elevating the taste of my meals.

Product Competitors

Comparing this product to other charcoal grills, it holds its own against brands like Char-Broil and Royal Gourmet. The Weber grill’s high-capacity ash catcher and built-in thermometer give it a clear edge over more basic models. However, some competitors offer additional features like foldable side shelves or wheels for better portability. If those are priorities for you, this grill might seem limited. But for sheer grilling performance and ease of use, it’s hard to beat.

Quality for Price

Considering its features and the 10-year limited warranty, this grill offers excellent quality for price. Competitors in the same price range often lack the thoughtful design elements this grill incorporates, like the One-Touch cleaning system and porcelain-enameled bowl. While it might not be the cheapest option, the durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious grillers.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend warrior, this charcoal grill delivers on its promise of great flavor and reliable performance. It’s not perfect, but its upsides far outweigh the minor flaws. If you value classic design with modern conveniences, this grill is a solid choice.

Additional information