I purchased an 18 inch in December because my local Ace was going out of business. I thought it was a good deal but it really wasnt. Think I paid 92 dollars for the basic 18. I read these Kettles were amazing but never did any research. Now that I know the next tier kettles have the enclosed ash tray and are bigger, I would have paid more.
I had to drill a whole and add thermometer, purchased a metal bucket to catch the ash that I have to get rid of once it cools down so rain don’t get inside and harden left over ash.
I’m coming from years of gas grilling and for sure the food taste so much better lol. I just wish I had all the better features from the start with a bit more room. Family of 5 and have lots of cookouts in the summer. Should I get a second 22 inch or just get a Weber gas grill?
by DonJulio732
12 Comments
Fam of 5 here also. I have and love my 22. My next purchase will be a used 26” when I find one. But I bet with a 26” you will get the space and still use your 18 when needed.
Yes, but look for used on FB marketplace. If you are lucky, you can get a cheap Weber 22″ Performer (Ash catcher and cart).
I do recommend a second chimney of the same size, stack one on top to create a stack effect. Speed up how quickly your coals are ready.
I’d look toward a 26 if you have the ability.
Yep
Look on marketplace or Craigslist I got my 22” for 20 bucks it’s in decent condition
Fam of 5 deserves a 26. 🙂 It’s more convenient being able to cook for more people at once on a bigger grill than having to cook twice on a smaller grill or 2 smaller grills in my opinion. Plus with a 26, you have the option of cooking less. It doesn’t really use up that much more charcoal than a 22. I think you’d use more charcoal on 2 smaller grills.
Buy a new 26″ if you can. I have a 26″ kettle and a 3 burner Genesis that I got off marketplace for $200. I love having both. The 26″ is very versatile and the Genesis is convenient.
The better question is why wouldn’t you get a 2nd kettle.
I prefer the 22-inch, but keep the 18 for overflow. I have two 22s and one 18. I usually only use one 22 but sometimes need a second, and occasionally a third, depending mostly on the cook temperature and timing of the various foods I’m cooking, not on food volume. Enjoy the flavor.
I did the same thing. Got an 18” at Target for 75% off, or $35. It’s been a great intro to the method, and I’ve actually done some amazing slow smokes on it. But if I come across a used or clearance mastertouch I’ll snag it and sell the 18. I actually spotted the copper color 22” at Lowe’s on clearance for $95, but I offered it to a friend who needed it. Hopefully the grill karma comes back around for me again. 🙂
Sounds like you’re using the lid thermometer? I’d suggest investing in a $30-$40 dual probe thermometer. One for the grates and one for your meat. Much more useful information.
the answer is always YES
You can never have enough kettles! 😀