The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker was first introduced for the 1981 model year, so most of the oldest cookers have a C code. A few have a B code, indicating they were manufactured in 1980 in the run-up to the 1981 introduction. There are also a few smokers that have no date code; it’s assumed these smokers are the result of manufacturing errors or they may be pre-production models. To boot, the app boasts scores of recipes to keep your menu fresh and your family excited about trying new foods. And with a lifetime warranty, you can worry less about rust or how it holds up to the elements. Gas-assisted charcoal grills are usually fueled by a small screw-on propane tank.
And I travel the country cooking in over 20 competition barbecue and World Steak Cookoff contests each year as Killer Hogs barbecue team. Because the grill became so successful after he began selling it in 1952, Stephen formed the barbecue division of the Weber Brothers factory. In the late 1950s, Stephen bought out the Weber Brothers factory and became the sole owner, devoting all his professional time to manufacturing and selling the Weber kettle. Soon thereafter, Stephen changed the company’s name to Weber-Stephen Products Co. Turn your grill into a rotisserie with this $180 rotating spit from Weber. The electric motor keeps the chicken constantly turning for an evenly crispy and juicy piece of meat.
After a handful of cookouts over the last few weeks, there were two clear winners. The Kamado grills from Kamado Joe come in an array of sizes from 13 inches in diameter to 24. They include a tiered cooking system and stainless steel grates. A pizza tray and rotisserie spit can also be bought for most models, a feature that sets them apart from most competitors.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22″ is our pick as the best charcoal grill for most people. In our tests it outperformed the other grills in cooking, ease of assembly, and user-friendly details. We got good results in one or another respect with the other models, but they didn’t perform consistently great on everything the way the Weber did. It’s weber charcoal grill compact yet big enough to cook an entire elaborate meal for a family, a simple spread for a party, or even a whole Thanksgiving turkey. Weber introduced the first kettle grill nearly 70 years ago. Over the years the company has continued to improve upon that original design, which is why, today, one of its bestselling grills is still its 22-inch kettle grill.
Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel… Although Weber has other 22 and 26 inch grills in its lineup, the Kettle Premium line is the only one that includes both options. Because we’re looking to perform a side-by-side comparison of the two, these are the ones we’ll be reviewing. This grill comes standard with the enclosed ash removal system and side lid holder which are the two most essential upgrades for any kettle.
Get easy-to-follow, delicious recipes delivered right to your inbox. The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22” Charcoal Grill is a classic backyard cooker that’s inexpensive, versatile, and nearly impossible to break. Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about ourreview process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.