We considered how simple (or not) it was to empty the ash catch and wipe out the kettle, as well as clean the grates. It includes a cart with a work table, a charcoal storage bin, and a sensible lid-holding rack. The grate has a removable center, meant for adding a pizza stone or other Weber cooking accessories. While beginners may look for a more basic model, we’d argue that the Performer’s features make it approachable for grillers of all levels.
But our recent gas grill testing proved Weber is a powerhouse in that department, too (four out of six of our winners in our gas grill test were Webers). If you’re looking to buy on a budget, and/or favor a smoky flavor and scent while grilling, consider Weber’s charcoal grill options. If efficiency is on your list of grilling must-haves, consider a gas grill, which takes less time to heat up. The lack of a simple lid hook feels like a design oversight and removing and replacing the ash catcher isn’t as smooth as it should be because the damper handle gets caught on the legs. There’s no function for pushing the ashes into the catcher, either, so it has to be done manually with a grill brush or other tool.
It performed on par with competitors in smoke flavor in our long-smoke tests. It didn’t fare as well in our searing tests, leaving burgers weber charcoal grill looking more pan-seared than grilled. In the end, these issues were minor, as the E-325s topped our list of the best gas grills.
An automatic propane start makes this an ideal grill for beginners—you don’t need to master the use of a chimney to get the fire started. Although our testers found it a little awkward to put together without a second person, it’s a sturdy, well-built grill that you’ll feel confident about using once it is fully assembled. weber bbq With four smooth-rolling wheels that lock into place, it’s easy to maneuver around your patio or yard. The overall shape and size of the kettle are ideal for smoking larger cuts of meat, making this a hybrid model that truly excels in all arenas (smoking and searing, but also roasting and steaming, too).
For most items under 150 pounds the standard free shipping option will be parcel (FedEx, UPS, USPS, etc). Having this flexibility allows us to provide the quickest turnaround to process and ship your order. If your order arrives damaged, please be sure to take pictures and provide those to us in order to help us provide proper reparations. From 1999 to 2001 there was a period of tremendous growth for the business. Several additional product lines were added and delivery/setup services were expanded. Conveniently slide the lid over to the side of the grill, and tuck it away, to avoid placing it on the ground while grilling.
That said, charcoal (especially in briquette form) produces a lot more ash than hardwood. And if you plan to cook low and slow we suggest adding a few chunks of hardwood to your charcoal pile. This brings about more smoke flavor in barbecue meat like pork ribs, pork butt and beef brisket.