Explore Flamaker Charcoal Grill Review: Is It the Best Outdoor BBQ Option?

Description

Durability

The Flamaker Charcoal Grill (model number 23CG100) is built with a solid iron barrel and a painted finish that’s designed to resist corrosion and wear. While it performed admirably during my backyard cookouts, I noticed that the ash pan started showing signs of rust after just a couple of uses — even though I had stored it with a cover. To prevent further oxidation, I took some advice from other users and seasoned it with vegetable oil. It took some elbow grease, but it gave me a little peace of mind about its longevity. The wheels, however, fell short of expectations. They felt flimsy when moving the grill, especially over uneven surfaces, which made portability less convenient than I’d hoped.

Grilling Performance

Grilling on this unit was a joy, for the most part. The double-layer grill design is a standout feature, with the upper layer rotating for keeping food warm while the lower layer handles the main cooking. It can fit up to 20 patties at once, which is perfect for hosting a small gathering. I tested it with both burgers and ribs, and the results were mouthwatering. The airflow control allowed me to experiment with both direct and indirect heat, and the chrome-plated grates distributed the heat evenly. However, I had to keep a close eye on the grill as the vents required frequent adjustments to maintain a consistent temperature.

Features

This charcoal grill comes loaded with thoughtful features. The thermometer, built into the lid, provided real-time feedback on the cooking temperature, which was a lifesaver when I tried my hand at smoking a brisket. The ash catcher system was another highlight. Unlike open ash basins that can scatter ash everywhere, this one seals tightly with a handle, making clean-up far less messy. The adjustable air vents were effective in controlling heat levels, though they could be a bit finicky when the wind picked up. The side shelves and bottom rack combined to offer over 600 square inches of storage space, which came in handy for utensils and extra charcoal.

Cleaning

I’ll admit, cleaning this grill is a mixed bag. On one hand, the ash catcher simplifies the process significantly. I didn’t have to deal with ash flying around when emptying it, which was a pleasant change. However, the grates required a fair amount of scrubbing to get rid of the charred remains. A wire brush and some elbow grease were essential tools in my arsenal. If you’re someone who dreads cleaning up after a barbecue, be prepared to put in a bit of effort here.

Portability & Storage

Moving this grill around proved to be a bit of a challenge. While the 6-inch wheels seem sturdy at first glance, they struggled to roll smoothly over grass and uneven surfaces. It’s best suited for patios or decks where the terrain is flat. On the plus side, this grill doesn’t take up too much room when not in use. The side shelves fold down easily, making storage relatively compact for its size.

Temperature Control

Managing the heat on this grill was a learning curve but ultimately rewarding. The four 6-hole dampers, along with the additional damper on the ash collector, allowed precise control over airflow and temperature. I found that adjusting them in tandem can create an ideal cooking environment, whether you’re searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs. The built-in thermometer was accurate enough to keep me informed, though I did cross-check it with a digital thermometer just to be sure.

Warranty

Flamaker provides a warranty with this grill, but the details aren’t as straightforward as I’d like. It’s always a good idea to register the product and keep your receipt handy in case you need to make a claim. Customer service seemed responsive from the reviews I read, though thankfully, I haven’t had to reach out personally.

Highlights

• The double-layer grilling system is versatile and efficient.
• Built-in thermometer makes monitoring temperature easy.
• Ash catcher keeps cleanup manageable and less messy.
• Adjustable vents allow for precise temperature control.

Weaknesses

• Wheels feel flimsy and struggle over uneven surfaces.
• Ash pan showed signs of rust after limited use.
• Grates require significant scrubbing to maintain cleanliness.

Competing Brands

Compared to other popular barrel-style grills like Weber’s charcoal models, Flamaker’s grill offers more storage space and a unique ash-catching system. However, when it comes to durability, Weber grills often edge ahead with better rust resistance and sturdier wheels. On the flip side, Flamaker provides better value for those on a budget, especially considering its double-layer grilling surface. Models like the Char-Griller also pose competition, featuring a similar design but with thicker metal construction for improved heat retention. While Flamaker holds its own in versatility, it could benefit from sturdier materials to truly rival these brands.

Price Worthiness

Given the features, I’d say this grill offers reasonable bang for the buck. It’s not the most premium option out there, but it performs well for its price range. If you’re looking for a functional charcoal grill that doesn’t break the bank, this is a solid contender. However, you might need to invest in some maintenance tools and possibly a cover to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

Additional information