Does the Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Charcoal Grill Deliver Quality? A Detailed Review

Description

Ease of Use

Setting up the Oklahoma Joe’s® Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill – 19402088 was a surprisingly smooth experience. I’m not someone who enjoys deciphering overly complex instructions, so I appreciated the straightforward assembly guide included in the box. Even my neighbor, who came over to help, was impressed by how intuitive the process was. The components fit together well, and the sturdy design became apparent right from the get-go. The side handles, while snug, were manageable with a bit of patience and a screwdriver. Once assembled, using the grill was a breeze. The adjustable charcoal tray makes it simple to control the heat level, even for a newbie like my brother, who was using it for the first time during a family BBQ.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill isn’t something I dread, which is rare for a charcoal grill. The removable ash pan is a game-changer. After a big grilling session of burgers and ribs, I simply pulled out the ash pan, dumped the remnants, and gave it a quick rinse. Even when I accidentally overfilled the charcoal tray, the design ensured that cleanup remained easy. My kids, who usually run away when chores are being assigned, didn’t mind helping with this part because it was so quick. I also added a Teflon oven liner to the ash pan as another reviewer suggested, and it made cleaning up grease and ash even simpler.

Grilling Performance

This grill brings the heat—literally. From steaks to veggies, everything cooks evenly on the cast-iron grates, which retain heat like a champ. I tested it with some thick-cut ribeyes, and the sear marks were restaurant-quality. The 218-square-inch cooking area is ideal for my family of four, although I wouldn’t recommend it for larger gatherings unless you plan on cooking in batches. My coworker borrowed it for a camping trip and managed to grill up to six burgers at once without overcrowding. The adjustable charcoal tray lets you fine-tune the distance between the coals and the grates, which is fantastic for different types of cooking.

Features

The features on this tabletop charcoal grill are well thought out. The adjustable charcoal tray is my favorite; it allows you to control the temperature by raising or lowering the coals. Then there’s the lid-mounted temperature gauge, which is large, easy to read, and even has glow-in-the-dark accents for nighttime grilling. The intake dampers work efficiently to control airflow, so you can master both low and slow cooking or high-heat grilling. And the cast-iron grates? They’re heavy-duty and perfect for retaining heat while leaving beautiful grill marks on your food. Finally, the side handles make it easy to move the grill around, though at 48.5 pounds, it’s not something you’d want to lug around too often.

Durability

The heavy-duty steel construction gives this grill an edge in durability. I’ve used it multiple times over the past few months, and it still looks and feels as solid as the day I got it. The high-temperature finish prevents rust, which is a blessing for someone like me who occasionally forgets to cover the grill after use. A friend of mine, who’s had the same model for over a year, swears by its long-lasting quality. The cast-iron grates, although requiring seasoning and care, are incredibly robust and show no signs of wear despite repeated high-heat cooking.

Portability & Storage

While the Rambler is marketed as a portable grill, it’s worth noting that it’s not the lightest option out there. At nearly 50 pounds, it’s more of a “set it up and leave it there” kind of portable. That being said, the compact design means it fits easily in the trunk of my car for camping trips. The sturdy side handles make lifting manageable, though you might want a second pair of hands if you’re carrying it a longer distance. Storage-wise, it doesn’t take up much room, and the lid locks securely, so you don’t have to worry about ash or charcoal spilling out during transport.

Temperature Control

Controlling the temperature on this grill is a breeze, thanks to the adjustable charcoal tray and dampers. I tested it with a variety of foods, from slow-cooked pork shoulder to quick-seared salmon fillets, and was able to maintain steady temperatures throughout. The lid-mounted temperature gauge is accurate, which takes the guesswork out of grilling. I also experimented with indirect heat by arranging the coals to one side, and the results were fantastic—a perfectly smoked chicken that had my family asking for seconds.

Warranty

The two-year warranty on the grates, lid, and other parts is a reassuring feature. I haven’t had to use it yet, but knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their product gives me peace of mind. My cousin, who is notoriously hard on his grilling equipment, did have a minor issue with the ash pan on his unit, and customer service was quick to send him a replacement part. That level of support makes the investment feel worthwhile.

Strong Points

• The cast-iron grates deliver excellent heat retention and cooking performance.
• Adjustable charcoal tray offers precise temperature control for various cooking styles.
• Durable steel construction with a high-temperature finish resists rust over time.
• Removable ash pan simplifies cleanup, making post-grill maintenance hassle-free.

Areas for Improvement

• At 48.5 pounds, it’s not the most lightweight option for a portable grill.
• A gasket or seal around the lid would help minimize smoke and heat escape.
• The lack of a dedicated grease management system means fats collect in the ash pan.

Competitive Options

Compared to other compact charcoal grills like the Weber Go-Anywhere or the Cuisinart CCG-190RB, this unit stands out for its build quality and cooking performance. The cast-iron grates are a significant upgrade over the thin wire grates found on many competing models. However, Weber’s portability might appeal to those who prioritize lightweight designs. On the other hand, the Rambler offers superior heat control and durability, making it a better long-term investment for serious grillers.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Rambler isn’t the cheapest tabletop grill out there, but its features and build quality justify the price. I see it as a solid investment for anyone who values durability and performance over saving a few bucks. I’ve spent less on grills in the past, only to have them rust out or fall apart after a season or two. With this model, I feel like I’m getting excellent value for my money, and based on its performance so far, I expect it to last for many years.

Additional information