Should you buy the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill? Read this detailed review!

Description

Grilling Performance

Using the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill (item model number 1500763) has been an experience that genuinely surprised me. For something so compact, it packs a serious punch in terms of grilling performance. The 160-square-inch cooking area may seem modest, but it accommodates a good amount of food—perfect for a small gathering or a cozy barbecue night with family. I tested it on everything from burgers and hot dogs to chicken thighs, and the results were consistently impressive. The heat distribution was even, leaving those beautiful grill marks that make your BBQ food Instagram-worthy.

One feature I particularly appreciated was the char-rail insert, which lets you arrange coals for indirect cooking. I attempted a slow-cooked rack of ribs, and the results were mouthwatering. The grill retained heat well for a compact unit, and the adjustable vents allowed me to control the temperature effectively. However, I noticed that it takes some trial and error to perfect the coal arrangement. For beginners, this might be a bit of a learning curve.

Cleaning

Anyone who grills regularly knows that cleaning is the least glamorous part of the process. With this grill, though, it’s relatively manageable. The Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill’s two-piece cooking grate design makes it easier to lift out and clean. After a session of grilling marinated chicken, I found that a simple wire brush did the trick for the grates.

That said, the ash collection could be better. Since it doesn’t have an ash catcher, I had to shake and scrape the ashes out manually—a bit of a hassle if you’re grilling in a park or on a campsite where cleaning tools might not be readily available. If you’re someone who values convenience, you might find this aspect a little annoying.

Portability & Storage

As someone who frequently takes road trips and loves impromptu picnics, I found the portability of this grill to be one of its standout traits. Weighing in at just 14 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry without breaking a sweat. The rectangular design is not just practical but also surprisingly efficient for packing into the trunk of my car alongside a cooler and other gear. I even took it on a camping trip with my friends, and it fit snugly in the backseat without taking up much space.

Storage is also a breeze. Its compact size means it can easily be tucked away in a garage or even a closet when not in use. The foldable legs that double as lid locks are a clever touch, ensuring nothing rattles around during transport.

Durability

The Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill feels robust despite its lightweight build. It’s made of metal with a painted finish, and the overall design feels solid enough to endure frequent use. I’ve used it multiple times over the past few months, and there’s no sign of wear or rust. The handle material, made of sturdy plastic, stayed cool to the touch during cooking, which was a thoughtful detail.

However, the painted finish might not hold up perfectly under harsh weather conditions if left outdoors for extended periods. I’d recommend storing it in a dry space when not in use to extend its lifespan.

Features

This grill doesn’t bombard you with unnecessary bells and whistles, but the features it does offer are well-thought-out. The 2-piece cooking grate design is not just for easier cleaning; it also allows you to add more charcoal mid-cook without removing all the food. I tested this when making a batch of grilled vegetables and needed to extend the heat, and it worked seamlessly.

Another feature that stood out was the efficient rectangular design. Unlike round grills, this shape optimizes the cooking area, making it easier to position food and coals. The adjustable vents were another handy addition, letting me tweak the airflow for precise temperature control.

Warranty

This product comes with a 10-year limited warranty, which speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability. While I haven’t had any issues requiring me to test the warranty, it’s reassuring to know that it’s there. I’ve seen some reviews where people mentioned Weber’s customer service being responsive and helpful, which adds another layer of trust to the purchase.

Temperature Control

One of the things I loved about this charcoal grill is how much control it gives you over the heat. The adjustable air vents, positioned on both the lid and the base, allow for precise regulation of airflow. During one of my test sessions, I managed to maintain a steady temperature for nearly two hours, which is impressive for a grill of this size.

I did experiment with searing steaks at high heat and then lowering the temperature for slower cooking. While it worked well, I noticed that the vents could be a bit stiff initially, but they loosened up after a few uses.

Ease of Use

Setting up this grill was straightforward. With some basic assembly required, I had it ready to go in under 15 minutes. The user manual included in the package is clear and easy to follow, which was a big help. Even for someone like my cousin, who’s a first-time griller, the process was simple enough to understand.

Lighting the charcoal was also pretty hassle-free. I used a chimney starter, and the coals were ready in no time. Once hot, the grill was ready to use, and the lightweight lid made it easy to check on food without disrupting the cooking process too much.

Strong Points

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel or small spaces.
• Even heat distribution for excellent grilling results.
• Adjustable vents for precise temperature control.
• Two-piece cooking grate for easy mid-cook charcoal refills.

Deficiencies

• Lack of an ash catcher makes cleaning a bit cumbersome.
• Painted finish may require extra care to prevent chipping.

Rival Brands

When compared to other portable charcoal grills like the Cuisinart CCG190RB or the Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill, this model holds its ground well. The Cuisinart is slightly cheaper but lacks the sturdy build and heat retention of the Weber Go-Anywhere. On the other hand, the Lodge Sportsman’s Grill excels in heat retention due to its cast iron build, but it’s significantly heavier and less portable.

In terms of portability and grilling performance, the Weber Go-Anywhere strikes a balance that neither of these competitors can fully achieve. If lightweight convenience and versatility are your priorities, this grill is a clear winner.

Cost-Effectiveness

Considering the features and build quality, this grill offers excellent cost-effectiveness. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the durability and performance justify the price. It feels like a product designed to last, making it a smart investment for regular grillers. If you’re someone who values quality over gimmicks, this grill offers great bang for your buck.

Additional information