Uncover the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill Review: Is It Worth It?

Description

Grilling Performance

Using the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill has been an absolute delight. I fired it up for a weekend barbecue with my family, and the results were impressive. The grill distributes heat evenly across its 363 square inches of cooking space, which allowed me to sear steaks perfectly on one side while grilling vegetables gently on the other. I even tried the indirect grilling method, which worked wonders for slow-cooking a rack of ribs. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat exceptionally well, making it easy to maintain consistent cooking temperatures.

Features

This charcoal grill isn’t just about looks; it’s packed with thoughtful features. The One-Touch cleaning system stands out for its convenience. After grilling, I used the small metal handle to sweep the ash into the removable aluminum ash catcher—it was hassle-free and clean. The grill’s dampers are a game-changer. Adjusting them lets you easily control the temperature, and I noticed how quickly the grill responds to these tweaks. The built-in lid hook also keeps the lid off the ground, which was a minor detail I didn’t realize I needed until I used it. The durable cooking grate, while sturdy, could have been a little thicker for my liking. That said, it’s functional and cleans up well after each use.

Ease of Use

Assembling the grill was straightforward, though I did need a bit of elbow grease to fit the legs into their slots. Once put together, the lightweight design made it easy to move around the patio. I love how intuitive the grill is to operate; even my teenage daughter could figure out how to adjust the vents for airflow. Lighting the charcoal with a chimney starter took about 15 minutes, and getting the grill to the desired temperature was a breeze. However, it’s worth mentioning that the lack of a built-in thermometer means you’ll need to gauge heat levels yourself if you’re not using a separate thermometer.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill is surprisingly effortless. The One-Touch cleaning system truly lives up to its name. After grilling burgers for a family party, I simply swiveled the cleaning mechanism to gather all the ash into the catcher. The removable ash catcher is easy to detach and empty without creating a mess. The cooking grate also cleaned up nicely with minimal scrubbing—though it showed slight discoloration after a few uses, which I’d expect from any grill.

Durability

With the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill, you get a sense of its build quality right away. The porcelain-enameled finish not only looks sleek but also resists rust and peeling. After several grilling sessions, including one during a light drizzle, the grill still looks as good as new. The alloy steel construction feels robust, though the nylon handle might feel flimsy to some. My father-in-law, who has used Weber grills for decades, mentioned how his older version lasted over ten years, which gives me confidence in the long-term durability of this model.

Portability & Storage

Despite its generous cooking area, the grill is surprisingly lightweight. My wife and I had no trouble wheeling it across the yard for a picnic. The compact design also means it doesn’t take up much storage space in the garage. However, the legs could have been slightly sturdier for rougher terrains; they wobbled a bit when I placed the grill on uneven ground.

Warranty

The limited manufacturer warranty is a reassuring addition, especially for a grill at this price point. While I haven’t had to use the warranty yet, knowing it’s there gives me peace of mind. The owner’s manual clearly details the warranty terms, which cover most parts, though wear and tear items like the grate aren’t included.

Temperature Control

Getting precise temperature control is often tricky with charcoal grills, but this one makes it easier. The dual dampers allow for excellent airflow management. I experimented by closing the dampers entirely to snuff out the coals after grilling, and it worked perfectly. The heat shield on the lid handle is another thoughtful touch—it stayed cool even when the grill was blazing hot.

Bang for the Buck

When it comes to price worthiness, this grill delivers exceptional value. Its performance rivals more expensive models, making it a smart choice for anyone who loves grilling. The lack of unnecessary bells and whistles keeps the cost down, while still offering all the essential features needed for both casual and serious grillers. Compared to other grills in its class, this one feels like a steal for what it provides.

Competitive Options

Looking at other grills in the same price range, the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill holds its own. For instance, some competitors offer built-in thermometers or sturdier legs, but they often lack the heat retention and even cooking surface that this grill provides. Gas grills, while convenient, can’t match the smoky flavor achieved with charcoal. On the flip side, kamado-style grills like the Big Green Egg might excel in heat insulation but come at a significantly higher price point. Overall, the Weber kettle strikes a perfect balance between cost, functionality, and flavor.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for tailgating or backyard use.
• The One-Touch cleaning system simplifies post-grill cleanup significantly.
• Exceptional heat retention and even cooking, thanks to the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl.
• Adjustable dampers provide precise temperature control for various grilling styles.

Critiques

• No built-in thermometer, which may inconvenience those who prefer precise temperature monitoring.
• The cooking grate could be more robust to withstand heavy use over time.
• Legs feel slightly unstable on uneven surfaces, limiting its portability on rough terrain.

The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is a versatile and reliable option for both casual and seasoned grillers. While it has minor flaws, its performance and features more than make up for them.

Additional information