Looking for a kamado but need advice.

Just for grilling? Or Grilling and Smoking? What size is an average cook? 2 steaks? 6 steaks plus veggies?

Do you wanna be able to do this : ?

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WxBZRFbSaDU[/ame]

Are you a Costco member and is there one near by? They currently have the Pit Boss on sale for $499 including 20-21" grill, two layer grate, cart, side tables, heat deflector, ash tool, and cover. For a budget Kamado, it is really hard to beat.

Vision is another "budget brand" especially if you can find them on clearance. They are made by the same manufacturer as the Pit Boss but come in more sizes with more models with different features. Usually they cost more than the Costco grill but they can be found on clearance.

The real budget option is the metal Char-griller Akorn Kamado. They are cheaper and lighter than ceramic and have a reputation for not lasting long (rust issues) but might be a good choice if you are not sure a Kamado is your thing. They are about $300 with or without the side table, but may be found for less on sale.

https://www.bbqguys.com/broil-king/...kpid=2957013&gclid=CJ247uLY4dQCFUm5wAod37cHZw

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=QGdc6ZcdkSg[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oLa1agJLJww[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=54xcPO4pD_4[/ame]

Get an AKORN!!! Nuff said!!

SmittyJonz said:

Do you wanna be able to do this : ?

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WxBZRFbSaDU

Click to expand...

HD is so 2010. I think we are overdue for a 4K version.

FWIW, that problem is not limited to a ceramic Kamado. The worst flashback I have had was with a Weber Ranch kettle. When I first got it I put WAY too much charcoal in (huge grill needs tons of lump right?), lost control of the fire, and shut all the vents to try and recover. I ducked down and reached up to crack the lid with a heavy glove on, but not only did I get seared, spectators who were standing back for safety lost hair and eyebrows. I have no intention of trying to recreate that one!

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aRbxcM6P6es[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GxO2aI2LGcY[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HZWFVGHUNWg[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HWn8ZpQU6aw[/ame]

[ame]https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_UQ-o0fj614[/ame]

Find a good dealer in your area, you might be able to find an egg fest where they sell Big Green Eggs that were used for 1 day and then sold at 15-20% off, or you may be able to talk your dealer into selling his "demo" unit for a good discount.

I have a XL Big Green Egg and love i, the Kamado Joe's are very nice and with new features are as good or better than the egg. Primo's are also very good.

As you learn more, you'll have more questions, don't hesitate to ask here.

Looks like Smitty is a proponent of the Broil King Keg, which if you can find one cheaper than list, is a good deal. The Keg has undergone some name changes since it was first introduced, starting out as the Bubba Keg, then the Big Steel Keg and now the Broil King Keg (due to product acquisitions).

I got my Bubba Keg back in 2010 when Home Depot was dumping them at half price. It's developed a small bit of rust and looks nowhere as pretty as it once did, but it's still an awesome cooker. It's downright stingy on charcoal usage and accepts the BGE accessories like the platesetter, etc. The Big Steel Keg forum isn't as active as it once was, but there is a dedicated forum for it.

If you can find any of the models listed on sale somewhere or on craigslist, consider it.

I thought putting it on the hitch of my truck and taking it tailgating was a plus, but mine's sat in the same spot on my deck for 7 years. (Not like I can get tix to Patriots games anyway!) :wink:

-lunchman

Good luck with your choice

I'd avoid Akron. My crapped out after 5 years. Worked very well, you'll want another Kamado but realized you wasted 300


It was still technically usable, but needed new ash pan and seals.


Was always covered, still junked out


My grandfather weber kettle which sat uncovered for 30+ years only needed new grates when my uncle took it home (shame, I would've loved it, pea green, wooden handles)

Dave your money, buy a weber kettle.