Which Grill?

[Dan Schultz]

I just 'retired' my 70's vintage Arkla gas grill and I'm shopping for a new one. I already have the connection so I'd like to stick with natural gas. Although natural gas outdoor grills are a bit unusual to find in the 'big box' retail stores... they are offered either on special order or have conversion kits. I'd like for it to have four burners but I'm not picky about the type of cooking surfaces... and I'd like to stay under $500.

I know it's about the same as tubas inasmuch as you pretty much get what you are willing to pay for. It's all gonna be Chinese so that doesn't matter.

[Donn]

Weber grills are supposed to be made in Illinois, and I think in that case you really do get what you pay for. I haven't seen a recent one, but my ancient propane grill, in the same lineage as the current "Genesis" line, is solid enough that I recently replaced the burner tubes (which of course were not solid at all, they were totally shot.) The parts are still available, decades later.

I benefit though from a rather limited use - I mean, I use it more or less weekly, roasting coffee, but that doesn't spatter gross burned renderings all over the thing. Other than coffee, it's just a very occasional piece of salmon, some peppers, a squirrel once in a long while. No chickens or hamburgers or any such thing.

[opus37]

I've had Webber grills for a long time. The one at the cabin is about 30 years old. I occasionally replace internal parts, but it is still going strong. The one at home, is working on 20 years. The genesis line has historically been cast aluminum. 4 burners is a large grill. You will not be getting a webber for that price. The inexpensive ones i've had have lasted less than 3 years on average. You'll have to find a Webber at a garage sale to stay within your budget.

[tofu]

[Dan Schultz]

I spent two days looking around the local 'big box' and hardware stores... comparing prices and features of grills and bought one called "NEXGRILL Evolution Infrared Plus". It was 1/3rd the price of the Webber grills and has more features. It has five main burners and one side burner. I already had natural gas at my old grill but redid the service in black iron and utilized a quick-connect and an additional ball valve.

[Dan Schultz]

... I clean it occasionally, and keep it out of the rain.

Yup. If tubas are taken care of they can last a little longer, too!