Buying a Barbecue

[Biff]

Gave up using the old, cheap, crappy barbecue a couple years ago and now have the means and interest in getting something worth using. From online research, it appears that features are reproduceable across many brands and at a range of prices but quality, durability, and consistent performance are what separates the great grills from the ordinary.

I'm about to go out shopping for a preliminary look. I'm thinking high-end Weber (Summit S-650). From the other thread, I'm going to go to Barbecues Galore on 58th. I'll also look at Trail appliances and Costco while I'm in the area.

Does anyone else have any recommendations based on personal experience with brands of barbecues or with good places that sell them that I should visit?

Budget: $1000 - $2500.

P.s. I have a biggish family and expect it to grow via son-in-laws and grandkids over the next decade so a big barbecue is required.

[BlackArcher101]

Vermont Castings... highly recommend.

[Biff]

What do you like about VC? Is this what you are using?

[BlackArcher101]

Originally Posted by Biff

What do you like about VC? Is this what you are using?

Friend of mine purchased the 5 burner model. It has the feel of a professional cooking grill but made for your backyard. Very very durable and has all the features you need to ensure it is good for years to come as well as entertaining large numbers.

http://www.myownbbq.com/content/buyersguide/
http://www.myownbbq.com/content/prod...ils.cfm?id=353

[Biff]

Thanks....just found that site myself. Checking it out.

[TimSJ]

put me down for vermont castings as well.. best bbq i have ever owned... been using the same one for 10 years..

[Berger_4_]

yep...we've got a vermont castings out on the farm here...came back from camping a couple weeks ago, and observed that the barbecue had blown off the deck ('bout 3, maybe 3 1/2 feet high) there was dirt and crud on it everywhere. just took the hose to it, and good as new, used it the next day once it had dried off...awesome bbq, and they look awesome (as long as you take good care of them)

[ricoFlame]

i love my napoleon grill. they're pricy (they do have models in your price range) but worth every penny. superb grill. barbecues galore has some beauties, you should see them, that's where we got ours.

[Jiggy_12]

If you hit the $2500 range, look at an entry level firemagic. Best BBQ out there. Mid range, go Vermont.

[Biff]

Thanks all. Still trying to get my head around why the top-end VC (VM600) is so much less expensive than the new Weber Summit S-650. Weird. Appreciate all the advice. Looks to be down to these two models and an evening of hunting for reviews online.

[GreenTeaFrapp]

Another option would be the Weber Ranch Kettle. Over 1100 square inches of cooking space!

[Ironhorse]

Originally Posted by BlackArcher101

Vermont Castings... highly recommend.

x2

[Flames in 07]

Originally Posted by Ironhorse

x2

x3.

I got one this spring, best bbq I've owned by far.