With so many outdoor grills on the market today, it can be complicated when considering buying one. Here are some pointers on finding the right grill for you. First off, gas or charcoal? Many will tell you it’s charcoal or nothing. But, it's a personal preference based on what you like to cook, how often you grill and how much you want to spend.

For example, if you mostly cook steak and burgers, a gas grill is just fine. You can cook those meats quickly, and when they’re done, you just turn it off and there isn’t much clean-up.

If you are more of a brisket and pulled pork person, then a smoker or pellet grill might be best. These bigger cuts of meat are slow-smoked and the smoke flavor that comes from cooking with charcoal plays a big part. A gas grill just can’t give you that.

Also think about how often you barbecue. If you are planning to barbecue a lot, then invest in something durable and versatile. If it’s just once in a while, then there’s no need for a big, expensive grill, in my opinion. Get something simple, and you’ll get your money’s worth.

If you’re feeding a lot of people you need a larger grill surface for larger cuts of meat or a lot of burgers, dogs or chicken. You don’t want half the group waiting while the other half is enjoying their food.

You could also personally have a gas grill, a fire pit grill and a smoker! A smoker is a beautiful thing. Smoked brisket, smoked ribs, smoked turkey. You have to be a dedicated (think 10-12 hours) cook if you want to get into smokers, but the modern ones are a lot easier to use.

Do your research, because there are a lot of brands, styles, sizes and price levels. No matter what grill you choose – charcoal or gas, big or small, smoker, the important thing is that barbecue season is finally here –fire it up and get cooking!

Contact The Fireplace & Grill Center at West Sport for more information.

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