This review pits three popular medium-sized portable charcoal grills against each other: the Char-Griller sidebox, the PKGO, and the Oklahoma Joe Rambler. All three models share key features that make them ideal for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking, namely their cast iron grates and ample cooking surface area. Unlike smaller grills like the Weber Go-Anywhere, these grills offer enough space to comfortably cook larger cuts of meat, such as ribs and roasts. We’ll delve into the performance, modifications needed, build quality, and cost of each grill, ultimately helping you decide which is the best fit for your needs and budget.This comprehensive comparison will examine each grill's strengths and weaknesses, considering factors such as airflow for indirect cooking, ease of use, and overall durability. We'll explore the necessary modifications made to each grill to optimize their performance, along with a detailed analysis of their pricing. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of each grill, empowering you to make an informed decision and choose the perfect portable charcoal grill for your outdoor cooking adventures.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent airflow for indirect cooking
- Cast iron grates
- Very durable (cast aluminum construction)
- Similar cooking space to others
- Most expensive
- Aluminum construction can be fragile
- Excellent airflow for indirect cooking
- Cast iron grates
- Easy-to-empty charcoal drawer
- Relatively inexpensive
- May not be as durable as other options (steel construction)
- Adjustable charcoal tray
- Excellent airflow for indirect cooking
- Cast iron grates
- Required significant modifications (chimney placement, gaskets, hasps)
- Temperature probe placement too high
- No adjustment on hinges
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Grill Selection and Rationale
This review focuses on three medium-sized portable charcoal grills: the Char-Griller sidebox, the PKGO, and the Oklahoma Joe Rambler. These were chosen specifically because they feature cast iron grates and offer excellent performance for both searing and low-and-slow cooking.
Other popular grills like the Weber Go-Anywhere and Jumbo Joe were excluded due to their smaller size or lack of square cooking surfaces found in these three models. The larger cooking area provides ample space for larger cuts of meat like ribs and pork roasts.
Modifications and Assembly
Each grill required some modifications. The Oklahoma Joe Rambler needed the most adjustments; its chimney had to be mounted externally due to fit issues. Gaskets were added to improve sealing, and U-hasps were installed for better door stability.
The Char-Griller sidebox only required the addition of a temperature probe. The PKGO also received a temperature gauge, utilizing an existing hole for easy installation. The modifications ensure optimal performance and user experience.
All three grills were modified to include a temperature probe for better monitoring during indirect cooking, an important feature for low and slow cooks.
Airflow and Indirect Cooking Performance
All three grills demonstrate excellent airflow for indirect cooking. The Oklahoma Joe features vents below the charcoal tray, allowing for efficient air circulation. The PKGO and Char-Griller sidebox have similar vent systems for optimal heat control.
The consistent airflow and design of each grill enable great temperature control when indirect cooking. This is essential for low and slow cooking techniques where maintaining a stable temperature is vital.
Grill Construction and Features
Each grill boasts cast iron grates, a significant advantage for even heat distribution and searing capabilities. The Oklahoma Joe Rambler stands out with its adjustable charcoal tray, although the reviewer found a fixed position sufficient.
The Char-Griller sidebox features a convenient charcoal drawer for easy emptying, enhancing practicality. The PKGO, constructed from cast aluminum, offers exceptional durability, surpassing the steel construction of its competitors in longevity.
Pricing and Value
The PKGO is the most expensive, with a price point around $337 (on sale). The Oklahoma Joe Rambler is significantly more affordable at around $200 (potentially lower on sale). The Char-Griller sidebox is the most budget-friendly option, at approximately $100.
Considering the price and the longevity of each grill, it is evident the PKGO is the most expensive, but might be a worthwhile long-term investment. While the Oklahoma Joe offers better value for its features, the Char-Griller provides the most budget friendly option.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the reviewer's top choice is the Char-Griller sidebox. While not the most durable, its low price and excellent performance make it an outstanding value for most users. It offers a great balance of features, performance and cost-effectiveness.
The PKGO, despite its high price and long-term durability, is less cost-effective for those who do not need its high level of quality. The Oklahoma Joe Rambler, while having some useful features, requires significant modification for optimal use.
