PK Grills PK Original Outdoor Charcoal Portable Grill & Smoker Combination, Silver review and price compare 2025

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Product overview

Brand	PK Grills
Model Name	Original Outdoor
Power Source	Charcoal
Color	Silver
Item Weight	45 Pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH	16 x 35 x 35.5 inches
Fuel Type	Charcoal

product features

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A charcoal grill and smoker - packs unique capsule shape and 4 vents make it easy to grill hot and fast or low and slow.
Cast aluminum construction - aluminum is rust-proof, durable, lightweight and conducts heat 4x more efficiently than Steel charcoal grills.
Portable - the original pk grill & smoker Detaches easily from any of it's available stand options for transport. As a portable smoker grill, pk's are great for Tailgating, camping, fishing/hunting cabins, etc.
Built to cook - with 300 Square inches of cooking surface, this charcoal grill can handle everything from brats to a thanksgiving Turkey.
Award winning charcoal grills - consumers digest Best buy 2017, amazing ribs pitmaster Best value pitmaster award 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2018 official grill of steak cook-off association.

From the manufacturer

The Original PK Grill + Smoker

PK Grills are built to cook for novice grillers and competitors alike. Let 2019 be the year you buy your last grill.

Award Winning & Easy To Use

Thick Aluminum Grill Capsule

The aluminum grill capsule provides an air tight seal that maximizes temperature control to achieve a steady temperature at any point between 180-750F. Aluminum conducts heat, spreading the heat throughout the capsule to assist in even cooking.

Conducts Heat More Efficiently
Rust Proof and durable
Maintains Exact Temperature

The Original PK Grill + Smoker

Silver with PKAR Cart

For more than 60-years the cast aluminum PK Grill and Smoker has been winning the respect of casual grillers, BBQ enthusiasts and professional cooks by turning out great food and giving owners a point of distinction and a departure from the usual fare.

Durable Aluminum Construction
Easy to Use Patented 4-Point Venting System (Disclaimer: Principal registered trademark on 6/28/16, US registration number 4986213)
Built for Novice Grillers and Competitors Alike
Grill + Smoker

2-Zone Cooking

The 4-Point Venting System on The Original PK combined with its unique shape is ideal for both direct and indirect cooking, known as 2-Zone Cooking. The 4-point system provides exceptional air flow inside the grill capsule. Keeping consistent heat on a charcoal grill has never been easier.

PK Original: Special Features

Air Flow - 4-Point Venting System: Hot & fast or low & slow. PK's unique capsule shape and 4 vents make it easy to grill hot and fast or low and slow.

PK Original: Special Features

Large Workspace - Dual Shelf System: 2 Large shelves that are easy to clean and provide ample space for any grilling enthusiast.

PK Original: Special Features

Heavy Duty Hinge - Rust Proof Indestructible Hinge: No rust and no bull hinge. Built into to cast, and built to last.

PK Original: Special Features

Grill + Smoker: Built To Cook - With 300 square inches of cooking surface, this charcoal grill can handle everything from brats to a Thanksgiving Turkey.

Air Flow: 4-Point Venting System

Large Workspace: Dual Shelf System

Heavy Duty Hinge: Rust Proof Indestructible Hinge

Grill + Smoker: Built To Cook

product description

Color:Silver | Style:with Stainless Steel Grid

In 2017, consumers digest said "the PK grill & smoker delivers the best airflow control, heat retention & temperature control of any full-size charcoal grill..." for more than 60-years the cast aluminum PK grill & smoker has been winning the respect of Casual grillers, BBQ enthusiasts & professional cooks by turning out great food & giving owners a pt. Of distinction & a departure from the usual fare.

product details

important information

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Questions about PK Grills PK Original Outdoor Charcoal Portable Grill & Smoker Combination, Silver

Is this in fact USA made?

Answer: Who cares, everything is made with parts made in China or Mexico. Parts get shipped to the states then put together so the box can say made in the USA. Long as it performs well what does it matter.

Answer: Mostly. It says "Made in USA" on outermost box, "Made in China" on box of parts inside. PK Grills doesn't seem to be very forthcoming about specifics, but I'd guess most of the aluminum parts are made there in Arkansas, steel inserts and wheels and such probably made in China.

Answer: Made in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA!!!

Answer: If you want to know about the PK Grill (which is the best grill my family has ever had), you can get a lot of information from the web site: http://www.pkgrills.com

Answer: Yes made in arkansas best grill we have ever owned...awesome

Answer: Yes. That was originally why I bought it. But per my answer to your question, there were too many drawbacks.

Answer: Little Rock, Arkansas

Answer: Yes it is.

Answer: Who cares? It's good or it's not.

Answer: YES,

One more question: Where is this manufactured?

Answer: Supposedly the top and bottom main pieces are cast in a foundry in Iowa. The box of parts inside the main box, including the grates and miscellaneous hardware says "Made in China". The outside of the box says "Made in USA". The mfg. claims pride in their Arkansas heritage, maybe they make the frame there.

Answer: This grill is made in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Answer: I believe it is in Arkansas,,,, you can google it and find out in a few minutes.

Answer: I think it is made in Arkansas.

Is it safe for humans? i googled the health risks of grilling on aluminum foil and it scared me. why grill would be safer then foil?

Answer:

Answer: I did not know cooking in foil was harmful. Since you are not cooking on the unit your food is on steel racks it will be fine. These grills have been around for many years so i eould not worry...we love ours

Answer: I don't advise grilling humans but for beef, chicken & pork it's excellent.

Answer: The cooking grill for the PK is made of nickle plated steel, not aluminum.

Answer: yes it is safe, we just love our grill

Does food fall from the grill since the grates are flush to the edge? Is it difficult to get under food before reaching the edge?

Answer: Yes, it can fall off the edge of the grill onto the ground if you're not careful, mainly when you try to slide a spatula under something like a burger and the burger travels a few inches before you can get under it. But if it happens once you quickly learn how to avoid it. I usually make sure to slide the spatula towards the middle of the cooking grate (instead of towards the outer edge) so you have more grill surface in front of your meat. Or you can use two hands...No problems at all when using tongs or fork.

Answer:

Answer: I only do steaks on the PK Grill.....and for that the grates are great. I prefer this stainless steel grates to the cast iron grates, exactly b/c these grates don't leave marks on the steak.

Answer: food comes right off the grill no problem, But if you're grilling fish I would suggest getting a grilling pan It's like a cookie sheet with a bunch of 1/2-in holes drilled in it but I would do that on any grill for fish because fish tends to fall through ?!

Answer: Food does not fall thru.

Answer: NO. I have had no issues.

Answer: Easy as possible

im looking for something that can last a long time, grill and smoke, for 2 people daily. so it has to be frugal on briquettes. is this a good option?

Answer: Yes! But don't waste money on cover, there is nothing I have had to replace yet. I even ordered new grates ( which will corroded over time) but I have not needed the replacement yet and I leave it out side in the Florida weather full time. This grill is a "legacy grill" and should be around for many decades and passed down after I die. Will last lifetimes but probably at some point, as mentioned above , the grates will go. I think mines 3-5 years old with same grates.

Answer: Yes, just close vents when food is finished and you will be able to re-use briquettes. Hope you enjoy this grill as much as we are.

Answer: I also usually grill for just me and my wife. Yes, this is an excellent option. One reason would be that the lid closes so tightly that the fire will go out relatively quickly and your remaining unburned coals will live to burn another day.

Answer: My brother-in -law has one my father gave him in the early 60's Still cooks great just replaced the grate several times.

Answer: Absolutely. As soon as you are finished, shut the vents and the grill will be cold in 30 min. Reuse unburned coals easily.

Do you ship "Portable Kitchen PK 99740 Cast Aluminum Grill and Smoker " to Canada

Answer: I’m sure they can send it you might have to pay for that though

Do the nickel plated grill grates rust? if so how long before it started? Or, has anyone been able to prevent the grilling grates from rust?

Answer: I've been using for 4 years, no rust so far. I expect at some point the will rust. Replacement parts are available. I think part of preventing rust is to brush grate off after use and not allowing the oils, moisture and acid to remain on the grate.

How difficult is assembly ?

Answer: Not difficult.

Answer: About 10-15 minutes tops.

Answer: Instructions were easy to follow

Answer: It's so easy that I take it apart to clean once or twice each year.

Answer: very simple ,very easy ,amazing quality

Answer: Very easy

Answer: Super Simple !

why is the PK360 twice as much as the original?

Answer: Cooler looking and has temp gauge.Not worth the extra money to me

Where is the grill currently made? It was US made in the past, but we can no longer find country of origin information on their webpage.

Answer: The capsule for the PK Original is poured at a domestic commercial foundry. Other parts are sourced domestically and internationally, and the grills are assembled, packed and shipped from our Little Rock Facility.

Answer: 99% of it is made in Little Rock Arkansas.... There may be assorted nuts/bolts, etc... that are foreign made

Answer: It's still made in the USA. Little Rock, Arkansas, I think. Arkansas for sure.

Answer: USA

Answer: I bought one and it is made in the USA.

Answer: I thought they were made in Arkansas

Answer: Made in Arkansas.

The order form for the pk grill indicates a discount if i "subscribe". what would i be subscribing to?

Answer: Sure

where does the grease go? I dont like have grease dripping on to my patio as it hard to clean up and draws bugs

Answer: Most of the grease simply falls onto the coals, or if cooking to the cool side with coals on one side, the grease drips onto the bottom of the aluminum casing. Then just simply clean up when you dispose of the ash. There may be some very minor amount that drip through the air inlets on the bottom, but that would fall onto the light gage aluminum shelf. I've never had any drip onto the patio.

Answer: It’s a charcoal grill the drippings go onto the charcoal

Answer: put a pan on the lower shelf . it will drip out of the 2 ports on the bottom

do you make any with lp gas? i have a wonderful (about to wear out) char-broil 66jak and want another one similar. what do you suggest?

Answer: Still using mine, 40 yr later.....did replace the grate though.

How do you smoke meat?

Answer: The PK Grill can cook efficiently using both direct and indirect heat. To smoke meat, the PK must be set up for indirect cooking. This is done by building a fire on one side of the grill and placing the meat on the opposite side of the grill. Vent placement for indirect cooking is explained in detail in the Owners Handbook which ships with the grill.

Answer: First, I want to say that I love my PK Grill and we use it several times a week to grill our dinner, whether it's steaks, chicken, pork, seafood, or veggies. We only occasionally smoke meat on it, but it is good for that too. The best source for information for the PK grill is the PK web site, which has instructions on how to smoke meat on this wonderful grill. Here is the link: http://www.pkgrills.com/TheGrillBlog/tips-for-smoking-pork-butt/ I hope this helps!

Answer: Pretty simple - with a hinged grill surface, you place the coals, wood chips on one side of the (long) bottom of the grill and put the meat on the other side and it won't be directly over the coals. Temperature is regulated by 4 adjustable dampners. Works great!

Why is the list price $623.00 when the people who make the grill sell it for $369.00

Answer: Buy direct from mfg,

does the aluminum shell discolor over time from the heat? Is it better to go with the graphite color?

Answer: Personally I like the original aluminum. The inside will season and discolor, but given the thickness of the cast aluminum I doubt the exterior will discolor. It is a cooking machine. You could take it to the car wash if you really feel compelled to clean it. I think if it did discolor it would simply add to the character of the grill IMHO. This is far and away my favorite grill/smoker.

Answer: Neither the natural aluminum nor the dark colors aluminum discolor after use. In my extended family we have two dark, one natural - the natural is at least 20 years old, no discoloration.

Answer: The raw aluminum shell I inherited from my Dad 40 years ago did, so I ordered the graphite. Price was the same. Great grill

Answer: I have the aluminum and have observed no discoloration

Answer: The aluminum keeps it’s beauty. Just need to clean it up and looks new again!

Answer: yes

what is depth of grill

Answer: 13" total top to bottom of grill. 7" from top to grill grid.

Is it recommended to cover this grill in between use?

Answer: I don’t and I have one at the beach

Answer: I cover mine. Got a lovely secondary market cover here on the amazon. Real nice grill. We love ours.

Answer: I always cover my grills in between use Once it cools off I cover my grills, including the PK grill

Answer: Yes; we bought a cover and it helps prevent any rust, etc

Answer: I don’t unless it is winter or going to rain. This bbq will not rust!

Answer: It certainly helps keep the dust, pollen, and leaves off.

Answer: I would if it is outside in the rain.

Answer: I would

What are the dimensions of the cooking area?

Answer: The dimensions of the PK Original Cooking area is, 21 1/2 inches x 14 3/16 inches.

Answer: The hinged cooking grid for the Original PK Grill & Smoker is 21 1/2" x 14 3/16".

Answer: Roughly 14 x 24. Lid height will accommodate large turkey or ham.

how do you clean the charcoal dust out of the pk grill?

Answer: Hope this helps - the dust of course is ash. The charcoal rests on a grate and ash mostly falls through to the bottom. After removing both the grates (one is for cooking on), I simply use a small garden shovel to scoop out the ash. The bottom the grill will get a bit grimy with meat dripping, but that's true with any charcoal grill. It's probably easiest to line the bottom of the grill with heavy duty aluminum foil - you will have to punch a few small holes to allow air intake through the built-in vents but this would make clean up easy. I'm going to start over with the foil myself. These are great grills.

Answer: The grill is easy to clean. The grill top/cover easily comes off by opening it up all the way and lifting the top straight up out of the hinge. Then bottom of the grill rests securely on the frame at each end. Once you remove the lid, you simply lift the bottom off the frame and bring it to where you want to dump the ashes out. It it is not difficult and pretty much self-evident when the grill is in front of you.

Answer: I picked up a small bucket from Walmart, and fits under the openings on the bottom of the grill Problem solved I use lump charcoal with the PK and the small amount of accumulated ash falls right into the bucket

Answer: After every use. Two ways, take it apart and dump in a trash bag or a garden, dispose of like any other trash or take out the charcoal grid and brush it out of the bottom vents into a pan or bucket. Either way, you’re going to dirty.

Answer: I use a small hand shovel to scoop out the ashes and use a shop vac when doing a deeper clean.

Answer: Hi I just use a small hand broom and dust pan. than I simply blow it out wit a battery operated blower.

How to clean the fat dripping?

Answer: Any fat would be absorbed by the ash layer in the bottom of the grill. For easier cleaning I made a shallow pan out of aluminum gutter stock to sit below the charcoal grate.

Answer: If cooking over ash, no residue.....if roasting away from ash, drip pan. I first bought mine 40 yrs ago....still using....great company. I have given away as presents. Do the Utube for cooking instructions.....I also have a Traeger smoker and gas grill....

Answer: Use a foil pan helps a ton

Do you sell the lid handle?

Answer: Don’t understand the question.

Why is this grill more than the other pk ?

Answer: It has the stainless steel cooking surface and the other grill is standard cooking surface.

Answer: Is it because of the stainless steel grate?

Can grill be fitted with a rotisserie?

Answer: I have no idea but you could contact the company and they could answer that these are excellent cast aluminum grills no rust I love mine just the right size lid very tight fiting so tempature control is easy to maintain

Answer: Probably not. But check on PK Kitchen's Facebook page they might have a better answer.

Is the side shelf magnetic?

Answer: Hi, The side shelf is made with aluminum, so it isn't magnetic.

Answer: Not magnetic. It is aluminum on mine.

Answer: No its all aluminum tube frame bolted together with hardware .

Answer: No it actually slides on and holds the grill to the frame

Answer: Nope

I would like to get a thermometer kit for the $369. PK original grill, please give me the info to order thru Amazon if possible. Thank you

I want to get this to 900 degrees and use pieces of oak wood as well as charcoal. can this accomidate that? Thnx...

Answer: DONT DO IT!!!!! I used to work in an aluminum foundry. Aluminum starts to soften at 600 to 700 degrees. There has been reports of warpage to the covers. If this happens, the unit is no longer usable. Once again, DONT DO IT!!!!! My son in law cooks the pizza crust on this grill and then adds the toppings. Just a suggestion.

Answer: I'd call the manufacturer as it is not advertised as a pizza oven...it's a wonder grill and small smoker

Is the graphite model painted?

Answer: Thanks for your question! The Graphite is a powder coating.

Can I cook over wood with this grill?

Answer: We recommend using charcoal briquettes with the PK Grill. You may use wood chunks to add flavor to long cooks, but we do not recommend cooking exclusively with wood on the PK.

Answer: Charcoal and wood chips are best

Does it come with the pictured stand?

Answer: Yes, the PK Original comes with everything you need to get started grilling. The aluminum cart with shelves is included.

Answer: Yes, very easy to assemble. My Pk is black, get the thermometer and cover and you will be a happy camper ????

Answer: Yes, and it is easy to put together.

Answer: Yes.

Has anyone found a mesh basket to hold the charcoal ?? Have seen people using one, but no idea where to get one

Answer: Everywhere

Where can I purchase new plastic wheels for grill?

Answer: Did you set them on fire? Contact Portable Kitchen, the manufacturer. I'm sure they would sell them to you. Wheels are a fairly generic item that could be substituted from another source, you just need the diameter and the axel diameter.

Answer: Contact the company:

Answer: Ace hardware. Just make sure you get the same diameter wheel.

Where can I purchase new plastic wheels for grill?

Answer: Contact the company:

Answer: Ace hardware. Just make sure you get the same diameter wheel.

Can someone recommend a temperature gauge to buy for this grill and how best to install?

Answer: Bought mine through Amazon, PK Grill specific gauge by Tell-Tru. There is a short YouTube video by PK Grills that shows how to install, but it is easy with a drill bit that will go through the aluminum top.

Answer: Yes if your capable of drilling and tapping a 1/2 " hole in the lid, then put some never seize on the threads & screw it in !?

Answer: Tel-Tru

What are the difference between this one and the tx?

Answer: Thanks for checking in with PK Grills! Both the PKTX and PK Original are same grill, but are on different carts. The PKTX has a different handle, as well.

Does this bundle come with a stainless steel cooking grate, charcoal grate, or both?

Answer: This grill comes with the Stainless Steel cooking grid and Standard Charcoal Grate.

Answer: The grill does come with both

when using a chimney charcoal starter do you have to open the bottom vents?

Answer: when i use the chimney charcoal starter (standard size), i leave the top lid of the PK open cause the chimney is taller than the grill; so it won't close. plus, i don't want direct fire (or red hot charcoals) touching the walls of the grill. then when the charcoals are red hot, pour em in the grill and close the top lid. and, adjust the bottom and top vents for direct or indirect cooking.

Answer: We have found that you don't HAVE to open the bottom vents when using a chimney starter because the air will circulate anyway; however, if you open the bottom vents, the starter will work more quickly. The updraft created is a little more brisk and the coals will be ready sooner.

Answer: I do not know if you have to, but I always do, because more air means the charcoal fires up faster.

Answer: We always open the bottom vents - haven’t tried without it.

Answer: I do not use a chimney start but the bottom vents need to be open.At least one of them.

Can I purchase just the stand for the grill?

Answer: Yes, the stand is available for purchase by itself.

Answer: no idea.....maybe check with PK Grills ???

Answer: Contact pk grill they can answer that.

Answer: Yes! It is called the “PK cart”

Answer: Deidra, Go to PK's web site , they can take care of your needs.

Answer: Yes you can ... Go to their website they have everything

if using 2-zone method, roughly how many chickens would fit on one half of the grate? would a turkey fit?

Answer: Whole turkey will fit. I regularly cook 10 pounds of chicken quarters at a time.

Has anyone drilled a small drain hole in the bottom of this grill for clean up?

Answer: If you wanted to drill a hole in the bottom, you'd probably want to consider tapping it with bolt threads and screwing a bolt in it to plug it. That way the air flow would not be effected when not cleaning.

Answer: The clean up is very easy. Just remove lid, slid tray pick up bottom and dump.

Answer: Get yourself a grillbasket. I use a stainless steel Weber intended for holding food, but I use it to hold charcoal or wood. After the fire dies, I can gently lift it out and sift 99% of the ashes wherever I want. What's left underneath is easy to wipe or vacuum out, Any unburnt coals are left for reuse.

Answer: Not necessary. It has two sliding air vents that can be opened. Still easier to scoop the ashes out though.

Answer: There is no need.

I ordered this grill 6 days ago they still have not taken the money from my account non the less still aint shiped yet

What about GMOs in the aluminum? I can’t have any of those cooked into my food.

Answer: GMO’s? In the aluminum?

Answer: dont think you have to worry about GMOs but i know my boston butt bbq is the best around here

what is the stand made of on the PK grill.

Answer: The whole grill stand included is made of Aluminum except the grates which are steel or you can upgrade the grates to stainless when you order That's what I did. This is by far the best Charcoal grill I have owned.

Answer: the entire grill is made of aluminum, except for the grilling grates. Mine has lasted for over 40 years. Built to last

Answer: I think it’s rolled steel. It hasn’t rusted yet from rain or snow exposure. I love my grill.

Why isn't the lid hinged at the back? I don't want to bump my arm on lid to the side

Answer: It has two hinges on opposite side of handle. Lid opens wide.I have never bumped lid because that's the side with the Cole.You whould naturally advoid.

Answer: The way the new PK Classic is designed, they are at the back.

Does it come w/ the lower grate (charcoal rack)? Also, any info on using Lump charcoal?

Answer: All of our grills come with a cooking grid and charcoal grate. You can use briquettes or lump. We do not recommend one or the other.

Answer: It does come with the lower rack for charcoal. As for the preference of lump or briquettes. Just Google it there are lots of opinions. I

Answer: Yes it comes with a lower grate. I use lump charcoal with it and it works fine.

Answer: Yes, there is a lower grate for charcoal - Very well made too. Use lump charcoal if you want. I have a friend who has been using his for over 30 years with no replacement parts. Bought one for my son (his first grille), then bought one for myself.

Answer: No you have to buy that separate I have it and it works great for off set grilling

Where is this grill manufactured?

Answer: The capsule for the Classic PK is poured at a domestic commercial foundry. Other parts are sourced domestically and internationally, and the grills are assembled, packed and shipped from our Little Rock Facility.

Answer: Little Rock, AR. It’s my favorite grill ever. Buy it!

Answer: USA

Answer: USA-great product

Answer: In the USA! Little Rock Arkansas.

Answer: Little Rock, Arkansas

Answer: Arkansas

Would there be an issue with grilling incold rain or snow? I would worry about cracking of the aluminum body...

Answer: We have been using our grill for a year, and we grill year around including well below freezing temperatures. Have grilled during rain as well. Seems to be doing just fine. We store the grill in an unheated shed also.

Answer: No not at all I grill year round on this grill and have never had any issues in cold or rain

Answer: We have never had a problem. The only reason we got rid of my inherited grill (this one) was due to not being able to find a replacement of the rack. When these began being produced again we got one!

Answer: We cook in cold weather all the time, you do have to adjust time to compensate for temp and wind. For rain I use a patio umbrella.

Do you make replacement wheels? We have my dads vintage PK and we are missing a wheel.

Answer: I don't know if you can order them from Amazon, but you can order a wheel replacement kit from PK Grill under the accessory tab on their website. Runs $29.99.

Answer: Yes they do....https://www.pkgrills.com/original-pk-parts-kit/

Does have a protective finish on it?

Answer: My grill is black, I don’t think it has any kind of protective coating. It gets unbelievably hot, don’t think anything would last.

Answer: The grill is cast aluminum so it doesn’t need any protection all stainless steel was covered by blue shrink wrap. I love my grill. Tubbs is her name. She gills and smokes awesome ribs.

Answer: It is all aluminum. Itdoesn't need one. This grill has been used by me for the past 40 years to grill in all types of weather. It pretty much looks like it did when I bought.it. It will last at least another 25 or more. Best charcoal grill made. ever. Once you learn how to control the heat with the vents you can have great tasting juicy meat each time.

Answer: It is cast aluminum. Aluminum is non-corroding.

How to clean?

Answer: Clean like any grill remove the grate and scrub it with a wire grill brush

Answer: shopvac out the ashes and wipe it down.

Answer: I just use water hose for housing

Product reviews of PK Grills PK Original Outdoor Charcoal Portable Grill & Smoker Combination, Silver

lily : Could’ve been better

It definitely has a nice look, but it’s usability and practicability is so so.Many small details are ignored, I’m too busy to go over all of them

Sassy Graham : Quality made, heavy duty and we love it

Love this. ! Customer support from manufacturer is also amazing. When we got this it was missing the handle and screws, etc. I contacted the company and they over nighted the parts. It is quality made and heavy duty.

JustMe : Best grill ever!

Purchased this grill because a friend swears by his dad's 50 year old one that was passed down to him. I've also eaten the incredible steaks, ribs, chicken, filet mignon, etc. he's grilled on his PK Grill. No better grill than this one. If you follow the instructions for cooking, you'll never eat burnt, dry or otherwise cremated food again.

R. L. Carr : Love - Hate this Grill ...

Arrived a few days ago, assembly was not a bad experience. (Do NOT tighten any bolts/screws until the bottom pan is in the frame) That way, you can "square" the frame to the pan.

Fired up a Weber Chimney Starter load of charcoal (cannot believe that I've been using lighter fluid all these years!). Opening one side of the grill grate does not provide adequate access for dumping in the coals...just remove it until your coals are in and where you want them.

This thing cooks faster than Greased Lightning! Put six, 1/2lb burgers on the grill and closed the lid. Less than 3 minutes later, ready to turn and then finished in about 1-1/2 more minutes!
Wow! and gooooood Burgers!

The Hate Part: Cleanup! My old grill had a removable ash tray (guess I took it for granted).
Step 1. Clean the grill grate, both sides. Those very thing steel grates do not look like they would last long unless thoroughly cleaned each use!
Step 2. Carefully remove the charcoal grate, with the leftovers and dump loose stuff into the trash (this is the next morning, after it has cooled...duh). Then clean and oil the grate (it's gonna rust in the NC humidity).
Step 3. Clean out all the junk from the bottom of the grill, especially around the air intakes.

So, start to finish, 5 minutes to cook,(Love it), 30 minutes to clean (pain in the A**) Hate it!
Otherwise it would have been a 5-Star Review!
(can't believe that no one else took issue with the Cleaning aspect of this Grill.

JustMe : Best grill ever!

lily : Could’ve been better

It definitely has a nice look, but it’s usability and practicability is so so.Many small details are ignored, I’m too busy to go over all of them

Y. Carrillo : Serious tool for serious cookin

I got this and immediately smoked 3 racks of ribs standing on wire racks. Hickory for 5 to 6 hours at 225... Excellent results, from a newbie. There is room to learn and grow. I like this, it's like my brother from another mother that I never knew existed.

Chris Thibodeaux : Best little lifetime grill out there!

Lifetime pit that cooks and smokes very well. I wished they would make one twice the size for those family get togethers. Easy clean up! upgrade to the stainless charcoal grill and a cover to keep it clean while not in use and you are set to go for a long long time..

Chase Yarbrough : great product, accessories are overpriced

This is a fantastic grill and smoker. It is easy to use for both purposes. The design is just about flawless which is way it hasn't changed in years. It's even portable enough to take car-camping.

What drives me crazy is that not only does it lack a thermometer, but they charge an arm and a leg for the "PK" thermometer accessory that probably costs about $2 to manufacture. It's obnoxious. For a $370 grill it should come with a thermometer installed.

You could make the argument "oh well, some people want it on the direct heat side, some want it on the indirect heat." Just make it installed by default on the hinge side. The user can make whichever side they want the indirect side.

Kelly Shaler : Not what we thought it would be

The grill is made well and easy to put together. Cooking on it is not that easy. We have watched videos and read the reviews but the grill is hard to regulate the temperature. Sometimes one side of grill stays lit and the other side goes out. Really dissatisfied and going to get rid of it.

JT : Almost perfect.

Needed a rectangular grill and this looked like it would work for me. The performance is there and not needing a cover is huge. If there was a better cart with more features, this grill would be perfect. It is relatively low quality and doesn't even have any tool hooks.

Amazon Customer : Best grill I have ever owned.

Great all around grill. I have always had the traditional Weber grills. I have only grilled on the PK about 4 times and like it better.

Burns more efficiently, better vents, more versatile. Worth the extra money. Highly recommend this grill.

Gomerpowell : Great grill

Love this grill made of aluminum. This was the easiest grill I have ever put together. Took about 30min. Shipped quickly.

Amazon Customer : Damaged parts and no contact number to call. Problem Resolved !!!

Arrived with a damaged side support. I don't want to go through the hassle of re-packing and returning this large item. I just want a replacement support but so far, no contact numbers available to make this happen.
Talked to Cindy at PK directly and she shipped the part within 20 minutes. Best customer service I have ever seen.
Thanks Cindy.....Thanks PK Grills!

dbarnett : the best charcoal grill

Never thought there could be this much difference in ant two charcoal grills but the PK is by far, the best charcoal grill. I was sold on it by my sister at Thanksgiving a year ago. It will last longer than I will ever need.

Amazon Customer : The Rolls Royce of Grills.

Alton Brown said that PK makes the best charcoal grill in America and they don't pay him to say that. As an owner for years I can tell you he is correct. Made of aluminum it will never rust. It is spacious. It makes smoking super easy (I have smoked everything you can imagine). It is also made in America! Make an investment and buy a grill you will be able to pass down through generations.

Scott Butler : 1950's technology rocks!

The best charcoal grill for a 2-4 person family period. Superior at both grilling and smoking. There may be a few slightly better smokers out there, but none can also grill as well and as easily. Solid made in USA craftsmanship. Absolutely no signs of wear. I have grilled chicken, burgers, and steak; also smoked pork shoulder, beef brisket, and bratwurst. Great value.

William R Burton : Great grill

Easy to assemble, simple to use, holds desired temp very easily. AND...grilled food tastes like it should.

Amazon Customer : Super cool retro grill

Best grill ever. I also have one from the 50s and it is still good. The new one is exactly the same. Great retro grill.

Amazon Customer : Damaged parts and no contact number to call. Problem Resolved !!!

Justin Baynham : Don't buy from Amazon get from PK directly

Liked the grill but the package was broken open on the bottom. One of the aluminum legs was bent and the metal axel was bent. I was able to bend them back enough to be serviceable but you shouldn't have to do that for a new product. It left from an Amazon warehouse so I suspect it was Amazon's fault, the product itself is quite nice.

Elisa Hall : pk grill

At first I think a felt a little diappointed. The grill seemed a little too small. I have been using a horizontal barrel smoker/grills for 20 + years., and thought I would really miss the space. I have used the grill about 5 times in the week since I received it. It is fantastic i just smoked a pork butt on it and it worked flawlwessly. If this thing was about 10 inches longer they would sell a million of these things. My wife hates how the ashes fall onto the shelf below

Amazon Customer : Great potential with some ergonomic and qc issues

Likes:
Heat retention
Side-to-side, top-to-bottom vents for easy heat control
Casting is nice
"Graphite" color looks like flat black in web photos, but is a GORGEOUS gunmetal color with some muted sparkle (like actual graphite) in real life.
Dislikes:
Grill height is 27in. My kids immediately said it looked short. Way too short to be comfortable to work with for me (6ft). 10in lower than my big gas grill and 9-10 in lower than average kitchen range height. I will extend the legs, but it won't be easy. Get out a tape measure to visualize the working height before you purchase.
Quality/design concerns:
Screws too long for cap-head bolts. Two of the bolts bottomed out before bringing the structure of the frame tight. They can be spun by hand and the frame is a bit wobbly. I will space them with washers/lock washers to fix. I would have liked to have lock washers included in the first place for a frame that will stress and move during use.
Wheel retainer caps are not tight on the axel. They bottomed out by hand instead of needing a hammer to set. I expect the wheels to wobble or fall off in a year or so.
These issues can be fixed by the consumer, but they strike me as indicators of poor design or materials quality control. I hope they are not.

RMBaker : Preforms exactly as described by PK

Holds temperatures very well, with plenty of space for indirect cooking

RMBaker : Preforms exactly as described by PK

Holds temperatures very well, with plenty of space for indirect cooking

Scottytech : Superior Taste and Temperature Control Compared to a Gas Grill

We should have bought one of these years ago. The food tastes so much better than on a gas grill! The temperature control is easy and accurate (we added the temperature gauge) and we have has no flare-ups. It appears that this grill will last many, many years. The big expensive gas grill this replaced only lasted 7 years before needing expensive repairs.

James Jameson : PK: The Webber Killer

Toss out that Webber and it’s plastic everything. This grill is so much better in every conceivable way and built to last. Only weird thing about it is it’s pretty short. If you are tall, you might find yourself reaching down more than normal.

James : Best charcoal grill I have ever used

Best charcoal grill I have ever used, Replaced a Weber kettle which I thought was a good one, but it doesn't hold a candle to the PK. Easy to maintain heat and do direct or indirect cooking. Well worth the money.

JT : Almost perfect.

bob stanley : Great grill, perfect!

Great grill. Bought one in 1970. Had it for 20+ years. Like a duffess, I left it with house during move. Have regretted that dumb decision. Finally bough another about 3 years ago, wish it had been sooner. My son-law, who enjoys bar-b-queuing, saw it and loved it so much I thought I'd better get him one before he steals mine.

TexasPoBoy : Cooks even. Hold temp.

I’ve never owned a grill like this but after watching videos and reading reviews I decided to give it a shot. Glad I did. I’ve never had s grill that cooks so evenly. I’ve had coals on one side and chicken all across the grill and nothing burns. I’ve done pork shoulders for hours, when you get the vets right the temp holds true he entire time until you have to add wood/coal. Best grill I’ve ever had. I only wish it were bigger and the stand was taller.

Amazon Customer : The Rolls Royce of Grills.

Amazon Customer : Caja

My main critizem is the top lid does not set flush with the bottom and that the shelf had to be forced with a hammer. Indicating a lack of quality control. There is a 1/16 gap between the top and the bottom which will effect the tempature control. The company's reply was to use it and maybe it would correct itself. If I had to do it over agai I would probably opt to buy the newer version even though the price is higher.

W. Howerton : Not worth

Very expensive for what you get. Sure, the grill is aluminum and will last a long time but the grill grate is already very rusty and the frame is cheaply made.

The grill is not hinged but the top pivots on top of the bottom piece. The action. Is smooth 70% of the time but sometimes the two pieces bind together leaving the user to wiggle/man handle it back into place.

For the price I expected more. It's probably worth 100$ but that's all I would pay for it.
Overall I regret the purchase.

Lynn L. : Best grill I ever owned

I bought my grill April 2014. I wanted to cook a variety of meats before rating it. I don't like to buy a product sight unseen but I used to work in an aluminum foundry in my younger days so I had some knowledge about the construction of it. This is the best grill I have ever owned!!!!! It works equally well for searing or smoking meats. The cooking chamber will last a lifetime. The grill and charcoal grates are heavier duty than other grills I have owned and replacement grates are available if needed. I did make two modifications. The first month the cover blew off the grill three times due to the wind(I live in the country). A trip to the upholstery shop and six grommets($10) with some bungee straps solved that problem. I also added a thermometer($46) to control the temp when smoking. Highly recommend the PK.

Lori C : with great results. Grilled steaks

My husband loves this grill. We use our grill year around 2-4 times per week. Bought this as replacement for a Weber kettle-style grill. We have used it to grill and as a smoker, with great results. Grilled steaks, burgers, brats, pork chops, salmon. Smoked a whole KC strip roast, prime rib, whole chicken and ribs so far on this grill and have been happy with the results. This grill is heavy, really heavy. They mean it when they say it will last a lifetime! My husband likes that he can shut the heat down and reuse charcoal. We love the way it cooks; cooks fast with even heat. Only drawback is that we wish it was a little bigger, and wish it had a lip for flipping.

Scottytech : Superior Taste and Temperature Control Compared to a Gas Grill

Doug Scott : Awesome Grill

It is everything you need in a charcoal grill. Its oblong shape creates a very large cooking surface making it easy to grill multiple items and skewered items. The heat retention is excellent, and it is air tight. I have shut the vents down and reused charcoal from previous cooks. I highly recommend.

Furslayer5 : Best grill ever. Period.

Best grill I've ever had the pleasure of using. Currently, I'm smoking a pork shoulder and although it takes a little bit to learn how to control temperature, I've been at very consistent temps for 5 hours and counting. Very well build with the exception of the cart seeming slightly cheap. Doesn't matter though the grill is the star and I'm extremely satisfied with my made in USA grill.

Lo But : Great

Good product

shiny_side_up : Nothing more. Nothing less.

Love this grill. It is neither anything more or anything less than you need to smoke or grill up a great meal. Trust me and Alton Brown - neither of us compensated in any way to say so.

Only issue: Had to adjust clips on upper vents but otherwise arrived in perfect working order.

Florida fan : Love this Grill... worth the money

2 years and still running strong. Spend the extra, it is a awesome grill. We entertain all the time and everyone wants my husband to do the grilling. He loves this grill and it has held up.

Amazon Customer : Damaged parts and no contact number to call. Problem Resolved !!!

84 Hog : This grill can do it all, and should last nearly forever

This is a great product. It can grill, smoke and bake, you just have to take the time to learn to utilize all the features. Simple really, once you try it a few times. It is very well constructed from high quality materials, it should last nearly forever with just minimal upkeep. It's made in America (Little Rock, Arkansas)and just exudes quality. On the downside, it doesn't have a huge capacity, but it is big enough to handle a normal size family's cook out needs.

Amazon Customer : Super cool retro grill

Best grill ever. I also have one from the 50s and it is still good. The new one is exactly the same. Great retro grill.

David Camp : The Best grill I have ever owned

I Love my PK grill. Super easy to set up, and easy to control. It will probably be around, well after I am gone. High quality.

Stephen C. : Pk Black grill

Great grill love is both for grilling and cooking low and slow definitely buy the grill on top too your going to need it

Hobbyhobbit : This is the welter weight champion of grills

All I can say is .. "WOW".
This little grill cooks like a champ! After my old Webber gave up it's ghost - I deliberated long and hard over this grill.
It's not cheap, but it has rave reviews.
So I took the plunge, and can only say how impressed I am!
The grill took all of 5 minutes to assemble, - only a few nuts and bolt for the frame.
But my golly is this thing well made. Very sturdy and high quality.
After having done 5 cooks, I must admit this PK grills and smokes perfectly.
Air control and the tight casting make the heating very even.
Burgers and Steaks came out perfect, with nice char marks. And the smoked brisket was to die for.
Its not a huge grill, but perfect size for a small family.
And quality, well it will last my life time .. and then some!
Thanks PK for bringing this classic back to life.

J. L. Groom : Easy to Use, Great Results

Easy to use grill, love the fact that it has four vents to control airflow. Plus its made in USA. Pricier than a Weber but this is better made and more versatile.

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