At Academy Sports + Outdoors, you'll find a wide assortment of top-of-the-line brands and types of outdoor grills for your next backyard BBQ. Whether you want to smoke some spiced meat or you're planning a huge tailgate, we have everything you need to make your next occasion epic!
What Sets Academy's Outdoor Grills Apart?
At Academy, our Outdoor Grills stand out for their quality, durability, and performance. Our grills are designed to withstand the elements and provide consistent cooking results. With a wide selection of top brands and models, you'll find the perfect grill to suit your outdoor cooking needs. We are committed to delivering the best value and service to our customers.
Can I Use Outdoor Grills for Different Types of Cooking?
Absolutely! Outdoor grills are incredibly versatile. You can grill burgers, steaks, vegetables, and even bake pizzas or smoke meats. Explore a variety of cooking techniques and recipes to make the most of your outdoor grilling experience.
Where Can I Find Outdoor Grill Accessories? We offer a wide range of outdoor grill accessories to enhance your cooking experience. From grill covers to utensils, smoker boxes, and grill thermometers, you can find all the accessories you need to make your outdoor grilling adventures even better.
Choosing the right outdoor grill isn’t just about the hardware; it’s about choosing how your family will make memories. Whether it’s the quick convenience of a gas grill for a spontaneous weeknight meal or the rich, smoky flavor from a charcoal grill on a lazy Sunday, the best grill is the one you’ll use to bring everyone together. It’s about more than just food; it’s about having fun and making stories to share for years.
Key Features to Consider
Once you’ve chosen a grill type, look at a few more details to find the perfect fit for your family.
Cooking Area: How Much Space Do You Need?
Grill size is measured in square inches. A small grill is around 300 square inches, while large ones can be over 600. For a typical family of four, a grill between 450 and 500 square inches provides plenty of room. If you love hosting the whole neighborhood for a cookout, go bigger.
[Graphic: An infographic showing different grill sizes with burger capacity. 300 sq. in. = ~12 burgers, 500 sq. in. = ~20 burgers, 600+ sq. in. = ~28+ burgers.]
Construction and Materials: Built to Last
A well-built grill will give you years of memories. Look for sturdy frames that don't wobble. Stainless steel offers great durability and rust resistance. Cast iron cooking grates are excellent for holding heat and creating beautiful sear marks, while porcelain-coated grates are easier to clean.
Extra Features: Side Burners, Rotisseries, and More
Many grills come with helpful extras. A side burner is great for warming up BBQ sauce or cooking side dishes. A rotisserie kit can help you cook juicy, self-basting chickens and roasts. Other features like built-in lights, tool hooks, and storage cabinets all add to the convenience and fun.
Understanding the Main Types of Outdoor Grills
The first step in your search is deciding on the fuel type. Each one offers a different experience, from the flavor it creates to the way you cook. Let’s break down the most popular types of bbq pit grills.
Feature
Gas Grills
Charcoal Grills
Ease of Use
Very Easy. Push-button start and simple knob controls.
More Difficult. Requires lighting coals and managing airflow.
Flavor
Good. Clean flavor that lets the food's taste shine.
Excellent. Provides a distinct, classic smoky flavor.
Heat Control
Precise. Easy to raise or lower the temperature quickly.
Variable. Takes practice to maintain a steady temperature.
Cleanup
Simple. Just clean the grates and empty the grease trap.
More Involved. Requires disposing of cooled ash.
Upfront Cost
Generally higher than a basic charcoal grill.
Often less expensive for a starting model.
You can often find good deals on grills at the end of the summer season, from August through October, as retailers make room for new inventory. However, sales also happen around major holidays like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. These holiday sales provide additional chances for consumers to find favorable deals outside of the late-summer clearance period, offering multiple strategic times throughout the year to consider purchasing a new grill.
The lifespan of a grill depends on its quality and how well you care for it. An inexpensive grill might last 2-3 years, while a mid-range grill can last 5-10 years. Premium, high-end grills are often built to last for 15 years or more with proper maintenance.
Regardless of the price point, regular cleaning and proper storage are crucial for maximizing your grill's longevity. Protecting it from the elements with a cover, especially during off-seasons, can significantly extend its life. Replacing worn-out grates or burners as needed can also prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs, ensuring your grill remains a reliable centerpiece for countless outdoor meals.
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