Weber Original Kettle 18 inch Review

The Weber Original Kettle 47 cm is a well-regarded charcoal grill known for its classic design and reliable performance. Its dome-shaped build facilitates even heat distribution, making it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. The grill features a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, ensuring durability and resistance to rust. While the 47 cm cooking surface is adequate for small gatherings, it may not suffice for larger events. The grill's temperature control is managed through adjustable vents, though mastering the technique requires practice. Assembly is straightforward, although attaching the legs can be tricky. The grill's portability is enhanced by its wheels, but its compact size may limit its use for extensive barbecues. Despite its lack of a built-in thermometer, the Weber Kettle offers a good balance of cost and performance, making it a solid choice for those seeking an authentic charcoal grilling experience. Competitors like Char-Broil and Napoleon offer alternatives with unique features, but the Weber remains a strong contender in its price range.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Weber Ranch Kettle 94 cm or Weber Compact Kettle 47 cm or Napoleon Pro Kettle 22 inch.

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The Weber Original Kettle 47 cm is a classic choice for barbecue lovers who appreciate the simplicity and authenticity of cooking with charcoal. Known for its iconic dome-shaped design, this grill has been a staple in backyards for years, bringing family and friends together around delicious, smoky flavors.

Why does this grill stand out? Well, it's all about combining timeless design with functional features. The 47 cm size is perfect for those with limited outdoor space but still offers enough room to cook for a small crowd. It's great for anyone who enjoys experimenting with different grilling techniques.

Of course, no grill is perfect. Some may find the smaller cooking surface limiting, especially when preparing meals for larger gatherings. But for its size, the Weber Original Kettle maintains a good balance between performance and portability.

Whether you're seasoned in the art of barbecuing or just starting your grilling journey, this trusty grill is a compelling option that promises reliable results and a satisfying cooking experience.

 

The design and build quality of the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm is where classic meets practical. This iconic charcoal barbecue is known for its distinctive spherical shape, which isn't just for aesthetics—it helps in circulating heat evenly, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. The porcelain-enameled bowl and lid are not only stylish but also highly durable, resisting rust and peeling even after extended use.

The grill features a chrome-plated cooking grate that provides ample space for grilling multiple items simultaneously. It's sturdy enough to handle heavier cuts of meat without warping. The handles, made from glass-reinforced nylon, are heat-resistant, offering a safe and comfortable grip. However, some users have noted that the handles could use extra padding for extended cooking sessions.

 

Dimensions and Stability

Standing at an ideal height, this kettle is designed to provide a comfortable grilling experience. The tripod-style legs give it good stability, even on uneven surfaces, but it's worth mentioning that the assembly positions might occasionally feel a bit wobbly if not tightened properly. The integrated lid hook is a thoughtful feature, allowing you to hang the lid on the side of the grill, keeping it off the ground and within reach.

 

Despite its robust build, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm remains lightweight enough to move around your garden or patio with ease. The wheels, though slightly small, are functional and assist in maneuverability. Overall, its design is both functional and sleek, making it a charming addition to any outdoor cooking setup.

When it comes to setting up your new Weber Original Kettle 47 cm, you'll find that the ease of assembly is a definite plus. The instructions are straightforward, and most users report that it takes about 30 to 45 minutes to get everything ready for grilling. You'll only need a screwdriver, which is a tool most people have lying around at home. The parts are well-labeled, so you won't find yourself scratching your head trying to figure out which piece goes where. The assembly process is relatively simple, thanks to the detailed guide that comes with the barbecue. The step-by-step instructions are accompanied by clear illustrations, making it easier for those who might not be natural DIYers.

One thing to note, however, is that the legs can be a bit tricky to attach. This might require a little bit of patience and perhaps a second pair of hands to steady the grill while you work. But once that's sorted, the rest fits together snugly, ensuring a sturdy structure.

Another great aspect is the quality of the components. Everything from the bowl to the lid feels robust and well-made, ensuring that once it's assembled, it stays put. While some cheaper models on the market might feel wobbly or flimsy, the Weber Original Kettle offers a solid build that speaks to its longevity.

In summary, while there's a slight hiccup with the legs, the overall assembly process is smooth sailing. Once you've got it all together, you'll be ready to fire up the grill and get cooking in no time!

When it comes to cooking performance, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm truly shows its strengths. This classic charcoal grill retains a well-earned reputation for delivering delicious, smoky flavors that enhance your barbecuing experience. Whether you're grilling burgers, steaks, or vegetables, the results are consistently impressive.

The 47 cm grilling surface offers ample space, comfortably accommodating enough food for a small gathering. You can fit several burgers, hot dogs, or even a whole chicken without crowding the grill. This is perfect if you're hosting a few friends or having a family meal.

The grill’s porcelain-enameled bowl and lid ensure excellent heat retention, which is crucial for even cooking. This helps achieve those perfect sear marks and a delicious charred flavor. The two-part cooking grate also adds versatility, allowing you to add charcoal without removing the entire grate, which is especially handy for longer cooks.

However, managing direct and indirect heat on this grill requires a bit of practice. There are no separate heat zones, so you’ll need to move coals around to create different temperature areas. This might be a slight learning curve if you're new to charcoal grilling.

Another area where the Weber kettle shines is its ability to handle both high-heat grilling and slow cooking. If you’re a fan of smoking meats, you can easily set up a two-zone fire for indirect cooking. This allows you to smoke ribs or pork shoulder with ease, ensuring tender and flavorful results.

Overall, if you’re after that authentic charcoal taste, this grill doesn't disappoint. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an experienced griller, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm offers solid performance that will elevate your barbecuing game.

Temperature control is a big deal when it comes to grilling, and the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm does a pretty solid job here. This grill is equipped with a adjustable air vent on the lid, which lets you fine-tune the airflow and, as a result, the heat. More air means hotter temperatures, while closing it off will cool things down. Simple, right?

But there's more to it. The damper system at the bottom also plays a role in managing temperature. By opening and closing these dampers, you can control how much oxygen feeds the fire. This combo of top and bottom vents gives you a surprising amount of control over how hot things get inside.

For those who love a good low-and-slow cook, this kettle grill is up to the task. With practice, you can maintain a steady low temperature to smoke meats, thanks to the well-designed vent system. And let's not forget the included built-in thermometer on the lid. It might not be the most accurate in the world, but it gives you a decent ballpark figure to keep an eye on what's happening under the hood.

However, mastering the temperature control might take a few tries if you're new to charcoal grilling. Unlike gas grills where you can just twist a knob, you'll need a bit of patience and practice to get the hang of it. Also, on windy days, maintaining the desired temperature can be a bit of a challenge, as the wind can affect the grill's performance.

All in all, once you get the hang of the Weber Kettle's vent system, you'll find it gives you a good amount of control over your cooking temperatures. So, whether you're searing steaks or smoking ribs, you'll have the tools to do it right.

When considering a charcoal barbecue, portability and storage are often key factors, especially for those who love spontaneous cookouts or have limited outdoor space. The Weber Original Kettle 47 cm strikes a decent balance in these aspects.

Firstly, the kettle features durable wheels that make it relatively easy to move around, whether you're relocating it across your patio or tucking it away in your garage. The wheels are sturdy, but if you're planning to roll it over uneven terrain like grass or gravel, you might find it a bit challenging.

As for its compact size, at 47 cm, it's not the biggest kettle barbecue out there, but that can actually be a plus for storage. It fits easily into tighter spaces and won’t dominate your backyard. However, if you’re a fan of large BBQ gatherings or have a big family, this model might feel a tad small for your needs.

One thing to keep in mind is that while the bowl and lid are relatively easy to clean with their enamel coating, the entire unit does not fold up. This means you'll need a dedicated spot to store it where it won't be exposed to the elements if you want to keep it in pristine condition.

In summary, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm offers a nice mix of mobility and space-saving features, making it suitable for smaller outdoor areas or those who appreciate a portable setup. But, if you're looking for something that can pack away flat or handle rough terrains, you might want to explore other options.

When you crack open the box of the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm, you'll find everything nicely packed and ready for assembly. Here's what you can expect inside:

• Kettle Bowl and Lid: The iconic round shape made of durable steel and coated in porcelain-enamel. This is what gives the kettle its classic look and helps distribute heat evenly.
• Cooking Grate: The grill comes with a plated steel cooking grate that provides plenty of room for your favorite foods. It's sturdy and easy to clean, but some might prefer a thicker gauge for more intense grilling sessions.
• Charcoal Grate: Below the cooking grate, you'll find a separate grate for holding the charcoal. This helps with airflow and ensures consistent burning.
• Ash Catcher: The aluminum ash catcher keeps things tidy by collecting ashes underneath the grill. It's a basic design, but it gets the job done.
• Legs and Wheels: The legs are pretty straightforward to attach, and the wheels make it easy to move around, although they might wobble a bit on uneven ground.
• Lid Handle: Equipped with a heat shield to protect your hand from the heat, ensuring safe usage.
• Instruction Manual: A step-by-step guide to help you assemble and use the grill. While generally clear, some might find the diagrams a bit small.

As for tools, you'll need a basic wrench or screwdriver for assembly, which isn't included, so make sure you've got those on hand. Overall, everything you need to get grilling is included, and the components fit snugly inside the box, which helps prevent damage during shipping. Just make sure to check for any missing pieces before you start assembling – it doesn't happen often, but it's better to be safe than sorry!

When looking at the charcoal barbecue market, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm stands up pretty well against its competitors. But how does it actually stack up? Let's take a closer look.

Key Competitors

The closest competitors to the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm are the Char-Broil Kettleman and the Napoleon NK22K-LEG-2. Both offer a similar kettle-style build, but with a few different twists.

Design and Build

The Char-Broil Kettleman is known for its TRU-Infrared cooking grate, which helps in even heat distribution. However, Weber’s classic design with its porcelain-enameled bowl and lid is often seen as more timeless and durable. In comparison, the Napoleon model is often praised for its sturdier legs and slightly larger cooking area, but some might find its aesthetics a bit bulkier.

Temperature Control

When it comes to temperature control, the Weber offers precise venting options, but the Char-Broil comes with an adjustable grate that can offer more flexibility in cooking styles. Napoleon also features adjustable air vents, but some users find it less intuitive compared to Weber's straightforward design.

Ease of Use

While the Weber Original Kettle is generally easy to assemble and use, the Char-Broil has a removable ash pan that some users find more convenient for cleaning. However, Weber's one-touch cleaning system is still very effective and loved by many.

Portability

On the portability front, all three models come with wheels, but the Weber’s compact frame makes it a bit easier to maneuver. The Napoleon, being a bit more robust, might be slightly more challenging to move around for some.

Price Point

In terms of cost, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm is often priced moderately between the more affordable Char-Broil and the premium-priced Napoleon. This makes it a solid choice for those who seek quality without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, while each competitor has its own set of strengths, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm offers a great balance of durability, ease of use, and cost that continues to make it a favorite for many barbecue enthusiasts.

Video by: Weber BBQ India

Wrapping it all up, the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm offers a classic grilling experience with reliability and style. It's a great choice for both beginners and seasoned grillers who want to enjoy the authentic flavor that only charcoal can deliver. Its sturdy construction and iconic design are certainly appealing. While the assembly process is generally straightforward, some might find it a bit fiddly, especially if you're not the handiest person around. However, the included instructions are pretty clear, so it shouldn’t be too much of a hassle.

When it comes to cooking, this grill delivers consistent results. The ability to control temperature effectively means you can tackle a variety of recipes, from slow-cooked brisket to a quick batch of burgers. Yes, maintaining that perfect heat requires a bit of practice, but that's part of the journey with charcoal grilling.

One area where the Weber Original Kettle could improve is in its portability. It's not the lightest or most compact option out there, making it a bit cumbersome for those who frequently grill on-the-go. But if you're mostly grilling in your backyard, this shouldn't be a major issue.

In terms of value, the Weber Kettle offers a solid balance of performance and price. It's not the cheapest grill on the market, but it’s well worth the investment for its durability and cooking capabilities.

All in all, if you're after a reliable and time-tested charcoal barbecue, and you're okay with a bit of manual work to master the art of charcoal grilling, the Weber Original Kettle is a fantastic choice. It’s not just a grill—it's an experience.

 

• Can the Weber Original Kettle 47 cm be used for indirect cooking? Yes, it can. Thanks to its spacious cooking area, you can set up a two-zone configuration that allows for perfect indirect cooking. This is great for roasting meats or cooking dishes that need a slower, more even heat.
• What is the warranty for this charcoal barbecue? The Weber Original Kettle 47 cm usually comes with a 10-year limited warranty on the bowl and lid. Other parts, such as the cleaning system and plastic components, may have shorter coverage. Always check the warranty details for specific information.
• How easy is it to clean? Cleaning this barbecue is relatively straightforward. It features a one-touch cleaning system that makes ash removal simple. However, regular maintenance is necessary to prevent residue buildup, especially after big cookouts.
• Is it suitable for small spaces? Its compact size makes it a good fit for smaller patios or balconies. However, do ensure that you have enough space for safe operation, as charcoal barbecues require proper ventilation.
• Can I use it during winter? Absolutely! The Weber Original Kettle 47 cm performs well in cold weather. Its sturdy construction and effective heat retention mean you can grill all year round. Just consider using more charcoal to maintain desired cooking temperatures.
• What's the main downside? While it offers excellent performance, some might find the lack of a built-in thermometer a bit inconvenient. Investing in a separate thermometer could be a wise choice to monitor cooking temperatures accurately.

 

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