There's nothing like the sizzle of meat on a hot grill, the smell of smoke in the air and friends and family gathered around the backyard. Behind every unforgettable cookout is a grill master with the right tools.
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, good equipment makes grilling safer, faster and a lot more fun. Here's what belongs in your kit and what to look for in each piece.
The short answer
Start with long stainless tongs, a wide spatula, a basting brush and an instant-read thermometer. Add heat-resistant gloves and a good grill brush, then level up with a smoker box, rotisserie kit or grill basket.
The essentials
| Tool | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Grill tongs | Stainless steel, a comfortable non-slip grip, a locking mechanism and at least 16 inches of length to keep your hands off the heat. Tongs also turn food without piercing it, so juices stay in. |
| Skewers | Reusable stainless steel. Flat skewers keep food from spinning when you turn them. |
| Spatula | A wide, slotted stainless head that doesn't flex under a heavy burger, a heat-resistant handle and a beveled edge that slides under food. |
| Basting brush | Silicone for easy cleaning and heat resistance. Natural bristles soak up more sauce but wear out faster. |
| Meat thermometer | Instant read in 2 to 3 seconds, a backlit display for night grilling and a wide temperature range. Wireless models let you monitor slow cooks from anywhere. |
Great barbecue starts before you light the grill.
Safety first
- Heat-resistant gloves: look for a high heat rating (up to 932°F), flexible material for dexterity and long cuffs that protect your forearms. They're for adjusting vents, flipping skewers and moving hot grates.
- Grill light: cookouts don't have to end at sunset. Look for a magnetic base or clamp, LED lighting and an adjustable neck to aim at specific spots.
Keep it clean
A clean grill cooks better and flares up less. Wire-bristle brushes are still popular because they work, but coil brushes or nylon scrubbers are a good choice if you're worried about shedding bristles, and they're safer on porcelain-coated grates.
Charcoal tip
Charcoal fan? A chimney starter lights your coals in 15 to 20 minutes with no lighter fluid, which can taint the flavor and makes lighting less predictable.
Level up
| Upgrade | Why you'll love it | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Rotisserie kit | Slow-cooks whole chickens, roasts or ribs evenly and keeps them juicy | Fits your grill, a sturdy battery or electric motor, a balanced spit rod with counterweights |
| Smoker box | Smoky flavor on a gas or charcoal grill, no smoker needed | Stainless steel, a hinged lid for refills, perforations to release smoke |
| Burger press | Consistent, evenly shaped patties every time | Room to stuff patties with cheese or other fillings |
| Grill basket | Holds veggies, seafood and diced meat that would fall through the grates | Stainless or nonstick, a locking lid on flip baskets, plenty of surface area |
All-in-one kits and finishing touches
- BBQ tool set: a great start for beginners or an easy gift. Choose quality over quantity, a sturdy carrying case and durable stainless tools.
- Apron: keeps clothes clean, with pockets for tools and loops for towels.
- Grill mat: catches grease and spills to protect your deck or patio. Especially handy for renters and composite decks.
Where the brisket lands
Every grill master needs a good place to rest and carve. A big board with a juice groove keeps the counter clean and the meat looking its best.
Shop the 24″ acacia carving board →
Our largest board: 24″ x 16″ acacia with a deep juice groove and built-in handles.
Shop the extra-thick teak butcher block →
Fire up your brand
Planning cookout gifts or branded grill-day gear?
Tell us the occasion and your budget per piece. We'll suggest boards and tools your crowd will actually use, with your logo on them.
