Competition is a good thing. If it forces Weber off of their laurels and encourages positive change, it's a win for us. I own a Weber Performer Deluxe and love it, but yes, the ash collector is a PIA. The 4 blade cleanout blades leave ash behind, the handles aren't great and so on... Kudos to SNS for trying to improve on an industry stalwart. 👏👍
@@mikeperth8027 hey SPARKY, according to Weber’s website they make their grills in the USA “with U.S. and globally sourced components” so if the grill you bought was made in China is must be a fake copy. You have 16 subscribers and 3 videos so you are a blip on our screens
@@rogwheel If only I'd been blessed with your logic earlier. It's obvious that Weber have sold me a fake BBQ, without your insight I would have believed it's real. 🤣🤣🤣
@@mikeperth8027 the smaller Spirit gas grills are made in China but then rest of their grills are not. By the way, “Weber have sold me” is grammatically incorrect.
Justin, thanks for breaking down the pros and cons in such a clear, concise, and comprehensive way. Dave (aka SnS) is smart to have you as his product review spokesman. That said, the SnS grill seems like a good product that still needs some mods. The quality of material, temp gauge placement, four legs, and shelf are solid. The dome height and grill size (22”vs 24-26”), which impacts capacity, overall height, and lack of SnS deluxe demonstrates a degree of limitedness in my opinion.
Great review Justin. I think there are many improvements on that kettle, especially the probe-port and the thermometer location. Scrolling down the comments and I will say, that this grill is made were Webers have been made since 2012 or so. Knock-off? I'll call it more of a spin-off... BGE stayed very stagnant until the competition (which look like orange BGEs) started nibbling at their butts with all of the improvements. I have owned Weber kettles since I was 18 years old, and still, love them. But, the lid thermometer is worthless if you're doing an indirect cook. Anyone that owns a kettle will agree. I do think Dave should have included a slow n sear, but I'm no businessman so... My Jeep is the same color, so I have no complaints about that!
I definitely agree the thermometer is in the right spot on this grill, but the Weber one is not worthless, even doing indirect slow and low, you just gotta use the grill enough to dial it in and know where it's at. I can see why people might not want to bother with that though. It's sort of like, if you know your meats, cooks, and have enough practice, you don't really need a temp probe, though one can help. Cheers.
Could be. Even above the coals with them going, there's a range from about 250 up to 500+. For me it generally ranges between 275 to 325 above the coals' side for indirect slow and low once it's settled down, and I'll fiddle with the vents from there. This is on my Weber Premium kettle. Oh, also I generally use the regular Kingsford and the Weber charcoal (I prefer the Weber charcoal, but can't always find it), if that matters. Cheers.
I put permanent marker marks above the ash basin and above the one-touch handle for how open the bottom cleaning vents are and generally have the top and bottom vents open about 1/4 to 1/3 for indirect slow and low.
A SNS Kettle should definitely come stock with a Slow n Sear. Doesn't seem right to not include it standard. Also I could never understand why premium grills don't come equipped with a premium temp gage like Tel-Tru. Great video
Agree, how do you not include the Slow n Sear with a SNS Grill. I'm in the market for a kettle and would have jumped on this one if it was included with the price. I'll just go with a Weber and add the Slow n Sear for less $$$ or about the same cost depending on the model. Including the Slow N Sear as stock to the grill would have really separated them from the competition and would have easily grabbed them additional sales for this grill.
I’m think the opposite. If they added the SnS it would undoubtedly force them to raise the price and force people to buy something they may not want or already have.
It would raise the price and most of their preorder customers are going to be SNS owners already...So they decided it made more sense to let people add it if they need it but not force people who already own a SNS pay more for something they don't need.
@@BabyBackManiac That does makes total sense. True story: A few years ago my fiance and I went shopping at BMW. She fell in love with an X3 and I fell in love with an X5. So we gottem both. The next day we realized her X3 didn't come equipped with BMW's famous "halo eyes" lights. Apparently that was an "upgrade". 😳 Just doesn't feel right to have to be upgraded for something that should come standard. She kept the X3 but late at night my X5 could be heard teasing her.
Outstanding review, brother! You’re always so thorough and forthcoming. That cooker has a ton of useful and smart upgrades to the kettle we’re all used to. Can’t wait to get my claws on one. Great job 👍🏼
Basic Weber Guy here and just gave my 22” Black Weber to a former neighbor during a move so I am in the market for a new grill. Never heard of SnS but it’s caught my eye from your video. I’ll give it a serious look before buying my new grill. Thanks for the review. Looking forward to seeing you cook on it soon.
Great review man. Thanks for taking the time and energy to show us what SNS is up to. Some things on this kettle seem better than Weber like the thermometer placement and the no-squeeze ash catcher. Will be interesting to see how it sells at this higher price point
Great over view of the SnS kettle Grill Justin. I couldn't help but laugh that you put that kettle on a box. When I met you ... you are a lot taller than you look in your videos... I am sure you said the same about me LOL... I would love to get my hands on one of those for sure. It looks fantastic and well thought out. Take care Justin!
Been cooking with a weber for close to 40 years the best things I see that weber needs to do is 4 legs and a gasket on the lid been thinking this 4 years Thanks for bringing us all the new stuff that is out their I enjoy it
These features are very well thought out, I have 8 weber kettles and just about everytime I cook I wish they had at least one or more of these new SnS features. Great job with the review also.
@@BabyBackManiac I've done a bunch of different mods to a few different kettles but none of them have all this. I have to admit though...it is some of the fun of being a part of the Kettleheadz
Jah Weekes this is just a guess, but because they’re not mass producing in the quantities that Weber does, the cost of production is much higher. Remember, SNS is a small company. They don’t have the buying power Weber has
Thank you for finally mentioning the ash catcher which other reviewers failed to mention. I will buy this grill just for that alone besides all the upgraded features. Thank you.
After watching yours and "Cooking with Ry's" vids on this kettle, I pulled the trigger and got my SNS and LOVE it!!! You didn't mention in your vid that you can get it in left side or right side table as well...I went left side myself...been learning to smoke meats with mine and it's going GREAT!!! I've had it about 3 months now and am having a blast using it along with my Weber Genesis Gold gas grill. Just can't have enough grills!!! Looking for a great offset, then a artflame type plancha/combo and maybe a Kamado cooker...we'll see how it all shakes out. Great vids Justin!
Dave must have read my mind. I bought a Craigslist performer really cheap. I put two tel tru thermometers on opposite sides of the lid. I also bought the lavalock gasket to seal the air leaks. I can run my slow n sear so steadily now its awesome. Grill looks really nice, if I were in the market for a new kettle, I would strongly consider this. For me, when my current kettle dies, ill prob just try and find another cheap used kettle and modify it to my hearts delight.
Thanks for taking the time to explain this kettle. Is this kettle as tall as a master touch kettle. Is this a 22 in kettle and are there accessories for this kettle.
As far as what you were saying about the positioning of the vent and thermometer, The Weber kettle and cooking grate is designed exactly how it is meant to be used. The Weber is designed to have your heat zones on either side and your cool zone to be in the center. The vent and thermometer is always over your meat. The Weber is not designed to use an SnS. That SnS grill is designed to use an SnS, hence the way the vent and thermometer are positioned. Looks like a nice grill. Thanks for sharing.
Right, but the kettle also wasn’t designed to maintain low and slow temps like that…which is why one side often goes out when smoking. So over time people often eventually gravitate towards just starting with one healthier fire on one side which is easier to maintain and keep lit on smoking temps (and also leave you a little more cooking space on the grate.) That’s where the thermometer placement becomes an issue.
I think I need one of those SnS Grills. I'm guessing it's about 22.5 inch? Sorry if you mentioned the size in the video. I did watch the whole video, but didn't hear it? Hope you're doing well Jason. I miss my little buddy!!!! Cheers!!!
I'll be definitely buying one, since the pre order one doesn't come with all the accessories I want I'll wait. There will be a deluxe model after it comes that has all the bells and whistles. SnS grills, you knocked it out of the park I feel and the color is awesome!
Good review. Just a note...there seems to be an issue with the bottom "star" vent cover. The cover is hollow and lifted on both ends, so even though you close off the vent holes, air is still allowed to flow. Webers don't have this issue because their vent cover is flush with the kettle surface from end to end.
Hi Justin, another great video. I appreciate the detail you go into and the straight forward way you present it. I was diagnosed last week with kidney cancer, so long story short, old lefty is going bye bye. One of the big considerations for this is I'll will be hugely restricted on my sodium intake moving forward. I was wondering if you had any low sodium BBQ/smoker recipes that a solo kidney fella can have at. Appreciate what you do, wishing you and yours well
Hey Blair. I almost missed this comment. I just want you to know I’m pulling for you and I hope you make a complete recovery. Said a prayer for you tonight.
Well if nothing else it might be a good video idea to find low sodium recipes that actually taste good. Appreciate the well wishes sir. I hope I'll be able to watch your work for many years to come, fingers crossed
Nice review. I am impressed with all of SNS Grills products. I received the SNS Grills introductory email on this model. I asked customer support if they new if my Cajun Bandit rotisserie for my Weber would fit on the SNS kettle. The answer I received was they do not know and will be marketing their own accessories in the future. My Cajun Bandit rotisserie was not cheap (because it is very well made and reverses to fit my WSM) so consequently I can not justify this kettle at this time. However, I am sure that many kettle fans will appreciate and want this kettle for its quality and well thought out. features.
The SNS grill has a lot of great features. I wish Webber had some of these these. However my Webber 22in. Performer, for the price, is , I feel the better value . I have been using my Webber for over three years and purchasing a slow and sear insert and grate, has given me what I need in a grill. Your video was very informative. Thank you for your insight.
From what I’ve seen I’m loving this new kettle. However, I wish they had a 26” available like Weber. I need a new 26” & if they sold one I would pre-order it today!! Overall, terrific upgrades & I’m tempted. I’d really like to see this come with the Slow N Sear Included. In fact I think it only makes sense. Again, please tell Dave to make a 26” kettle. I’d buy it for sure!
Great video again Justin! I like the grey color. I also like the probe port and the fan port. I have been a Weber guy for years and about a month ago just purchased a new Performer 22 with the fold up table. I would have purchased the S-n-S just because it has the fan port already built in. Great review.
I just bought a new kettle master touch series. So I'll be good for awhile. I do think placing the thermometer below the vent is a very smart move. The ports are a nice add on as I intend to put a port for a thermometer in mine. 🤙✌🤟🖖
Great video as always! Love the grill. absolutely awesome. Biggest complaint for me is the same as with Weber: too short for guys 6’0” and above. I wish they would’ve addressed that. Everything else makes me want one!
@@BabyBackManiac Wow. I've never owned the standard kettle but have always felt that the Master Touch was too short for tall guys. I can't imagine an even shorter Weber! My performer is a tiny bit better but I'd still love another two inches.
🔴✅ Slow ’N Sear Kettle tinyurl.com/y8d7yc7g *****Edit 6/1/2020**** I've now received a production kettle and wanted to tell you how it differs from the prototype in this review. In a nutshell, its the same. The few changes are not really all that consequential but told you I'd notate the changes so here they are. 1. The screw that holds the vents on is painted black to prevent rust. 2. The cover on the probe port is smaller...appropriately sized for the hole it's covering. 3. The ash collection device fits more snuggly. No wiggles at all. 4. I can't remember if I said this in the video but the gasket does not come installed. It wasn't a big deal to instal, but I would have preferred the factory do it. This way the people who said they don't need a gasket on a kettle don't have to scrape it off. 5. Also the ash sweep out system is tweaked to improve ash removal in a minor way. I'd explain more but frankly it would take a few paragraphs to explain and in the end it's such a minor change, you'd read that paragraph and wish I'd just wrote what you are reading right now. lol ***** Edit 10/18/2020**** I just received the most recent version of this cooker. Basically everything is the same as of the above update except for the changes in the packaging. A few people reported problems with damage with shipping so the packaging has been massively improved to reduce it. After a lot of research, they determined the front handle was causing some of the shipping problems because it reduces the impact protection in the box so now that is user installed instead of installed at the factory. I think these changes have fixed the problem but as always if you having shipping damage, let SNS Grills know so they can take care of it. On a personal note, I have tested the cooker both with and without the gasket, and I've decided there are pros and cons to it. While it does seal the lid better, it also makes the lid feel like it's sitting on stilts and it doesn't have that familiar "nesting" feeling you get when you put a little on a kettle. I think each person will need to decide what is more important them. Personally, I haven't bothered putting the gasket on the new one, and I don't think it needs it. That's just me though After 6 months of use, I LOVE this kettle. The smoke hole alone is a game changer. *****Edit 1/18/2020**** I have just be made aware that the gasket is not longer included. It may still be available as a separate purchase, but check first if that is important to you)
I'm curious if you've noticed any degradation in quality from the original prototype to the production units. When I received mine and I was disappointed in the quality compared to my Weber kettle. It seems they really need to shore up QC and material thickness if they plan to actually compete with Weber. I understand being a smaller business, but the little things like a thicker top vent piece, better quality wheels and improved plastics on the handles would really help it stand toe to toe with the big guys. As-is I like it for the innovative features they've introduced but I'd put money on Weber if we were taking bets on longevity.
@@CulinaryGod The only thing I've noticed that has changed, I've mentioned in this comment. To be honest, the longer I use this the more I love this thing! The handles are bigger and easier to...um..."handle." The wheels to me are almost exactly the same. The vents are smaller but they are stainless (vs aluminum), have more airflow, and seal up better because of the platform built into the lid for it to sit flat. Regarding the lid thickness, the SNS Kettle is the exact same thickness as current Weber. and literally all the other metal is a massive upgrade in quality. (SnS Grill uses Stainless steel vs Weber's aluminum or chrome plated steel). I never felt like Weber's quality was lacking but almost every bit of material on the SnS is an upgrade. However, if you are having issues with the plastic bits, let them know. The customer service people for SnS are really great people. Thanks for stoping by!
Nice well done overview! It does resemble the Members Mark, which I have. Possibly they were both made in the same factory? It also resembles a Napoleon. Four legs are better on a flat surface like your patio. I cook in my yard on the grass so I know I prefer the three legged Weber to to the four legs on the MM. Looks like SNS did a great job but the SNS should be included. Good review Justin.
Well , now I guess you will have to send me that little Ranch kettle ! Dave's new kettle looks pretty good. I can't wait to see you do a full cook on it !
Nice looking kettle. The height of the lid dome seems shorter than Weber; is it? My experience with porcelain coated grates is that they eventually crack, especially with coals sitting on them, or just weather effects over time. And all those darned extra holes...nice to have, but as a long time owner of several kettles, I've need to plug the few holes I have now to dial in better air flow. When you need to go WOT for searing, yes, the more holes the better; how snug are all the vent hole covers?
Overall great review, I’m not going to be in the market for one. I had people jump on me about the 4 legs on the expert grill, which I like better. Funny how he went with 4 legs.
Nice review Justin! They really did add a lot of the mods that people do to the kettle so it seems SnS is thinking about the end user on this grill! Thanks for sharing and I hope you contacted Fed Ex because that is simply ridiculous package handling!!
279.99 and doesn't even come with a pre installed slow n sear which I totally figured would be the case. So many people bbq successfully on a weber with some mods that this price point doesn't seem a value.
Just got my Sns grill and put it together. I noticed in the video he says it comes with a gasket. Has anyone got one recently and didn’t get a gasket? Did they quit including one?
So you have me interested! just wondering though would you buy the SNS Kettle over your Weber Sumit? I currently have a large BGE and am moving so it is staying with the house. want another cooker that is versatile so is the SNS a good option vs the Summit? Really looking forward to your insight, especially from someone that has a vast collection of cookers!
Excellent review. I've watched this 3-4 times including just now. I just assembled my new SnS Kettle earlier this afternoon. I haven't even cooked on it yet but I do have a few comments, mostly regarding assembly. This is not an easy assembly. Not that that's a deterrent, it's just that it's not something you're going to throw together in 15 minutes. It took me just under 3 hours and yes I took my time. To do it right, you have to study the instructions which these days are not in English but instead are in graphic illustrations. Not to nitpick but you made a few errors in assembly. 1) Starting with the lid, the handle bracket and washer should be completely flush with the top of the lid surface. I actually bent the bottom flat part of the handle bracket with pliers to make sure it was perfectly flush with the curved lid - as you don't want unnecessary stress on the lid. You've got the spacer between the handle bracket and lid. The spacer should be on the other side of the bottom of the handle bracket. Why does this matter? It's because the manufacturer wants you to maximize the surface area of the handle bracket and the lid, because that adds strength. Doing it the way you have it, over time, with minimal surface area between the handle and lid such as the way you have it, the lid will begin to warp at the contact points, and, besides becoming unsightly, this could cause eventual chipping of the ceramic enamel. 2) The ash clearing rod - you've got the loop end at 5 o'clock and 11 o'clock in some of the scenes, although it's correct in other scenes. It must be at 12 o'clock and six o'clock. And this is not clearly explained in the assembly instructions even if the drawings show this. One must study the graphics and then kind of figure it out. One must insert that handle while the loop is at six o'clock so that it fits into the middle part, then when it is fully inserted as far as it can go, one must twist it 180 degrees so that the top "snaps" into place with another part (part #11) not visible in the vid. The bump on the rod fits into the slot in Part #11 - and Part #11 must be underneath the bowl with the slot positioned correctly. See pages 16-17 in the instructions. If one doesn't position part #11 correctly and then get the rod to snap into place by twisting it 180 degrees, the rod can come out eventually. There are other folks on youtube which also show the ash clearing rod installed incorrectly or incompletely. It's an easy error to make. 3) Maybe this is a slight design change, but my little table snaps into place with one finger. All I have to do is lift it with my index finger and it just magically falls into place with the aid of gravity. And it is secure. I can see in your vid that the table caught slightly as you lifted the table. Mine doesn't do that. It just slides right into place! How wonderful is that when you are walking up to your grill with an armful of meat and spatulas and sauce? 4) I love love love the lid holder. You can see in your vid that at 14:35, you move the lid to the holder, but you can see that the lid did not catch the little black spool correctly. The lid is on the outside of it. It should be in the valley of it. It's because you lifted the lid from the kettle which is not necessary. What I've found is that the holder spools act almost like a hinge. I can take one finger and simple push the lid handle towards the lid holder and it magically slides over and falls into place. I can also push it back with one finger. The magic is in those little black spools that are like bearings. Once the lid touches those black spools, the lid acts as if it is on a hinge. They allow the lid to rotate into place without thought. All one has to do is keep the lid in contact with the kettle and it will magically slide perfectly into and out of the spools and the holder. Pretty amazing. There is some king of geometric physics gravity thing going on there. Thanks for all your vids. I'm a subscriber, of course. :-)
I gotta hand it to you again, Justin. This is the second SNS Grills cooker you've sold me on. (You already know about the first one.). The screenshot of it on their website/email/FB didn't make me think about it much until you went through all the details here. I'm serious considering getting one now. Amongst all the enhancements shown, the lid seal and the ports for my temperature controller may be enough to convince me to begin the transition back away from kamados to kettle style cookers; at least for some cooks. Thanks! (Now I just gotta make some room on my patio...)
Hi Justin. Really enjoyed all your videos. I am a newbie looking into the BBQ game. I started looking at Tragers, then Kamado Joe, then the Summit Charcoal grill and now also considering the Kettles like maybe the performer. What would you recommend for a beginner that would like to try out different ways of cooking? Thanks again.
Enjoyed the video. Very thorough review. It looks like a great product. I haven't read all the comments so I apologize if this has already been asked/addressed. Is it the height of the shorter weber premium or the taller master touch? If it's shorter it would be nice to have the taller height. Will the Weber rotisserie work with the SnS kettle?
Great looking grill. I own a few Slow n Sears, griddles and cooking grates and have to say SNS produces high quality products. Also, Dave offers great customer service in my experience. As a huge Weber kettle fan, I'm a little scared to use this with all the improvements/mods.. as it could become my preferred daily cooker and hurt some kettles feelings.
G'day Justin, great review on these SNS Kettles, I've been made aware of these only a few days ago and have also discovered that they are available down here in Sydney, Australia. Like you, I've been very much a Weber enthusiast for many years and looking at your backyard, I'm well and truly outnumbered for toys lol. but these new SNS Kettles look the goods. How does the metal feel, do they feel as solid as a Weber? I compared a 22 inch WSM once to the 20 inch Pro-Q and the WSM just felt more solid so was worth the extra money for me. The importing retailer that bring the SNS Kettle in Australia sell them as a bundle with the SNS Charcoal holder, griddle cover and a few other niceties for rrp $699 AU, yes everything is super expensive down here. A Weber Master Touch Plus with deflector plate and charcoal ring is now $625 AU. Sheeeesh!!
It's kind of an interesting kettle option....except it is $280. I have the $165 Weber premium in Green that I am very happy with and since that's only a year and a half old or so I am not looking to replace it anytime soon. Maybe the time the Weber wears out this might be price competive and I would consider it. I have only added the charcoal baskets from Weber to my kettle, so even with that accessory still about $100 less than this option. I know their pricing is probably "comparable" to a kettle with their accessories but to me those accessories are also over priced and really not needed. I can accomplish the exact same thing with the Weber charcoal basket. If their price was competitive with Weber it would be something to evaluate for sure. Nice review video going over the features and such. EDIT: I didn't realize that price apparently doesn't come with the slow and sear, so I am reinforcing that to me it is way over priced, but all of their products are. If they want to be a "premium" kettle they should instead make it here instead of using the same supplier from China that a bunch of other "Brands" are. Side note, I have high temp gasket leftover from my smoker that I was going to put on the lid of my weber, but it doesn't need it. I can snuff out the fire on mine just from closing the vents so mine is air tight enough as is. EDIT 2: Porcelain coated charcoal grate? That will chip and crack quickly from the expansion and contraction of the steel inside due to the high heat of the coal fire.....so what a waste of an "upgrade" there. Kind of foolish. That's no better in the long run than the plain steel Weber. The only upgrade would be thicker steel or stainless or both......
Finally pulled the trigger and picked up the deluxe and the accessory kit using your link! Thanks for the excellent and comprehensive review. Can't wait to start using it
What about the accessories that are designed for the Weber Kettle i.e. the Rottisserie ring or the Santa Maria attachment? Would they fit onto this SnS Kettle?
I noticed that they sell gasket material. Is it a more premium gasket material? or does the lid have gasket out of the box? Just curious if they stopped putting gasket on out the box. I was looking at getting the deluxe package deal. Seems like it's cheaper than buying a weber and then getting a new SNS grate and deluxe slow and sear
The side shelf should include tool hooks like the BBQ Dragon side shelf. What's it going to cost to add tool hooks?? I like the idea of attaching the side shelf directly to the kettle rather than hanging it off the the lip and not having the kettle seal correctly. I added a Nomex gasket to the under side of the lid. I had to cut the gasket to fit the narrow edge to put it on but it works fantastic and keeps my Weber air tight. That's a low cost item that Weber should add to their product. I like that Dave includes a gasket on the SnS Kettle.
Looks to be much better quality than my 2018 Weber Master Touch kettle, which I have been very disappointed with. When the time comes I will probably replace it with the SnS kettle. I think they should make a 26 inch too!
Thanks for the video. Good info. The porcelain charcoal grate on this grill is a great idea. As long as you have access to the factory I would like to pass on my pet peeve. I will not have a grill without a hinged top. Even with a rack for the top I don't want to deal with it. With a hinge you pull the top up out of the way and you're done. And with my Kingsford grill it enables a built in rack that can be used for cooking or warming of food, buns, etc. Apparently Weber has heard the masses and added a hinge feature lately. But it is bulky and the top doesn't clear the cooking surface completely.
lol.. No distractions..? With some minor tweaks this would be a very nice kettle.. Have you noticed any scratches on the lid from where it sits in the cradle..?
Justin, I know that this is an older video, so hopefully you read this... But... can the lid bail be positioned so that the lid goes to the back of the grill, instead of to the left.. Also I like me heat to the rear not left or right. is this easily adjusted for.
Good review, but I think for the difference in price I would rather have the Weber Performer Premium with the much larger table that the kettle is actually built in to. I've had mine for several years and love it!
The only thing that will swing me for buying this is an included actual slow N sear. The lid needs to be taller for sure, if it was i would buy it hands down, but ill pass on this, i can see rib racks not being able to fit in this. taller lid + an actual slow N sear included i would buy 2 of them.
theAZKABANinmate I second this. They copy the Weber design to a T yet they don’t give you a slow and sear lol. Why would they not include a slow and sear? Makes no sense.
@@kbk011 Because if they want anyone to buy this, they need to stay reasonably close to the price of Weber's kettle, and since they're an extremely small company compared to Weber they can't buy parts and such in nearly the volume Weber does, thus they have to pay a lot more than Weber does, thus their cost is a lot higher than Weber's and if they want to make a profit things have to be cut back to keep the price low.
Honest question: How did SnS not get sued for copyright infringement from Weber? Even with all the mods, to me the basic design screams of Weber patents, no?
Good looking kettle with a lot of the features that kettle modders have come up with over the years. I especially like that they used my full sweep vent mod. Smoke one for Phil today.
Question. So the thermostat is not dead on. So how far off was it? I need to know if i could live with it or have to dish out more $$ for a better one. Thanks!
im so interested to dive and get one provided that your pros & cons being considered by manufacturer. one thing I would like to try to suggest for future used to drill 4x1/4 " dia hole in "side shelf" (20lbs rated) to enable to incorporate a hard plastic or wood chopping board for stability.
Really interesting to see a reputable company come out with something to seriously attempt to improve upon the tried and true kettle. Maybe this is the kick in the pants that Weber has been needing to finally innovate a bit itself. We love our kettles but there's a reason so many of us have modded them with stuff like temp probe ports and ports for temp controllers.
I love sns grills and i have many of their products including the kamado. I love your channel as well. That being said a kettle thats virtually identical to the weber performer with fold down table. 1. For the same price 2. Without a slow n sear 3. Not in a cart like the performer with the folding table (which has 4 legs) which makes it stable and non twisting 3. Touting better placement of a thermometer thats 20 + degrees off is not cutting it in my book. This is being compared to a mastertouch when price and functionality wise it should be compared to the performer. If thats the case no no no, hell no
There are even a few places that you can get a little bit better deal on the Performer, but this is closer in design to the Mastertouch. This does have a few things going for it over those, but the exclusion of at the very least a slow n' sear kind of makes it meh.
That was my initial impression as well until I considered that it has the stainless steel grate standard, a gasket on the lid and the port already ready for the digiQ. Those are significant improvements over a stock Weber Performer.
It is more in line with a mastertouch but at the price point of a performer thats exactly my issue. A gasket and a hole.....im good an sns grate is 60 a weber grate is 30 so its a 30 dollar difference, the cart more than makes up for that. The improved grate is nice but but i respect your view point. To each their own, im sure if you buy it, it will bring smiles and turn out delicious grub!
@@tenphases1 But when you consider it has the side shelf as well that makes it more akin to the entry level performer with the folding side shelf. All while having the additional upgrades of the better grate and the other mods already baked in at an identical $279 price point.
@@thomaskennedy7842 I have that performer , its on a cart, not those dinky legs coming out the bottom. The cart makes a world of difference with the kettle. I have a regular master touch and ive used the members mark both have those legs that Are crap, even in the weber. The cart makes a world of difference and its the one thing that I cant effectively fabricate in my backyard for 30 buck in 10 minutes. Drill a hole add a tear drop cover, easy, 10 minutes. Gasket? Weve all done that, a quality, sturdy, well made cart? ......im not a carpenter and the time, labor, and material become substantial. It really sets the performer apart. Plus the fact that its on a cart mean the side table can handle more than 20 lb's. This sns kettle is at the price of a performer but its just a mastertouch with some cajun bandit add ons. Cajun Bandit is awesome though lol
I like the cotter pins on the lower basket, it enables easy disassembly for transport if needed. Most other manufacturers would use push nuts that would be permanent. It would be nice though if the height was at the level it is while on the box, that is my main complaint with most charcoal grills, they are just too short. Edit: The top vent handle while nice is too large to fit under the TTT.
If anyone is interested in a grill that you review, they need to look no further. Your reviews are thorough and enjoyable. Now, if you could get the governor of my state to open up the barber shops so I could get a haircut, that would be great! 🙂
I know you have a lot of Weber kettles . If I may ask what makes them so good? Do all the new ones come with a hole to mark smoking temp and grilling temp. One more question have you seen a Charbroil Kettleman?
Ok, I LIKE IT... I like it a lot 😍 Thanks for the video justin.
Thx for watching, my friend.
Guga please make a video with Baby Back Maniac & T-Roy Cooks
@@BabyBackManiac you two would make an awesome colab, less dewww itt
@@authorityfigure1630 someday. We actually talk about it all the time. It’s just I’m in Dallas and he’s in Miami.
@@BabyBackManiac well whenever it happens I’m sure you two will make it great.
Competition is a good thing. If it forces Weber off of their laurels and encourages positive change, it's a win for us. I own a Weber Performer Deluxe and love it, but yes, the ash collector is a PIA. The 4 blade cleanout blades leave ash behind, the handles aren't great and so on... Kudos to SNS for trying to improve on an industry stalwart. 👏👍
I would agree with you if these were made in the USA like Weber. They are made in China with a made in the USA price. No thanks
@@rogwheel I bought a Performer Premium Weber, it's made in China Spanky!
@@mikeperth8027 hey SPARKY, according to Weber’s website they make their grills in the USA “with U.S. and globally sourced components” so if the grill you bought was made in China is must be a fake copy. You have 16 subscribers and 3 videos so you are a blip on our screens
@@rogwheel If only I'd been blessed with your logic earlier.
It's obvious that Weber have sold me a fake BBQ, without your insight I would have believed it's real.
🤣🤣🤣
@@mikeperth8027 the smaller Spirit gas grills are made in China but then rest of their grills are not. By the way, “Weber have sold me” is grammatically incorrect.
Justin, thanks for breaking down the pros and cons in such a clear, concise, and comprehensive way. Dave (aka SnS) is smart to have you as his product review spokesman. That said, the SnS grill seems like a good product that still needs some mods. The quality of material, temp gauge placement, four legs, and shelf are solid. The dome height and grill size (22”vs 24-26”), which impacts capacity, overall height, and lack of SnS deluxe demonstrates a degree of limitedness in my opinion.
Great review Justin. I think there are many improvements on that kettle, especially the probe-port and the thermometer location. Scrolling down the comments and I will say, that this grill is made were Webers have been made since 2012 or so. Knock-off? I'll call it more of a spin-off... BGE stayed very stagnant until the competition (which look like orange BGEs) started nibbling at their butts with all of the improvements. I have owned Weber kettles since I was 18 years old, and still, love them. But, the lid thermometer is worthless if you're doing an indirect cook. Anyone that owns a kettle will agree. I do think Dave should have included a slow n sear, but I'm no businessman so... My Jeep is the same color, so I have no complaints about that!
Thanks for watching man
I definitely agree the thermometer is in the right spot on this grill, but the Weber one is not worthless, even doing indirect slow and low, you just gotta use the grill enough to dial it in and know where it's at. I can see why people might not want to bother with that though. It's sort of like, if you know your meats, cooks, and have enough practice, you don't really need a temp probe, though one can help. Cheers.
@@WR3ND Guess I need some practice then because I can't tell the temperature of the indirect side with the thermometer hovering over burning coals.
Could be. Even above the coals with them going, there's a range from about 250 up to 500+. For me it generally ranges between 275 to 325 above the coals' side for indirect slow and low once it's settled down, and I'll fiddle with the vents from there. This is on my Weber Premium kettle. Oh, also I generally use the regular Kingsford and the Weber charcoal (I prefer the Weber charcoal, but can't always find it), if that matters. Cheers.
I put permanent marker marks above the ash basin and above the one-touch handle for how open the bottom cleaning vents are and generally have the top and bottom vents open about 1/4 to 1/3 for indirect slow and low.
I got questioned by my wife for buying a kettle grill, and this guy has like 10 bbq's sitting in the back yard!!!
😂
My wife can just look at me and knows if I have spent money. It's a skill they have
A SNS Kettle should definitely come stock with a Slow n Sear. Doesn't seem right to not include it standard. Also I could never understand why premium grills don't come equipped with a premium temp gage like Tel-Tru.
Great video
Agree, how do you not include the Slow n Sear with a SNS Grill. I'm in the market for a kettle and would have jumped on this one if it was included with the price. I'll just go with a Weber and add the Slow n Sear for less $$$ or about the same cost depending on the model. Including the Slow N Sear as stock to the grill would have really separated them from the competition and would have easily grabbed them additional sales for this grill.
💯
I’m think the opposite. If they added the SnS it would undoubtedly force them to raise the price and force people to buy something they may not want or already have.
It would raise the price and most of their preorder customers are going to be SNS owners already...So they decided it made more sense to let people add it if they need it but not force people who already own a SNS pay more for something they don't need.
@@BabyBackManiac That does makes total sense.
True story:
A few years ago my fiance and I went shopping at BMW. She fell in love with an X3 and I fell in love with an X5. So we gottem both. The next day we realized her X3 didn't come equipped with BMW's famous "halo eyes" lights. Apparently that was an "upgrade". 😳 Just doesn't feel right to have to be upgraded for something that should come standard. She kept the X3 but late at night my X5 could be heard teasing her.
Outstanding review, brother! You’re always so thorough and forthcoming. That cooker has a ton of useful and smart upgrades to the kettle we’re all used to. Can’t wait to get my claws on one. Great job 👍🏼
Thanks buddy. I really appreciate it.
Basic Weber Guy here and just gave my 22” Black Weber to a former neighbor during a move so I am in the market for a new grill. Never heard of SnS but it’s caught my eye from your video. I’ll give it a serious look before buying my new grill. Thanks for the review. Looking forward to seeing you cook on it soon.
Great review man. Thanks for taking the time and energy to show us what SNS is up to. Some things on this kettle seem better than Weber like the thermometer placement and the no-squeeze ash catcher. Will be interesting to see how it sells at this higher price point
Thanks For previewing my New Grill Justin! Love it!
lol. You're welcome, Tom.
Tom Horsman
I was just thinking. I wonder how soon Tom will have one of these?
Great over view of the SnS kettle Grill Justin. I couldn't help but laugh that you put that kettle on a box. When I met you ... you are a lot taller than you look in your videos... I am sure you said the same about me LOL... I would love to get my hands on one of those for sure. It looks fantastic and well thought out. Take care Justin!
View to a grill
LOL. Take care Johnny
Been cooking with a weber for close to 40 years the best things I see that weber needs to do is 4 legs and a gasket on the lid been thinking this 4 years Thanks for bringing us all the new stuff that is out their I enjoy it
Great job! Love how you cover all aspects on this Grill. Thanks for sharing. Your are the Man!
These features are very well thought out, I have 8 weber kettles and just about everytime I cook I wish they had at least one or more of these new SnS features. Great job with the review also.
Me too. I've done a lot of them myself. They really thought this through
@@BabyBackManiac I've done a bunch of different mods to a few different kettles but none of them have all this. I have to admit though...it is some of the fun of being a part of the Kettleheadz
Wait. The SLOW N SEAR kettle doesn’t include the SNS?
this. Should definitely be included
Totally agree, by the time you add the SnS and drip pan you are around 400 bucks. They should offer a package with discounted SnS bundle.
That is crazy. In my opinion a huge misstep for them. How can this kettle not come with the slow n sear?!
Jah Weekes this is just a guess, but because they’re not mass producing in the quantities that Weber does, the cost of production is much higher. Remember, SNS is a small company. They don’t have the buying power Weber has
They will probably add some sort of a bundle but it makes sense to have the lowest cost base package for people who already have a SNS.
Looks nice but it cost more and doesn't come with a slow and sear . I'm disappointed was hoping for a purpose belt kettle for the slow n sear.
Thank you for finally mentioning the ash catcher which other reviewers failed to mention. I will buy this grill just for that alone besides all the upgraded features. Thank you.
Excellent review Justin and I do love the SnS grill. I’m going seriously have to think about this one. Nice job as always! Keep the videos coming!
After watching yours and "Cooking with Ry's" vids on this kettle, I pulled the trigger and got my SNS and LOVE it!!! You didn't mention in your vid that you can get it in left side or right side table as well...I went left side myself...been learning to smoke meats with mine and it's going GREAT!!! I've had it about 3 months now and am having a blast using it along with my Weber Genesis Gold gas grill. Just can't have enough grills!!! Looking for a great offset, then a artflame type plancha/combo and maybe a Kamado cooker...we'll see how it all shakes out. Great vids Justin!
Dave must have read my mind. I bought a Craigslist performer really cheap. I put two tel tru thermometers on opposite sides of the lid. I also bought the lavalock gasket to seal the air leaks. I can run my slow n sear so steadily now its awesome. Grill looks really nice, if I were in the market for a new kettle, I would strongly consider this.
For me, when my current kettle dies, ill prob just try and find another cheap used kettle and modify it to my hearts delight.
MrPanthers23 Sounds like a fun project! Have fun
I'm very impressed with all the sns grills I've seen. Thankyou Justin, glad to see you vlogging again!
Thank you, Kris.
That’s a great looking kettle. Love the modifications that Weber should have made years ago
Totally agree. Just a little TLC.
The price doesn't seem worth it to me
If she cant ind you handy, forget about the handsome part! lol! but if you have more money than brains! this is the kettle for you!
Thanks for taking the time to explain this kettle. Is this kettle as tall as a master touch kettle. Is this a 22 in kettle and are there accessories for this kettle.
Pre-ordered mine last week! Can't wait for it to get here but I will settle for some cooking videos for now. Thanks for the run through!
My pleasure.
As far as what you were saying about the positioning of the vent and thermometer, The Weber kettle and cooking grate is designed exactly how it is meant to be used. The Weber is designed to have your heat zones on either side and your cool zone to be in the center. The vent and thermometer is always over your meat. The Weber is not designed to use an SnS. That SnS grill is designed to use an SnS, hence the way the vent and thermometer are positioned. Looks like a nice grill. Thanks for sharing.
Right, but the kettle also wasn’t designed to maintain low and slow temps like that…which is why one side often goes out when smoking. So over time people often eventually gravitate towards just starting with one healthier fire on one side which is easier to maintain and keep lit on smoking temps (and also leave you a little more cooking space on the grate.)
That’s where the thermometer placement becomes an issue.
I think I need one of those SnS Grills. I'm guessing it's about 22.5 inch? Sorry if you mentioned the size in the video. I did watch the whole video, but didn't hear it? Hope you're doing well Jason. I miss my little buddy!!!! Cheers!!!
Lol regarding “Jason.” Yeah it’s the same grate size they sell for the Weber kettles. Talk care, my friend. Miss ya.
He says it at 6:56 ;-)
That color looks badass !!! Gray is my favorite color ! Was going to buy a Weber kettle but this video might have just swayed my decision !
I'll be definitely buying one, since the pre order one doesn't come with all the accessories I want I'll wait. There will be a deluxe model after it comes that has all the bells and whistles. SnS grills, you knocked it out of the park I feel and the color is awesome!
Good review. Just a note...there seems to be an issue with the bottom "star" vent cover. The cover is hollow and lifted on both ends, so even though you close off the vent holes, air is still allowed to flow. Webers don't have this issue because their vent cover is flush with the kettle surface from end to end.
Speaking as a Weber fanboy.....this kettle grill has my attention. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for watching!
Weber Guy here as well... SnS has my attention too.
Thanks for the video! So my old SnS for the Weber 22 will drop right in by the looks of it. Looks quality and I dig that port on the bottom. 👍
Hi Justin, another great video. I appreciate the detail you go into and the straight forward way you present it. I was diagnosed last week with kidney cancer, so long story short, old lefty is going bye bye. One of the big considerations for this is I'll will be hugely restricted on my sodium intake moving forward. I was wondering if you had any low sodium BBQ/smoker recipes that a solo kidney fella can have at. Appreciate what you do, wishing you and yours well
Hey Blair. I almost missed this comment. I just want you to know I’m pulling for you and I hope you make a complete recovery. Said a prayer for you tonight.
Well if nothing else it might be a good video idea to find low sodium recipes that actually taste good. Appreciate the well wishes sir. I hope I'll be able to watch your work for many years to come, fingers crossed
Man thats a mean lookin kettle! They really seemed to nail it over all! Its got good curb appeal also lol. Great video Justin
Thanks buddy. Texas is opening up! #Jason'sDeli!
Nice review. I am impressed with all of SNS Grills products. I received the SNS Grills introductory email on this model. I asked customer support if they new if my Cajun Bandit rotisserie for my Weber would fit on the SNS kettle. The answer I received was they do not know and will be marketing their own accessories in the future. My Cajun Bandit rotisserie was not cheap (because it is very well made and reverses to fit my WSM) so consequently I can not justify this kettle at this time. However, I am sure that many kettle fans will appreciate and want this kettle for its quality and well thought out. features.
The SNS grill has a lot of great features. I wish Webber had some of these these. However my Webber 22in. Performer, for the price, is , I feel the better value . I have been using my Webber for over three years and purchasing a slow and sear insert and grate, has given me what I need in a grill.
Your video was very informative. Thank you for your insight.
From what I’ve seen I’m loving this new kettle. However, I wish they had a 26” available like Weber. I need a new 26” & if they sold one I would pre-order it today!! Overall, terrific upgrades & I’m tempted. I’d really like to see this come with the Slow N Sear Included. In fact I think it only makes sense. Again, please tell Dave to make a 26” kettle. I’d buy it for sure!
What's the size of the bottom charcoal grate, and will an 18" cast iron grate fit to replace it? Great looking kettle!!
Such cool features on this grill! That ash collector...So awesome! The gasket is also such a cool addition! Thanks for sharing, Baby Back Maniac! :)
Thanks for stopping by!
Great video again Justin! I like the grey color. I also like the probe port and the fan port. I have been a Weber guy for years and about a month ago just purchased a new Performer 22 with the fold up table. I would have purchased the S-n-S just because it has the fan port already built in. Great review.
I just bought a new kettle master touch series. So I'll be good for awhile. I do think placing the thermometer below the vent is a very smart move. The ports are a nice add on as I intend to put a port for a thermometer in mine. 🤙✌🤟🖖
If I needed new Weber 22 I think this would be it. I'm going with Weber 26 though. If SNS comes out with 26, could be game changer
I totally agree with you.
Great video as always! Love the grill. absolutely awesome. Biggest complaint for me is the same as with Weber: too short for guys 6’0” and above. I wish they would’ve addressed that. Everything else makes me want one!
Thanks buddy. It’s taller than the standard kettle...about the same as a master Touch.
@@BabyBackManiac Wow. I've never owned the standard kettle but have always felt that the Master Touch was too short for tall guys. I can't imagine an even shorter Weber! My performer is a tiny bit better but I'd still love another two inches.
🔴✅ Slow ’N Sear Kettle tinyurl.com/y8d7yc7g
*****Edit 6/1/2020****
I've now received a production kettle and wanted to tell you how it differs from the prototype in this review. In a nutshell, its the same. The few changes are not really all that consequential but told you I'd notate the changes so here they are.
1. The screw that holds the vents on is painted black to prevent rust.
2. The cover on the probe port is smaller...appropriately sized for the hole it's covering.
3. The ash collection device fits more snuggly. No wiggles at all.
4. I can't remember if I said this in the video but the gasket does not come installed. It wasn't a big deal to instal, but I would have preferred the factory do it. This way the people who said they don't need a gasket on a kettle don't have to scrape it off.
5. Also the ash sweep out system is tweaked to improve ash removal in a minor way. I'd explain more but frankly it would take a few paragraphs to explain and in the end it's such a minor change, you'd read that paragraph and wish I'd just wrote what you are reading right now. lol
***** Edit 10/18/2020****
I just received the most recent version of this cooker. Basically everything is the same as of the above update except for the changes in the packaging. A few people reported problems with damage with shipping so the packaging has been massively improved to reduce it. After a lot of research, they determined the front handle was causing some of the shipping problems because it reduces the impact protection in the box so now that is user installed instead of installed at the factory. I think these changes have fixed the problem but as always if you having shipping damage, let SNS Grills know so they can take care of it. On a personal note, I have tested the cooker both with and without the gasket, and I've decided there are pros and cons to it. While it does seal the lid better, it also makes the lid feel like it's sitting on stilts and it doesn't have that familiar "nesting" feeling you get when you put a little on a kettle. I think each person will need to decide what is more important them. Personally, I haven't bothered putting the gasket on the new one, and I don't think it needs it. That's just me though
After 6 months of use, I LOVE this kettle. The smoke hole alone is a game changer.
*****Edit 1/18/2020****
I have just be made aware that the gasket is not longer included. It may still be available as a separate purchase, but check first if that is important to you)
I'm curious if you've noticed any degradation in quality from the original prototype to the production units. When I received mine and I was disappointed in the quality compared to my Weber kettle. It seems they really need to shore up QC and material thickness if they plan to actually compete with Weber. I understand being a smaller business, but the little things like a thicker top vent piece, better quality wheels and improved plastics on the handles would really help it stand toe to toe with the big guys. As-is I like it for the innovative features they've introduced but I'd put money on Weber if we were taking bets on longevity.
@@CulinaryGod The only thing I've noticed that has changed, I've mentioned in this comment.
To be honest, the longer I use this the more I love this thing! The handles are bigger and easier to...um..."handle." The wheels to me are almost exactly the same. The vents are smaller but they are stainless (vs aluminum), have more airflow, and seal up better because of the platform built into the lid for it to sit flat. Regarding the lid thickness, the SNS Kettle is the exact same thickness as current Weber. and literally all the other metal is a massive upgrade in quality. (SnS Grill uses Stainless steel vs Weber's aluminum or chrome plated steel).
I never felt like Weber's quality was lacking but almost every bit of material on the SnS is an upgrade. However, if you are having issues with the plastic bits, let them know. The customer service people for SnS are really great people.
Thanks for stoping by!
Nice well done overview! It does resemble the Members Mark, which I have. Possibly they were both made in the same factory? It also resembles a Napoleon. Four legs are better on a flat surface like your patio. I cook in my yard on the grass so I know I prefer the three legged Weber to to the four legs on the MM. Looks like SNS did a great job but the SNS should be included. Good review Justin.
Thanks for watching, Lew!
Well , now I guess you will have to send me that little Ranch kettle ! Dave's new kettle looks pretty good. I can't wait to see you do a full cook on it !
Nice looking kettle. The height of the lid dome seems shorter than Weber; is it? My experience with porcelain coated grates is that they eventually crack, especially with coals sitting on them, or just weather effects over time. And all those darned extra holes...nice to have, but as a long time owner of several kettles, I've need to plug the few holes I have now to dial in better air flow. When you need to go WOT for searing, yes, the more holes the better; how snug are all the vent hole covers?
Overall great review, I’m not going to be in the market for one. I had people jump on me about the 4 legs on the expert grill, which I like better. Funny how he went with 4 legs.
I like everything about this except for the 22" part. Probably a deal killer for me. Been usinging the Weber 26 for too long to downsize.
just bought our Weber 26 and i can not believe we waited so long!
I'm back and forth about going up to 26
I agree! I smoke on my 26 a lot because of the extra space.
Great video, thanks for awesome information. I have a Weber. Looking to purchase the SNS, I like the color of the one you have. But can't find it.
The Weber is designed for baskets. I don't think they will change the temp gauge to better use the slow and sear.
Awesome looking Kettle! I love the shelf and the ease of the ash catcher.
Thanks, buddy.
Hair cuts tomorrow! lol
@@BabyBackManiac a real man would've let his wife cut his hair!
lol.
For the first time since 2008 I have enough hair to actually comb.
Nice review Justin! They really did add a lot of the mods that people do to the kettle so it seems SnS is thinking about the end user on this grill! Thanks for sharing and I hope you contacted Fed Ex because that is simply ridiculous package handling!!
Thanks for watching, buddy
279.99 and doesn't even come with a pre installed slow n sear which I totally figured would be the case. So many people bbq successfully on a weber with some mods that this price point doesn't seem a value.
Just got my Sns grill and put it together. I noticed in the video he says it comes with a gasket. Has anyone got one recently and didn’t get a gasket? Did they quit including one?
So you have me interested! just wondering though would you buy the SNS Kettle over your Weber Sumit? I currently have a large BGE and am moving so it is staying with the house. want another cooker that is versatile so is the SNS a good option vs the Summit? Really looking forward to your insight, especially from someone that has a vast collection of cookers!
Excellent review. I've watched this 3-4 times including just now. I just assembled my new SnS Kettle earlier this afternoon. I haven't even cooked on it yet but I do have a few comments, mostly regarding assembly.
This is not an easy assembly. Not that that's a deterrent, it's just that it's not something you're going to throw together in 15 minutes. It took me just under 3 hours and yes I took my time. To do it right, you have to study the instructions which these days are not in English but instead are in graphic illustrations.
Not to nitpick but you made a few errors in assembly. 1) Starting with the lid, the handle bracket and washer should be completely flush with the top of the lid surface. I actually bent the bottom flat part of the handle bracket with pliers to make sure it was perfectly flush with the curved lid - as you don't want unnecessary stress on the lid. You've got the spacer between the handle bracket and lid. The spacer should be on the other side of the bottom of the handle bracket. Why does this matter? It's because the manufacturer wants you to maximize the surface area of the handle bracket and the lid, because that adds strength. Doing it the way you have it, over time, with minimal surface area between the handle and lid such as the way you have it, the lid will begin to warp at the contact points, and, besides becoming unsightly, this could cause eventual chipping of the ceramic enamel. 2) The ash clearing rod - you've got the loop end at 5 o'clock and 11 o'clock in some of the scenes, although it's correct in other scenes. It must be at 12 o'clock and six o'clock. And this is not clearly explained in the assembly instructions even if the drawings show this. One must study the graphics and then kind of figure it out. One must insert that handle while the loop is at six o'clock so that it fits into the middle part, then when it is fully inserted as far as it can go, one must twist it 180 degrees so that the top "snaps" into place with another part (part #11) not visible in the vid. The bump on the rod fits into the slot in Part #11 - and Part #11 must be underneath the bowl with the slot positioned correctly. See pages 16-17 in the instructions. If one doesn't position part #11 correctly and then get the rod to snap into place by twisting it 180 degrees, the rod can come out eventually. There are other folks on youtube which also show the ash clearing rod installed incorrectly or incompletely. It's an easy error to make. 3) Maybe this is a slight design change, but my little table snaps into place with one finger. All I have to do is lift it with my index finger and it just magically falls into place with the aid of gravity. And it is secure. I can see in your vid that the table caught slightly as you lifted the table. Mine doesn't do that. It just slides right into place! How wonderful is that when you are walking up to your grill with an armful of meat and spatulas and sauce? 4) I love love love the lid holder. You can see in your vid that at 14:35, you move the lid to the holder, but you can see that the lid did not catch the little black spool correctly. The lid is on the outside of it. It should be in the valley of it. It's because you lifted the lid from the kettle which is not necessary. What I've found is that the holder spools act almost like a hinge. I can take one finger and simple push the lid handle towards the lid holder and it magically slides over and falls into place. I can also push it back with one finger. The magic is in those little black spools that are like bearings. Once the lid touches those black spools, the lid acts as if it is on a hinge. They allow the lid to rotate into place without thought. All one has to do is keep the lid in contact with the kettle and it will magically slide perfectly into and out of the spools and the holder. Pretty amazing. There is some king of geometric physics gravity thing going on there.
Thanks for all your vids. I'm a subscriber, of course. :-)
That color is beautiful! What's the venting lever like? Is it easier to identify if your vents are at ¼ vs ⅓ vs ½ open?
About the same as the Weber...which is why I like using that smoke hole thing.
I gotta hand it to you again, Justin. This is the second SNS Grills cooker you've sold me on. (You already know about the first one.). The screenshot of it on their website/email/FB didn't make me think about it much until you went through all the details here. I'm serious considering getting one now. Amongst all the enhancements shown, the lid seal and the ports for my temperature controller may be enough to convince me to begin the transition back away from kamados to kettle style cookers; at least for some cooks. Thanks! (Now I just gotta make some room on my patio...)
Thanks for watching buddy. That means a lot to me
I just got mine on Christmas 2022. Mine doesn't have a gasket on the lid. Getting ready to lit it up right now.
Looks great! Temperature is critical so why not a % open/closed on both air vents???????????????????????????????????????????????
Hi Justin. Really enjoyed all your videos. I am a newbie looking into the BBQ game. I started looking at Tragers, then Kamado Joe, then the Summit Charcoal grill and now also considering the Kettles like maybe the performer. What would you recommend for a beginner that would like to try out different ways of cooking? Thanks again.
Will the Weber Gourmet Barbecue System 22" Cooking Grate fit on this? Can't give up my Vortex.
Mine didn’t come with the gasket around the lid. I had to purchase it separately.
Enjoyed the video. Very thorough review. It looks like a great product. I haven't read all the comments so I apologize if this has already been asked/addressed. Is it the height of the shorter weber premium or the taller master touch? If it's shorter it would be nice to have the taller height. Will the Weber rotisserie work with the SnS kettle?
Sweet B Roll man! Killing it. Great review overall, very informative.
Great looking grill.
I own a few Slow n Sears, griddles and cooking grates and have to say SNS produces high quality products. Also, Dave offers great customer service in my experience.
As a huge Weber kettle fan, I'm a little scared to use this with all the improvements/mods.. as it could become my preferred daily cooker and hurt some kettles feelings.
I think you might be right! lol
G'day Justin, great review on these SNS Kettles, I've been made aware of these only a few days ago and have also discovered that they are available down here in Sydney, Australia.
Like you, I've been very much a Weber enthusiast for many years and looking at your backyard, I'm well and truly outnumbered for toys lol. but these new SNS Kettles look the goods. How does the metal feel, do they feel as solid as a Weber? I compared a 22 inch WSM once to the 20 inch Pro-Q and the WSM just felt more solid so was worth the extra money for me. The importing retailer that bring the SNS Kettle in Australia sell them as a bundle with the SNS Charcoal holder, griddle cover and a few other niceties for rrp $699 AU, yes everything is super expensive down here. A Weber Master Touch Plus with deflector plate and charcoal ring is now $625 AU. Sheeeesh!!
It's kind of an interesting kettle option....except it is $280. I have the $165 Weber premium in Green that I am very happy with and since that's only a year and a half old or so I am not looking to replace it anytime soon. Maybe the time the Weber wears out this might be price competive and I would consider it. I have only added the charcoal baskets from Weber to my kettle, so even with that accessory still about $100 less than this option. I know their pricing is probably "comparable" to a kettle with their accessories but to me those accessories are also over priced and really not needed. I can accomplish the exact same thing with the Weber charcoal basket. If their price was competitive with Weber it would be something to evaluate for sure. Nice review video going over the features and such.
EDIT: I didn't realize that price apparently doesn't come with the slow and sear, so I am reinforcing that to me it is way over priced, but all of their products are. If they want to be a "premium" kettle they should instead make it here instead of using the same supplier from China that a bunch of other "Brands" are. Side note, I have high temp gasket leftover from my smoker that I was going to put on the lid of my weber, but it doesn't need it. I can snuff out the fire on mine just from closing the vents so mine is air tight enough as is.
EDIT 2: Porcelain coated charcoal grate? That will chip and crack quickly from the expansion and contraction of the steel inside due to the high heat of the coal fire.....so what a waste of an "upgrade" there. Kind of foolish. That's no better in the long run than the plain steel Weber. The only upgrade would be thicker steel or stainless or both......
Finally pulled the trigger and picked up the deluxe and the accessory kit using your link! Thanks for the excellent and comprehensive review. Can't wait to start using it
Your going to love it. Thanks and Congratulations.
Lmao the fedex guy! More like FedUp after dropping off a hundred other grills hahaha . Great reviews and content dude keep’em coming !
I am being super indecisive about which grill I should buy! I’ve been looking at the pk original and the sns slow and sear kettle……your thoughts?
What about the accessories that are designed for the Weber Kettle i.e. the Rottisserie ring or the Santa Maria attachment? Would they fit onto this SnS Kettle?
I noticed that they sell gasket material. Is it a more premium gasket material? or does the lid have gasket out of the box? Just curious if they stopped putting gasket on out the box. I was looking at getting the deluxe package deal. Seems like it's cheaper than buying a weber and then getting a new SNS grate and deluxe slow and sear
The side shelf should include tool hooks like the BBQ Dragon side shelf. What's it going to cost to add tool hooks?? I like the idea of attaching the side shelf directly to the kettle rather than hanging it off the the lip and not having the kettle seal correctly. I added a Nomex gasket to the under side of the lid. I had to cut the gasket to fit the narrow edge to put it on but it works fantastic and keeps my Weber air tight. That's a low cost item that Weber should add to their product. I like that Dave includes a gasket on the SnS Kettle.
Looks to be much better quality than my 2018 Weber Master Touch kettle, which I have been very disappointed with. When the time comes I will probably replace it with the SnS kettle. I think they should make a 26 inch too!
Thanks for the video. Good info. The porcelain charcoal grate on this grill is a great idea. As long as you have access to the factory I would like to pass on my pet peeve. I will not have a grill without a hinged top. Even with a rack for the top I don't want to deal with it. With a hinge you pull the top up out of the way and you're done. And with my Kingsford grill it enables a built in rack that can be used for cooking or warming of food, buns, etc. Apparently Weber has heard the masses and added a hinge feature lately. But it is bulky and the top doesn't clear the cooking surface completely.
Great review. Your video and editing skills are some of the very best out there. I'd pay you to teach me! Yer cookin' ain't too shabby either!
You got me at, "Close enough for government work." Subscribed!
lol.. No distractions..? With some minor tweaks this would be a very nice kettle.. Have you noticed any scratches on the lid from where it sits in the cradle..?
Justin, I know that this is an older video, so hopefully you read this... But... can the lid bail be positioned so that the lid goes to the back of the grill, instead of to the left.. Also I like me heat to the rear not left or right. is this easily adjusted for.
Good review, but I think for the difference in price I would rather have the Weber Performer Premium with the much larger table that the kettle is actually built in to. I've had mine for several years and love it!
The only thing that will swing me for buying this is an included actual slow N sear. The lid needs to be taller for sure, if it was i would buy it hands down, but ill pass on this, i can see rib racks not being able to fit in this. taller lid + an actual slow N sear included i would buy 2 of them.
theAZKABANinmate I second this. They copy the Weber design to a T yet they don’t give you a slow and sear lol. Why would they not include a slow and sear? Makes no sense.
@@kbk011 Because if they want anyone to buy this, they need to stay reasonably close to the price of Weber's kettle, and since they're an extremely small company compared to Weber they can't buy parts and such in nearly the volume Weber does, thus they have to pay a lot more than Weber does, thus their cost is a lot higher than Weber's and if they want to make a profit things have to be cut back to keep the price low.
Honest question: How did SnS not get sued for copyright infringement from Weber? Even with all the mods, to me the basic design screams of Weber patents, no?
The thermometer location is not really an issue if you are using the Weber baskets on each side. Where is the SNS kettle made?
I would buy but I need a grill now..
will have to go for a Weber but will definitely be purchasing the slow n sear attachment.
The grill on the box seems to actually be at a nice working height. Would be nice to have a "tall" option.
Good looking kettle with a lot of the features that kettle modders have come up with over the years. I especially like that they used my full sweep vent mod. Smoke one for Phil today.
Are you going to review the sns master kettle?
Weber needs to make a few changes and I've been saying that for years. They're SLOOOOOOOW to make changes. I like this grill.
Question. So the thermostat is not dead on. So how far off was it? I need to know if i could live with it or have to dish out more $$ for a better one. Thanks!
im so interested to dive and get one provided that your pros & cons being considered by manufacturer. one thing I would like to try to suggest for future used to drill 4x1/4 " dia hole in "side shelf" (20lbs rated) to enable to incorporate a hard plastic or wood chopping board for stability.
Really interesting to see a reputable company come out with something to seriously attempt to improve upon the tried and true kettle. Maybe this is the kick in the pants that Weber has been needing to finally innovate a bit itself. We love our kettles but there's a reason so many of us have modded them with stuff like temp probe ports and ports for temp controllers.
I love sns grills and i have many of their products including the kamado. I love your channel as well. That being said a kettle thats virtually identical to the weber performer with fold down table. 1. For the same price 2. Without a slow n sear 3. Not in a cart like the performer with the folding table (which has 4 legs) which makes it stable and non twisting 3. Touting better placement of a thermometer thats 20 + degrees off is not cutting it in my book. This is being compared to a mastertouch when price and functionality wise it should be compared to the performer. If thats the case no no no, hell no
There are even a few places that you can get a little bit better deal on the Performer, but this is closer in design to the Mastertouch. This does have a few things going for it over those, but the exclusion of at the very least a slow n' sear kind of makes it meh.
That was my initial impression as well until I considered that it has the stainless steel grate standard, a gasket on the lid and the port already ready for the digiQ. Those are significant improvements over a stock Weber Performer.
It is more in line with a mastertouch but at the price point of a performer thats exactly my issue. A gasket and a hole.....im good an sns grate is 60 a weber grate is 30 so its a 30 dollar difference, the cart more than makes up for that. The improved grate is nice but but i respect your view point. To each their own, im sure if you buy it, it will bring smiles and turn out delicious grub!
@@tenphases1 But when you consider it has the side shelf as well that makes it more akin to the entry level performer with the folding side shelf. All while having the additional upgrades of the better grate and the other mods already baked in at an identical $279 price point.
@@thomaskennedy7842 I have that performer , its on a cart, not those dinky legs coming out the bottom. The cart makes a world of difference with the kettle. I have a regular master touch and ive used the members mark both have those legs that Are crap, even in the weber. The cart makes a world of difference and its the one thing that I cant effectively fabricate in my backyard for 30 buck in 10 minutes. Drill a hole add a tear drop cover, easy, 10 minutes. Gasket? Weve all done that, a quality, sturdy, well made cart? ......im not a carpenter and the time, labor, and material become substantial. It really sets the performer apart. Plus the fact that its on a cart mean the side table can handle more than 20 lb's. This sns kettle is at the price of a performer but its just a mastertouch with some cajun bandit add ons. Cajun Bandit is awesome though lol
I like the cotter pins on the lower basket, it enables easy disassembly for transport if needed. Most other manufacturers would use push nuts that would be permanent. It would be nice though if the height was at the level it is while on the box, that is my main complaint with most charcoal grills, they are just too short.
Edit: The top vent handle while nice is too large to fit under the TTT.
If anyone is interested in a grill that you review, they need to look no further. Your reviews are thorough and enjoyable. Now, if you could get the governor of my state to open up the barber shops so I could get a haircut, that would be great! 🙂
I know you have a lot of Weber kettles . If I may ask what makes them so good? Do all the new ones come with a hole to mark smoking temp and grilling temp. One more question have you seen a Charbroil Kettleman?
Thanks for sharing. When my existing kettle gives up the ghost I will have to consider SnS.
The port for a food probe does not appear to close once a probe is inserted. It seems that would affect the air flow.
@BabyBackManiac Love your channel and addicted now that I'm going back to charcoal. Would you go with this or the Weber Master Touch?
I only wish they made a table similar to the performer table.