The Best BBQ Tool Sets (Review) in 2020

What makes an excellent BBQ set? More importantly, what makes a great one that is perfect for your needs? While this will partly depend on personal preference, the amount of use the set will get, and the type of food you tend to grill, there are some universal features that you should look for. In this part of the buying guide, we look at some of the things you should consider when buying a BBQ tool set, the accessories that are essential for every grill master, and why it is so important to have the best grill accessories.

Things to Consider When Buying a BBQ Tool Set

When faced with an array of BBQ tool sets, how do you choose between them? One of the first things to consider is your needs. What type of BBQ do you have, how often do you grill, and what kind of food do you cook? These are important because it helps you to narrow down your search. If you only ever grill vegetables and sausages, for example, you are highly unlikely to need a meat shredder. However, if you regularly host BBQs for friends at the weekend and enjoy a few beverages at the same time, a spatula with a built-in bottle opener could be beneficial. Once you have determined your fundamental needs, there are a few other things to consider, including:

• Construction

You need BBQ tools that are durable, strong, and long-lasting. You also need tools that can complete the tasks that they are designed to do. To ensure this is the case, you need to look at how they are constructed and the materials that are used. Stainless steel is an ideal material because it is hardwearing, weatherproof, and rustproof. This means that should you leave your tools out or in a damp environment such as a shed, they are still likely to work just as well. When looking at the construction of the tools, check aspects such as joints and hinges. Tongs especially are weakest at the hinge point. Handle materials are just as important. If you are looking at entirely stainless steel tools, then check whether the handles are heatproof. You don't want the metal heating to the point where you burn yourself turning your burgers over.

• Handle length

BBQs tend to get very hot, and depending on the type of BBQ, you also have flames, smoke, and spitting fat to contend with while you are cooking. Choosing BBQ tools with longer handles means you can put greater distance between yourself and these dangerous or uncomfortable elements. However, you need to ensure that the tools are still balanced and stable. If the elongated handle affects the control you have over the tools, then you could find that more of your BBQ ends up on the floor or in the coals, rather than in your stomach.

• Hooks or Loops

One of the biggest mistakes that you can make when grilling is to lay your tools down either on or right next to the BBQ. The result of these actions tends to be extremely hot tools that either melt or burn your fingers when you touch them. Neither option is pleasant or results in well-cooked food. The best way to avoid this to have somewhere to place your tools while you are cooking that is both sensible and close to hand. Choosing tools that have handle hooks or loops can help, allowing you to hang your tools either from the edge of the BBQ itself, from a shelf attached to it, or from a purpose-built design of your choosing.

• Storage

What are you going to do with your tools when they are not in use? Having somewhere safe to keep them is essential if they are to last between BBQ seasons. The easiest way to achieve this is with a BBQ tool set that comes complete with its own case. Look for a lightweight, weatherproof case that is easy to transport, especially if you like to grill on the go. Aluminum cases are ideal as they are also sturdy and durable. Check the quality of any clasps or catches to ensure that you don’t spill your tools everywhere as soon as you pick up the case.

• Cost

It is important to remember that when choosing a BBQ tool set, you are looking for value for money. Choosing the cheapest may save you money in the short term, but it is no guarantee that you won’t need to replace your tools before the end of the summer. Similarly, more expensive sets are no guarantee of quality. Consider the number of tools, their usefulness, the construction quality, and the materials used and weigh this against the cost of the set. This way you can ensure you get value for your money.

Essential BBQ Accessories For Every Grill Master

So, precisely what tools do you need to be a grill master? To some extent, this depends on the type and amount of food you cook, the regularity with which you grill, and the number of people that you grill for. For example, a set containing a host of corn holders is likely to be a waste of money if you never cook corn. However, there are some basics that every grill master needs, including:

• Spatula

A long-handled spatula is a must for any food that needs to be flipped swiftly, including fish fillets and burgers. An offset handle allows for a smoother action, while either stainless steel or silicone are the best materials for the head. Optional extras on your spatula that can be very useful include serrated cutting edges and built-in bottle openers.

• Long-handled tongs

Long-handled tongs are ideal for lifting, turning, and placing foods on the grill without splitting or piercing them. They can be used just as easily with thick steaks as with smaller and thinner items such as asparagus spears, making them a great multi-purpose tool. Spring-loaded tongs help you keep a strong and even grip on the food item, however, check the quality of the spring mechanism to ensure its longevity. Longer handled versions keep your hands safe from heat, flames, and spitting fat, but check the balance and control of the tongs when your hand is in different positions.

• Skewers

Skewers are always useful to have to hand. They can be used just as easily for meat or vegetables and are great for picking up pesky little bits that fall through the grill. Metal ones are preferable as they can be easily washed and reused, just remember they get hot. If you go for wooden ones, remember to soak them in water first to stop them from burning.

• Basting brush

Even if you don’t use sauces and glazes in your grilling, a good basting brush is essential. It can be used for oiling meat and veggies without drowning them and adding to the spitting coming from the grill. The best BBQ tool accessories sets come with silicone headed brushes and usually include replacement heads.

• Grill brush

The only downside to BBQs is the cleaning up. A good quality grill brush makes your job so much easier. Again, choose a grill accessory kit that includes replacement heads if you want to get the most for your money.

Other items that you should consider adding to your essential BBQ kit include a good quality knife, heatproof gloves, and an apron. Also, as mentioned earlier, a sturdy carry case is always a plus.

Why Is It Important to Have the Best Grill Set and Accessories?

The simple answer to why it is essential to have the best grill set and accessories is quality and value for money. The tools and accessories you add to your grill will affect the quality of food you produce and the ease with which you can grill. Cheap tools will lead to more dropping of food and potentially could cause injury while you are at the grill. It really isn’t worth skimping on such items, especially if you want to be a grill master at any event where you are in charge of the cooking.

Our Top Pick

Our top pick is the 14-piece Deluxe Grill Set from Cuisinart. This set provides everything you need to run the perfect BBQ. The tools are constructed from durable stainless steel and feature elongated handles to ensure you can cook perfectly and remain safe from the heat of the BBQ. The tools also feature handle rings, so you display them in your kitchen our hang the from your BBQ, so they are always in easy reach while you are cooking.

The set includes all the essentials you need, including, grill tongs, a chef's spatula, a silicone basting brush, cleaning brush, and four pairs of corn holders. The BBQ tool set has its own convenient aluminum storage case so that you can camp, travel, or even BBQ at friend's houses, all with your very own BBQ tool set.

Sources:

1. A Healthier Way to Grill - Web MD
2. 5 Tools You Need for Grilling Success - HuffPost