The June issue of Consumer Reports says that finding a good grill is becoming easier and cheaper as competition heats up. While some of the more expensive models performed well in CR's tests, so did others for far less. CR says to look for features including premium grates, all or mostly stainless construction, long-warranty burners, side burners, an electronic igniter, cooler handles, a fuel gauge, a fully rolling cart, a removable grill tray or pan, and a thermometer on the lid. When grill shopping, Consumer Reports suggests you also keep the following in mind:
"Grills with wide or thick stainless or cast-iron grates tend to be best at
searing and browning quickly, but heavy grates can take longer to heat up.
Beware of flare-ups with fatty foods. While this is more disconcerting than dangerous, consider steering clear of grills that flared up in CR's tests if you cook several steaks or chickens at once.
If you often entertain large crowds, look for a large grill with lots of
grilling, shelf, and storage space.
Main burners warrantied for 10 years or more are likely to last longest.
Make sure the rolling cart that supports the firebox and lid doesn't rattle when shaken.
Nonmagnetic stainless (pricier 300-series stainless steel) is less likely to corrode.
Side burners with higher-rated BTU’s per hour can be faster. But don't count on a grill's side burners to simmer as well as the ones on your range."
The best medium-sized grills in Consumer Reports' testing were Vermont Castings (Home Depot) VM400XBP, Char-Broil (Lowe's) Advantage Series 463453305, and BBQ Grillware (Lowe's) GSF-2616, all CR Best Buys. If you often cook for a crowd, CR says to try Great Outdoors (Lowe's) Pinnacle TG-560 or Char-Broil (Lowe's) Commercial Series 463251705. For smaller groups and tailgating, CR recommends the Weber Q 396001 (pictured on right).
Once you have your grill you might need some grilling advice. Here are
a few places you can begin to find some help. SiLive.com has ten safety tips for those of you grilling with propane. SF Chronicle says slow and low is the way to go for grilling large cuts of meat. And for grilling advice you can't go wrong with Steven Raichlen's Barbecue Bible blog. In addition to writing his blog, Raichlen is also a cooking instructor, TV host and the author of How to Grill.
The June issue of 
