Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I am writing this long term review because as so many reviews are just initial impressions when the product is new. They are hard to find, but some people will write a review later in the product's life cycle, especially if they have had problems. This is not one of those "problem" reviews. The Weber Q is my all time favorite grill.
Background Info:
I bought my "Q" back in 2004 when they first came out; there were only two models at the time, the Q and the Baby Q. The overall design theory and execution of a portable gas grill was amazing in my eyes - like nothing I had ever seen before. I was in the market for a gas grill, and the portable nature yet still nice enough to grill on a daily basis design sold me instantly. I had used my dad's Weber gas grill since he bought it new in the mid 90's (comparable to today's Genesis models) and was impressed in every aspect, especially the longevity and quality of the components compared to "big box store" look-a-like grills. The price for a standalone Weber, like my dad's, was too high in my opinion, and I wanted more for my money. The Q's dual nature fit the bill perfectly. In addition to the Q, I bought about every accessory available at the time: rolling cart, Weber Q specific tools, cover, hose for external LP tank, etc. Every accessory followed right in line with the Q's portable design intent. The tools are my favorite as they snap into the side tables and easily fold up inside enhancing the go-anywhere part of the design. I recently (Summer 2008) upgraded my home setup to include the stationary cart for a more finshed look at home on the back patio. Performance:
The grill holds a surprisingly large amount of food. I can grill for the whole family or more with no problems, (This totally depends on what you are grilling). I have grilled everything from the ubiquitous burgers, dogs, and brats to fajita meat and vegetables to corn on the cob and steaks. I can even fit 2-3 whole racks of ribs on the Q. Heating is surprisingly even with the rectangular shaped burner (which is stainless steel and after 4 seasons is showing zero signs of wear, corrosion, etc.). The heavy, thick cast iron grate should get most of the credit for the even heating. I really like the wide bars and tight spacing of the grate; I can grill sliced veggies and meats as if I were cooking on a skillet with no fear of them falling though. Temperature control is ultra easy with the single burner knob. I have taken the Q tailgating at sporting events, to picnics at the park, to friends' parties, etc. and it has performed flawlessly. It offers tons of cooking room for the size and minimal effort to bring along with the clever design of the grill and accessories. People are always amazed when they watch me unpack/pack the Q. Other than an occasional and end of season cleaning, this thing is maintenance free. Just brush off the grate, check the drip pan, and clean out the burned drippings in the bottom from time to time.
Final Thoughts:
Looking back at my Q experience, I wouldn't have it any other way. In fact, I can't imagine owning any other gas grill - except another Q. If the day comes when I have to replace my beloved Q, I would probably stick with the original size, the 200 series; it is the perfect balance. The 300 series looks nice with the bigger size and extra burner, but I don't necessarily need the size and I feel it loses some of the portable utility that makes the original Q so great.
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Weber 396002 Q 200 Portable Gas GrillDesigned for outdoor grilling at home or at the lake, this portable gas grill features a 12,000-BTU stainless-steel burner for fast heating of its 280-square-inch cooking surface. The unit\'s deceivingly compact size offers ample space for grilling 10 king-size strip steaks, 10 veggie kabobs, or three chicken quarters, plus a portabello or two. The unit ignites at the push of a button for foolproof start-ups, and its infinitely adjustable burner valve with a high-quality regulator makes it possible to access just the right amount of heat needed for the job. Meat sizzles on the porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, while drippings collect in the removable drip tray below for lower-fat cooking and easy cleanup. Other highlights include a cast-aluminum lid and body, a glass-reinforced nylon frame, a large weather-resistant lid handle, and two Tuck-Away worktables with built-in tool hooks. For added convenience, the side tables fold up, storing neatly away inside the grill when they're not being used to hold platters of food, seasonings, and sauces. The grill runs on a standard 14.1- or 16.4-ounce LP cylinder (sold separately), and a Weber Q recipe booklet comes included for ideas on what to grill next. The outdoor grill measures 24-2/7 by 51-2/5 by 26 inches with the lid open and the tables out, and it carries a five-year limited warranty.
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