You’ll like the Nexgrill 22″ barrel if you want a budget charcoal grill that’s portable and easy to use. It gives 550 sq. in. of cast‑iron cooking space, strong searing, three‑level grate positions, and simple ash cleanup thanks to a removable catcher. The alloy steel body and foldable shelves make transport and storage painless, though you’ll need to season grates and protect the powder‑coat. Keep going to see full pros, cons, and buying tips.
Some Key Takeaways
- 550 sq. in. cast-iron cooking area offers strong searing and room for small gatherings.
- Foldable front and side shelves plus a two-wheel cart make it transportable and compact for storage.
- Three-level adjustable grate tray and air vents enable flexible heat zones and smoker-style control.
- Removable ash catcher and built-in gauge simplify cleanup and basic temperature monitoring.
- Requires regular cast-iron seasoning, occasional hardware checks, and covered storage to prevent paint chipping and rust.
What the Nexgrill 22 Barrel Grill Includes and Who It’s For
Packed with practical features, the Nexgrill 22″ Barrel Charcoal Grill gives you a 550 sq. in. cooking area, premium cast-iron grates, a warming rack, foldable front shelf and a removable ash catcher—everything a casual griller needs for backyard steaks, burgers, or a weekend tailgate. You’ll get a sturdy powder-coated barrel, temperature gauge, adjustable vents and a side shelf on a portable cart design. It’s aimed at newcomers and weekend warriors, offering beginner friendly features without sacrificing performance. If you value compact portability and straightforward setup, this grill delivers solid value for small outdoor gatherings and tailgates. Designed for fans of outdoor cooking and gas grills, it complements other products in the Ultimate Gear lineup.
Key Specs and Features That Affect Cooking and Portability
When you’re weighing cooking performance against portability, the Nexgrill 22″ balances a 550 sq. in. cooking surface, heavy cast-iron grates and a three-level adjustable grate tray with a compact, cart-style frame that tips the scales at about 48 pounds. You’ll appreciate the removable ash catcher, folding side shelf and two-wheel base for Portable storage and transport. Cast iron maintenance is necessary — season grates and wipe after use to avoid rust. Alloy steel body and powder-coat finish boost durability without adding bulk. Overall, specs favor versatile backyard use and occasional tailgates where you need solid capacity and mobility. Perfect camp grates for outdoor cooking adventures are a natural complement to this grill.
How It Performs: Grilling, Smoking, Heat Control, and Cleanup
Those specs set realistic expectations for how the Nexgrill performs on the fire: you get strong searing power from the heavy cast-iron grates, flexible heat zones via the three-level grate tray and adjustable air dampers, and smoker-friendly capability thanks to the controlled smoke chimney with venting. You’ll sear steaks, manage indirect heat for larger cuts, and coax smoke infusion into ribs or brisket. The built-in gauge helps monitor temps, though feel for adjustments with vents. Cleanup is straightforward: the removable ash catcher simplifies ash disposal, and cast-iron grates need routine seasoning to stay nonstick and rust-free. For consistent charcoal starts and even heat, consider using a charcoal chimney starter to light coals quickly and efficiently.
Real-World Pros and Cons Based on Build, Materials, and Maintenance
Because the Nexgrill’s alloy-steel body, cast-iron grates, and simple ash-catcher design are practical by design, you’ll get a durable, high-performing grill that’s easy to use but needs routine care to stay that way. Pros: solid heat retention, non-stick cast iron grates, easy ash disposal, and a compact cart for mobility. Cons: powder-coat can chip over time, welds and hardware may need tightening. Follow assembly tips carefully to avoid misaligned vents. Prioritize cast iron care and rust prevention with seasoning and drying. Use covered storage solutions and periodic inspections to extend service life. Consider investing in a quality grill cover to protect against the elements and prolong lifespan of components like the paint and metal surfaces, with guidance on protecting your grill available from specialty retailers.
Should You Buy It? Price, Warranty, Alternatives, and Final Recommendation
If you want a budget-friendly, portable charcoal grill that delivers real smoky flavor without a steep learning curve, the Nexgrill 22″ is worth considering—especially if you value solid heat retention, cast-iron grates, and easy ash cleanup. For price comparison, it sits low-to-mid range versus larger, premium smokers. The 1-year limited warranty is basic; consider purchasing an extended warranty if you expect heavy use. It handles charcoal well and can use alternative fuels sparingly, but it’s not optimized for pellets. Resale value is modest—clean, maintained units hold the most. Buy it if you want affordable, reliable charcoal performance. This model is a good fit for enthusiasts who prefer folding grills and portable outdoor cooking solutions.
Some Questions Answered
Does It Come With a Grill Cover Included?
No, it doesn’t include a grill cover. You’ll want weather protection like a fitted dustcloth or purpose-made cover to protect the alloy steel finish and cast iron grates from rust and corrosion. Buying a fitted dustcloth or Nexgrill-compatible cover will preserve the powder-coated finish, prevent moisture build-up in the ash catcher, and extend grill life. Consider a snug, ventilated cover rated for outdoor use to avoid trapping condensation.
Are Replacement Parts Available From Nexgrill?
Yes — you can get replacement parts from Nexgrill. You’ll find replacement grates, ash catchers, handles and more through Nexgrill’s parts portal or authorized retailers. Contact customer service for part numbers, compatibility, and ordering help; they’ll confirm your model and ship genuine pieces. Expect limited stock for older models and a one-year warranty on some components. Always verify fit before purchase to avoid returns.
Can It Be Converted to Gas With a Kit?
No, you shouldn’t convert it to gas with a kit. The grill wasn’t designed for gas conversion, so aftermarket gas conversion risks safety hazards and voids the warranty. If you still consider a gas conversion, verify regulator compatibility, certified conversion kits, and local codes, but it’s safer to buy a purpose-built gas grill or a Nexgrill gas model. You’ll avoid leaks, poor performance, and potential carbon monoxide or fire dangers.
What Is the Cook Time to Reach 500°F With Briquettes?
About 15–25 minutes. With briquettes, your preheat timing typically runs 15 minutes for a hot bank or 20–25 minutes for an even heat across the 550 sq in grate. Use a charcoal arrangement of a two-zone pile or evenly spread briquettes with vents open and the chimney vent adjusted. You’ll hit ~500°F faster with more briquettes and open dampers; cast iron grates and a closed lid speed stabilization.
Is Assembly Required by One or Two People?
Yes — you’ll want a two person assembly for this grill. The cart, barrel, and side shelf are bulky; having a helper reduces strain and speeds alignment. Step complexity is moderate: most steps are straightforward but some require holding parts while fastening. If you’re handy and patient you could manage solo, but two person assembly makes setup easier, safer, and quicker, especially when aligning the lid, wheels, and shelf.
