Here is my take on the hinge.
For the Summit charcoal it makes perfect sense. It is a kamado style grill and all kamados have a hinge. Not to mention it is a 26" double walled lid that would be a beast to lift/hold frequently and would be an expensive replacement if it was dropped.
I am all for a solid hinge so long as it functions properly, opens at a 90 degree angle, is solid, doesn't cause kettle wobble, and easily detaches with no parts than can get lost. I would probably have a hinge on a daily cooker if it worked this way.
I don't get the appeal so much on a 22 though. The lid isn't that heavy and it could get in the way if you only own one kettle. Almost all the rings, Roti, and accessories that are made are for the 22 and a lot of them wouldn't work well with a hinged lid. Plus if you make it open to a full 90 a regular three leg kettle is probably a little unstable.
Now if they redesigned a 26er with a 4 legged cart and a good hinge that is a different story. Only a few rings are out there for a 26er and the lid is kind of a beast at times. I could see that being functional and worth a few extra bucks.
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