Or skip the lid thermometer which is usually off from the grate temp and get a Maverick.
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I agree with this. And there was recently a fantastic sale on it. If you're going to do any smoking a remote thermometer is invaluable. Not that a lid therm is a bad idea but if I was only going to have one, it's a remote unit like a Maverick. If I'm grilling as opposed to smoking I'm pretty much letting the coals rip with vents wide open or the lid off. I'm fairly certain we all know when the coals are orange, shit is hot, lol.
When I bought my first kettle I lusted after a set of craycort grates. Now after cooking for a while, I appreciate the lightness of the flip up grates and ease of handling and caring for them . I had cast iron grates with my old STOK unit, they were nice, but a little more maintenance and not nearly as easy to take off with a set of tongs if need be.
I'd love a set of stainless flip up grates but can't bring myself to spend $75 on them. If anyone sees them on sale for $40 or less let me know.
For the same reason I love the ease and simplicity of the flip up grates, I have pause with the gourmet grate system on the new Mastertouch. I feel as though that removable center piece might be a bit of a pain to handle when you just want to take off the grate with the tongs or hang it of the side of the kettle * (disclaimer I've never used the Gourmet grate system).
Definitely get some charcoal baskets if the Kettle didn't come with them, and a good set of tongs. I also really like my Kingsford charcoal caddy (I own three). You put your charcoal in and it keeps it dry and it's easy to pour. they're like $11 bucks at Lowes.