Got my first 22" Kettle back in 2004 as a gift from my parents. Big year it was. Married, first born son that year. Many fond memories surrounding that time. Starting out grilling I committed plenty of "grill sins". Started with lighter fluid and that special flavor it adds to food. Eventually I graduated to Match Light charcoal thinking "WOW! That got the fire going fast." Time to burn some burgers over direct heat for too long because I made those patties too thick so I'll flip them 45 times. Burnt and over seasoned chicken anyone? Even the scare of trichinosis caused me to ruin perfectly good pork chops almost every time they hit the grill. Since then I've discovered the beauty of a chimney, indirect cooks, and reverse sear steaks. I've even challenged myself this winter to trying ribs for the first time using this crazy thing called the snake method. O how my grilling brain has expanded over the years. I can't brag too much, I just bought my first set of Weber charcoal baskets last week. Ha! But my mod game is growing, stuffed 3 racks of baby backs flat on the 22" with the help of a second raised 18" grate Tuesday night. They turned out better than my first attempt.
All this has come to a tipping point. This grilling/smoking/bbq adventure has merged with the fact that my family has grown from one son in '04 to my wife and I expecting our 5th this June. Indirect space is at a premium and often I find my steak going on last so the rest of the family can get fed first. I need some input as I primarily grill, but am dabbling in smoking more and more. I know I want to try my first brisket in the near future. I've contemplated many of choices. From the temporary period where I "needed" a Summit charcoal to buying a 22" Performer for the table but ignoring the fact it won't give me anymore grill room. I even thought about buying a 22" WSM just because.
I've eliminated some of the "outlandish wants" and am focusing on the other "wants" that seem a little more justified. I'll be keeping my original 22" Kettle. Now for the options.
I found a used Summit charcoal (not the grilling center) in my area for sale at a reasonable price.
My local Ace has a 26" Premium in stock. (can't seem to find 26" grills used often)
If I bought the Summit I probably wouldn't be looking to buy a smoker right away. If I went the route of the 26" I may get a WSM in the future if I start to smoke more meats.
For both I would be building a Performer like cart to set them in. It would satisfy my desire for a table close to the grill and both choices would increase my cooking space. And instead of buying a Blackstone I will be making a circular Mojoe style griddle that sits on top of whatever I buy.
So, what say you? Fire away. I'm ready to upgrade and want to keep the initial purchase price within reason (depending on what model I'm looking at)