Discover the ultimate Primos Grill Reviews, where we analyze and rate the latest grilling innovations. Uncover expert insights, pros and cons, and real user experiences to make informed decisions for your next BBQ masterpiece. Join us as we uncover the sizzling secrets of Primos Grills!
Primo XL Overview
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is a ceramic grill that offers a unique oval shape, providing greater efficiency and versatility compared to traditional rounded kamado grills. With a 400 sq/in grilling space, it is larger than most ceramic grills on the market and offers the ability to cook a variety of meals, from burgers to a 30lbs turkey or a 20lb brisket.
This grill is designed for use with both direct and indirect heat, allowing for roasting, smoking, and searing. The split moon-shaped grates can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat, and different charcoal configurations provide various cooking possibilities. Accessories like heat deflectors and cast iron fire box dividers are essential for utilizing all of the Primo’s cooking options.
While this grill has excellent grilling performance and provides a unique way to roast and sear, it does have some drawbacks. It is heavy, weighing over 230lbs, which can make it challenging to move or remove from its stand. Ash removal is also inconvenient through a small door at the bottom of the grill, and keeping accessories clean requires extra effort.
Overall, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers durability, impressive grilling performance, and a unique design that stands out on any deck or patio. While it may require more work in terms of setup and maintenance compared to other grills, its versatility and cooking capabilities make it worth considering for serious grill enthusiasts.
Primo Grill Company Explained
The Primo Ceramic Grills company was founded by George Samaras in 1996. Samaras discovered that the oval shape of the grill offered greater efficiency and versatility compared to traditional rounded kamado grills. This led to the introduction of the patented oval shape grill in 2002, which helped establish Primo as a major player in the ceramic grill industry. The company was purchased by Empire Comfort Systems, a heating appliance manufacturer, in 2019 and continues to invest in product development and improvements.
Primo Ceramic Grills are manufactured in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, with the company headquarters located in Belleville, Illinois. The grills are sold in 24 countries around the world, including Canada and the United States. It is believed that Primo is the only Kamado style grill made in the USA.
Primo is Made in the USA
Primo Ceramic Grills, the manufacturer of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill, is proud to be one of the few companies that produces their products in the USA. This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures that customers are getting a high-quality product that supports local jobs and businesses.
The Primo grill is made with high-quality materials, including a heavy lid and firebox that contribute to its durability and heat retention capabilities. While the weight of the grill may make it difficult to move or lift for some individuals, it also adds to its stability and ability to withstand strong winds. The lid stays closed securely without the need for a locking mechanism.
One area where the Primo XL could be improved is in its ash removal process. The current design requires using a specialized tool or vacuum to remove ash from under the firebox through a small door. A removable tray or larger access point would make this process more convenient.
Overall, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers excellent grilling and smoking performance with its direct and indirect heat options. Its unique oval shape provides versatility in cooking various types of meals, from searing steaks to slow-cooking large cuts of meat like brisket. The size of the grill may require additional effort during installation but adds to its impressive appearance on your deck or patio.
In terms of customer service and support, Primo Ceramic Grills has received positive feedback with no reported concerns. They provide helpful resources like instructional videos on their website’s Primo University section.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality ceramic grill that offers versatility in cooking options and is made in the USA, I would recommend considering the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill.
Primo Extra Large Oval Specifications
The Primo Extra Large Oval Charcoal Grill is a ceramic grill that offers a unique oval shape, providing greater efficiency and versatility compared to traditional rounded kamado grills. It has a grilling space of 400 sq/in, making it one of the largest on the market. The grill is designed for use with both direct and indirect heat, allowing for various cooking methods such as roasting, smoking, and searing.
The Primo XL comes with split moon shaped grates that can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat source. Additionally, the grill allows you to pile charcoal on one side or both sides, creating even more cooking possibilities. To fully utilize all of its cooking options, accessories like heat deflector racks, heat deflectors, and cast iron fire box dividers are essential.
This grill is made in the USA by Primo Ceramic Grills, which was founded by George Samaras in 1996. The company’s innovative oval shape design helped establish it as a major player in the ceramic grill industry. In 2019, Primo Ceramic Grills was acquired by Empire Comfort Systems and continues to invest in product development and improvements.
Primo Grilling and Smoking Performance
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers excellent grilling and smoking performance. With its unique oval shape, it provides greater efficiency and versatility compared to traditional rounded kamado grills. The grill is designed for use with both direct and indirect heat, allowing for roasting, smoking, and searing of meat. The split moon-shaped grates can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat, providing a variety of cooking possibilities.
For smoking, the Primo XL requires good lump charcoal and wood for flavor. The setup for smoking includes using a barrier or heat deflectors to create a direct and indirect side. The charcoal and wood smoke circulate inside the grill, creating exceptional smoke flavor at temperatures between 200°F to 225°F.
The temperature control on the Primo XL is crucial for achieving desired results. The ceramic style of the grill helps maintain heat, which can be adjusted using dampers to regulate air flow. While there isn’t an automated option for temperature control, external temperature management controllers can be used for automation.
The grilling performance on this grill is top-notch. The reversible cooking grates allow for closer or further proximity to the heat source, depending on the desired sear or cook. This versatility enables a wide range of cooking methods, from searing to slow cooking. Plus, the large grilling space of 400 sq/in allows for various grilling options like searing, roasting, and smoking.
In conclusion, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill delivers excellent grilling and smoking performance with its unique design, temperature control capabilities, and versatile cooking options.
Smoking Performance
The smoking performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is excellent. To achieve the best results, it is recommended to use good quality lump charcoal and a few pieces of your preferred wood for smoking. The setup for smoking requires accessories such as a steel barrier or heat deflector plates and racks to create direct and indirect heat zones. The charcoal and wood smoke circulate inside the grill, providing a rich and flavorful smoke flavor to your food. Maintaining temperature control is crucial with this type of grill, but once you find the right balance of air intake and exhaust using the dampers, the temperature will remain constant for several hours. The XL grill has a large firebox that can hold almost an entire bag of lump charcoal, making refills necessary only for extremely long or overnight cooks. Overall, the smoking performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill allows for a wide range of cooking options and delivers delicious smoked dishes.
The smoking performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is enhanced by its unique oval shape and versatile design. The combination of direct and indirect heat options allows for various cooking methods such as roasting, searing, and slow smoking. The split moon-shaped grates can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat source, offering even more flexibility in cooking techniques. Additionally, accessories like heat deflectors and cast iron firebox dividers are essential for utilizing all of the available cooking options.
When it comes to maintaining temperature control during smoking sessions, the ceramic construction of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill proves beneficial. Ceramic grills are known for their ability to maintain heat effectively, allowing you to adjust air flow using dampers for precise temperature control. While there is no automated option for temperature management on this grill, using Bluetooth meat thermometers can help monitor both meat and grill temperatures remotely.
In terms of cleanup and maintenance, ash removal from under the firebox can be somewhat inconvenient, requiring a specialized tool or a small shop vacuum. Additionally, the felt gasket around the lid and base needs to be replaced every 12-18 months. However, regular cleaning by bringing the temperature up as high as possible for 30 minutes helps burn off excess grease and maintain the overall cleanliness of the grill.
Overall, the smoking performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is impressive due to its ability to deliver consistent heat, its versatile cooking options, and its unique oval shape that enhances airflow and smoke circulation. While there are some minor inconveniences in terms of ash removal and maintenance, these can be managed with proper care and regular cleaning.
Grilling Performance
The grilling performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is excellent. The unique oval shape allows for both direct and indirect heat, making it versatile for a variety of cooking methods such as searing, roasting, and smoking. The split moon-shaped grates can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat, providing even more cooking possibilities. With a 400 sq/in grilling space, this grill offers plenty of room to cook anything from burgers to a 30lbs turkey or a 20lb brisket. The option for direct and indirect heat contributes to a wider usage of the grill without compromising the quality of the final product.
The temperature control on this grill is crucial for achieving optimal results. The ceramic style of the Primo XL retains heat well and can be adjusted using dampers to regulate air flow. While there is no automated option for temperature control, external devices like ThermoWorks’ temperature management controllers can be used to automate this process. It is also recommended to use a bluetooth meat thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature of both the meat and the grill itself.
Overall, the grilling performance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is top-notch. Its versatility in cooking methods, spacious grilling space, and effective temperature control make it a great choice for any avid griller or smoker.
Primo XL Fit and Finish Overview
The Primo XL grill is known for its high-quality materials and solid construction. The lid, firebox, and overall body of the grill are made of ceramic, which gives it durability and excellent heat retention. The weight of the grill, over 230 pounds, may be a challenge to move but also ensures stability and sturdiness once in place.
The design of the Primo XL is visually appealing and unique. Its oval shape sets it apart from other ceramic grills on the market, making it an impressive addition to any backyard or patio. The grill’s size also contributes to its attractive appearance.
While there are some minor flaws in the design, such as the ash removal process and the lack of a locking mechanism for the lid, overall, the fit and finish of the Primo XL are commendable. It is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing grill that will impress both guests and owners alike.
Materials and Overall Quality
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is made with high-quality materials and boasts excellent overall quality. The grill weighs over 230lbs, which can make it difficult to move around, but also ensures its sturdiness and durability. The lid stays closed and in place without the need for a locking mechanism, and even a strong wind cannot move the grill. The felt gasket around the lid and base may need to be replaced every 12-18 months, but this is a simple and inexpensive process.
One drawback of the Primo XL is the ash removal system. The ash collector is located at the bottom of the grill and requires a specific tool or vacuum to remove the ash. This process can be inconvenient and would have been better with a removable tray or larger access point. Additionally, the top air vent can get quite hot, so an insulated handle would be beneficial.
Overall, though, the materials used in the Primo XL are of high quality, giving it a sturdy feel and impressive appearance. It is a massive grill that looks great on any deck or patio and can withstand harsh weather conditions. While it may require more effort to move and clean compared to other grills, its unique design and cooking capabilities make it worth considering for serious grill enthusiasts.
Felt Gasket Maintenance
Felt Gasket Maintenance:
The felt gasket around the edge of the lid and base of the Primo XL needs to be replaced every 12-18 months. This process is easy to do and costs about $15. Simply remove the old gasket and clean any residue, then apply the new gasket using adhesive. It only takes about 30 minutes of your time to complete this maintenance task.
Regularly replacing the felt gasket ensures a proper seal between the lid and base of the grill, which helps maintain consistent temperatures during cooking. It also prevents smoke from escaping and improves overall efficiency. Considering the relatively low cost and ease of replacement, this maintenance task is essential for optimal performance of your Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill.
Primo Ash Collector / Vent
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill has an ash collector located at the bottom of the grill, which requires a specialized L-shaped tool to remove the ash. This process can be inconvenient and time-consuming, as it may require additional tools or equipment such as a small shop vacuum to effectively clean out the ash. Additionally, the size of the vent door used for both lower air intake and ash removal is relatively small, making it challenging to remove all of the ash completely. It would have been more convenient if the grill had a removable tray or larger access point for easier cleaning.
Overall, while the Primo XL Charcoal Grill offers excellent grilling and smoking performance, its ash removal system could be improved to make maintenance and cleaning more efficient.
Primo Top Air Vent
The Primo Top Air Vent on the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is a key component for temperature control. It features a large metal plate that covers the exhaust vent, along with a smaller vent on top for finer adjustments. The large vent is primarily used to control the temperature, while the smaller vent allows for more precise tuning. It should be noted that the top vent lid can become quite hot during use, so an insulated handle would be beneficial in this design. Additionally, a layer of grease may accumulate on the top vent, which actually acts as a lubricant and helps the two pieces slide together smoothly.
Overall, the Primo Top Air Vent is effective in regulating heat and maintaining consistent temperatures throughout cooking.
Thoughts and Opinions
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers a unique oval shape that sets it apart from other ceramic grills on the market. This design feature allows for more versatility in cooking, with options for direct and indirect heat. The split moon shaped grates also add to the flexibility, allowing for different distances from the heat source. With a 400 sq/in grilling space, this grill can handle a wide range of cooking options, from burgers to large cuts of meat like turkey or brisket.
While the price point may be higher compared to other charcoal grills, the quality and performance of the Primo XL make it worth considering for serious grill enthusiasts. The high-quality materials used in its construction contribute to its durability, although the weight of the grill can be a challenge when it comes to moving or installing it. Ash removal is another area that could be improved upon, as it can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-performing charcoal grill with excellent smoking capabilities and the ability to cook a variety of foods, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is definitely worth considering. It may require some extra effort in terms of maintenance and cleaning, but the results in terms of flavor and cooking options make it a worthwhile investment.
Ownership Experience
The ownership experience of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is generally positive. The grill is praised for its versatility and ability to cook a wide range of foods, from burgers to large cuts of meat like turkey or brisket. The option for both direct and indirect heat allows for various cooking methods and techniques. Additionally, the oval shape of the grill is unique and offers greater efficiency and cooking space compared to other ceramic grills on the market.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The weight of the grill can make it difficult to move or transport, requiring multiple people and additional equipment. Ash removal can also be a hassle, as the small door for ash collection may not be sufficient, leading to the need for additional tools or methods for cleaning. Keeping accessories clean can also require more effort compared to traditional BBQs.
Overall, while there are some challenges with the weight and maintenance of the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill, users generally enjoy their ownership experience due to its cooking versatility, durability, and unique design.
Primo Charcoal Grill Problems
One of the main concerns with the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is its weight. Due to its ceramic construction, the grill weighs over 230lbs, making it difficult to move or transport. This can be a challenge when trying to set up the grill or if you need to move it for any reason.
Another issue is the ash removal process. The Primo XL has an ash collector at the bottom, which requires a specific tool to remove the ash from under the firebox. This process can be inconvenient and time-consuming, as it does not have a removable tray or larger access point for easier cleaning.
Lastly, keeping the accessories clean can be more work compared to traditional BBQ grills. The ceramic material and unique design of the Primo XL require regular high-temperature burn-offs to remove excess grease and maintain cleanliness. While this is effective in keeping the grill clean, it does add extra effort and maintenance compared to other grills.
Primo Customer Service and Support
I have had a positive experience with Primo’s customer service and support. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including instructional videos on how to set up and use the grill. These videos were helpful in getting me started and addressing any questions or issues that arose during the cooking process.
In addition to the online resources, Primo also provides a warranty for their grills. While I haven’t had to utilize the warranty yet, it is comforting to know that they stand behind their product and offer support if needed.
Primo Warranty
Primo Ceramic Grills offers a limited lifetime warranty on their ceramic parts. This means that if any defects or damage occur to the ceramic components of the grill, Primo will replace them free of charge. However, it’s important to note that this warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or accidents.
In addition to the ceramic parts warranty, Primo also provides a 20-year warranty on all metal parts, such as the cooking grates and hardware. This is a generous warranty compared to other grill brands on the market.
Overall, Primo stands behind their products with a solid warranty that gives customers peace of mind knowing that they are investing in a high-quality and durable grill.
Primo Grill Accessories
– The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers a range of accessories that enhance its cooking capabilities. These include heat deflector racks, heat deflectors, and a cast iron firebox divider. These accessories are vital for utilizing all of the Primo cooking options and expanding your grilling possibilities.
– With these accessories, you can explore various grilling techniques such as searing, roasting, and smoking. The versatility of the Primo XL allows you to cook anything from burgers to a 30lbs turkey or from a couple of steaks to a 20lb brisket. The 400 sq/in grilling space is among the largest on the market, providing ample room for different types of meals.
– Additionally, the Primo XL’s unique oval shape sets it apart from other ceramic grills. This shape allows for both direct and indirect heat cooking, giving you more control over your cooking process. The split moon-shaped grates can be flipped to adjust the distance from the heat source, further enhancing your cooking options.
– While the weight of the grill may pose challenges in terms of mobility and installation, once it is in place, its sturdiness and impressive appearance make it an attractive addition to any deck or patio.
Overall, with its range of accessories and versatile cooking capabilities, I would highly recommend the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.
Would I recommend the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill?
Yes, I would highly recommend the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill. Its unique oval shape sets it apart from other ceramic grills on the market and offers greater efficiency and versatility. The ability to use both direct and indirect heat allows for a wide range of cooking options such as roasting, smoking, and searing. With a 400 sq/in grilling space, this grill can accommodate anything from burgers to large cuts of meat like turkey or brisket.
The grilling performance of the Primo XL is excellent. The reversible cooking grates allow for adjustable distances from the heat, providing flexibility in achieving the desired sear or cook. The high-quality materials used in this grill make it sturdy and durable, although its weight can be a challenge when it comes to moving or installing it. Additionally, the ash removal process could be improved with a larger access point or removable tray.
Overall, despite these minor drawbacks, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill delivers exceptional results and offers a unique grilling experience. Its size may require more effort compared to smaller grills, but its impressive appearance and delicious food make it worth it. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced griller, this grill provides versatility, reliability, and durability that make it a worthwhile investment.
What We Like
– The unique oval shape of the Primo XL grill sets it apart from other ceramic grills on the market, providing greater efficiency and versatility.
– The grill offers a large 400 sq/in grilling space, allowing for a variety of cooking options, from burgers to a 30lbs turkey or a couple of steaks to a 20lb brisket.
– The ability to use both direct and indirect heat, along with the split moon shaped grates that can be flipped, provides flexibility in cooking methods and distances from the heat source.
– The high quality materials used in the construction of the grill, such as the lid and firebox weighing over 230lbs, contribute to its durability and sturdiness.
– The overall smoking performance of the Primo XL is excellent, with charcoal and wood smoke circulating inside the grill for optimal flavor. Additionally, temperature control can be easily adjusted using dampers.
– Primo Ceramic Grills offers good customer service and support, with helpful videos available on their website.
What We Don’t Like
The weight of the Primo XL Grill is a major drawback. It is extremely heavy and difficult to move, making it challenging to install or relocate. This can be a significant inconvenience for users who may need to transport or store the grill.
Ash removal is another issue with this grill. The small door at the bottom of the grill makes it difficult to remove all the ash, and the process can be time-consuming and inconvenient. A removable tray or larger access point would have been more practical.
Maintaining cleanliness and keeping accessories clean can also be more work compared to other BBQ grills. Kamado grills require regular cleaning by bringing the temperature up high, which can be an extra step in maintenance.
Final Verdict
The Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill offers a unique oval shape that sets it apart from other ceramic grills on the market. Its larger size and versatile cooking options make it a great choice for those who enjoy grilling, smoking, and roasting. The high-quality materials used in its construction ensure durability and longevity.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The weight of the grill can make it difficult to move or transport, and the ash removal process is not as convenient as it could be. Additionally, keeping the accessories clean requires more effort compared to traditional BBQ grills.
In conclusion, if you are willing to put in the extra work for setup and maintenance, the Primo XL Oval Charcoal Grill is a fantastic option that will impress both in terms of appearance and cooking performance.
In summary, Primos Grill has received highly positive reviews from customers. With its exceptional quality of food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere, it is clear that Primos Grill is a top choice for those seeking a satisfying dining experience.
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