Buying a grill can be overwhelming if you are anything like me.
There are so many different options; you think you have finally decided, and BAM, “What material do you want your grill to be made from?”
Spanner is in the works.
The most popular types of BBQ and grill units are made from stainless steel. Once you have decided on stainless steel, you have some decisions to make. Most charcoal smokers are made from heavy gauge steel. This helps retain flavor and, most importantly, heat.
You now have to pick which type of stainless you want or need.
It can be a tedious process, so I put together this guide to understanding stainless steel so you won’t have to.
Let’s get started.
Table of contents
The Two Different Types of Stainless Steel Used in BBQ and Grill Units
Essentially, two different types of stainless steel are used in the construction of stainless grills: austenitic and Ferritic.
Each has different properties and will react differently to different environments. I will break each one down for you as best I can.
304 Stainless Steel or Austenitic Stainless Steel
304 Stainless, also known as ‘Austenitic stainless’ is the most common type of stainless steel.
It contains 18 – 20% chromium and 8 – 10.5% nickel. 304 stainless steel is also highly resistant to most weather conditions.
Due to its resistance to most weather conditions, 304 steel is a great option for outdoor grills. It is also an easy metal to manipulate and weld with and is known for its strength.
Due to these exceptional properties, 304 stainless steel is a bit more expensive than 430 stainless steel. This means that a grill made of 304 stainless steel will generally be a bit more expensive.
304 Stainless Steel Pros
- Durable
- Long Lasting
304 Stainless Steel Cons
- Expensive
- Not Common
430 Stainless Steel / Ferritic Stainless Steel
430 stainless steel, or ferritic steel, is less durable than 304 and has less weldability.
430 stainless steel contains 17% chromium and 0.12% carbon, making it only corrosion-resistant in mildly corrosive environments. However, most of the top-quality charcoal grills and smokers are made of 430!
Due to its makeup, 430 stainless steel is also cheaper than 304 stainless steel. Therefore, a stainless steel charcoal smoker grill made of 430 stainless steel will be cheaper.
A 430 grill will not be as durable as a grill made from 304 stainless steel.
430 Stainless Steel Pros
- Cheap
- Good Aesthetic
- Easier to Find
430 Stainless Steel Cons
- Not as Durable
- It doesn’t hold to the outside elements as well
What Makes Stainless Steel BBQ and Grill Units So Popular?
Stainless steel is popular because it is resistant to bacteria, corrosion, and stains. It also looks clean and simple, and to be fair, a clean stainless grill does look amazing.
However, if you let your stainless steel grill get dirty, you will quickly see it turn from a work of art into a dirty, greasy, and rain-spotted mess.
How to Keep Your Stainless Steel Grill Clean
When it comes to cleaning your BBQ, the best time is straight after use, while the grill is still hot.
But let’s face it who wants to clean their grill when you have delicious food ready?
So, for those of you who want to eat first and clean the stainless stain grill later make sure you follow these tips. Only warm water, add some detergent and give it a scrub, followed by a rinse of clean water.
Be sure to wipe, rub and polish the outer steel with the grain. Do not rub in a circular motion as this can leave marks and wreck the finish. Be sure not to use steel wool or other hard pads, this can also leave marks. Use a soft pad or cloth, it’s all about elbow grease here!
If you are going to use cleaning products to help you keep that new shine, always read the labels beforehand. Remember your grill is a cooking utensil and any cleaning products with harmful ingredients can hang around and taint your food.
The best cleaner is always good old-fashioned elbow grease! Cleaning the inside of your grill is the most important part, this is where the food is going to be in contact, always be sure to clean the inside diligently.
Once clean always be sure to cover your grill, this will keep it tucked away from the elements and extend its life dramatically.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it comes down to how much you are looking to spend and how weatherproof you need your grill to be.
I personally would lean towards the 304 stainless steel for its durability to the elements. I am all about buying something for a little more money and knowing that my grill will last, which will save me money in the long run.
I hope this information is helpful when picking out your new grill or giving your existing stainless grill some much-needed TLC.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
Hungry For More?
