Lodge makes two cast iron grills: the Sportsman Pro and the Kickoff.
But you may be thinking, “Why should I get a cast iron grill?” Or “Why does it need to be Lodge?”.
I mean, cast iron grills aren’t the norm, are they?
And Lodge might be good at making cast iron skillets, but skillets and grills aren’t the same.
That’s true.
A cast iron grill isn’t standard or the same as a skillet.
So, why get a Lodge cast iron grill?
Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
Why Get a Lodge Cast Iron Grill?
Cast iron as a grill cooking surface is fantastic. It retains heat and gives you the best grill marks and sear on your food. Plus, you’ll get a more pronounced char flavor. There are many brands out there, and Lodge is only one of them. But Lodge is a reputable cast iron manufacturer that makes all its cast iron products in the US. So, Lodge is always an excellent choice for affordable quality cast iron cooking products, including a grill.
Choice #1 – Lodge Kickoff Grill
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The Lodge Kickoff grill is the smaller of the two and probably the easier one for cooking. It is also an excellent choice for beginners and for those who travel and cook outdoors.
Product: portable charcoal grill
Brand: Lodge
Price: See Amazon
Material: Cast iron
Weight: 29.25 lbs.
Dimensions: 16.69L x 14.31W x 5.94H inches
Cooking surface: 12-inch diameter
Features: 2 pieces, fully assembled, twist top, set of hook & carry handles
Made in: The USA
Great for: Outdoor cooking on the go
Care: Clean with a brush or chainmail, dry thoroughly, and add a thin coat of oil if desired
The Kickoff grill has a closed system. A closed system means less air gets to the charcoal, so the coals last longer. It’s easy to adjust the draft by turning the top piece.
It is smaller than the Sportsman Pro and, therefore, doesn’t hold as much food. But it is ideal if you are getting away for a weekend camping trip, cooking outdoors with friends at the park or beach, or tailgating at your favorite sporting event.
Be sure to check out my review on this grill if you would like to know more.
RELATED > > > > > Lodge Kickoff Grill Review – Outdoor Cooking
Choice #2 – Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill
The Lodge Sportsman Pro grill is Lodge’s newest addition. They took their older model off the market in 2021 to redesign it and address some user concerns. Now it is back better than ever.
This grill is still a tabletop grill and is portable but not as easy to transport as the Kickoff grill. It is better suited for having friends over for a BBQ in your backyard or just cooking outside with your family.
Product: Hibachi grill
Brand: Lodge
Price: See Amazon
Material: Cast iron
Dimensions: 19.38L x 9.69W x 7.56H inches
Cooking surface: 19.38 x 9.69 inches
Weight: 33.25 lbs.
Features: removable grill grate, slide-out ash drawer, dual air vents, set of steel hook & carry handles
Assembly: attach the grill grate to the base in two places with a screw, a washer, and a nut
Made in: the USA
Great for: Outdoor cooking for 4-6 people
Care: Clean with a brush or chainmail, dry thoroughly and add a thin layer of oil if desired
Click here for a Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter and Charred Lemon Lodge recipe. This recipe is perfect for the Sportsman Pro. Though I’m sure it could be adapted for the Kickoff grill as well.
Or click on the review below to find out more about the Sportsman Pro grill.
RELATED > > > > > Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill Review – Outdoor Cooking
Which One is Right for You?
Both grills are fantastic. However, one may be better for you than the other. Ask yourself the following four questions:
What is the primary way you will use this grill?
Although both grills are portable, the Kickoff grill is easier to transport.
How much storage area do you have?
Cast iron cannot be left out in the weather because it needs to stay dry when not in use. So, considering where you will store it is necessary. I don’t know if I would trust leaving it in the rain even if you have a cover or store it in a dedicated bag unless you are confident it is waterproof.
Are you comfortable cooking with cast iron?
The Sportsman Pro may be a bit more intimidating if you are new to cast iron grill cooking. The Kickoff grill comes fully assembled and only has two pieces. On top of that, the coals last longer, and it’s easier to control the draft. These are all things to consider when deciding what kind of grill is best for you.
How many people will you typically want to cook for?
Cooking for more than three people will be more time consuming on the Kickoff grill. However, the coals last longer, so it is doable. On the other hand, the Sportsman Pro might be the better option.
Now, it’s up to you.
If you are single or a couple and like to cook outdoors in various places, I recommend the Kickoff grill.
However, the Sportsman grill may be more to your liking if you have a family and do most of your outdoor cooking at home.
Comparing the Two Lodge Grills Video
Final Thoughts
Thank you for reading about getting a Lodge cast iron grill.
Lodge makes affordable, quality cast iron cookware, so you can be assured that both of their grills are well-made.
Furthermore, cooking on cast iron is better, whether it’s in your skillet or on a grill. Most people who cook with cast iron agree that it creates more flavorful food.
Additionally, you get the grill marks and char flavor that comes with grill cooking.
However, choosing which grill is best for you will depend on several factors:
- How often you want to transport it
- What kind of space you have for storage
- How comfortable you are cooking with cast iron
- The number of people you will cook for and what size cooking surface you want
Typically, someone new to cast iron grill cooking will be more comfortable with the Kickoff gill.
Additionally, this grill is smaller, takes up less storage space, and is easier to transport.
But the Sportsman Pro may be the better option for people who primarily cook in their backyard or want a larger cooking surface.
So, if you are in the market for a cast iron grill, I’m convinced you will enjoy either one. Simply answer the questions above and figure out which grill is best for you.