Barbecue Tools

Shopping guide

If you’re just getting started with grilling, you may find yourself wondering exactly what kind of barbecue tools you need to purchase, and how many you will need. The fastest way to get started is to purchase a set.

Barbecue Tool Sets

You can find small barbecue tool sets that contain three or four basic tools, or larger sets containing 10, 15 or more. The type of set you choose depends on how much grilling you’ll be doing and the kinds of tools you need most. Every set needs to contain at least three basic items: tongs, a fork and a spatula. Even if you already have these items in your kitchen, you’ll need to purchase barbecue tools because they’re made differently – they have longer handles and are meant to be used over a hot grill. Don’t risk burning yourself while grilling by using regular kitchen utensils.

Stainless Steel Barbecue Tools

Stainless steel barbecue tools are your best choice. Don’t be tempted to spend less money by purchasing cheaper tools, only to have the silver coating of the metal start to flake off in short order. The material that makes up the handle of a stainless steel barbecue tool can vary, and it’s really a matter of personal preference. Some have oak or other wooden handles, some are also stainless steel, and some are made from plastic or other materials. Choose tools with handles that are comfortable and visually appealing.

Large or Small?

If you want just the basic tools, choose a set with only a few pieces. If you choose a set without a basting or marinating brush, purchase a long-handled one separately for that purpose – again, don’t try to use your short-handled kitchen basting brush when brushing sauce on meat on your grill! If you know you’ll be grilling a lot or grilling many specialty items, choose a larger set that goes beyond the basics with tools like shish-kebab skewers, corn holders, a grill cleaning brush and even a special knife designed for cutting meat.

Some barbecue tool sets come in a zippered cloth case or use a hard case that looks like a briefcase or toolbox, with each piece popping into its own special slot. Willow baskets with barbecue tools inside give the look of a summer picnic, and some kits unroll into an apron with a convenient pocket for each tool.

Personalized Barbecue Tools

If you’d rather shop for tools individually, choose long-handled stainless steel barbecue tools with comfortable, attractive handles, and consider purchasing tongs, a fork, a spatula and a basting brush first before looking into specialty tools. If you want everyone to know whose tools they are, you can personalize them with your name on the handles and tool case or even on an apron or a chef’s hat. Personalized barbecue tools are a great treat for yourself or a fun gift for the grilling enthusiast.