Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill Review: What Changed?

Before You Buy the Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill, Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re in the market for a durable outdoor grill that’s perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard barbecues, then the Lodge Sportsmans Pro Grill is what you’re looking for.

With its cast iron construction, this grill stands out for its ability to deliver consistent heat retention and even heat distribution.

Lodge Cast Iron has been a trusted name in cast iron cookware since 1896, and they’ve brought their experience and innovation to this new version of their popular grill.

Features Of The Sportsman Pro

This updated version of the Lodge Sportsman Grill takes a classic design that’s been around since 1993 and makes it even better. Let’s break down the new features and see why it could be the right fit for your outdoor cooking setup.

• Simplified Assembly: The first thing you’ll notice is the simplified design. Unlike the original model, which had six pieces, the updated Sportsman’s Pro Grill only has four. This change makes the assembly process straightforward and quick, requiring just two bolts, lock washers, and nuts. It’s fairly simple, and you’ll appreciate how easy it is to set up.
• New Ash Tray for Easy Maintenance: One of the best updates is the new pull-out ashtray. On the older model, you had to flip the whole grill upside down to empty the ashes, which was messy and inconvenient. Now, you can just slide the tray out to dump the ashes, making post-cook cleanup much simpler.
• Draft Doors for Heat Control: This grill also features draft doors for better heat control. They are built into the new ash pan, and you simply slide the tray in or out to open or close off the air. This acts like a damper to regulate airflow and manage the grill’s temperature.
• The older model has a removable slider door that often would fall off if opened too wide, especially when carrying or transporting it. This new feature is especially helpful for those who love charcoal grilling and need to fine-tune their cooking process. By adjusting the draft doors, you can get that perfect balance of heat—whether you’re aiming for a slow cook or a quick sear.
• Handles for Portability: Although the cast iron construction makes this grill heavier than some other portable options, the addition of hook handles makes it easier to move around. The older model had a bail-type handle where you could easily carry the grill one-handed versus the two-carrying hooks that come with the new model. It’s compact enough to be manageable, though, but remember that cast iron grills are known for their weight, so plan accordingly.

How Does It Perform?

Grilling performance on the Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill is top-notch. Once I got my coals going, the grill’s even heat distribution ensured a consistent cook on my marinated chicken thighs. The thick, sturdy grill grate held the heat exceptionally well, which is exactly what you want when aiming for that perfect sear on meats. The draft doors made it simple to control the heat, and flipping the grill grate upside down brought the food closer to the coals for an even hotter sear when needed.

If you’re cooking side dishes, this grill handles those just as well. I sautéed radishes and onions in a cast iron skillet right on top of the grill, adding some bacon bits for a burst of flavor. The consistent heat retention of the cast iron made it easy to get that perfect caramelization.

Pros and Cons of the Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill

Pros:

• Durable Build: Constructed from solid cast iron, this grill is built to last for years.
• Consistent Heat Retention: Provides even heat distribution for great grilling results.
• Improved Features: The new ash tray and draft doors for heat control make grilling and cleanup more efficient.
• Compact and Portable: Although not feather-light, the grill’s size makes it manageable for short trips and tailgating events.

Cons:

• Weight: The cast iron construction makes it heavy, which can be a drawback if you’re planning to carry it long distances.
• Runs Hot: The grill can reach high temperatures quickly, so you’ll need to monitor your food and adjust the airflow to prevent overcooking.
• Regular Maintenance Required: Like all cast iron cookware, it needs proper seasoning and care to prevent rust and maintain performance. If you need some guidance, check out Cast Iron For Beginners for tips and tricks with your cast iron cookware.

Final Thoughts

The Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill is a solid investment for anyone looking for a high-quality cast iron grill that delivers reliable performance. Whether you’re searing steaks, grilling chicken, or preparing side dishes, this portable cast iron grill will always be there for you.

The new updates, like the easy-maintenance ashtray and draft doors, make it more user-friendly, and the even heat distribution and consistent heat retention are a testament to Lodge’s longstanding commitment to quality. Just be prepared to handle the weight and keep up with regular maintenance to get the most out of it.

If you’re ready to take your outdoor cooking setup to the next level and don’t mind the weight of a cast iron grill, the Lodge Sportsman Pro Grill could be the perfect fit for you.

FAQ

For more questions and answers, be sure to check out our frequently asked questions page for more practical tips and tricks.