Forget charcoal lighter fluid. No more electric starters. The Performer charcoal grill uses gas to light coals fast so you get charcoal flavor with the convenience of a gas grill. There's plenty of cook space with a 22-1/2-inch porcelain-enameled bowl and lid. Other features include: a factory-assembled stainless steel One-Touch cleaning system with a removable black aluminum ash catcher; a heavy-duty, plated, hinged cooking grate that makes it easy to add briquets; Charbin storage container that keeps up to 20 pounds of charcoal dry; Touch-N-Go gas ignition system; dual-purpose thermometer built into the lid; Tuck-Away lid holder; and locking casters and crackproof all-weather wheels.

Many outdoor chefs swear by charcoal for the smoky, old-school flavor it lends to meat--but no one likes the mess or the hassle of starting the coals, or the chemical aftertaste that lighter fluid can leave. The Performer’s Touch-n-Go ignition system uses liquid propane to light charcoal briquets with just the touch of a button. Once the coals are white-hot, you’re ready to cook. Even cleaning up afterwards won’t get your hands dirty, thanks to Weber’s patented One-Touch cleaning system--a simple sweep of a lever pushes ashes into a removable catch pan for quick and easy disposal.

The Performer’s exceptionally-durable construction includes a rust-resistant, porcelain-enameled steel bowl and lid. Heavy-duty, hinged grates made from plated steel offer easy access to the classic kettle-shaped bowl when it’s time to add briquets to the fire. A dual-purpose thermometer allows cooks to monitor the temperature inside the grill, then removes to test meat for doneness. A Tuck-Away holder holds the lid conveniently out of the way plus provides a windscreen for lighting. Rugged, weather-resistant wheels are crack-proof in the most extreme temperatures and allow easy transport, while locking casters prevent the grill from rolling while you cook. Rust-free aluminum vents adjust to provide perfect airflow in changing conditions. An integrated storage container keeps up to 20 pounds of charcoal dry and within reach, and the granite-look Thermoset work surface provides a handy place to store marinades and sauces while you cook.

Also included are welded steel charcoal fuel holders that facilitate cooking with direct or indirect heat as well as a five-pound liquid propane tank. The assembled unit measures 40 by 50-1/4 by 28-1/2 inches, with a 22-1/2 inch cooking surface. Bowl, handles, lid, and One-Touch cleaning system are covered by a 10-year warranty; cooking grate and charcoal baskets have a 1-year warranty; and the burner assembly, hose, test valve, and regulator have a 3-year guarantee. Weber grills are made in the USA. --Mary Park