Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag Review

First Impressions of Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag promises the convenience of pellet grilling in a portable package. Camp Chef aims to deliver authentic wood-fired flavor on the go, from camping trips to tailgates, appealing to outdoor cooking enthusiasts who crave versatility and ease of use. I’ve spent countless hours manning grills, smokers, and camp stoves in diverse environments, so I was keen to see how this portable pellet grill would stack up.

My quest for a truly portable and versatile grilling solution led me to the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag. I was tired of dealing with the limitations of propane grills and the mess of charcoal when away from home. I wanted something that could deliver consistent temperatures and smoky flavor without requiring constant babysitting.

Unboxing the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag, I was immediately impressed by its compact design. The grill felt solid, the materials seemed durable, and the folding legs operated smoothly. It was evident that some thought had gone into making this grill easy to transport.

I considered other portable grills like the Traeger Tailgater and the Weber Q series. The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag stood out because of its Ash Kickin’ Cleanout System and the ability to switch between indirect and direct flame grilling. These features promised less mess and more control over the cooking process.

My first impression of the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to put it to the test but also slightly skeptical about whether a portable pellet grill could truly deliver the same performance as a full-sized unit. I really wanted it to replace my old portable propane setup.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag took place during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The weather was mild, but there was a constant breeze, which I knew could affect temperature control. I set up the grill on a level surface near the campsite, loaded it with Camp Chef competition blend pellets, and fired it up.

The initial startup was surprisingly easy, and the digital controller quickly brought the grill up to the set temperature of 225°F for some slow-smoked ribs. I was impressed by the Smart Smoke Technology, which seemed to maintain a consistent temperature despite the wind. The dual stainless steel meat probes came in handy for monitoring the internal temperature of the ribs, giving me accurate feedback throughout the cooking process. After a couple hours, I bumped the temp up to 350 to finish the ribs.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag has proven to be a reliable and versatile cooking companion. I’ve used it for everything from smoking briskets to grilling burgers and even baking pizzas. The grill consistently holds its temperature, and the Slide and Grill Technology allows for easy searing.

The only sign of wear and tear so far is some slight discoloration on the stainless steel firebox, which is to be expected. The Ash Kickin’ Cleanout System makes cleaning a breeze; simply pull the lever to empty the ash into a container. Compared to my previous experiences with charcoal grills, the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag is a significant upgrade in terms of convenience and ease of use. I feel like I have more control over everything now.

Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag

Specifications

• The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag boasts a large heavy wire 13.75″ x 18.4″ grilling area. This provides ample space for cooking multiple items at once.
• The top rack provides additional cooking space (506 sq. in. total cooking surface), allowing for smoking larger cuts of meat or keeping food warm.
• It features a 160 F to 500 F temperature range for slow smoking to grilling (25,000 BTU). This versatility is crucial for cooking various types of food.
• Dual stainless steel meat probes measure internal food temperature, ensuring accurate and consistent results.
• The grill incorporates an Ash Kickin Cleanout system (patented), simplifying the cleaning process.
• It utilizes Slide and Grill Technology (patent pending), allowing users to easily switch between indirect and direct flame cooking.
• It includes a proprietary burner design (patent pending) contributing to efficient and even heat distribution.
• A stainless steel fire box enhances durability and heat retention.
• The grease management system helps to collect and dispose of grease, minimizing mess and flare-ups.
• Smart Smoke Technology maintains consistent temperature and smoke levels.
• The blue LED temperature display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
• A digital controller automatically maintains cooking temperature, simplifying the cooking process and ensuring consistent results.
• The continuous fan provides even-heat and smoke distribution.
• The compact design, stores and transports easily.
• Deluxe folding legs and dual position rolling transport make it easy to move and set up the grill.
• Leg levelers ensure stability on uneven surfaces.
• A cord wrap handle provides convenient storage for the power cord.
• Latching lids keep the grill securely closed during transport.
• The integrated bottle opener is a convenient addition for outdoor gatherings.
• Included is the Camp Chef Carry Bag For Pursuit Portable Pellet Grill Ppg20, Black, CBPPG20, making transport easier.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag‘s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality results in a portable package. The temperature range, cooking area, and innovative features like the Ash Kickin’ Cleanout System make it a versatile and user-friendly option for outdoor cooking.

Performance & Functionality

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag performs admirably in its intended role. It provides consistent heat, produces flavorful smoke, and is easy to operate. The ability to switch between indirect and direct flame grilling is a standout feature, allowing for a wide range of cooking styles.

One minor weakness is that the temperature can fluctuate slightly in windy conditions, but this is easily mitigated by positioning the grill to minimize wind exposure. Overall, the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag meets and even exceeds my expectations for a portable pellet grill. It does the job, and does it well.

Design & Ergonomics

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag is well-designed and built with quality materials. The stainless steel components are durable, and the folding legs are sturdy. The grill is surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it easy to transport.

The user interface is intuitive, and the digital controller is easy to navigate. There is minimal learning curve required to operate the grill.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag appears to be built to last. The stainless steel components should resist corrosion, and the overall construction feels solid. Regular cleaning of the ash and grease buildup is essential for maintaining optimal performance, but the Ash Kickin’ Cleanout System makes this task quick and easy.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag comes with dual stainless steel meat probes and a carry bag. While there aren’t many customization options specifically for this model, it is compatible with Camp Chef‘s line of grilling accessories, such as griddles and pizza stones. This adds to the grill’s versatility and allows users to tailor it to their specific cooking needs.

Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag?

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag is perfect for:

• Campers and RV enthusiasts: Who want to enjoy the flavor of pellet grilling on the go.
• Tailgaters: Who need a portable and versatile grill for pre-game cookouts.
• Apartment dwellers: Who have limited space but still want to enjoy the benefits of pellet grilling.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Those who primarily cook for large groups: The cooking area is relatively small compared to full-sized pellet grills.
• Individuals who require extensive customization options: The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag is primarily designed for portability and ease of use.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality cover to protect the grill from the elements when not in use. Also, having a second set of meat probes can be useful for cooking multiple items simultaneously.

Conclusion on Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag

The Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag delivers on its promise of portable pellet grilling. It combines convenience, versatility, and consistent performance in a compact package. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

At $509.99, the price is justified by the grill’s features, performance, and overall value. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to enjoy the flavor of wood-fired cooking on the go.

I would absolutely recommend the Camp Chef Pursuit Pellet Grill with Carry Bag to anyone looking for a portable and versatile grilling solution. If you value convenience, flavor, and ease of use, this grill is a fantastic choice. So, pack your pellets, grab your carry bag, and get ready to experience the joys of portable pellet grilling.