Coghlans Hinged Broiler Review

First Thoughts on the Coghlans Hinged Broiler

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler is a throwback to simpler times, a tool designed for open-fire cooking that promises to bring the smoky flavor of the campfire to your hamburgers, hotdogs, and more. Coghlan’s, a name synonymous with affordable and practical camping accessories, offers this chrome-plated broiler as a solution for those seeking a direct-heat cooking experience without the hassle of balancing food on sticks. I was intrigued to see if this simple, inexpensive tool could hold its own against modern grilling gadgets.

My quest for the Coghlans Hinged Broiler stemmed from a desire to simplify cooking on backpacking trips. I was tired of foil packet meals and the limited cooking surface of my portable stoves. I needed something lightweight, easy to clean, and capable of directly grilling food over an open flame – a task many modern backpacking stoves simply can’t accomplish efficiently.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of nostalgia and slight skepticism. The chrome-plated finish, while visually appealing, felt thin and raised concerns about long-term durability. The hinged design with its locking ring seemed straightforward enough, but the overall construction felt a bit flimsy.

Compared to more modern grilling options like cast iron skillets or even stainless-steel folding grills, the Coghlans Hinged Broiler appeared decidedly low-tech. I considered a small portable charcoal grill, but the added weight and bulk were prohibitive for backpacking. The Coghlans Hinged Broiler’s minimalist design and low price point ultimately won me over.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and apprehension. I was eager to test its capabilities over a campfire, but I also wondered if its lightweight construction would hold up to the intense heat. The real test would be its performance in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Hinged Broiler to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Coghlans Hinged Broiler took place during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The weather was mild and dry, perfect for building a campfire and experimenting with different cooking methods. I decided to grill some hotdogs and hamburgers for a classic campfire meal.

The broiler performed surprisingly well, especially considering its simple design. The hinged design made it easy to load and flip the hotdogs and hamburgers. The direct heat from the fire gave them a wonderfully smoky flavor.

It did take some practice to get the distance from the flames right. Initially, I held the broiler too close, resulting in some charring. After a few adjustments, I found the sweet spot for even cooking. No major issues arose during the first use, but I did notice the chrome plating began to discolor slightly from the heat.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Coghlans Hinged Broiler is showing signs of wear, but it’s still functional. The chrome plating has further discolored and some minor surface rust has appeared, despite my efforts to clean and dry it thoroughly after each use. The locking ring, while still functional, feels a bit looser than it did initially.

Durability is definitely a concern with this broiler. I wouldn’t expect it to last for years of heavy use. Proper care and maintenance are essential to prolong its lifespan.

Cleaning the broiler can be a bit challenging. Food particles tend to stick to the chrome plating, requiring some scrubbing. I found that soaking it in hot, soapy water helps loosen the debris. Compared to my stainless-steel grill grates, it’s significantly more difficult to clean. It does outperform cooking directly on the embers, though.

Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Hinged Broiler

Specifications

• Overall Length: 29 1/2 inches. This provides ample distance from the heat source, preventing burns.
• Grill Surface: 8″ X 9″ X 1″. This size is sufficient for cooking a couple of burgers or hotdogs at a time, ideal for solo or small group camping.
• Material: Chrome-plated steel. The chrome plating is designed to resist rust, but its effectiveness is limited.
• Design: Hinged with locking ring. This allows for easy flipping and secure grilling.
• Weight: Extremely lightweight, a huge plus for backpacking.

These specifications are important because they dictate the broiler’s portability and ease of use. The lightweight design makes it ideal for backpacking. The hinged design simplifies cooking over an open flame.

Performance & Functionality

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler performs its core function of grilling food over an open fire reasonably well. It allows for direct heat cooking, imparting a smoky flavor that’s difficult to achieve with other methods. The locking ring keeps the food securely in place while flipping.

The main weakness is its tendency to create hot spots. This requires careful attention to prevent burning. The chrome plating also doesn’t distribute heat as evenly as cast iron or stainless steel.

It meets basic expectations for a low-cost broiler. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done.

Design & Ergonomics

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler features a simple, utilitarian design. The long handle provides a good reach over the fire. The hinged design is easy to operate.

The build quality is adequate for the price. The chrome-plated steel feels somewhat flimsy. There’s no significant learning curve, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler’s lifespan is a major concern. The chrome plating is prone to discoloration and rust. I estimate it will last a few seasons with proper care.

Maintenance involves thorough cleaning and drying after each use. Applying a thin coat of oil can help prevent rust. Repairing is not really an option due to the simple construction and low cost.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. It is a basic, standalone product.

It is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands. Its simplicity limits any customization possibilities. The only real ‘accessory’ is the food you put in it!

Pros and Cons of Coghlans Hinged Broiler

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Who Should Buy Coghlans Hinged Broiler?

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler is perfect for casual campers, backpackers on a budget, and anyone looking for a simple and inexpensive way to grill food over an open fire. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a nostalgic, low-tech cooking experience.

Those seeking a durable, high-performance grilling solution should skip this product. Individuals who frequently cook for large groups should also consider other options with a larger grilling surface. A must-have is a good pair of heat-resistant gloves.

Conclusion on Coghlans Hinged Broiler

The Coghlans Hinged Broiler is a basic, no-frills tool that offers an affordable way to grill food over an open fire. Its lightweight design makes it a good option for backpacking. However, its limited durability and uneven heat distribution are significant drawbacks.

The price is justified for what it offers. It is a functional, albeit temporary, solution for open-fire cooking.

I would recommend it to budget-conscious campers and backpackers who understand its limitations. Just don’t expect it to last forever. If you’re looking for an easy way to grill some hotdogs and hamburgers over a campfire, the Coghlans Hinged Broiler might be worth a try. Grab one and add some smoky goodness to your next outdoor adventure!

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