• Grill
• Spatula
• Tongs
• Fork
• Everything Else

Tools:

Spatula

This is the workhorse tool, the one that gets almost as much use as the grill itself. Your spatula for the grill should have a sturdy metal blade, with a metal handle at least a foot long, and a large, easy-to-hold grip.

You'll want a long handle, to keep your hands away from the heat of grilling. Even with the relatively long handle on mine, I singe the hair on my hand or wrist at least once a summer. The handle should be strong, too. I'll get to the reason for that in a minute.

A large, easy-to-hold grip is important, because you'll probably be lifting fairly heavy objects. I use the spatula to handle most foods, which means that at times I'm lifting upwards of a pound of meat at a time.

I prefer a wooden grip for the spatula, and other tools. The reason isn't so much practical as aesthetic. A sturdy plastic handle would get the job done, but wouldn't have that outdoor feel to it.

Next: Safety

Copyright © 2005-2010 Brian H. Gill