Napoleon PRO22 Professional Charcoal Kettle Grill
Updated: 5 hours ago
The Napoleon PRO22—model PRO22K-LEG-3—is a premium 22-inch charcoal kettle designed for grilling, searing, roasting and smoking. It competes with upgraded Weber kettles but distinguishes itself with heavy cast-iron cooking grids, adjustable grate height, a hinged lid and more advanced airflow management. The cooking grid can be positioned at three different heights. Place it closer to the charcoal for high-temperature searing or raise it for slower cooking and better heat control. The cast-iron grid holds substantial heat and produces strong sear marks. It is also hinged, allowing you to add charcoal, wood chunks or water without removing all the food.
Key Features include:
Excellent cast-iron searing performance
Three adjustable cooking-grid heights
Convenient hinged grid for adding charcoal or wood
Attached lid opens away from the cooking surface
Good airflow control for smoking
Efficient ash-management system
Ready for an optional rotisserie
Dedicated thermometer-probe ports
Durable porcelain-coated steel body
Longer warranty than many charcoal kettles
10-year warranty
Key Specifications include:
Dimensions: 28.5"D x 23"W x 42"H
Diameter: 22"
Weight: 62Lbs
Lid Thermometer
Handles: Glass-reinforced nylon w/Heat Shield
One Touch Cleaning System
Primary cooking area (square inches): 363
Total Cooking Area (square inches): 363
Fits 22 Burgers
Fuel Type: Charcoal / Wood
Potential drawbacks
Premium price: It costs considerably more than a basic 22-inch kettle.
Heavy cast-iron grid: Excellent for searing, but heavier and slower to heat than stainless or plated-steel grates.
More maintenance: Cast iron should be cleaned, dried and lightly seasoned to help prevent rust.
No preparation table: The leg model does not provide the workspace found on a cart-style grill.
Accessory compatibility: Weber-specific 22-inch accessories may not fit correctly because Napoleon’s grid and internal design differ.
Learning curve: The adjustable grid, Vortex system and multiple air controls take some experimentation.
Who should buy it?
The Napoleon PRO22 is a strong choice for someone who wants a charcoal kettle that can do more than basic burgers and hot dogs. It is especially attractive for grillers who regularly cook steaks, smoke ribs, roast whole chickens or want to add a rotisserie.
Bottom line
The Napoleon PRO22 is one of the most versatile premium charcoal kettles available. Its cast-iron grid, three cooking heights, hinged lid, probe ports and sophisticated airflow system provide capabilities that many conventional kettles lack.
For simple occasional grilling, a less expensive kettle may be sufficient. For an enthusiast who wants excellent searing plus legitimate smoking and roasting ability, the PRO22 justifies much of its higher price.