Gifts for Grill Masters: 8 Tools They'll Actually Use

What's the best gift for a grill master? Our top pick is the Dalstrong 4-Piece Premium Grill Kit ($219): tongs, spatula, fork and silicone brush in a carrying case, covering every job at the grill in one gift. For someone who already has grill tools, a long slicer for brisket and roasts, like the Slicing & Carving Knife 12", Gladiator Series, NSF Certified ($99), is the upgrade they'll notice most.

People who love to grill tend to own a lot of cheap tools. The best gifts replace those with sturdier versions or add the cutting tools that turn a good cook into a great one.

Gift guide at a glance

Gift Price Best for
4-Piece Premium Grill Kit $219 Everyday grilling
Gladiator 12" Slicer $99 Brisket, ribs, roasts
Obliterator Meat Cleaver $169 Heavy chopping, big cuts
15" Meat Tenderizer $179 Pounding cutlets and thin steaks
Gladiator Steak Knife Set $119 Steak night
Gladiator 8" Cimeter $79 Trimming and portioning
Teak Cutting Board $169 Resting and carving
Gift Card $100 When you're not sure

The picks

For the everyday griller: the grill kit

Tongs, a spatula, a fork and a basting brush are the four tools used most at the grill. Getting them as a matched set with a case also makes them easy to take to tailgates and campsites.

For the brisket smoker: a long slicer

After a long smoke, slicing brisket with a short chef's knife wrecks the bark. A 12" slicer cuts each slice in one stroke. Read our guide on how to cut brisket.

For the showpiece: the Obliterator

A heavy cleaver that comes with a stand, so it doubles as kitchen display. It's built for big chopping jobs.

For thin cuts: a meat tenderizer

A heavy, dual-sided tenderizer pounds chicken breasts and thin steaks to an even thickness, so they grill evenly without drying out.

For steak night: steak knives

Sharp, straight-edged steak knives slice cleanly instead of tearing, which keeps steaks juicy on the plate.

For the butcher-minded: a cimeter

A curved butcher knife trims fat caps, portions large cuts and breaks down pork shoulders.

How to choose

  • Think about what they cook most. A brisket smoker needs different tools than someone who grills steaks on weeknights.
  • Upgrade what they use every day. A better version of a tool they already reach for gets used more than a novelty.
  • Don't forget maintenance. A sharpener or honing rod keeps any knife gift performing.
  • When in doubt, a gift card lets them pick.

More gift ideas: Christmas gifts for home cooks and knife gifts under $100.

Our top picks

Tongs, Spatula, Fork, Silicone Brush, 4 Piece Premium Grill Kit

Tongs, Spatula, Fork, Silicone Brush, 4 Piece Premium Grill Kit ($219). Tongs, spatula, fork and silicone brush in a carrying case.

Slicing & Carving Knife 12", Gladiator Series, NSF Certified

Slicing & Carving Knife 12", Gladiator Series, NSF Certified ($99). Spec sheet: German X50CrMoV15 steel, 54–56 HRC, 16–18° edge, NSF certified. A 12" slicer for brisket and roasts.

Meat Cleaver 9" with Stand, Obliterator, Gladiator Series, R, NSF Certified

Meat Cleaver 9" with Stand, Obliterator, Gladiator Series, R, NSF Certified ($169). Spec sheet: German X50CrMoV15 steel, 54–56 HRC, 16–18° edge, NSF certified. A heavy 9" cleaver with stand.

FAQ

What's the best gift for a grill master?

The Dalstrong 4-Piece Premium Grill Kit ($219) covers tongs, spatula, fork and brush in one gift. For someone who already has tools, the Gladiator 12" Slicer ($99) is a big upgrade for brisket.

What knife do pitmasters use for brisket?

A long slicing knife, usually around 12", so each slice is one stroke.

What's a good grilling gift under $100?

The Gladiator 12" Slicer ($99) or the Gladiator 8" Cimeter ($79).

Is a meat tenderizer a good grilling gift?

Yes, for anyone who grills cutlets or thin steaks; even thickness means even cooking.

What if I don't know what they need?

A Dalstrong gift card lets them choose.


Gifts for Grill Masters: 8 Tools They'll Actually Use

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