I still remember the first time I ever saw a Weber chimney starter, one of the most tried and true Weber grill accessories.  It was on an Alton Brown Good Eats episode.  He filled the chimney starter with charcoal, doused some oil on a piece of paper towel, stuffed the paper towel sheet into the base of the chimney, and those coals were off to the races!

Photo Credit: Jalapeño

Fitting, that as I began years later to delve more deeply into the world of the BBQ Smoker, I learned that this ain’t just a tool for the “Grill” crew. Nope.  You’ll see these babies rocking in two’s and three’s at most competition BBQ cook sites across our great nation.  Why? Shoot, that’s easy!  Because no single item in the BBQ Grilling or BBQ Smoker arsenal can get natural lump charcoal up to proper cooking temperature faster than a chimney starter.  And whether it’s the competition turn in clock or your family’s hunger pangs urging you on, time is always a factor!

Weber 7416 Rapidfire Chimney Starter

Rating: List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $13.17 Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours Eligible For Free Shipping

Product Description

Weber's chimney starter makes starting your charcoal a snap. It also cuts down the amount of time it takes for the coals to get ready. Just load up our extra large cannister full of coals, light up a fire starter or crinkled up newspaper, and set the cannister over the flame. In a matter of minutes the coals will be red hot. Who ever thought it could be so easy?

Details

• Chimney starter system lights charcoal quickly and evenly
• Made from aluminized steel with a stay-cool thermoplastic handle
• Holds enough briquettes for a 22-1/2-inch kettle grill
• Cone bottom ensures a fast start; eliminates need for lighter fluid
• Measures 7-1/2 by 7-1/2 by 12 inches

There are of course different ways to get your Weber chimney starter burning.  You can use cooking oil on a paper towel or the nifty paraffin cubes that are climbing the ranks among the Weber grill accessories “must haves.”  Avoid newspaper, as the smoke output is not anything you’d want near your food – for sure!

In any case, you’re sure to be very happy with your chimney starter.  Happy grilling and smoking!