The smell of smoldering charcoal. The satisfying sear of a steak. And that unmistakable silhouette of a Weber kettle. This isn’t just grilling—it’s tradition.
After 15 years behind a grill, I can say the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill in Copper isn’t merely another outdoor cooker—it’s a cultural icon. With its elegant finish, 363 square inches of cooking space, and time-tested performance, this 22-inch classic brings together nostalgia and modern engineering in one legendary package.
Over 70% of grilling enthusiasts call Weber their most reliable cooking companion—and after a single weekend with this model, it’s easy to see why.
Design & Build Quality: Rugged and Refined
The first thing you’ll notice is the gorgeous copper porcelain-enameled finish. But this isn’t just for looks—it’s engineered to resist rust, fading, and peeling even at high heat. Underneath, the heavy-gauge steel construction provides durability that stands up to years of intense use.
With 363 square inches of cooking space, it’s built to handle everything from burgers for 12 to slow-smoked ribs for four. Heat-retentive materials and a smart three-legged design ensure stability and consistent cooking, while all-weather wheels let you roll it out with ease.
Details like glass-reinforced nylon handles with heat shields and integrated tool hooks show Weber sweats the small stuff. It’s well-sized for any patio or deck at 39.5″ H × 22.5″ W × 27″ D—but it cooks like a much bigger grill.
Cooking Performance: Consistency Meets Flexibility
Grill a steak, roast a turkey, or smoke a brisket—the Weber 22-inch Premium handles it all. The hinged plated-steel cooking grate is a game-changer, allowing you to add charcoal or wood mid-cook without moving your food.
Thanks to the porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, this grill holds and radiates heat beautifully. Pair that with precise airflow control from top and bottom aluminum dampers, and you get complete temperature mastery. The built-in thermometer keeps things dialed in without needing to lift the lid constantly.
From fast-and-hot searing to low-and-slow indirect cooking, this kettle adapts effortlessly. The layout easily supports 2-zone cooking, so you can sear on one side and finish gently on the other—ideal for complex meals or reverse-searing steaks.
Innovative Features: Smart, Simple, Effective
Weber didn’t reinvent the wheel; they just made it smoother. The One-Touch cleaning system uses a metal sweep to push ash into a removable aluminum catcher—turning cleanup from a chore into a breeze.
The hinged grate and cool-touch lid handles add real-world functionality where it counts. Assembly is refreshingly quick—usually under 15 minutes—and if you need extra help, Weber’s 3D instructions via the BILT app walk you through it clearly.
These enhancements might seem small, but together, they eliminate the common frustrations that keep some people from fully enjoying charcoal cooking.
Versatility in Technique: From Burgers to Brisket
Use it for direct grilling, indirect heat roasting, or true low-and-slow barbecue. The 22-inch size and vent control give you flexibility to cook everything from a weeknight dinner to a full Thanksgiving bird.
Want to smoke ribs or brisket? Arrange your coals properly, fine-tune your vents, toss on some wood chunks, and this kettle becomes a capable smoker—delivering impressive results without specialized equipment.
International recipes? From Korean galbi to Argentinian asado, this grill accommodates it all with ease.
Maintenance & Lifespan: Built to Endure
The One-Touch system and ash catcher simplify cleanup, while the porcelain enamel coating makes wiping down the exterior easy. Unlike bare metal grills, grease and soot won’t bond to the surface.
UV-resistant, rust-resistant, and weather-hardened materials ensure this grill can stay outdoors all season long. Weber also makes parts easy to replace if needed, and their limited warranty backs up their confidence in long-term reliability.
Copper Finish: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The copper color doesn’t just pop—it hides dust and ash better than black grills, meaning less upkeep between uses. The warm metallic tone plays beautifully with wood, brick, and modern patio furniture alike. It looks like a showpiece but cooks like a workhorse.
Plus, the enamel finish resists discoloration even under high heat. What you see on day one will still shine seasons later.
Final Verdict: Worth Every Charcoal Ember
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill (22-Inch, Copper) blends timeless design with smart upgrades that make grilling easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable. It’s as reliable for a Tuesday night dinner as it is for a Fourth of July feast.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve grilled hundreds of meals, this model delivers consistent results and unmatched versatility. It honors Weber’s legacy while addressing the small things that matter most to real cooks.
If you’re serious about charcoal grilling—and you want a grill that looks as good as it cooks—this copper classic deserves a place in your backyard.
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