Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Review: Portable Kamado Grill
Introduction
Tired of grills that can’t hold a consistent temperature? Do flare-ups and uneven cooking leave your barbecue dreams charred and frustrating? The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Kamado is engineered to solve those common grilling woes. It’s not just another portable grill; it’s a miniature kamado that delivers exceptional heat retention, remarkable versatility, and surprisingly robust performance—all in a compact, easily transportable package.
Overview
The Char-Griller Akorn Jr. is a portable kamado-style charcoal grill designed for the on-the-go grill enthusiast. Unlike flimsy portable grills, the Akorn Jr. leverages the proven kamado design—triple-walled steel construction combined with precise airflow control—to deliver remarkably consistent temperatures and excellent heat retention. This compact powerhouse isn’t just about convenience; it’s about bringing the full grilling and smoking experience to tailgates, campsites, apartments, or smaller patios. Perfect for individuals or smaller families who demand premium grilling performance without sacrificing portability.
Features
Locking Lid with Hinged Design for Safe & Convenient Operation: The hinged lid isn’t just convenient; it’s secure. The integrated locking mechanism ensures the lid stays firmly in place during transport and cooking, preventing accidental openings. This provides peace of mind, especially when grilling on uneven terrain or during windy conditions.
Precision Airflow Control with Dual Dampers: Two adjustable dampers – one top, one bottom – grant you unparalleled control over airflow and temperature. Fine-tune the dampers to achieve searing heat for quick cooks or slow, steady temperatures ideal for smoking low and slow. This precise control minimizes guesswork and empowers you to replicate recipes flawlessly.
Easy Dump Ash Pan for Simple Cleanup: Say goodbye to messy, time-consuming ash removal. The Akorn Jr.’s innovative easy-dump ash pan simplifies cleanup dramatically. A simple lift and release mechanism allows you to easily discard ash, keeping your grilling area clean and ready for the next cookout.
Robust Triple-Wall Steel Construction: The Akorn Jr.’s triple-walled steel construction provides superior insulation, crucial for maintaining stable temperatures during long cooks. This eliminates temperature fluctuations common in thinner grills, ensuring predictable results whether you’re searing steaks or smoking ribs. The triple-walled design minimizes heat loss, improving fuel efficiency and reducing cooking time.
Cast Iron Cooking Grates for Even Heat & Sear Marks: The Akorn Jr. features durable cast iron cooking grates that provide exceptional heat transfer and contribute to beautiful sear marks on your favorite cuts of meat. Cast iron’s ability to retain heat ensures even cooking and helps create that desirable crust.
Benefits
Consistent Temperatures for Perfect Results: The Akorn Jr.’s superior insulation and precise airflow control translate directly to consistently delicious food. Eliminate the frustration of fluctuating temperatures and achieve predictable, repeatable results every time.
Ultimate Portability for Grilling Anywhere: The compact size and integrated handles make the Akorn Jr. incredibly easy to transport. Take your grilling passion to tailgates, campsites, parks, or even your apartment balcony.
Fuel Efficiency for Budget-Friendly Cooking: The triple-walled insulation significantly reduces charcoal consumption, saving you money and making your grilling sessions more sustainable.
Effortless Cleanup & Maintenance: The easy-dump ash pan drastically reduces cleanup time and minimizes mess. The durable construction and simple design require minimal maintenance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your barbecue.
Exceptional Versatility – Grill, Smoke, Bake, and More: From perfectly seared steaks to tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, the Akorn Jr. does it all. Experiment with baking pizzas, roasting vegetables, or even making desserts – the possibilities are endless.
Usages
Tailgating & Camping Adventures: Its portability and robust performance make it the ideal companion for outdoor adventures. Grill delicious meals wherever your travels take you.
Family BBQ Hosting: The 155 square inches of cooking space comfortably accommodates enough food to feed a small family or a group of friends.
Weeknight Steak Searing: Quickly sear steaks to perfection with the Akorn Jr.’s ability to reach high temperatures. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.
Low and Slow Brisket Smoking: The Akorn Jr.’s excellent heat retention makes it surprisingly capable for smoking larger cuts of meat like brisket. Achieve tender, juicy results with minimal babysitting.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention & temperature stability
- Portable and easy to transport
- Versatile – grill, smoke, bake
- Easy ash removal
- Durable construction
Cons
- Smaller cooking area compared to larger grills
- Assembly required (though relatively straightforward)
- Cast iron grates can be heavy to clean
- Limited accessories compared to higher-end models
FAQs
What is the maximum temperature I can achieve?: The Akorn Jr. can easily reach temperatures exceeding 600°F (315°C) when properly set up for searing.
How easy is it to clean?: The easy-dump ash pan makes ash removal a breeze. Periodic cleaning of the grates with a wire brush is recommended for optimal performance.
How well does it retain heat?: Excellent! The triple-walled steel construction and tight-fitting lid provide exceptional heat retention, allowing for consistent temperatures over extended cooking times.
What type of fuel can I use?: The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is designed for use with charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal. Avoid using flammable liquids to start the charcoal.
Does it come assembled?: No, assembly is required. However, the straightforward design and clear instructions make the process relatively easy.
Product Specifications
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
| Dimensions | 20.5″D x 20″W x 26″H |
| Temperature Range | 200°F – 600°F (93°C – 315°C) |
| Material | Triple-walled Steel with Cast Iron Grates |
| Cooking Area | 155 Square Inches |
| Weight | 33 pounds |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal |
| Ignition System | Manual |
Ratings
| rating3-heading | Performance |
| rating4-heading | Durability |
| rating1-heading | Overall |
| rating5-heading | Value |
| rating2-heading | Ease of Use |
Recommendation
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Kamado is the perfect choice for grill enthusiasts who crave performance and versatility without sacrificing portability. If you’re a tailgating fanatic, a small-space resident, or simply looking for a compact grill that can deliver kamado-style results, the Akorn Jr. will not disappoint.
Conclusion
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Kamado is a remarkable achievement in portable grilling technology. It successfully delivers the benefits of a full-sized kamado in a compact, transportable package. While the cooking area is smaller than larger grills, the exceptional heat retention, precise temperature control, and ease of use make it a truly versatile and enjoyable cooking experience. If you’re looking for a portable grill that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Akorn Jr. is a compelling choice.
