Customer Reviews for the Lil' Tex

The Best!

By Matthew Sanders (Great Bend, Kansas)
Owner Since March/2009

I bought my Traeger grill to replace my gas grill and i cant beleive that i didnt buy one years ago. Everything i cook on it is great. I have so much i want to try. I will own a Traeger for life.

My Favorite Thing to Do

By Bob Mills (Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania)
Owner Since October/2007

My friends call me "Bob-B-Q" Everything I ever cooked on my Traeger has turned out great. Brisket, Prime Rib, Brined Turkey...everything has been delicious. Every year we go wine touring in the Finger Lakes in New York. We rent a house on the lake with 5 other couples. This year, I made 2 nice size briskets for Saturday nights dinner. I had them wrapped in aluminum foil in the refridgerator. When you are wine touring all day you don't want to spend a lot of time making supper. If you know what I mean. I took the wrapped briskets out of the fridge and put them in the oven at 350 for 1 hour. They were great and have now become a tradition

Wouldn't cook on nothing but a Traeger

By Rob Faulkner (Russellville, Kentucky)
Owner Since April/2009

Have been wanting a traeger grill since July 4th of 2007. One of my best friends has been cooking on one for years and fixed some of the best food I have ever eaten. Started saving up for the grill/smoker a little over a year ago and everytime I would get the money together something would come up and I would have to spend on something else. finally got the money together and bought one last month and have cooked on it just about everyday. the neighbors think I am Emeril on the food channel. But anybody that likes to grill can cook the best food you have ever put in your mouth on one of the trager grills. A great investment, you won't be disappointed!

So easy - Can't miss!!

By Doug Matzenbacher (Belleville, Illinois)
Owner Since April/2009

I did a beef brisket, pork tenderloin, and 3 sides of baby backs for Mother's Day. Now my family wants me to open a BBQ restaurant! My nephew ask if his mother would buy the baby backs, would I BBQ them on my Traeger for his graduation present from me! The meat was so tender and moist. My doctor is demanding a diet low in sodium, with my Traeger I can eat flavorful, tender meats without the salt.

I have only had my Lil Tex for a couple weeks now but not one meal has come of the stove since. The whole family loves the grill and it really does cook pizza, tried it day #2. Great product!

By Chuck Rogers (North Platte, Nebraska)
Owner Since April/2009

I have been looking at Traeger grills for almost two years, ever since my friend bought one. I went to a local grand opening with all intentions of just looking, even though my bride-to-be was pushing me to buy one. Of course I had one loaded in the truck before I finished my first plate of food.

My Lil TEX is the Greatest

By Joseph P. Nourse (Jacksonville, Florida)
Owner Since May/2009

I love my Lil Tex. If you like the tast of smoked meat you will love this thing. My wife is so into it now she will cook and bake on it with out me.

Best Grill Ever

By Marla Pfannenstiel (WaKeeney, Kansas)
Owner Since April/2009

I love this grill and needless to say, will be getting rid of my gas grill.

New to Smokers

By OM Duncan (Mt.Vernon, Indiana)
Owner Since November/2008

I won my Traeger grill from a raffel ticket. I had been looking at other smokers and had never heard of the Traeger before I bought the raffel ticket and then I won! It's so easy to use and now that I have one I've found a number of people that also have them and they love them. We've sharred some tips, but I'm still just getting into it but I really Like it.

SUPER SMOKER

By Mike (bella vista , Arkansas)
Owner Since June/2008

We just moved getting things in place (before wife came) went to get somethings from the hardware store an my son talked me into buying my Traeger so we had something to cook on while we were moving. Have to thank him for talking me into this great grill.

Ribs, Ribs, Ribs

By Fred Rynearson (Beaverton, Oregon)
Owner Since June/2007

I will be the first to admit that the Traeger takes a while to learn. Having been used to both a Weber gas and charcoal grills, I really didn't realize that I need to approach cooking on my new pellet grill in an entirely new way. A few of the first attempts were absolute wrecks. I started to question why I even wanted a Traeger. 1st 8 attempts at ribs were horrible. I was embarrased and angry. I was very discouraged. Then I discovered how to use recipes!! I followed Mr. Barbeque's exact recipe for Ribs and presto. I am known now as the King of Ribs. I have now done Lamb, Pork Shoulder and much more. I am now proud, happy, and weigh a few pounds more. The butcher is excited when I walk in the store.

Best smoker

By Bryan (Maple Valley, Washington)
Owner Since June/2008

Customer service is fantastic, had some initial issues with a floor model. Solved perfectly, great smoker and grill.

What BBQ should be!!

By Jim (Salem, Oregon)
Owner Since select month...

Bid on and won at an auction where the Lil Tex had been donated. This was only 2 days after my Weber gas BBQ had been stolen. I was aware of the camping stove heaters that Traeger has made while elk hunting. this BBQ is incredible. You can cook anything from traditional meats to pizza. My brisket will beat any commercially prepared. Traeger's seasoning really complements the food, especially the salmon shake. The flavored pellets and a mixture of them is amazing. I live close to the Traeger plant and now that there are dealerships everyone will have a chance to enjoy Traeger's products.

Mr.

By Austin Mcneely (Lethbridge, Alberta)
Owner Since May/2009

Well. my long wait is finally over and I have my Traeger grill and I could not be more happier( and fuller). Seen the grill on demostration at the local fair and was very interested, well. having the wife and kids we were in a bit of a hurry to get home and never did find out where the people were from doing the demo. Then after 2 years at my sons soccer game I happen to be taking to a guy about this great grill that he purchased,and it turned out to be a Traeger.So after drilling him were he purchased it, I now have one a week later. I was in so much in a hurry to get the grill home and start cooking on it, that I helped unload the truck at the store to hurry them up(I'm also sure that the kid unloading the truck did not mind at all). Got my grill home, set it up and cooked "Smokin Joes Chicken" that night. Yummmmy. Can't wait to get at the rest of the recipies.Thanks for making such an awesome grill. And yes, my old gas grill is no longer with us..............Cheers,Austin

Simply the Best!!!

By Skip Nelson (Edmonds, Washington)
Owner Since September/2008

I hemmed and hawed for months, trying to convince myself to invest in a Traeger. After all, it is a lot of money, at least for me. I live in Edmonds, WA. The AquaQuip store in Shoreline has them and every weekend last summer they had something cooking on the grill. They invited me to bring in something to grill, so I took in new york one weekend and then a rack of baby-backs the other. Well, I was sold, but I have to say, having one at home makes it a lot easier to be creative and play around with recipes!!!

Disgusting

By Clinton M. Smith (Breese, Illinois)
Owner Since April/2009

I am totally disgusted at this smoker. I had a large, gangly, mean, well painted and formidable pull behind unit. It was made with great care and professional prowess. I bought a Dodge Pickup to haul it around. I purchased propane tanks, burners, paid for prize storm damaged cherry or apple trees. I paid for storage for my rig. I entered BBQ championships and even took 4th place in ribs. I was on my way. Then, my buddy calls me (also a competitor) and says, "you gotta check this out, I bought one of these Traeger smokers." Out of curiosity, I exmined it with a critical eye. "Impossible to beat pit made BBQ with this auger driven, rabbit pellet contraption." One day while cooking pork butts, my fire got dangerously low and my temp dropped.I called him. I had a deadline to meet. He took my butts and smoked them in his Traeger. I denied they were cooked anywhere but a pit smoker. Just too good. I continued with my head in the sand until my axle on my super smoker cooker broke because of too much weight (to heck with engineering). It was not a severe problem but I decided to get ouf of competition. Too much work, akin to firing an old steam locomotive at an amusement park, to hot, too dirty and results just too unpredictable (unless you cooked via direction from the Farmers Almanac). I tried more goodies from his Traeger. So I did it in April and bought a Lil Tex. I made ribs his weekend for Memorial Day that were much better than my 4th place ribs in Illinois. I cannot believe it. It is disgusting. I simply cannot take plugging it in, setting the thermostat, and straining as I dump my choice of wood pellets into the hopper. The strain and angst of reaching for a beer and tuning the radio to a ballgame, was just too much. Then, it was worsened when my "pig sickles" were lapped up by a hungry hoard of carnivores and there were none left. Even the dog was bowing to me for bone.. Praise was bestowed on me like a Roman Warrior as to my mastery of Ribs. Please, Traeger people, help stop the misery of many BBQ'rs and put as many of these as you can, in as many hands, as soon as you can. You may save the earth...

Time to Upgrade

By Mike Tribe (Damascus, Oregon)
Owner Since May/1998

After 10 years of faithful service we finally retired our BBQ100. This grill has been an ever present member of the family... cooking meals for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, anniversaries, birthday... well, you get the idea. Our gas range in the kitchen hardly ever gets used. "Retired" actually isn't the right word since the grill was handed down to our daughter and son-in-law. In spite of its grimey and rusty appearance, it still cooked a mean prime rib. So we went shopping and found the BBQ070 at our local feed store. It didn't take long and we had it home, assembled and heated up. Two full racks of ribs and some fresh chicken breasts was the first dinner. Needless to say, we are thrilled with the newest member of the family and my daughter and her husband are already cooking like crazy on the old grill. Thanks for keeping the tradition going. Here's a picture of the proud new owner and his newest partner.

Great cooking

By Charlie Sharbel (Nashville, Tennessee)
Owner Since December/2004

I got the idea about owning a grill that could also smoke foods several years ago when I took part in a father/son event at Montgomery Bell Academy where my son, Daniel, and I got our first taste of competition smoking with the head of the junior school, Peter Thurman. Peter suggested that I look at Traeger Grills. I found a local store and went to a demo. I was sold right away. I still can't believe that there are people who use other methods to smoke and cook on a grill. This is absolutely the best grill I have ever owned. Traeger has great products and even better support.

Where serious BBQ'rs end up

By Steve Lathan (Hanford , California)
Owner Since May/2009

I fell in love with BBQing sometime around 30 years ago.It was the taste of the food and the excitement of the whole grilling experience that beckoned me in. I have used primarily Weber kettles and used properly you can make some great great food on a Weber.I have also had two Charbroil gas grills and I never liked the dry heat from a gas grill. It was grill it,turn it to low and put it on the top rack so it didnt become a dried up hunk of burned meat. Eventually the ultimate BBQ experience was a Weber with the indirect coals and either wood chips or mesquite Kingsford briquettes.I have used them all situations and even in the rain. The weakness of them is uneven heating,the wet chips trying to get the right amount of smoke,the replenishing of the coals for long cooks,yes Ive even done Turkeys on the Weber. So why a Traeger? because after all these years I wanted to move up to the next level.Ive known about them for at least four years but kept thinking I could just keep living in denial. Joe Traeger has addressed every single negative with BBQing I had ever experienced in the creation of his machine.The Traeger uses wood so there is no dry heat,its a perfect machine with attention to detail,and it can smoke at will. Example of his commitment, he gives you the tools you need to put it together and even two extra nuts and bolts just in case. This guys is serious about this machine and frankly his passion is my passion I just got tired of fooling around. I am so happy with this product I cant begin to tell you. If you are like me and know its about natural indirect heat with smoke then all signs point to Traeger,its a no brainer.

Great Grill

By Gary Eckert (Vancouver, Washington)
Owner Since April/2008

About 5 years ago when I was the Logistics Group Commander for the Air National Guard F-15 unit at Portland I wanted a way to Cook/BBQ/Smoke food to help the troop morale. We started with one Traeger. It worked so well and we received so many compliments when hosting BBQs we expanded to 4 Traeger Grills that have had a lot of use. They hold up incredibly well. I'm now retired and look forward to having a Traeger of my own. Keep up the good work!

Love my Traeger

By Brad Arnsmeier (Keizer, Oregon)
Owner Since April/2009

I learned of Traeger Grills several years ago from an old friend after he was lucky enough to win a Lil Tex in a raffle. We made it over to his place for dinner one night and he was preparing some nice rib eye steaks. That night I watched him make an incredible meal and marveled at the unique flavor of the rib eye. No flame ups to char the meat, smoke to give it that nice touch of flavor, and the ease of using the grill made me a convert. It took a few years but I finally bought my own Traeger a few months ago and have been loving it since day one. So far I have done baby back ribs, steaks, and burgers with great success. I am a convert for life.

was worth the wait

By gerry dickson (wells, Maine)
Owner Since June/2009

been waiting for years to get my grill, trying despretly to have my brotherinlaw MR.BBQ to send me on but no luck but now for fathers day MRS BBQ got me on and ive been having so much fun cooking on my grill here in maine. i think everyone who love BBQ should dump there gas grill and find a dealer nere them and get one. i got mine in Berwick Maine and found Jackie&john to be very helpful and very pasionite and bout traeger grills other 2 other dealers didnt help out much when it came to selling traeger. i like a person who love what they sell and beleave in what the traeger grills have to offer. keep up the great work and jackie and john. and if u dont have a traeger yet get one it will change the way u injoy BBQ

Maaaaaaarvelous chicken

By Bryan Schmidt (BOISE, Idaho)
Owner Since April/2009

For my 50th birthday party I borrowed a commercial Traeger to cook on for 65 guests. I BBQed Pork for Pulled Pork sandwiches, hot dogs, and burgers. The pulled pork was a huge hit. I then decided to purchase a Traeger for myself. Two hole chickens were BBQed. One with Blackened Saskatchewan and the other with chicken rub. Oh my Oh my Oh my. 1 1/2 hours to cook them and they were MAAAAAAAARVELOUS. Fatherd day will be steaks and baked potatoes. I wished that I had purchased one a lot earlier.

great tasting Que

By Chip (Midlothian, Virginia)
Owner Since June/2009

I've had my eye on these grills for about a year. Ifinally convinced my wife that for my birthday I should get one. She told me to go ahead; so off to the store I go. Brought it home and started smoking the first day.I did spare ribs and a small brisket at the same time both came out moist and tasty. A buddy came over yesterday with a chicken he wanted to cook so I did chicken wings plus pork chops and his whole chicken everything turned out great. Why didn't I buy one sooner?

owner

By J Keen (McCook, Nebraska)
Owner Since June/2009

Just received my Treager less than a week ago. We have don bugers to brownies. Best Grill I have ever used. Food taste wnderful.

Revelation!

By Lee Klare (Benicia, California)
Owner Since June/2009

A fellow crew member turned me onto the Traeger grill. He brought some chicken he had grilled at home for me to try. It was about 4 hours off the grill when I tasted the chicken. I was floored with the flavor and the fact of how moist the meat was. I took some home and placed it in the fridge for lunch the next day. When my wife and I tasted the chicken the next day, we were both surprized at how delicious and STILL moist the meat was. We were sold at that point. My wife bought me the Lil Texas for Father's day, perfect gift! What a revelation to find out how much better food tastes on a Traeger!

Traeger'n in Georgia

By Chris Sumrell (Roswell, Georgia)
Owner Since February/2007

Love it, Love it, Love it. Best grill I have ever owned. Easy to use, awesome results.

The Best

By Micheline Szocs (Pewaukee, Wisconsin)
Owner Since June/2008

We tasted food cooked on a Traeger at Elliott's ACE Hardware in Pewaukee. Our demonstrator, Donna, has had a Traeger and couldn't say enough...but the food spoke for itself. I wasn't ready to believe how easy it was to use and how nice not to worry about flareups but how juicy and smokey and wonderful everything is. I love everything we have made and we have tried it all, but I think my favorite is doing Papa Murphy's pizza and meatloaf...

Love at first bite

By Joseph Blackmore (Creston, British Columbia)
Owner Since May/2008

I had been drooling over this grill for two years before a local hardware store became a dealer, I just had to have one. My friends all said are you nuts that much money for a BBQ. After I started smoking meat they all eat their words. Take my grill out to the mountains camping each year, love it.

martybob

By Marty Palmer (Rushville, Nebraska)
Owner Since December/2006

Since buying my Traeger I have used over a ton of pellets. I have not found anything that does not taste better when grilled/smoked on my Traeger.

Best Damned grill I ever had

By Chip "beer guy" (Midlothian, Virginia)
Owner Since June/2009

So far I've cooked wings,ribs,pork shoulder,fresh ham,brisket,and corn on the cob. The size of grill is large enough to cook several roast at a time. My neighbors come over to use it all the time they even buy the pellets. How cool is that?

None better

By Travis Wilson (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
Owner Since June/2008

I received my Traeger for Fathers Day 2008. I was skeptical at first having never used an electric smoker before. I loved my gas grill. It served me and my family well. So many great dinners were made on her. Well I made a pork shoulder and it came out amazing. I had thought it was a fluke so I decided to do some salmon. Holy good lord did it come out perfect. The wife and I usually use our Traeger 4 times a week, and have since sold our gas grill. I will never use anything but a Traeger and as soon as I retire from the Military I would love to own my own shop selling the Traeger product. I have showed mine to 4 of my neighbors and they all bought one. They sell themselves. Thank you very much!

Sue's Lil Tex

By Sue (Billings, Montana)
Owner Since June

This Bar B Que is easy to use, environmentaly friendly and has the best flavor I have ever tasted. The indirect heat source cooks the meats evenly without the hassle of propane tanks and the propane taste. The food does not burn! We used our Lil Tex for our Independance Day Bar B Que. The Lil Tex held three large racks of ribs. I have had seveal Bar B Ques over the years: the charcole kettle type as well as gas. This Bar B que is the best and easiest to us.

I love it

By KS (portland, Oregon)
Owner Since July/2009

we bought our grill after a recommendation from a friend. we weren't necessarily in the market for a new grill, but had been passively considering a gas grill every summer to replace our old charcoal grill and rusting smoker. i'm so thrilled that we stalled. we purchased our traeger in the beginning of july and have made the best food ever. it is so much easier to use than our old smoker and it is so versitile.

Meat-a-tarians

By Chad Hardisty (Issaquah, Washington)
Owner Since December/2008

I first heard of the Traeger grills a couple of years ago from a distant family member and then bumped into a friend who had one. Once they heard I was looking for a new grill and they knew how I actually loved to grill, they sold me on the dream of owning a Traeger! I pinched and saved for two years and finally saved up enough birthday and Christmas money to purchase my grill. Oh what a moment that was as my wife pulled off the biggest surprise by raiding my "Traeger Fund," having the family pitch in and surprised me Christmas morning with my new grill. Once up and running, I have quickly converted my girls into "meat-a-tarians" cooking everything from salmon to pizza on the Traeger. It is so easy to use, my wife will even fire it up from time to time. I am happy to say my 4 year old daughter says "mmmmmm, Traeger!" and they love eating ANYTHING I have cooked on my Traeger so far! The phots attached are of me smokin' a Corned Beef for St. Patrick's day and my daughter helping clean the grill after!

AWESOME

By REINA MAZZONI (VERMONTVILLE, Michigan)
Owner Since July/2004

I JUST LOVE THE GRILL. THE PELLETS MAKE THE FOOD TASTE GREAT!!! PORK TENDERLOIN AND ROSEMARY POTATOES ARE GREAT ON THE TRAEGER!!!!

Very good now

By Doug Pedersen (Omaha, Nebraska)
Owner Since select month...

I struggled a bit at first and finally got some instruction. Once I got on the right track, this is the best grill/smoker I've ever owned.

LOVE my Lil TEX

By Dale K. (Kennewick, Washington)
Owner Since February/2008

Bought my grill after drooling over them for over a year. My brother in law has a Lil Tex & it's just what I wanted. Previously used both a gas grill & a Weber kettle. I love my Traeger. I've used it for everything from burgers to ribs & pulled pork, right down to pizzas. It's the best grill I've ever owned!

Fantastic!

By Bob Wilson (Blaine, Washington)
Owner Since June/2005

I live about 75 feet from the salt water of Puget Sound and have had my Traeger outside-exposed to the elements--salt air, rain and snow with little protection. To date the only problem I have had is "medium" quit working after a harsh snow fall. I use my grill on the average of 4 times a week all year round. I have never had a product as good as this! If I ever wear this one out I will buy another and won't bother to quibble about price--worth every penny!

its great, damned great!

By tom w (lemoore, California)
Owner Since May/2009

Everything I've tried to cook has come out great. Pizza, turkey, chicken, shrimp, steak, ham, ribs, fish (salmon and cod). Being able to get a perfect smoke ring on a tri-tip that is medium rare and juicy is fantastic. Hot dogs and warmed buns pick up the smoke flavor and are a real favorite around the pool. Clean up is a breeze. My only gripe about the Traeger is: WHY did I wait so long before I bought one? It's simply the best

Cookin' Old Braod

By Judy Taylor (Sheridan, Wyoming)
Owner Since May/2009

I had listened to Kurt, from Sheridan Commercial, talk about the Traeger Grill for a couple of years. I, fianlly, could stand it no longer. I gave up my old Weber Kettle cooker, that was 25 years old. What a difference!! I love the ease of the Traeger. You start it, put the food in 7, nearly, forget it until time to take it out.

THE grill to have

By Patrick (Zionsville, Indiana)
Owner Since July/2009

After shopping for a smoker and being disappointed in the ones available at most stores, my wife heard a radio spot for a local hardware store with grill and smoker summer sales. We stopped in to check it out and saw the Traeger. The salesman was so passionate out them and even though we'd not heard of them, I took a brochure and started researching. I was amazed at the amount of folks who spoke so highly of them. Most reviews you read on other smokers are NOT good. This was what we had been wanting, a REAL smoker for home that WORKS! About a week or two later we're cooking on a Lil Tex. We bought our Lil Tex last week and after seasoning it, we've used it for dinner all week. I can't remember the last time I had such good food on my grill. We had dry rubbed NY strip, corn on the cob(in the husk) and asparagus one night, pork shops and green beans another and it's amazing to me how well it cooks without drying out the meat. The corn was as good as state fair corn and the smells coming out of this thing while cooking!!? Oh man! I can't wait to try other things.

Don't Wait 5 Years to Buy One

By John P. (Elk Grove, Colorado)
Owner Since March/2009

I have know about Traeger for about 5 years. However, my gas powered beast would not die. This year, for my anniversary, my wife asked if we could replace the old gas beast. I said the Traeger would be the purchase to make and I did it. I purchased from a company filled with BBQ nuts who all use Traegers and I could not be more pleased with the outcome. The food always, and I really mean this, comes out great. I have cooked everything from lamb to beef to chicken and pizza. I have used the Traeger to cook for dinner parties of 40 people and BBQ's for up to 80 people and they cannot believe I cooked tri-tip and chicken and got it all to come out so well. The best part of the my Traeger is my wife loves to use it too. She does not have to start charcoal or worry about the propane running out. My kids said her hamburgers are better than mine. So, don't wait to buy your Traeger, do it now!

Smoked meatloaf, the best I've ever had.

By terry cooper (turner, Oregon)
Owner Since July/2009

I received my Lil Tex as a wedding gift and was blown away at the ease of cooking and taste of the food. My wife made a smoked meatloaf that was the best I've ever tasted.

FINALLY GOT A TRAEGER!!!

By Scotty B. (Ellis, Kansas)
Owner Since August/2009

My buddy got one right about 8/08....It was already assembled and ready to go....I helped him pick it up, season it, and eat the first taste of heaven......He likes to turn it on, warm it up, and put it on high.....I have been, over last 2 weeks, been using his Traeger, to get a feel for the "smoke" feel of it, as I "used" to like to charcoal and smoke with wood chunks....I bought mine 8/15/09 and assembled it...btw, assembly easy!!....and have been reading all of you loyal Traeger followers reviews for tips and ideas for pellet flavor mix as well as recipes....have the digital thermostat....my buddy told me that when I figured out the Traeger, (I'm the bbq smoker, take 5-6 hours to smoke and make the meat super, drink beer, watch the game, enjoy my time off kinda bbqer) to let him know how to make the meat taste so great.....I was a sceptic at first.....price is too high for a bbqer....until I realized it just basically replaced your range in the house.....why heat up your house during the summer, why use stinky propane, or hard to control charcoal, (and I WAS a charcoal man)......life is short, why eat sub-par or par food.....GET A TRAEGER!!!

The best you'll ever own

By Jeff Wright (McMinnville, Oregon)
Owner Since June/2009

There are three guys I work with and they all kept telling me how good the Treager works and how great the food is. fathers day this year my wife boght mine and we use it 3 or 4 times a week (sometimes more). It's easy to use and the food is great... no more Webber...

LiL TEX over 1 year

By B Cook (Haslet, Texas)
Owner Since February/2008

Wanted to get into smoking and after several hours in an Ace hardware store I bought the Lil Tex. My expensive gas grill goes almost un-used now. My wife even likes to use the Traeger. After 5 of my friends have now bought them after seeing mine, my only regret is that I didn't buy a bigger one!

dad

By johnathon hunter (mulvane, Kansas)
Owner Since February/2009

i purchased to lose weight in 6 months i lost 69 lbs.

You can't fail with this BBQ'r!!!!

By Jeff DeGroot (Metamora, Illinois)
Owner Since September/2008

I have never had a disappointing experience with my Traeger. The meats are always moist and cut like butter. The unit is also very, very easy to keep clean. I love this grill so much, I'm thinking of becoming a dealer!!

Smoke my pork sausage

By patrick carpenter (dana point, California)
Owner Since June/2009

Had my I on this smoker for a long time then decided to pull the Traeger and get me one. First up pork sauage then chicken, brisket, and alawys my favorite Pork Shoulder. If you're thinking about getting one , don't waste any more time.

1 of 2 things I didn't have buyers remorse over

By Mike Urizar (Boise, Idaho)
Owner Since July/2008

I actually have one of the Smith and Wessons but love it. Great and easy to use, product always comes out good and gets rave reviews from those consuming it. I have the cold smoker and the cheese and fish are always a hit.

Totally Awesome

By Rebecca (Stanwood, Washington)
Owner Since June/2005

I went to a little place located in a Shell gas station that sold authentic louisiana food. I had a pulled pork sandwich and about died it was so good. I asked the cook how he got the pork so perfect. He took me out back and showed me his Traeger. I was sold. I told my husband, Scott, about this awesome smoker. We went out and bought one a week later and have been smokin' ever since. From appetizers - desserts, you cannot beat the outcome using a Traeger.

Does it all

By Frank Sappo (Brewerton, New York)
Owner Since August/2007

First off, I bought this bbq 2 years ago as a demo model. So my grill was already 3 years old before I started using it. Talking about how great it cooks is a waste of time, because every Traeger own out there knows it's the best cooking system ever developed. I want to talk about the durability. I leave my grill outside, uncovered, year round. Thru rain and snow. I'll walk out in the winter, hit the on button, melt the snow off and cook away. This grill does not die. Electronic ignition always works and the grill still looks pretty good even after all this abuse. I hear the new ones are powder coated and even hold up better. These grills do it all. Cook like a pro and dont worry about service calls.

I Love My New Traeger Grill!!!!

By Henry Krause (Salem,, Oregon)
Owner Since July/2009

I have owned my new grill now for about two months.I am cooking with it three to four times a week.It's incredible! My favorite is marinated Tri-Tip steaks,you can cut them with a fork.

Best gift ever

By Catherine (Barnesville, Georgia)
Owner Since June/2007

I'm always trying to find the perfect gift for my husband who doesn't seem to want anything, so he says. For Father's Day 200, I purchased the Traeger Lil Tex and I have to say, it's the best gift he's ever gotten from me. We cook everything on this grill. And since the flame is out of sight, I'm not afraid of this grill.

You will never go back to anything else!

By John & Vivienne, Saunders ( Fall City,, Washington)
Owner Since May/1991

My wife blew up a gas grill, I found a Traeger at a fireplace shop. What a find! we use our grill all year, we could not live without it. (the fireplace shop hooked me on a Hot dog!)

I have never tasted food so good.

By Sue Cenfetelli (Erie, Pennsylvania)
Owner Since May/2001

We attend several county fairs and have always seen the grill for the last two years. We now own one and it is the best purchase we have made. At first I wasn't sure, it does take some getting used to. I must say that I have used it every day since we got it two weeks ago. I have never tasted food the way it tastes on the Traeger grill. Lamb Chops, chicken, shrimp, hamburger, country ribs, sausage, etc. You can work all day and let the grill make your dinner, without having to hope it isn't burning like it would on a regular grill. We love it, I may start writing down recipes to share.

cajun man loves his pit

By joe bourque (lafayette , Louisiana)
Owner Since December/2008

my son first told me about these pits he had seen at this hardware store.i was a little skeptical at first but he woulndnt stop talking about you guys. so i went to check it out.looked at try to fiqure how it would cook meat so good then heard the price liked to lost my feet.went back a couple of times looking at them.then i decided to let go of my hard earned money.bought one i want to say as a cajun ive cooked on about evert pit u can imagine but this is the pit i have ever i mean ever owned wont own anything else as long as i live thnk t for the pit its awesome yours truley smoken cajun

Hayshaker

By Roger Boelman (Stewartville, Minnesota)
Owner Since May/2009

I just got my grill two weeks ago. I have used it every day I’m off work. I have smoked chicken, salmon, and on large pork loin. I’m very impressed with it, I have even taken the food I’ve cooked to work and am giving samples out to everyone. Thanks for a fantastic grill.

A Wife Story

By Lou Larson (Wausau, Wisconsin)
Owner Since October/2008

When I first brought my Traeger home my wife said "what did you buy that for", "Our gas grille is less than a year old". Then I started cooking on it and it was " I'm tired of all this smoked food I miss my gas grille". Fast forward a few months. (In the mean time I've cooked everything from Chicken to Prime Rib) to the day before easter & I'm smoking a 15 lb ham. So I deciede to put a couple Rib Eyes on the gas grill. I forgot about the flare up but caught it in time. The first bite we took out of these steaks we just looked at each other. That look was worth a thousand words. The gas grille now lives at her son's house. My wife loves being my guinne pig. I'm always trying something different. Plus she loves the fact she doesn't have to cook. Our friends won't let us come camping without the Traeger.

i love my grill

By kyle (clearwater, Kansas)
Owner Since March/2009

one of the best investments i have made in awhile. i love my grill

If you are researching...read this!

By Mark Ostroot (Port Angeles, Washington)
Owner Since April/2009

I had been reading and researching about what to replace my ancient charcoal grill with side smoker box... I have friends with Green grills that come highly recommended and I gave them a hard look... what it boils down to is this 1) Traeger makes great BBQ 2) It is SUPER easy to clean and maintain 3) You will BBQ ALOT MORE Make note of the following mistake I made and don't repeat: Buy the biggest grill you can imagine using! I was sure the Lil Tex was plenty and within a few weeks, I wish I had bought the next size larger. I recommend upgrading to the digital thermometer, buy a cover, and get ready for some GREAT BBQ!

gotta get one!!!!

By Dianne and Bob (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
Owner Since select month...

My daughter and son-in-law bought their smoker 6 weeks ago and have not cooked on the stove in the house since!!! My husband and I have been over for a few meals and we are hooked!! Tonight we had 5 flavours of chicken wings and a pan of home made buns (also cooked on the smoker)....AWESOME...the 4 of us ate 60 wings and the buns were light and fluffy!!! SOOOOO good...My son-in-laws parents have ordered theirs after one feast of wings...guess we are next!!!!

Owner

By Dean Edmisten (Billings, Montana)
Owner Since October/2008

My wife and I purchased this grill in October of 2008. We have not cooked 50 meals in the house since. I sell Traeger products for Heights Ace Hardware in Billings and since we took on the Traeger Line in October of last year our store has sold over 70 grills. Every time my wife and I preform a demo we sell 4-5 grills because of the food taste from cooking. My wife bakes bread, brownies, bananna bread, corn bread, cookies, etc. The women love it.

Hitched To My Lil Tex

By Michael Hawkins (Dunwoody, Georgia)
Owner Since December/2007

Flem Whited, a lawyer in Florida got me interested in smoking and grilling, and I saw his Traeger and asked for one from wife for Christmas. I liked to cook ribs mostly, but do brisket and chicken wings also. I decided to get the Lil Tex because it allows me to travel with it. I have a house in Atlanta and a house on Lake Oconee and it allows me to take my grill wherever I go. The first weekend I got the grill I took it up to Boone, NC from Atlanta for a ski trip and I cooked out for my wife's family. They loved it, and couldn't believe when I pulled up with the grill attached to the trailer hitch!

Surprise in a S/W Box

By Curt Hamel (Hill City, Kansas)
Owner Since May/2007

We recently moved back home to Kansas and were in the market for a new grill. I kept using the old charcoal grill until one day I came home from work, walked around to the back door and saw a big cardboard box. The box was only about waist high and said "Smith and Wesson" on the side. It was my birthday and my wife had an ornery grin on her face. My mind was running wild and I didn't want her to know but I was really upset inside. I thought she had bought me a really short gun cabinet that probably cost lots of money and wouldn't hold any of the guns I own! To my surprise it was the Traeger 38 Special! It's been one of the best birthday presents ever. We don't have a favorite food just yet because we're still experimenting with everything. However the ribs have been fantastic!

Great

By Brad Schneider (Broomfield, Colorado)
Owner Since September/2009

I have know about Treager grills for many years, I finally made the purchase this past week and have cooked on it 2 nights and already the wife has said we are never going out for bbq again. Best purchase I have made and I love the fact that it is made in the USA.

the best ever

By corey (avondale , Arizona)
Owner Since August/2009

this has been the best grill ive ever owned. ive had it for about three weeks now and since i got it i dont even cook indoors anymore. i mean this thing is great, you can cook anything and every thing on it. this grill will make even the most inexperence cook a pro right from the very start. the best investment i ever made. i would like to make one suggestion for those of you who like altenating pellet flavors. store youe pellets in a five gallon pail (with lid) and on use a couple pounds at a time it will be easier to change flavors that way. thanks traeger for makeing me shine with my friends and family

The BEST grill ever

By Mark Price (Caldwell, Idaho)
Owner Since September/2009

I got my Traeger after bidding at a benefit silent auction. I took it home and starting cooking that night. My first thing was Bacon wrapped jalepenos, followed by a roast, tri-tip, rib-eyes. Everything that has came off this grill is absolutely the best tasting food ever. This weekend I plan on smoking some fresh salmon, making Margarita Salmon, as well as a batch of jerky. I am using the recipes out of the Traeger cookbook. I have already went through 20lbs of pellets and will be out this weekend looking for a source to get pellets locally. If you are thinking about a traeger stop thinking and start grilling you won't be disappointed.

best grill I have ever owned

By Michael Taylor (Tualatin, Oregon)
Owner Since July/2005

In 2000 my neighbor in California purchased a Lil Tex. He loved the grill and when we moved to Oregon in 2005 we purchased one from the factory. So far we have grilled salmon, burgers, prime rib, steaks, chicken and this year we tried smoking turkeys. We have also used the grill to cook cobblers in a dutch oven with the dutch oven cover removed.

Traeger 070

By Brock Boldt (Baldwin, Wisconsin)
Owner Since November/2009

I have always been a fan of wild came dry or not I love it. I purchased a Traeger grill 2 weeks ago and I know longer have a problem with dry meat! I would reccoment this grill to ANYONE! Thanks Traeger!!

OMG!

By BMRNCON (Ogden, Utah)
Owner Since September/2009

I have seen the Traeger Grills at the Hearth Show for the last 4 years and loved the samples in the outdoor burn area. Finally this year i got one even though my wife thought it made absolutely no sense as i have a huge Jenn Air bbq. Fast forward 3 short months and the jenn air is like the red-headed step child that sits covered on the corner of the deck. We've cooked everything from ribs, pork roast, steak, meatloaf and pizza and can't get enough! Some of my friends think i'm crazy and some think their weber will do the same. Sorry but you are all dazed and confused! Best, Huge Traeger Fan! P.S. if anyone is looking for a smokin deal on a one year old jenn air send me an email:)

Cold Weather Smoking

By John (Midland, Michigan)
Owner Since March/2009

I live in Michigan which has a relatively short summer season and I didn’t want to limit myself to using the smoker for just those few months. Using the smoker in cold, windy conditions is difficult due to temperature fluctuations within the smoker and fuel consumption. I took a tarp that I use for yard work and folded it several times to end up with a three foot square. I then put it over the top of the smoker similar to what horse owners do for their horses in the colder months. The results were amazing! The tarp did a fantastic job of insulating the grill. The grill temperature remained steady and fuel consumption was minimal (in windy, 22 degree conditions). I know this probably isn’t a recommended procedure due to flammable material being in contact with the smoker. Should I have a flare-up inside the smoker (something that’s never happened to me); the tarp could possibly catch on fire. If you’re going to try this be sure to have the smoker in a safe (open) location and keep an eye on it during the cooking process.

Best Money Spent

By Todd W. (Auburn, Washington)
Owner Since September/2009

After reading all the reviews so far I don't think I can add anything that has not already been said but to say if your reading this and on the fence about purching one get your arse over already. It is well worth the money spent and you'll be glad you did. I have never used my gas grill nor my Brinkman smoker or my charcoal Webber sense. I find myself thinking what can I cook on it next.........there is a Difference!

Nothing else like it

By Aaron Gibson (Vancouver, Washington)
Owner Since September/2009

So I've been a gas grill hack for years. But this summer I bought a Weber charcoal grill along with a good book on the subject just to get some flavor back in our food. It worked ok, but you have to stay on your toes with a charcoal grill. Then my Mother-in-Law won a Traeger Lil' Tex in a raffle. Not being that interested in smoking her food, SHE GAVE IT TO US! So I read the Traeger manual a few times and, armed with about 2 months of semi-serious grilling knowledge, threw some cherry pellets in the hopper. A few hours later we were eating the best smoked salmon anyone in my family has ever had. If I would have known how little effort it would take to make food taste this good, we'd have owned one years ago. Warning: Cooking on a Traeger can make it hard to go out and enjoy a meal at a restaurant / You will have friends and neighbors dropping by unannounced at meal time more often / The resident grill master might as well assume that ALL lunch and dinner suggestions offered by family or household members are intended to be cooked on the Traeger...

Barbeque Bliss

By Dale Zoon (Lebanon, Oregon)
Owner Since December/2009

US GUYS AT WORK TALKED OF GETTING A TREAGER BBQ, HOW GREAT IT WOULD BE. TO OUR SUPRISE OUR EMPLOYER GOT US ALL ONE FOR X-MAS. AFTER GRILLING MOST OF MY LIFE THIS WAS DIFFERENT BUT IN A GOOD KIND OF WAY. PORK CHOPS WAS MY TRIAL RUN ON THE LITTLE TEX. THE FAMILY RAVED ABOUT HOW GOOD THE CHOPS TASTED, I HAD TO AGREE. THANKS TREAGER FOR A GREAT BBQ, AND TO MY EMPLOYER DON THANKS!!! LOVE THAT SMOKEY FLAVER.

Treager is Awsome!

By Tim Rosener (Sherwood, Oregon)
Owner Since September/2009

I was a big Stick BBQ bigot for a long time. I finally got tiard of staying up all night to tend my pulled pork. The treager makes it simple. just turn it on, set the temp and forget it.

Good Luck Charm

By David Coomes (Kennewick, Washington)
Owner Since January/2008

Unable to attend any San Diego Charger home games while living in eastern Washington, I decided to bring San Diego and the Chargers to me. I purchased the NFL Ticket, invited some family and ex-Seahawk fans to my house for some backyard BBQ tailgate and Charger football. Owning a Traeger for almost a year, and garnering the reputation of being grill master, (thank you Traeger) the deal was "if you bring the meat, I'll supply the heat." So every Sunday or any other day the Chargers play, I fire up the Traeger and we enjoy the best BBQ while watching some great football. From brauts to brisket, my Traeger has never let me down. And now, during this current Charger winning streak of 10 wins in a row and marching toward the playoffs, we officially designated my Traeger as our Lucky Charm, rubbing it before every game for luck, as it has performed as it should, producing wonderful BBQ for my foootball fanatic friends and keeping our hope alive for a Charger Super Bowl win.

Great grill and excellent customer service

By Michael Gosciniak (university Place, Washington)
Owner Since February/2007

I own 2 traegers 1 old BBQ 100 and a newer BBQ70, I loaned the BBQ 100 to my brother-in-law, I'll be suprised if I ever get it back!! My BBQ broke on thanksgiving. After 1 email to customer service explaning my problem I recived a phone call first thing the next morning. After a short conversation with the customer service rep my problem was solved and I recived the parts the next day!! Traeger Grills are the best grill money can buy.. and the customer service is outstanding/ It's nice to talk to someone in this country who understands you and their product.. no time on hold...no, "let me transfer you" Just solving the problem. That make the Traeger well worth the price. I'm a fan for life, and I'll try to convert anyone I talk to. Thanks for the great experince and of coarse the best grill made!!! MikeG

Cold Weather BBQ

By Rod Sonnenburg (Crooks, South Dakota)
Owner Since September/2009

FYI for my fellow northern BBQ'ers: At 4:30 PM I started an eight pound Boston Butt. It was 5 below zero. It was done at 9:15 PM and outside temp was 15 below. Kept the Traeger on Medium and cooking temp stayed around 300 degrees. Should have no problem letting it cool down before shredding it for delicous pulled pork sandwiches tomorrow.

Forget the Restaurants!

By Garth L. (Huntington, Indiana)
Owner Since January/2010

I was interested in Smoking, but my work partner told me about his process (Charcoal HA HA HA) the level of work required, I say work because it was sit and monitor add wood chips add charcoal etc. well I wanted no part of that. I heard about Treager on the local rock station and pondered what they said. Christmas came around and I received cash but was at a lost as to what to buy that would create memories of the person I received it from. My wife mentioned a smoker so I looked up Treager on the internet and found a local dealer. Called, stopped by and went home on New Years day with a Lil TEX. That night smoke 3 Cornish hens and a Chicken. So far to date I have used the unit four times in the dead of winter. No problems, I get tasty food and no "Sit and Watch" the process. The added bonus is the aroma of the wood wafting around on the patio as the smoker does it thing!s.

Cascade Alder and Texas Misquite

By Timber Folks BBQ (Bend, Oregon)
Owner Since February

Living in the Cascades of Oregon and just started a BBQ business last winter it was time to flavor up!!..The horizon of flavors from slow cook'n to a two hour competition slab of ribs can be done. This baby will go to all the farmers markets and fairs and hold up no problem doing so which is a huge plus factor as well..and folks parts for this is easier and always in stock than gett'n my chainsaw parts. Keep her nice and pretty with a lit'l car wax and keep her covered and she'll treat ya right!!!

best bbq grill i will ever own

By Larry A. Drury (Spokane, Washington)
Owner Since July/2008

i was at a local winery and there was a traeger grill factoy there. we were sold on how great the grill would cook the food. this person had cooked both meat and vegitables on the grill. the meat had outstanding flavors along with the items he had on the grill. i told my self i had to have one soon. after one year bought us a LITTLE TX JR. and we love it. our neighbors ask me what i am cooking. they love the food smell and i also give them a sample. one neighbor has bought a traeger grill and told me that they do not know how they have done with out a grill so wonderfull. they keep telling me thanks for money well spent. if anyone ask me what kind of grill i like i will tell them it is a traeger and then i willl tell them how wonderfull a traeger is for the next hour or two or untill they tell me would u please shut up.

Wow Treager is the SH$T

By sward (Lynden, Washington)
Owner Since March/2010

Since owning this unit my wife and I have cooked ribs (2 full racks), a whole chicken, t-bone steaks, and Copper River salmon. Now this week we are doing a 6# brisket. I cannot imagine using my Weber grill any longer, though I will when we cook burgers, but other than that the Treager is our BBQ, yes this is a true BBQ. We have asked ourselves why we waited as long as we did to buy it. The flavors are superior and the bark of the meats is fantastic. The smoke permeates into the meat and leaves such a great flavor to the meat I cannot speak high enough. I will say spend the extra and get the temp control as well as the thermostat, it is well worth the little extra.

Lil TEX

By Jason Mass (Neola, Iowa)
Owner Since March/2010

Two of my neighbors own the Lil TEX and after using their's I have wanted one for the last 2 years. I finally broke down this year and purchased one and my family has not looked back. I have burnt out two grills in the 8 years that we have lived at our home. We bought the Lil TEX due to it's durabiblity and the fact that everything that is cooked with it tastes absolutely awesome. Our house is now a Traeger house.

My

By Mike Mann (Urbandale, Iowa)
Owner Since February/2009

I had a friend that had a Traeger and he had nothing but great things to say about it. I finally took the plunge using money from our tax refund last year and I'll never look back. I had a cabinet smoker and Weber gas grill before, but now they've both been sold. I love that I can fill the hopper and smoke a turkey without having to babysit it. And the food comes out more flavorful than ever. Mike

Italian Sausage Surprise

By Larry Johnson (Tampa, Florida)
Owner Since November/2009

Sunday's menu was a pork roast on the Traeger, which turned out fantastic. Monday's dinner was to be spaghetti with Italian sausage, so I thought, "Why not drop the sausages on the Traeger while the pork roast cooks?" OMG did that turn out good! Not only was the pork roast flavorful and juicy, but the sausages were like NOTHING I have ever eaten before! A real nice surprise.

Become the family hero

By Pete Meyer (Pisgah Forest, North Carolina)
Owner Since January/2009

I am a born-n-raised charcoal grill man, but have always loved smoked meats. My wife and I stopped in a new fireplace store and there was the Traeger grill. The guy who owned the store had one and told us how great they were and how they worked. I was amazed, so we started saving our pennies, and with a few key hints to my dad around Christmas time for cash (he loves smoked meats as much as me), we purchased the grill right after Christmas. We have a lot of family gatherings, and everyone always requests that I smoke something. This grill is so easy to use. Anyone can be a hero! Only regret was I didn't get the larger grill, but will be buying another one this year.

Fantastic!

By Emily Myers (Kokomo, Indiana)
Owner Since July/2009

My husband and I had a hamburger at a children's camp. Loved it. I saved my money and bought one. Love the grill. It cooks all types of meat and the meat remains tender and juicy. I keep experimenting with the different rubs, pellets ,etc. Haven't found one yet that we don't like.

Great BBQ

By Samuel Rodriguez (Hatillo, Puerto Rico)
Owner Since November/2009

I saw the Traeger BBQ in a friend house and I immediately want it. I buy it and the first time I try it I use it like 4 times in a week. My wife love to use it because of the flavor and the tenderness of the meet. One day I make ribs for all my family and now on everyone ask for use my Traeger BBQ.

Best Grill EVER

By Bud (Lewiston, Idaho)
Owner Since March/2010

Replaced my gas grill with the new Traeger last month. Have always been a gas grill guy, never liked the time or effort that charcoal required. Had heard great things about the Traeger from a couple of friends and they were right on the money. The only bad part is my wife now expects me to cook every nite on the Traeger, have only had 3 weeks but have done 2 pork roasts, 2 beef roasts, steaks, chicken, pizza, veggies and more. Am looking forward to this weekend my first Brisket and ham. It has given me the confidence to slow cook ribs and stuff that I never had with the gas due to flare ups etc. GREAT GRILL would recommend to anyone.

Owner

By Marty Henn (Elgin, Nebraska)
Owner Since March/2010

Great grill no babysitting and food is great.

Genius Idea yet simple, Awesome!

By Allen (Butte, Montana)
Owner Since April/2010

Well I have owned 3 smokers before this one. My first years ago was a charcoal and I tried that once. Then a year ago I bought a electric smoker and used it twice. I live in Montana so it get's cold. So a couple months ago I purchased a 35,000 btu smoker and used it once. I could not get it over 200 degrees on high (in the garage) so it went back last week. I have researched the Traegers for about a year. I called around and found one in town for $699.00. I went ahead; bite the bullet and purchased it. I really wanted the digital t-stat. When I was getting a demo from the dealer he said this month we are giving the digital stat installed at no additional charge. Sign me up; SOLD! I smoked a brisket on Sat. for Easter on Sunday. I smoked it for 12 hrs on Sat. and then put it in the fridge overnight. Re-heated in the Traeger for 2 hrs. and searved. It was awesome. I had the temp up to over 475 while it was 20 degrees outside. It held the temp perfectly with the digital t-stat with no problems. What a simple yet genius idea. If I outgrow this one, I would buy another.

Beyond Belief !!

By Laura (Wilmington, North Carolina)
Owner Since April/2010

I wanted a larger grill than my Patio Caddie but wasn't sure if I wanted gas or charcoal. Gas is easier but I prefer the tradition and taste of charcoal. I began to think about the pellet heating stoves many people use in the NC mountains and thought, "I wonder if anyone makes a pellet grill". Soooo...I "Googled" Wood Pellet Grills and - voila! Traeger ads popped up. I used my Li'l Tex for the first time last week - and the subsequent three nights for everything I could throw on it and it is fabulous! Fresh fish, pizza, chicken and a "London Broil". All were great! Tender, juicy and perfectly cooked. I am sold!

Brisket King

By Wayne Sings (Houston, Texas)
Owner Since October/2008

Visted Colorado Springs last July 4th to see our son in the AF there. Went to Old Colorado Springs area and came across Barbeque Mercantile: Historic Old Colorado City 2619 W. Colorado Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Feel in love with what saw and later purchased mine. After cooking on it and learning how to, simply the best brisket. I use a coffee dry rub along with other ingredients, fall off the fork tender. Smoke meatloaf, what can I say,,,,,excellent......smoke wings....baby back ribs...I will never go back to the old way of smoking.

Traeger Love

By Smokey (Olathe, Kansas)
Owner Since May/2007

I bought my Lil Tex used from Craig's List. It looked like new. I got a couple of good recipes for ribs and brisket from some die hard smoker friends. Tried them and was amazed at the quality and taste of my efforts. When the weather turned cold I realized that I needed the digital thermometer to help regulate the cooking temp. After installing the digital, you'd have to pry my Traeger out of my cold dead fingers to take it away. I made a brisket for the kids last week and they raved about over and over. What a great product. I talked my brother into getting one too. He is very impressed and uses it almost every weekend at his lake house. By the way, he bought his new online and paid less than I did for used plus the digital which was included on his rig. Also, I called the Traeger people about a frozen fan motor. They were very helpful and got me going again in 10 minutes at no charge. Just needed a push and a drop of oil on the shaft.

Easy to use as a Gas Grill but so much better!

By Keith (Beaverton , Oregon)
Owner Since June/2008

Received my Treager for father's day 2008. It has inspired me to learn about real BBQ and to look for good BBQ ideas. Soon after getting the Treager I upgraded the controller to a temperature control. That has proven to be a good investment. My Treager lives outdoors (with a cover) and has proven to be very robust. The only issue I've encountered has been that the heating element for the starter died. I went to my local dealer who had the part and was up and going again in 30 minutes. It's easy to use. Easy to maintain and helps make wonderful food.

This grill makes me a 5 star chef... well almost.

By David Dickert (Houston, Texas)
Owner Since July/2009

Like a lot of folks, I've had my share of grills and then I became the proud owner of a Traeger. This grill cooks like nothing I have ever experienced. The taste of the meat is unbelievable. Ribs, brisket, steak and even simple hamburgers go from good to GREAT with this grill. Stop searching for that perfect grill, you've found the best on the market. Buy one, you will not be disappointed.

Purchasing

By David Riehle (Rochester, New York)
Owner Since April/2008

I found out about traeger grills at a rib fest,and had to buy one. I have cooked on weber grills and gas grills and they dont even compare to the traeger. I have cooked turkey,chicken,steak,burgers,sausage,pizza and nothing gets dryed out like on gas grills.I will never go back to cooking on gas grills.

Finally!!!!!

By Mark Harris (Lynnwood, Washington)
Owner Since April/2009

Finally got a Traeger!!! After grilling on occassion with my two brothers and thier Treagers for the last couple years, we finally got a Treager ourselves. I can't believe what a difference it makes! Last summer we had a huge back yard BBQ and everyone said "Where did you get that grill?" To say the least, everyone loved it and we are still learning how to cook on it today. Everyone says I have to have one of those... Recommendation, don't wait for two years!! Mark L. Harris

A1 Service

By Nick Elliott (Mckinney, Texas)
Owner Since December/2009

So we made the jump 2.5 years ago and dropped some coin on the Traeger. To this day my wife says its the best money we've ever spent. For almost 3 years this thing has performed flawlessly, and w/o any problems. This week she started blowing my GFI fuse though when we tried to turn her on. I called and was passed to Cody in the service department who had me pull a wire and verified it was the hot rod, one call later with the serial number and a new hot rod is on the way. Yoy WILL NOT find better tasting chicken than on a Traeger but I never expected service this good and this quick. Thank you Cody for all the help and quick action. Service like this will keep me coming back and others should take note if they are "on the fence". Thanks again.

I've Been Converted!

By Rod Sonnenburg (Crooks, South Dakota)
Owner Since September/2009

I was a die hard Holland Grill fan. Wore one out and bought another. When my brother-in-law in Oklahoma City bought a Traeger a couple years ago, I laughed and told him he'd never learn. After eating off his Traeger a couple times, I had to have one. A couple months ago, I purchased a 'Lil Tex and my Holland is collecting dust. Absolutely fantastic tasting meals. We used to eat out a lot, but after buying the Traeger, we can make better meals at home than any of the expensive steak houses and our food doesn't sit under a heat lamp for 15 minutes waiting for a server. Thanks for a great product.

The Greatest

By Brian (Beaverton, Oregon)
Owner Since January/2006

I bought my Traeger about three years ago after trying some food cooked on a friends grill. About a year ago I started a food blog. I use my Traeger all the time and often showcase the results on my website. I think Traeger makes an exceptional product that makes ordinary food incredible. http://fireandsalt.blogspot.com/2009/05/ode-to-my-traeger.html

Awesome

By Rodney Augustine (Victoria , Kansas)
Owner Since April/2009

I had wanted a traeger grill for a very long time (year or more) but i really didn't want to spend that kind of money for a grill. but once i researched exactly what you can do on them from smoke to bake and everything in between i knew i had to get one. So on my birthday i decided to buy me a little tex, (070). and i am very glad i did. I have not stopped cooking on it at all. I can tell u my wife is also happy i bought this, because i have had it since April 06, 2009 and she has only cooked 2 times since then. I have cooked everything from hot dogs to steaks, and salmon and chicken on this grill and everything comes out perfect. My next test is going to be smoked ribs and then smoked turkey and ham and i am convinced that everyone will love this. If anyone is considering getting one don't hesitate you will be glad you did.

Best I Have Had

By Rick Burden (Lehighton, Pennsylvania)
Owner Since March/2008

I have been wanting a Traeger for years. After buying many cheap gas grills and tossing them after a year my wife said just buy a Weber. So we bought a Weber Spirit. It burned everything even on very low heat. I had to constantly attend it which I did not like. After 5 months of haveing the bla bla fed up with it I purchased the Traeger Lil'Tex. It took me a couple weeks to get the hang of it but it was very worth it. Now the Weber has a new home at my neighbors and my Lil'Tex is the pride of the back deck. Everything I cook in it is outstanding. I have even smoked homemade snack sticks in it. I put a digital controller on it and I am very happy.

Holy Crap!!!

By Nicholas Dogris (Bishop, California)
Owner Since November/2009

OK, I've been grilling all my life. I've owned the best of the best and after owning this grill for one week I cannot believe how amazing this grill is. I've been geeking out for seven days now as I have cooked chicken, new york steaks and tri tip on this puppy and each meal was really, really good! Last night I had some friends over who are BBQ people and they were just as blown away as I was the first time I cooked on this grill. I can't wait to try different things with this grill. A good buy to say the least.

TraegerRules

By Dave Metcalfe (Erin, Ontario)
Owner Since June/2009

I love my Traeger. My wife complains because Traeger Ribs have replaced her as my laptop screen saver! I have cooked ever kind of meat, home made pizza and even baked bread on this thing and the results can not be beat. You can check out my traeger videos on youtube at greysquirrel69. Traeger Rules!

Simplicity

By mark d' (spokane, Washington)
Owner Since March/2000

I bought the Lil' Tex after a friend recommended it. It is an awesome grill. I am still learning some techniques. The only challenge is remembering that your have to plan ahead due to the longer grilling time than traditional grills. Right now I am smoking a 14 lb. turkey for Thanksgiving. So far it is working out perfectly.... I highly recommend the Traeger....

BBQ070 review

By Jason (Hamilton, Ontario)
Owner Since March/2009

Buying the BBQ070 was not an easy process, as there is alot of competition out there in the world of grills and barbeques these days. My last BBQ lasted over fifteen years, and I was concerned that today's product wouldn't be up for long-term service such as this. Once I started looking more closely at what's available, I realized that most BBQ's today are simply larger and more elaborate versions of the same basic concept; gas/propane direct heat under some kind of coal substitute. I'd still be dealing with the same issues as before...flareups, charring, etc. plus a heap of maintenance keeping that "stainless" stuff shiny. The charcoal units also didn't excite me, either, as they are considered "open fire" in my city and cannot be used without permits. My brother has a wood-pellet furnace at his cottage, and I was fascinated on how it worked and the fuel system. When I saw the Traegers for the first time, the wheels started turning in my head... My main concerns for the 070 was whether it would also bake bread, as this is a passion of mine. The sales staff at my local store assured me it would do an admirable job, so I took the plunge, forked over the money and took it home. The only accessory I added was the dome-top thermometer, which I sprung for instead of the digital control. Knowing the temperature of the interior is more important to me than pretending I have finite control over what is essentially a wood-fired oven. My great-grandparents didn't need digital control...why should I? The end result is that it does what they say it does. A good measure of patience coupled with a real interest in food and cooking really helps to deal with the peculiar characteristics of a Traeger. This isn't some cheap "stainless" gas grill designed to put steaks on your table in 3 minutes flat...instead you'll get the BEST tasting BBQ'ed food you've ever had, and then some. My pizza's come out PERFECT, with crispy crust and luscious crumb, with the toppings cooked and melted exquisitely....my chicken came out so good that no sauce of any kind was needed. In fact, I'm almost at the point of throwing out all our sauces, as they are practically unnecessary. I realize now that most BBQ sauces out there are trying to mimic the REAL FLAVOUR of a REAL, WOOD FIRED BBQ grill. And that's it!

I've Seen The Light

By Larry Richard (Soldotna, Alaska)
Owner Since August/2009

I had been reading a little on trying a pellet grill. I have always owned really expensive gas grills and charcoal grills. I was searching for better and found it. My pellet grill is on a total higher level of ease of grilling and taste of food. Everything I have cooked on this grill is Much better than the other grills that I have used. Definitely worth the money! For those of you living in the colder country, try cutting the center rod out of the auger, you will get more BTU'S out of your grill in the Winter. It will heat up quicket and keep the temperature more even. Seal your door with wood stove gasket also to keep more heat and smoke in the grill.

just couldn't wait for the shippers

By Gary Gathright (Abbeville, Mississippi)
Owner Since October/2009

ordered the lil tex on wed and the shipper was calling me the next day with it ready. i wasn't able to have it delivered at the time they wanted to come so i had postponed delivery until Monday because of the forecasted weather coming in for friday. well as the day went on and my time freed up I couldn't take it anymore so I called the shipper, he was about 60 miles away, and made arrangements to go pick it up myself. we cooked some porterhouses and boneless chicken breast and we all agreed it was awesome. anyone that has tried to grill boneless chic knows the challenge of not drying it out..not a problem with the lil tex..steak was tender and juicy also. The only reason for giving it 5 bulls is that because I didn't get the digital thermostat. when I get that then it will receive 5. I've had the BGE and other cookers. The BGE is awesome also but limited in cooking area for how I cook. LIL TEX IS A GREAT CHOICE..

Wife decided to get it!

By Rick Swick (Inman, Kansas)
Owner Since February/2007

I have been smoking since 1977. I have used everything from a bullet style to offset firebox. I was a fan of the offset and in December of 06 we had a ice storm come through. A tree branch landed square on my offset. I needed another smoker. My wife and I were at a local spring show and one of the people there was selling Treagers. The meat smelled so good that we stopped and talked to the guy. He showed us what he was doing on the Treager and my wife said that if I wanted another smoker it would be a Treager. I have come to love the way the Treager works. It took me about 3 month to convert my cooking style to the Treager. But once that was done Katie bar the door because everything has turned out great since. I take Pork Tenderlion to work and I am luck if there is any left for me to eat. Chicken on the grill is so dry it is hard to eat, but with the Treager it is moist and juicy. The only reason I did not give it a 5 bull rating, is that I do not want to leave it setting outside. I bring it out of the shed everytime I use it. But it is worth every ounce of engery to smoke on it.

Drunken Chicken Is Great

By Ivan Kahn (Colwich, Kansas)
Owner Since April/2001

I became acquainted with the Traeger Grill when my father-in-law opened up a meat market in Hays, KS. Everyone who comes into his meat market mentions they use a Traeger to grill their steaks and meats. My wife and I were due for a new grill after being on our third one in 12 years. Needless to say, we were so tired of burnt chicken, burnt hamburgers and steaks, especially the price of meat now days. Well, my wife and I decided we were going to get a grill that was going to last us for at least ten years. My wife stated, honey, I'm not interested in any grill unless it is a Traeger. I stopped by the local Traeger dealer in Hays and after about 30 minutes, we were sold. Still being unsure of our purchase, I decided I would follow the directions since I've already made the investment. Well, needless to say, I have never been so impressed with a grill like I've been with the Traeger. I actually look forward to grilling on my Traeger. Thanks Dad-in-law, thanks Honey,for being so closed minded about not being interested in any other grill. :

love it

By Jack Bolton (Hamilton , Ontario)
Owner Since March/2008

well i got my grill and havent stopped cooking on it the neighbours go crazy with the smells coming from the yard. the only thing im going to add a digital thermometer to it its in the mail. opne thing that happened was i was heating it up one day and baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaam the lid from the pellet box and the door lid scared the hell out of me i spit my beer. memo to my self left the lid when your heating it up

its not just a grill!

By dan snyder (wilsonville, Oregon)
Owner Since May/2009

Bought my Traeger at G K Machine shop in Donald, Oregon. Great bunch of guys who work there, by the way. Anyhow, after ~2months of owning it, the controller went out. The good folks at G.K. fixed her up, no problem. Back to grillin, and everybody who came over RAVED about my cooking! I told them it was all the grill! Anyhow, a couple weeks back, the "hot rod" went out, so I took it back to the good folks in Donald. I swore to my wife I would get help unloading it, as I have got BAD back problems, needless to say, I tried to get it out of my SUV, and the darned thing pancaked me right in there parking lot! Scared the heck out of them, they were worried about me, I was just hoping I hadn't dented my baby!. Anyhow, got up the next morning, and my dang back had fkexibility and movement, My physical therapist told me the Traeger had broken up the scar tissue and calcification in my back he had no luck on! So, the moral of the story, it's not just a BBQ! And heres to the Fellers at G.K. Machine who wrassled it off of me, Thank You!!!!!!!!!!- Dan Snyder

Cpt. Ron

By Ron Busch (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Owner Since July/2009

I live in Las Vegas and Newport, Oregon in the summer, I just bought a Traeger two weeks ago and will tell you that it is fantastic! I have been BBQing for over thirty years and this is a whole new ball game, I have cooked ribs, Salmon, Chicken and roast and all turned out great. I also have a portable SS grill I use for steaks and hamburgers but the rest is done from now here on with the Traeger!

So Versatile!

By Jake Price (Garden City, Kansas)
Owner Since April/2007

My in-laws sell Traegers at their Cycle Shop in Garden City, and my wife and I just recently purchased a grill for ourselves. We are looking forward to trying out a bunch of new recipes. We love how versatile our grill is. Since my wife doesn't eat a lot of meat, she is determined to prove that grilling isn't just for carnivores! As far as I'm concerned, nothing beats a steak cooked on a Traeger!

Christmas Gift

By Karalee Skye (Elma, Washington)
Owner Since November/2007

Matt Baydo works with me and also sells them, and I got the grill for my husband for Christmas and he cooks on it at least 5 nights a week.

Replcaing a Bradley Smoker and a Road Trip Grill

By Larry C (Vancouver, Washington)
Owner Since select month...

We replaced a Bradley Smoker and a Road Trip grill with our Traeger. We're still learning to transfer our favorites from those to the Traeger. Results so far have been mostly excellent with one failure early. Our fault for misintrepreting a meat thermometer reading. For a more complete review see the one we wrote at http://www.epinions.com/review/pr-Traeger_Industries_BBQ070/content_468709314180.