Why We Use Mild Steel Over Stainless Steel in Our BBQ Gear

At Smokey BBQ Bits, we don’t just build BBQ gear — we build tools that perform, last, and make your cook-up better. That’s why we choose thick Australian mild steel for products like our Charcoal Chimney, Kettle Cone, and Grill Tops. Here’s why it’s the ultimate choice over stainless steel:

🔥 Heat Performance That Matters

Mild Steel = Better Heat Retention

Mild steel absorbs and radiates heat more effectively than stainless steel. This means:

• Faster coal ignition

• More even cooking temperatures

• Reliable performance in high-heat cooks

Stainless steel reflects more heat than it absorbs, often leading to uneven or less effective heat control.

🧂 Season It Like Cast Iron

Mild steel can be seasoned with cooking oil, creating a natural, non-stick, rust-resistant layer — just like your favorite cast iron pan. Over time, this protective layer gets better, making your gear more durable and enhancing the flavor of your cooks.

Stainless steel cannot be seasoned in the same way, and once discolored or heat-damaged, it’s difficult to restore.

💪 Built Tough for BBQ Abuse

Our 2-5mm thick mild steel is strong, rugged, and made to handle:

• Repeated extreme heat

• Heavy charcoal loads (up to 3.5kg+)

• Long cooks without warping or cracking

Cheaper stainless steel BBQ tools often warp, crack, or become brittle when exposed to direct flames or intense heat.

💰 More Value, No Compromise

Quality stainless steel is costly — and often used where rust prevention is more important than heat performance. For BBQ tools, mild steel gives you better heat-handling at a better price. That means:

• More material for your money

• A tool that lasts with proper care

• True BBQ function over shiny looks

🧼 Easy to Maintain

Looking after mild steel is simple:

• Wipe or spray with oil after use

• Store dry when not in use

• Re-season as needed — it just gets better over time

🏆 Trusted by BBQ Legends

Used by legends like Schueys BBQ, The Smokin Beard, Jimmy's Charcoal Smoke & Grill and more — our mild steel gear is tested in real fire, not just the factory.

If you want gear that works harder, lasts longer, and gives better results — mild steel is the clear choice.

👉 Explore our collection and upgrade your setup with BBQ tools made from the material that real pitmasters trust.