Griddle Insert: Hunsaker, SnS, or something else?

[PGH_RAM]

I'm looking at getting a full 22" griddle insert for my kettle. I keep coming back to either Hunsaker or SnS carbon steel models. The SnS Plancha ($109) is about $50 more expensive than the Hunsaker, but it's almost twice as thick. My gut is telling me that SnS is worth the extra cash. Before I buy, though, I figured I'd check with the experts to see if there might be other options I've missed. What are your opinions, Oh Great Pitmasters?

[GolfGeezer]

I have the SnS. I originally got it primarily as a drip pan, but as you noted, it is heavy duty and works great as a griddle. I can’t compare as I didn’t shop around for that idea.

[jfmorris]

I think he is talking about the plancha - not the Drip 'N Griddle.

[GolfGeezer]

jfmorris Right, the plancha covers the whole grill area. The one I have is basically covers 2/3's of the grill area, can serve either as a drip pan or a griddle.

https://snsgrills.com/collections/grilling-accessories

[RonB]

Thicker will hold more heat and remain at temp longer than thinner. I'd spend the $$.

[Henrik]

I have the SnS cast iron griddle, and can vouch for it. You really do want the thicker material.

[jfmorris]

I assume you are talking about the SNS Plancha, and if so, I do recommend thicker as better when it comes to heat retention and recovery when you flip burgers or other items around on the griddle top.

[Panhead John]

I’d go for the SNS, great customer service and quality products! If you buy it, I’d recommend going to the SNS site directly though, it’s on sale for $88.00, on Amazon it’s $100.00

[Bob K]

your MCS-enabler game is all-pro

[Uncle Bob]

Another alternative with a removable grate in the center, I've done a wok with a vortex under the center, 2 zone cooking option. Alternatively, using the vortex again, sear zone in the center, lower/slower around the perimeter portion. Versatility for folks with creativity. 22" Weber Style Grill Insert With Center Grate - Grill Accessories - Ash & Ember (ashandemberoutdoors.com)

I also have the Hunsaker, it works fine, doesn't have any heat or warping issues.

[hoovarmin]

That's James Bond level stuff right there

[barelfly]

This would be pretty cool to have!

[jfmorris]

And of course, there is the old standard, the Arteflame insert for the kettle:

https://arteflame.com/products/flat-top-griddle-grill-for-weber-grills-accessory

[Razor]

For the mentions of the griddles with grates in the middle, I see that as a negative. I see myself accidentally pushing whatever it is I’m cooking down that hole. I’m a sucker for object fixation when it comes to stuff like that. Either that or I have the worst coordination possible. 🤣

[PGH_RAM]

I think I agree with you. I would definitely end up losing food to the hole. Additionally, I want maximum griddle space. I already have the SnS half-moon griddle if I need to have grill space and griddle space at the same time.

[hoovarmin]

Same.

[PGH_RAM]

I ended up springing for the SnS plancha. Amazon delivery destroyed the first one I ordered (box broke on two sides and the plancha was scuffed like it had been dropped on concrete), but it got replaced easily enough. Looking forward to seasoning it and giving it a whirl this week.