SnS or Vortex or Something else for a PK360

[tbill87]

I am brand new to the site and really all things grilling. I fall into the Meathead's category of noobs who just turn on the gas on high heat and hope for the best. Since finding this site and Meathead's book, a whole new world is opening before my eyes I just purchased my first charcoal grill (PK360) and it arrives on Wednesday. I have been reading quite a bit about 2 zone grilling and grilling accessories. I am interested in purchasing either the SnS or Vortex or anything else you can recommend to help with the 2 zone setup for the PK360. I'm sure I've probably confused or mixed things up in this description, but hoping a few of you can set me on the right path. Thank you.

[Huskee]

Welcome, and thanks for giving the Pitmaster Club a try!

While I don't have a PK360 nor have I used one, I know the standard SnS will not fit. The SnS Charcoal Basket might though, it's the smaller one meant for the Jumbo Joe kettle. Not sure on the Vortex measurements. You can buy some cheap fire bricks at Home Depot or similar hardware/home stores, bricks work great for such things. Many folks report not needing a barrier though. I suppose it depends where the dividing line between your fire and your food is.

[JoeSousa]

I have a regular PK and for stuff like reverse searing their charcoal basket works great but I don't really think you even need that. Just shove the coals to one end. I haven't used it for any long cooks yet so I can't give much guidance for something like that but for steaks, chicken, tri-tip, etc. it works great as is for 2 zone cooking.

[mountainsmoker]

Most of the add on's are for kettles. With the PK square sides you should have no trouble doing a snake type burn. Light 12 coals in one corner of the side and then add unlighted coals up against them across that side. Only have one intake and one exhaust vent open opposite it. I tell you that is one fine grill and when my Weber dies I will repace it with yours. It looks very versatile.

Well, good luck you will have to experiment. If it is hot out you may only need 10 coals. You will need to adjust the vents depending on weather or go hitech and buy a DighQ.

[Spinaker]

I would simply pile the charcoal up on one side of the PK360 and let it go. You should not need a basket of any kinds to get two zone cooking.

The PK360 is already perfect for 2-zone cooking.

[tbill87]

Awesome. Thank you for the feedback. I look forward to many tests once the PK arrives.

[Larry Grover]

In this thread you can see Polar and my setup. The advantage being you can adjust and load up for long smokes...for short cooks yea just shove coals to one side. Polar custom cut stainless steel to shape a basket, my system was to take apart Weber baskets.

Click my avatar if you’re interested in attaching a fan.

https://pitmaster.amazingribs.com/forum/grills-and-smokers/charcoal/663586-new-pk360-happiness

[Michael Brinton]

My Pk360 is being delivered in a few days. Look forward to seeing/sharing first impressions.

[dshaffes]

I own a PK360 and you do not need to purchase a SNS or a Vortex for 2-zone grilling or low 'n slow. Your setup could not be easier and regulating heat is very straight forward using the lower and upper vents. You may want to consider a charcoal basket for longer cooks, but I would recommend using the grill a few times "as is" before buying anythng. You are going to love this grill.

[au4stree]

I own a pk360 as well, I can’t add anything that hasn’t already been said. I’ll just repeat that you don’t need a basket for coals, just bank(shove) to one side. Also, the thread listed above is great, Larry Grover and Polarbear777 blazed the trail..