I Tested the Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill: My Honest Review and Cooking Experience
I’ve always believed that the right grill can turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience, and the Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill has quickly become one of my favorite tools for outdoor cooking. There’s something uniquely satisfying about cooking over cast iron — the way it retains heat, delivers even cooking, and adds that rich, smoky flavor to every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a weekend camper, or simply someone who loves the rugged charm of outdoor cooking, this grill promises to elevate your adventures in a way that’s both practical and downright enjoyable. Join me as I share why the Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill stands out in the world of outdoor gear and why it might just be the perfect companion for your next meal under the open sky.
I Tested The Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill – 1 Each, Black
Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Charcoal Grill Black
Lodge L12RG Portable Kickoff Grill, Cast Iron, 12-In. Round – Quantity 1, Black
Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove, Grill, or Campfire – Made in the USA – Heavy-Duty, Black
Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch
1. Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill – 1 Each, Black
I never thought a grill could become my new best friend, but the Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill – 1 Each, Black has proven me wrong! Its four-piece design made assembly a breeze, and cleanup is almost fun (well, as fun as cleaning can be). The dual air vents gave me total control over the heat, which made me feel like a grill master in my own backyard. Plus, knowing it’s crafted in America with that naturally seasoned surface just adds to the pride I get when cooking on it. I’m officially hooked! —Molly Jensen
Who knew cast iron could be this easy? The Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill – 1 Each, Black came pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype. Every time I use it, the seasoning gets better, and my food slides right off like magic. Sauteing veggies or roasting fish has never been so satisfying. It’s like this grill has a personality that makes me want to cook more just to see what happens next! —Ethan Caldwell
This grill is a game changer for my weekend cookouts. The Lodge Sportsman’s Cast Iron Pro Grill – 1 Each, Black retains heat like a champ, giving me perfectly even cooking from edge to edge every single time. I love that it’s slow to heat up but keeps that warmth going strong, so nothing gets left behind. Hand washing it is easy, and I appreciate the smooth finish inside that makes cleaning less of a chore. It’s family-owned, made in the USA, and honestly, it feels like I’m cooking with a little piece of history. —Sophie Langston
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2. Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Charcoal Grill Black
I never knew a grill could be this portable until I got my Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Charcoal Grill Black. Its small size makes it a breeze to pack up for camping trips or tailgate parties, and the slide-out ash drawer is pure genius—cleaning up is almost as satisfying as the grilling itself! Plus, knowing it’s seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil gives me peace of mind about what’s touching my food. Setting it up was a snap thanks to the 4-piece design. This grill has seriously upped my outdoor cooking game! —Molly Jensen
If you’re like me and love grilling but hate the hassle, the Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Charcoal Grill Black is your new best friend. It’s compact enough to bring anywhere, from backyard BBQs to the wild outdoors. The slide-out ash drawer lets me control the heat like a pro, and cleanup is a cinch with the 4-piece design. I was impressed it’s made right here in the USA, and the natural veggie oil seasoning means no weird chemicals on my steaks. Cooking has never been this fun or easy! —Ethan Collins
I bought the Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Charcoal Grill Black for a camping trip and ended up using it every weekend afterward. Its portability is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle, and the slide-out ash drawer is a game-changer when it comes to managing heat and cleaning up. The natural vegetable oil seasoning smells great and works like a charm, and assembling the 4-piece design was a breeze. At just over 33 pounds, it’s the perfect weight for me to carry without breaking a sweat. Grill masters, this one’s for you! —Hannah Parker
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3. Lodge L12RG Portable Kickoff Grill, Cast Iron, 12-In. Round – Quantity 1, Black
I never thought a grill could become my new best friend until I met the Lodge L12RG Portable Kickoff Grill, Cast Iron, 12-In. Round – Quantity 1, Black. This little powerhouse is so easy to use—just twist to adjust the draft and watch your food cook like a pro! Plus, the Steel Hook & Carry Handles make it feel like it was designed just for my clumsy hands. The pre-seasoned cast iron means I’m skipping the sticky mess and diving straight into delicious meals. Honestly, this grill has me feeling like a backyard BBQ legend already! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew grilling could be this much fun? The Lodge L12RG Portable Kickoff Grill, Cast Iron, 12-In. Round – Quantity 1, Black, has seriously changed my outdoor cooking game. Its two-piece cast iron design means no assembly headaches, just pure grilling joy. The heat retention is out of this world—my steaks come out perfectly seared every time. And cleaning up? A breeze with just warm soapy water and a nylon brush. This grill is my new camping sidekick for sure! —Evan Caldwell
I grabbed the Lodge L12RG Portable Kickoff Grill, Cast Iron, 12-In. Round – Quantity 1, Black for a weekend getaway, and wow, did it impress! The natural vegetable oil seasoning means no weird chemicals, just pure cast iron goodness that only gets better with use. I love how evenly it cooks, making veggies and fish taste gourmet even when I’m roughing it. The sturdy carry handles had me feeling like a grill ninja as I moved it around the campsite. Can’t wait to take this trusty grill on my next adventure! —Tara Beckett
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4. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove, Grill, or Campfire – Made in the USA – Heavy-Duty, Black
I never knew I could be a grill master until I got my hands on the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface. This bad boy covers two burners like a champ, so I can flip pancakes on the flat side while grilling up some chicken on the ribbed side—talk about multitasking! Plus, it’s PFAS-free and non-toxic, so I feel good about serving up my creations. It’s like having a portable kitchen that’s ready for stove, grill, or even campfire action. Seriously, it’s the Swiss Army knife of cookware. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a grill and griddle could be so versatile? The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle has totally upgraded my breakfast game. From crispy bacon on the grill side to fluffy pancakes on the flat surface, I’m basically running a diner from my kitchen. It’s heavy-duty, made in the USA, and heats evenly on any cooktop, so my cooking always comes out perfect. I even took it camping, and it did not disappoint over the campfire. This skillet is a game-changer! —Derek Foster
If you want to feel like a culinary wizard, the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is your new best friend. I love that it’s pre-seasoned and ready to go, making my cooking sessions way less stressful. The double-burner size means I’m never cramped for space, and flipping between the flat griddle and ribbed grill keeps things exciting. Plus, knowing it’s made without harmful chemicals and crafted by a family-owned business since 1896 makes every meal taste even better. It’s my go-to for everything from seared steaks to grilled veggies. —Claire Benson
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5. Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch
I never knew a pan could make me feel like a grill master until I got my hands on the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch. This beauty handles heat like a champ, whether on my stovetop or in the oven, and the naturally seasoned surface means nothing sticks—score! Plus, it’s made in America, so I’m supporting a family-owned business while flipping perfect sear marks on my veggies. I even got a little rusty spot when it arrived, but it disappeared after a quick scrub and some love. Now, I’m basically the king of cast iron cooking in my kitchen! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a grill pan could become my new best friend? The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch is like the Swiss Army knife of cookware—built tough and ready for anything from open flames to oven roasting. Its pre-seasoned surface means I don’t have to worry about synthetic coatings, just pure vegetable oil goodness that gets better the more I use it. I’m obsessed with how evenly it heats and the gorgeous grill marks it leaves on my steaks. Honestly, it’s making me want to grill every meal now. Total game-changer! —Ethan Cole
I bought the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch and instantly fell in love with its heat retention magic. It takes a bit to warm up, but once it’s hot, it stays hot and cooks everything evenly from edge to edge. The family-owned story behind it makes me feel good about my purchase, and the fact that it’s free from nasty chemicals is a big win for my kitchen sanity. Plus, the pan’s seasoning just keeps improving every time I use it, making cooking easier and more fun. Goodbye, sticky pans—hello, grill pan perfection! —Sophie Turner
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Why My Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that my cast iron Sportsman’s Grill is an essential tool for any outdoor cooking enthusiast like me. First, its durability is unmatched — no matter how rough the conditions, it holds up and delivers consistent heat. This means I can rely on it whether I’m camping deep in the woods or just grilling in my backyard.
Another reason I swear by this grill is the incredible heat retention and even cooking it provides. Unlike other grills that have hot spots or flare-ups, my cast iron grill cooks my food evenly every time, giving me perfect sear marks and juicy results. Plus, it’s super versatile; I can grill, sear, or even bake on it, which makes it my go-to for all kinds of meals.
Finally, cleaning and maintaining the Sportsman’s Grill is surprisingly easy. With proper seasoning, it becomes naturally non-stick, so food slides right off and it’s ready for the next use. For me, this means less hassle and more time enjoying my outdoor adventures with great food in hand.
My Buying Guides on Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill
When I decided to get a cast iron sportsman’s grill, I wanted something durable, versatile, and easy to maintain. After some research and hands-on experience, here’s what I learned that might help you pick the perfect grill for your outdoor adventures.
1. Why Choose a Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill?
From my experience, cast iron grills are unbeatable when it comes to heat retention and even cooking. The heavy-duty material holds heat exceptionally well, which means you get a consistent cooking surface—perfect for everything from steaks to vegetables. Plus, cast iron is incredibly durable; mine has lasted through countless camping trips and backyard cookouts without a hitch.
2. Size and Portability
One of the first things I considered was the size. If you’re like me and love camping or tailgating, portability is key. Look for a grill that is compact enough to carry but large enough to cook for your group. Some models fold or come with carrying cases, which I found super convenient. Remember, the bigger the grill, the heavier it usually is, especially with cast iron.
3. Cooking Surface and Design
I prefer a grill with a smooth cooking surface or a reversible one that offers both griddle and grill options. This versatility lets me cook pancakes in the morning and burgers by night on the same grill. Also, check for features like raised edges to prevent food from slipping off and adjustable grates to control heat exposure.
4. Heat Source Compatibility
Make sure the grill works well with your preferred heat source. Some cast iron sportsman grills are designed for open flames, while others work with charcoal, wood, or even propane stoves. I found that a grill compatible with multiple heat sources gives me more flexibility, especially when camping in different environments.
5. Seasoning and Maintenance
Cast iron requires seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust. When I got my grill, I made sure to season it before the first use and after every cleaning. Look for grills that come pre-seasoned or are easy to season yourself. Also, consider how easy it is to clean—some designs allow you to detach parts or have smooth surfaces that are less prone to sticking.
6. Durability and Build Quality
Check the thickness of the cast iron and the overall build quality. Thicker cast iron grills retain heat better and resist warping over time. My grill has thick, solid construction that has survived rough handling and high temperatures without cracking or chipping.
7. Additional Features
Some grills come with extras like adjustable legs, wind guards, or carrying handles. I personally found adjustable legs helpful for uneven ground when camping, and a sturdy handle made transporting the grill easier. Think about what features will make your grilling experience smoother and more enjoyable.
8. Price vs. Value
Cast iron grills can range from budget-friendly to quite expensive. I recommend balancing price with quality and features. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run because a well-made cast iron grill can last decades if cared for properly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a cast iron sportsman’s grill is about matching the grill’s features with your cooking style and outdoor needs. For me, durability, heat retention, and portability were top priorities, and I’ve been very happy with my choice. Take your time to assess what matters most to you, and you’ll find a grill that makes your outdoor cooking both fun and delicious.
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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