why Magma boat grills AREN'T worth the money (in my opinion)

[@CullenCraft]

What do you think? Was I being too picky? You can follow me on twitter to hear about my next big project before it goes live (Hint: It's a Chris Craft... And it rhymes with "Homer") twitter.com/cullencraft

[@Alan-oq1oq]

You could place a rubber washer or something similar at the noisy rattling point. You could also fabricate a stiff arm to the mount to make it solid as a rock. Otherwise it doesn't matter which one you buy they are all going to wobble being they are top heavy.

[@morgananderson9647]

@@Alan-oq1oq what do you mean by "stiff arm"? Can you provide a little more detail on how the stiff arm would attach to the boat and B-B-Q?

[@Alan-oq1oq]

​@@morgananderson9647 A stainless steel bar with one end clamped to the railing and the other end attached to the side or bottom of the grill. Its a term used in radio tower construction but the concept is applied in many circumstances.

[@truemanmontfort8031]

Definitely not being too picky! Funny...I always coveted the Magma grills I would see on boats in marinas etc, and I had heard some frustrated reviews from other boaters but I figured they were just whining.....turns out it’s true and thanks for the tutorial regarding the fact that all best sellers and most popular products aren’t always the best...and that you don’t always get what you pay for....looking forward to seeing you experience with with the new one....keep the videos comin as best you can...diggin it

[@Djdj-kd8ue]

No aren't being 2picky,esp. @ that price

[@svechappe6075]

Have had a few Magma's and this video prompts some questions. When we've had the larger sizes like this one, it has always been set up for dual mounts, not a single rail mount. That negated the shakiness and thus the rattle of the latch. We now have the mini version because we find we don't need the large grill area and dislike taking up so much rail space. The mini version uses a single rail mount, but it is solid and doesn't vibrate. It's also much cheaper and comes with built in legs in order to take it off the rail and stand it on a table ashore. The bigger Magmas require a separate leg accessory kit. The various accessory Magma accessory kits are very overpriced, so having legs built in is a big plus. On lighting without an igniter, there should be a hole in the end into which you insert one of those butane BBQ lighters. This grill was not designed to use a match to light as you will likely have no hairs left on your fingers. Finally, we've never had an issue with cross-threading the mounting bracket clamps. Not sure how you did that. Agree Magma's are overpriced, but not any more than anything else that is built specifically for the marine market. Always look for sales in the off-season to get it at a more reasonable cost. And, if you don't really need the large grilling area, consider the mini version. We found it on sale with rail mount and built-in legs for around $200.

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I am happy with my Magma classic kettle grill. It is smaller but really big enough for cooking for two. I have cooked for four often and been fine. I have used this grill a lot since 2011, almost daily for the past three years since I retired. I have needed to replace the inner liner and burner once in 10 years. Parts are readily available. Using the same grill for 10 plus years is unheard of. The exterior has blued unevenly so it is not beautiful but very functional. I don't think you are going to get the longevity and parts availability with a cheaper Chinese knockoff. And for a boat you may want to downsize. Relook at the Magma kettle grill.

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

As a pretty savvy chef I tried the magma kettle but it gets way too hot for my needs

[@anthonydecesare2054]

Hate to tell you this, as a live aboard invest in a higher end air fryer/toaster oven. Bought one for last years season and was worth every penny. If you don’t want to take up to much counter space get one that will fit inside a cabinet and take the door off. I would recommend one of the better higher end European brands Kaloric or Delonghi. You may need to cut a hole or two on the sides of a cabinet to allow for air flow.

[@bernyshomstein4191]

I have a Magma grill that I got piece by piece from a marina. Actually, I found so many I sold a few. For the grill I use, I only had to buy the regulator, igniter and cylinders. I completely took it apart and cleaned it with oven cleaner and it cooks great. I have the mount that goes in the fishing rod holder and have had no problems. Also has 4 legs so you can cook off the boat on a flat surface.

[@Googladesh]

A hot heavy grill with food mounted on a flimsy rail just screams disaster. That thing could be taken out in so many different ways on a boat

[@goodson77784]

Always nice to see happy videos from cheerful people even if things aren't going good. you seem cool. subbed!

[@para1324]

Glad you took it back.

[@cmadk3423]

I have and love my Weber Q. I use it at home, camping and my off grid property. You would need to get creative with a mount because it's a table top model but it's a awesome grill!

[@thomasucc]

Really

[@Vibrotronic]

Isn’t that the cheapest rectangular grill they produce? The “Kabo”? That grill is absolutely nothing like my Connoisseur series. I use a sure-lok mount and have zero movement. “Cross threaded itself”…I love that! Lol

[@candyc313]

I bought this for my husband on his birthday 2 weeks ago. It was on sale and I wanted the Catalina Model? But they were all sold out and this Cabo model was the only available AND it was the display. I could have ordered but I didn’t plan in advance and wanted my husband to have his grill in hand plus it was on sale soooo I figured why not. They did not have the mounts in store so we had to order. We ordered the level lock fish mount and It still has not come it’s been almost 2 weeks. We are going to a huge boat party in a couple days another reason I wanted him to have his grill in hand. We don’t plan to leave the grill up when not in use so hopefully the annoying racket won’t matter because we will only attach to the mount when we’re anchored or docked and ready to use otherwise it will be stored away and hopefully that will help to prolong its life. If this Starter grill works ok I will order the Catalina Model during the off season and sell this model to one of our friends.

[@CullenCraft]

Good plan.

[@barrypontbriand2462]

I bought the Kuuma grill 3 years ago for my sea Ray 270. It works great and doesn’t rattle one bit. We drive around with it bolted on the transom grab rail and even at WOT it stayed in place with no annoying noises

[@Chas1160]

Hi Cullen,glad you eventually got your grill you wanted. It’s so much better to have gas/propane appliances in well ventilated areas. I’m sure you are aware of the dangers with appliances especially with live aboard situations. Generator gas fumes are extremely dangerous on boats. With your new grill outside (in well ventilated areas) should be just fine. I’m sure you are aware of carbon monoxide alarm systems which can be purchased at your local hardware store. A no brainer. Unfortunately, in our harbor in California, we had an older couple who both died of carbon monoxide poison. It’s odorless gas. They had Generator outside the boat but had a window open which created a draft which. Drove fumes inside the boat. It was a very unusual accident and heart breaking for surrounding neighbors and friends. Be aware and be safe.

[@herbbradley8958]

West Marine website is where I saw it for $183.00 with the legs. Yeah the locking latch and handle are in a weird place and no ignition button or temperature gage is a no go for me. The plus is having the legs and it being able to mount on a rail. Those features are the best thing about that grill.

[@monoskier2112]

My buddy has the same grill on his 89 Doral Prestancia but he had a custom bracket made for it so it was very sturdy. He tried installing the one you had but it was horrible, it just rattled. Cooking on it was very nice, lots of room to cook and having the smaller propane tank is very handy. Good luck with the new grill.😎🇨🇦

[@FishingwithCristina]

What I was thinking you could do is put a Niall magneton, it so when the boat is moving you won't hear that sound anymore.

[@prophetseven728]

I Bought a new Yacht. Was going to get the Magma grill but after seeing your Video. Im going to buy another brand. I really do not care about brand Names. But how it works.

[@Vibrotronic]

Lots of commenters must have a totally different owner’s manual than mine! “Never lock the lid while in use”

[@CullenCraft]

The lid STILL rattles when locked or unlocked, you can hear it in the video... and it's unforgivable in my book for boat sanity.

[@abthatdude7898]

The grill wanted to stay lol, but I do hope the other grill is better.

[@paulsthemarksman]

Mate how disappointing for the money they want glade you took it back I would hope the new one is better happy BBQ and take care over there.

[@masdbo]

I have the same grill, you can usually get a great deal on one of those on Black Friday. You know there’s a little hole on the side to stick one of those long lighters in to light it.... Who uses matches? LOL I don’t think the rattling would’ve bothered you because we’re not in use you latch it down. Yeah the grease Drip pan latch breaking really would be a reason to return it.

[@CullenCraft]

Agree. I didn't know about the lighter hole lol thanks for the info. The latch did rattle when locked down, unfortunately.

[@para1324]

Should have taken it back when the ash tray broke. 👍

[@Chinkathon]

Aw That sucks grilling on a boat is the greatest And you have Brats (my favorite) We have a boat and we don't have a grill but we grill brats and bring them from home and i really enjoy them but Hopefully your new grill fits your standers!

[@williamingram8028]

Yeah, just opened mine and I’m letting it heat up. While the shiny exterior appeals to the half wit in me, it’s quickly becoming obvious that it’s not well built/engineered relative to the price. For starters that latch is for shit. It gets sort of stuck in the closed position and I’ve already singed my knuckles trying to open it. Unclear why I’ll need to latch ever latch it because I don’t intend to grill in any sea conditions that will require me to latch it shut. I’m impressed by the Sea Dog who’ll find it helpful though. Also the temp control is not intuitive and it’s hard to tell where you are on the temperature continuum. So far I’m not blown away for the price.

[@sethbarnes7608]

Can't wait to see this next video!!!!!!!😁😁😁

[@kevin-vt7dw]

No you are right try lighting it with a little wind I'm in the market for one but not that one

[@jefferyholland]

An honest review is what you get when they don't send them out for free. That racket would drive me crazy and I would have returned it as well.

[@elpimpi7135]

I agree didn't like mine either. Going to buy there classic kettle

[@jamesparker6017]

By the way. How was your RPM issue rectified ? Guess I missed the results. 🏄

[@CullenCraft]

Turned out the bottom was just too dirty. So much growth underneath. With smooth paint, theres far less drag and the screws are able to get to full speed. Now the problem is the trim tabs. I can get going fast, but she sticks to the water. Need to fix those for some lift.

[@blewyd]

Everything for boats are so damn expensive yet they are still built poorly! I thought magma was the "high quality" and "expensive brand" yet you don't get much for the $400 price tag and other competitors are just as bad. Good thing you returned so you could get a better one that is a lower price.

[@fogduker3131]

Sea b que got one its awesome 👌

[@plakeplays6420]

Not really picky but imma disagree with you since we use a magma catalina grill that we got a great deal on no problems except that the starter sometimes has issues

[@CAPTJohn47]

FWIW Kuumo uses 316 stainless which is superior in a marine environment to the 18-8 used by Magma.

[@wernerscherzinger4126]

Magma kettle grill has been great for me

[@jmrarmstrong]

I have had 3 of them and I realized they aren't worth the hefty price tag. I stopped buying them, and replacement parts are pricey.

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍I’m so happy to see this....I’m definitely NOT getting a Magma now. 😂

[@willisworms]

They all go gold!

[@jamesparker6017]

Melbourne Beach Florida 🌴🇺🇸 I find W M to be overpriced on everything. 🏄

[@jgsmith1624]

Absolutely I hate that place. At least 3x the cost of Amazon

[@masdbo]

Yes but they price match anyone who sells within Jacksonville area. Even if it’s Amazon if sold and distributed by Amazon. I’ve got some great deals from them by price match, The only way I buy from West Marine.

[@michaelbarile528]

When we bought our currnet boat, it was equiped with the Magma Newport. When in use once it rotated on the boat railing and gave me a severe burn. The mounting adapter was too large to clamp securely to the railing. To reduce the diameter of the clamp, Magma provides a reducer sleeve, a plastic filler between the clamp and the rail. This was all installed on my grill. But these units are heavy and the rotational force piviting in the railing caused it to tip. Be very careful. I finally got rid of it and bought a Home Depot camping grill with fold up legs. When folded it stands against the rear railing with a bungee cord. not pretty but very functional

[@ethancosculluela3312]

My hood came apart at the corner metal seams.

[@ThatCarGuy]

Looks like it might stay that shiny forever now lol.

[@abthatdude7898]

That grill is shiny

[@JoanOfArgghh]

Yeah, we spent more time fixing ours than cooking on it.

[@herrakekkonen]

Well that really didn't seem a qualityproduct that I assumed it would be.

[@srtbravo6590]

Why are you whining, fix it. Its called owning a boat, maybe your just not up to the responsibility.

[@CullenCraft]

It's a bad product in my experience. The video title and thumbnail make it pretty clear I'm gonna be critical of the bad experience. You're the one who clicked on the video 🤷‍♂️

[@gregorgman]

I threw mine overboard and called the Vice President of the company to tell him what piece of Sh..it is. They are a terrible grill.

[@CullenCraft]

Awesome. Some lessons need to be learned the hard way.

[@mrchairman08]

Buy the grill that you want to end up with not the one that will just do for now.

[@Escapetosea]

Magma is simultaneously the most expensive, and crapiest grill of the roughly 20 I’ve had In my lifetime.

[@lakeseminole]

You would have been far better off to purchase a small gas standing grill from Home Depot. I know boaters want the "cool" look of a barbie in the rail yet $400? No, you have plenty of room there for a regular grill.

[@CullenCraft]

I much rather spend some money for something designed for a boat. Some of it is the design language. But some of it is the safety factor. Or at least the illusion of it. I spend some much time preventing explosion hazards that I feel an obligation to make sure my grill is up to snuff.

[@paulybouy.163]

Never be this shiny again. Too funny You make me laugh

[@karaDee2363]

That Grill is junk, and I would have taken it back the minute I heard it rattle. Then I would go to Home Depot and buy a propane grill with a 20 lb propane tank for under $200. It doesn't have to be shiny stainless steel to be on a boat

[@cheapme1850]

I just watched this an I’m sorry, but it kind of rubbed me the wrong way. Why would you expect them to send you a free grill? Then you bought the wrong parts, cross-threaded the mount latch, it seems like you were fumbling during the entire process and it seems like you didn’t do any research about best mounting practices and types. No doubt Magma grills are expensive, but frankly, that’s boating in general. I found a used Magma grill online and I also tried to mount it on a rail - it’s didn’t work well, but I didn’t blame the product - I just went and got a proper mount like I should have originally.

[@CullenCraft]

The product was flawed in many ways and was very disappointing on many fronts. I made a review about a competitor, kuuma, that lived up to every expectation I had from the magma grill, and cost around half the price. My ideals weren't too lofty, I know because the kuuma checked every box and then some. I also never expected a free grill, just hoped. And I included that detail to be as transparent as possible. Even if they had sent me a free one, I would not have been content with the product, it simply isn't what I had hoped.

[@hotrodhog2170]

What a hunk of junk! I can't even imagine the noise that thing would make under way! I would be nervous of ANY grill up there just vibrating the railing mounts loose out of the floor! Mounting it at a corner might provide better stability but any vibration will transmit down to the mounting hardware.

[@bigblockcutlass123]

Take it back

[@johnversteeg1184]

Not getting a magma after seeing this.

[@paulybouy.163]

Nope not too picky when it’s your money

[@chrissmith1521]

Just use a $100 Coleman from hardware store.

[@DRobinsonEKU]

You lost me at, "I wanted free stuff and now I'm disgruntled..."

[@johnbeach7985]

Ridiculously expensive for THAT!'

[@rolandfero9742]

Over $400 for a sheet metal, canister propane grill is crazy...get a full size $100 residencial propane grill with a 20# tank. Bungee cord or make your own mounting bracket....a 20# tank is def cheaper than those small canisters in the long run...tight lines😎

[@CullenCraft]

I'll definitely upgrade to a full size canister, but I want a grill designed for boats. There's a special kind of design language to it.

[@jkutyna]

So instead of adding some self vulcanizing rubber to that lock that annoys you, and installing your own temperature gage as you knew this model lacked such from the packaging, you instead bash it and send it back, then choose some cheaper made-in-china brand that won't last 6 months in a marine environment. I am amazed you even are capable of raising your mainsail to go out on the water with that kind of attitude.

[@CullenCraft]

Yes. When I buy something, I want it to be good. Buy crap if you want, but the grill I got instead has lasted years and saved me money and time.

[@wallywombat164]

Take the useless thing back. I would have made a longer vid showing all, i mean ALL the crap parts of 400 odd $ bbq.

[@CullenCraft]

Truth

[@Indianear7]

Lack of research was part of the problem. True that the grill is cheaply made, but you caused some of the problems too. 1st mistake, buying it from West Marine. They have the highest prices of any store that I've shopped at. Have you seen a magma grill in person, maybe on someone else's boat? Can you have live fires onboard at your marina? Is it the manufacturers fault that you tightened the mount too tight? Take it back and own up to your mistakes. By the way, have you seen and touched the one you ordered? Good luck.

[@masdbo]

They are high on everything, but they do price match anything you buy there as long as it is sold in the same area as your store, even Amazon if sold and shipped by them. So find the cheapest price, (even Walmart), show them on your phone and they match it no question. It’s good to patronize brick and mortar stores, but they have to be competitive.

[@Indianear7]

@@masdbo If you found it cheaper somewhere else, why wouldn't you buy it from them instead of the price gouging West Marine? If they can match the price, why haven't they already priced it the same?

[@masdbo]

@@Indianear7 did you really mean “gouging West Marine”? I think they wrote the book on that! Besides there’s not a whole lot of retail marine stores left to walk around and browse. I am talking about online shopping comparison when I’m in the store. Their price match does not even count their competitor’s shipping costs, so you get it for the actual price of the competitor. I used Walmart as an example but I don’t mean Walmart stores I mean Walmart.com that has a much bigger variety of just about anything you want. Having them price match makes them more competitive.

[@kimmer6]

Our local Worst Marine store closed down a few years ago. Their prices were high and most of the employees were helpful. But that one rude pain in the neck girl they had made me stop shopping there and get everything online.

[@thomasucc]

$400 for a load of tin, lol

[@michielderuyter6011]

100 bucks is enough for this cocecan

[@trevorfoy6307]

Buys the wrong product and then complains about everything when it when obviously before

[@CullenCraft]

When it when obviously before

[@sethbarnes7608]

Well...what the!!...how does a guy.... Piece of sh....well help me understand!!... 😂 (watch some Vise Grip garage, and you'll understand) that thing fkn sucked!! Hope you can find a nicer one

[@rahrah7535]

You paid too much, an d aren't competent enough to set it up... nothing wrong with the grill buddy, user error

[@CullenCraft]

Except ya know... The loose latch that constantly rattles. But that would only be a problem somewhere that's always rocking back and forth. Good thing magma grills aren't made for boats, amirite?

[@robertkreamer7522]

Over priced under built

[@reggiefenner8646]

Over rated and over priced

[@benmarklew9917]

Crap