So, I dumped my old Charbroil with cast iron grates and SS body after three years because I simply couldn't keep up with the rust on the grates. It was replaced with an S420. Here we go:

The doors on the cart for the 420 are very flimsy. Worse, due to a design flaw, Weber decided to place the magnet that secures the doors at the bottom, but put the handle at the top. Therefore, the entire door twists unmercifully when opening. In 1 month's use, they no longer align perfectly.

Second, the door on the external burner has a cutaway in it for lifting the door. Unfortunately, that allows any tree items such as leaves, needles, insects, etc., to get inside. They should have used a folding metal method such as Charbroil did.

The burners go N to S like my old Charbroil. Very nice indeed for direct or indirect cooking. It takes about 15 minutes to get up to 500F. The right-most burner runs hotter than the other three).

Stainless steel grates are very thick. I don't foresee any problems with them, but they certainly don't retain heat like the iron units (as expected).

Silicone handles on the lid handle would have been a nice touch. The SS handle gets very hot while sitting in the sun. The hood is nice and heavy.

The apron at the bottom exposes the wheels a bit much. Though nitpicking, aesthetics are important on a midrange grill IMO.

Finally, the unit is no longer made entirely in the USA for those that care. The packaging clearly indicates that this is a joint venture between the US, Mexico, and Canada.

For the price, I suppose you can't go wrong. However, if you don't grill much, the Genesis line may suit people better, even with the E to W burner orientation.

Regards,
Paul

Edit: Cleaned up a few misspellings.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: P Hanley,

Morning Paul,

Glad to see your enjoying your new summit. Hope you have many satisfying experiences using it. Don't forget to include some foodporn when you post some of your grilling adventures in the near future.

Be well,
elliot

Do you know what model year you bought? I have a 2008 model, mfg'd in 2007. Handles are on top, magnets on bottom, but very solid. There was a change in the stainless steel in 2009. The 2011 model uses cast aluminum - perhaps to firm up the doors?

Thanks for the review Paul. I'm currently looking to purchase a gaser and I'm trying to decide between the S-420 or the more modestly priced Genesis so this was helpful for me.