I bought the grates a few years back when I got my 360. My thinking then was I wanted those “cool” grill marks and such. I’ve never been on the steak competition circuit, so I don’t really know why that’s become a thing. Over time, I’ve come to prefer a complete sear on my steak, not just marks or criss-cross marks. It’s my opinion, they bring nothing to the game. So, the only reason I kept the grates as long as I did was using the flat side for the “griddle” aspect. I was gifted a Blackstone griddle for Christmas and don’t need them for that purpose, so I’m selling them.
With regards to the basket, I like kickash baskets, so I’ve got one in mine. It’s certainly not necessary but it serves my needs. A fire brick will serve the same purpose I suppose.
Yes, I have used kettles, it was my first cooker in college. I still have one at the hunting camp and love cooking on one. If I can sell my Primo XL I might very well put a kettle in my table. This is not settled though, I could more easily fit my PK in the current table and get a WSM instead, something I’ve been wanted for a while.
The 360 can do it all, but the only downside is ash management. The Weber has that all buttoned up. The 360 isn’t terrible, but you can’t beat Weber’s system. I don’t worry that my PK will ever rust or such, it is fairly indestructible. I plan to give it to one of my kids.
I’d very much like to see your thread, I’ll even help if that’s something you need.