Performer v. Performer deluxe review


 
My SSP-centric $.02:

I bought a non-assist SSP in 2018 into which I transplanted a sage green bowl and lid. I was perfectly happy using a Weber cube to light a chimney.

About a year and a half later I stumbled across a free gas-assist SSP and transplanted the gas-assist bits along with a Crate & Barrel Green bowl and lid into my existing frame. I was perfectly happy using the gas assist to light a chimney.

Earlier this year, I transplanted an Ivory Master Touch bowl and lid into my SSP frame, but I couldn't bring myself to cut holes in the bowl to accommodate the SSP burner. I've been perfectly happy using a Weber cube to light a chimney.

If you had asked me which I preferred when I was using the gas-assist, I would have answered "gas-assist." After switching back, I'd have to say non-assist and the main reason why is that I generally putter about after starting the chimney. Using a lighter cube means I don't have to interrupt my puttering to return to the grill to shut off the gas.

Non-assist pluses: 1) Never having to make an extra trip to the grill to turn off the gas; 2) Not having to cut three holes into the bowl of the poor unsuspecting kettle you bought to transplant into your performer frame; 3) being able to use an internal ash pan; 4) No burner tube holes=fewer sources of unwanted air leaks; 5) The storage tray you gain when you remove the gas-assist apparatus on SSPs.

Assist pluses: 1) Turn handle. Push Button. Flame. 2) Not having to buy lighter cubes.
 

 

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