Charcoal Companion Black Boxed Chimney Starter

List Price: $14.99

Features:

• Environmentally safe method of lighting charcoal
• Chimney starter doesn't require use of lighter fluid
• Easy to use
• Heats coals quickly and efficiently in 15 to 20 minutes
• 1-year satisfaction guarantee

Customer Reviews:

Not so great [Posted on 2005-05-06]
The idea is good, it just needs a little more work. The chimney doesn't have enough air vents to draw oxygen, so loading it to the top just doesn't work. It is also very difficult to keep the fire going. It usually takes several re-lights just to start a few briquettes. It does work decently for about 5 briquettes or so. If you're roasting marshmellows, this is the way to go, but if you actually want someting that works, keep looking.

Ya'll need to learn to use it! [Posted on 2005-06-06]
For everyone out there that complains that this doesn't work well: learn to use it!! The key with all chimney starters is to put a bit of vegetable oil on the paper... this is the trick that Alton Brown taught me on Good Eats... I wouldn't spend twice the money for a fancy one when a tablespoon of vegie oil or a spray of Pam will do!

Look for another one [Posted on 2005-11-14]
I have had no problems with getting my charcoal lit, but the metal holding the handle isn't screwd in and it comes when lifted. I have to make sure I hold the handle at the very bottom so I don't drop the chimney.

The design is fine, the construction is lacking...

Durable and big [Posted on 2008-02-21]
This is durable. Don't just buy one of these in the grocery store. The quality doesn't compare. The heat shield also protects the handle from getting too hot. You can use this item without lighter fluid. Just crinkle a sheet of newspaper in the bottom and voila! I have also seen some place this right on the camp stove to give the coals a quick start. If you do, be careful as they get VERY hot!

Beats charcoal lighter fluid-no aftertaste [Posted on 2008-07-02]
The secret to making this product work well is to keep your old news papers inside, away from the humidity. Takes only one full sheet and about 20 to 25 minutes to get your fire going. And for me, charcoal grilling beats propane grilling by a long shot. Now, the chimney is going to ware out. I grill two or three times a week and mine is still going.

Click here for more details and discount information...