The Traeger Ranger grill is pretty handy for those who love grilling on the move, whether you're heading out for a camping adventure, enjoying a tailgate, or working with a smaller outdoor space. Just keep in mind, it does need electricity, so that could be a factor when you're in more remote spots.
According to the manufacturer's description, it features an 8-pound pellet hopper and a 184-square-inch cooking surface, which should be plenty for a rack of ribs, some burgers, or a bunch of hot dogs. Plus, it comes with a meat probe that helps you check the internal temperatures of your food, which is super useful.
Using wood pellets as fuel means you can control the temperature pretty precisely. However, our research found that sometimes the temperature can fluctuate—it might run hotter than what you set it to. So, keeping a close watch, setting it up right, and doing regular maintenance might be necessary.
Regarding portability, it's definitely easier to move around than a traditional grill, but keep in mind that it's a bit heavier compared to other portable options, like the Asmoke Portable Pellet Grill. You'll want to be careful when hauling it around.
Some folks mentioned issues with the digital controllers, but Traeger's customer service usually steps in to replace any faulty parts, although it might take some patience. Once that's sorted, it seems that many are quite happy with how compact and efficient it is.
So, if you're looking for a portable grill that can handle both grilling and smoking, the Traeger Ranger is a solid option. Just remember, it might need a bit of troubleshooting and careful handling due to its weight.