I was grilling some chicken a while back with the help of some newly purchased barbecue gear. I’d just picked up a new knife, a basting brush, and a handheld blowtorch for a little fun. It got me thinking about what other tools I could use to make grilling and smoking feel even less like work, so I spent a few weeks searching for new and interesting items. After trying them out, I wanted to share some of my old favorites along with a few that may be new to you for your own backyard cooking.

XL Drip EZ BBQ Prep Tub ($50)


Prepping raw meat can be a messy task with the dirty cutting boards and rub debris all over the counter. Then, if you want to marinate the meat overnight, you have to find a container big enough to store it in the fridge. This prep tub solves all that. It has a cutting board inside for easy trimming, side walls to contain seasoning overspray, and a tight-fitting lid. Plus, it collapses for easier storage when not in use.

Sondiko Butane Torch ($27)


Pull the trigger on this torch (butane not included) and you’ll get a strong flame that isn’t going to blow out on a windy day. It lights up kindling or charcoal fire starters with ease. I was also surprised to see it being used recently at a barbecue joint to tighten up the casing on smoked sausages just before serving.

Ravs Propane Cooking Torch ($36)


If you really want to crisp the skin on grilled chicken, caramelize the glaze on a rack of ribs, and provide a boost to get the charcoal going in your grill, why not do it with a blowtorch? It screws into the top of small-sized propane cylinders easily found at hardware stores.

The Good Charcoal Super Briquettes ($15 for an eight-pound bag)


You may have learned about Good Charcoal from my explanation of premium charcoal brands, and you should know the company has expanded to using Namibian acacia wood to make briquettes as well.

Benchmade Mini Bugout ($180)


From cutting open charcoal bags to slicing butcher paper, I frequently reach for my pocketknife often when cooking outdoors. This one from Benchmade is super light, compact, and easily clips onto your pocket. It’s also made in America.

OXO Basting Bottle ($10)


A bowl of sauce with a mop or a brush can get the job done, but I’m now hooked on using this bottle for basting. You won’t get leaves or ash falling into the sauce or flies hovering when using this bottle and brush combo. When you’re done, just screw on the storage cap and put the sauce back in the fridge.

Leus BBQ Towel ($20)


A sturdy towel is a good thing to have at the ready when dealing with smoke, fire, and barbecue grease. The company that perfected towels for surfers has added a line for backyard cooks. To make sure it’s always within reach, a strong magnet is attached to one corner of the towel so it can hang from just about any grill or smoker.

Javelin Instant Read Thermometer ($27)


I’ve been loyal to Thermapen for years, though I’ve recently been impressed with this compact thermometer. It may take a second or two longer to get an accurate temperature reading, but at a third of the cost it’s not hard to get used to.

Sur La Table Chainmail Grill Brush ($30)


Bristled grill brushes are out: The metal bristles detach and become serious health hazards if ingested. I’ve tried wooden scrapers and metal coils, but this chainmail brush works better than any inexpensive, manual option I’ve found.

Nordic Ware Campfire Griller ($50)


I wouldn’t choose this cooking device over my backyard grill in every situation, but it’s perfect for campers. The size works well for a strip steak or a ribeye, like the one I recently cooked over lump charcoal. The meat had a great sear, and it cooked up quite quickly. I would suggest pulling the meat a little under your desired temperature, because the carry-over cooking from the intense heat was significant.