Blackstone On the Go 17 Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

Blackstone On the Go 17: Compact Gas Grill for Tailgating and Outdoor Cooking

When it comes to portable gas grills meant for tailgating, camping, and small outdoor kitchens, the Blackstone On the Go 17 stands out as a practical, well-engineered tabletop grill. Designed to be compact yet functional, this grill targets users who seek portability without sacrificing essential cooking performance. At a glance, its specification sheet reflects a carefully balanced setup aimed at delivering decent heat output and ease of use within a compact frame. But does it really live up to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and casual chefs? Let's break down what it offers based on its engineering data and specifications.

Detailed Specs & Features

On paper, the Blackstone On the Go 17 is a gas grill featuring a single burner delivering 12,500 BTUs of power, which is quite sufficient for its size. The cooking surface measures 17 by 16 inches, providing 267 square inches of space; enough for preparing meals for small groups or families. It runs on propane, compatible with a 1-pound tank, emphasizing true portability and convenience for outdoor use.

Its construction uses a combination of stainless steel, cold-rolled steel, and powder-coated steel, making the building materials durable and weather-resistant. The grill also features a foldable design with collapsible legs, making it easy to fit in and out of vehicles while camping or tailgating. Further, its powder-coated exterior finish improves rust resistance, and UV, wind, and rain resistance reinforce its suitability for various outdoor environments.

User Experience & Performance (Based on Specs)

Design & Build

In daily use, the Blackstone On the Go 17 impresses with its compact dimensions (18.5" width, 22.5" depth, and 12.25" height) and portability features like a sturdy integrated handle and collapsible legs. The bolted construction ensures frame stability, a crucial factor when cooking on uneven surfaces outdoors. Stainless steel handles and a steel drip tray add reliability, though the grill itself weighs 30 pounds; manageable but still requiring some effort for transport.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Blackstone delivers a temperature range of 200 to 500 °F, with a quick preheat time of about 10 minutes, which is fast for a tabletop grill. The single stainless steel burner exhibits good heat distribution and retention, minimizing hotspots, something many outdoor grills struggle with. The grill's flare-up resistance is medium, showing it manages grease flames decently, though not completely eliminating flare-ups. Fuel efficiency rates are good, meaning users can expect reasonable propane usage per session, especially since propane tanks of compatible size are easy to swap.

Cooking Features

Functionality is straightforward with one burner controlled by a plastic knob, equipped with a piezo ignition system that removes the need for batteries. While lacking advanced cooking features like multi-zone capability, temperature gauges, or rotisserie kits, it compensates by including a warming rack and grease management system, enhancing user convenience. The inclusion of a grease pan and full-width drip tray supports easier cleaning and helps manage grease-related flare-ups partially, which is beneficial for both safety and maintenance.

Extra Features

The Blackstone On the Go 17 covers the basics with additional perks such as a foldable design facilitating portability, making it a go-to for outdoor kitchen setups, tailgating, and camping. However, it lacks digital controls, app connectivity, and smart features, which are more common in modern high-end grills but less critical in a portable unit of this category. Its UL safety certification assures users that it meets established safety standards, even though it does not have automatic shutoff or flame failure devices.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust 12,500 BTU single burner with good heat retention and fast preheat time.
• Portable foldable design with collapsible legs and integrated handles.
• Durable construction using stainless steel, powder-coated steel, and cold-rolled steel.
• An effective grease management system and warming rack are included.
• UL safety certification ensures reliable safety compliance.

Cons

• No advanced safety features like an automatic shutoff or flame failure device.
• Lacks integrated thermometer and multi-zone cooking capabilities.
• Weighs 30 pounds, which might be cumbersome for more casual portability needs.
• No digital or smart controls, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Price & Value For Money

The Blackstone On the Go 17 is priced at $159 at BlackstoneProducts.com, which feels reasonable for a portable gas grill with robust materials and sufficient heating power. Given its one-year warranty period and efficient burner output, the pricing reflects good value for those who prioritize portability and solid construction over high-end features. It targets users who want a durable, no-nonsense grill to take on trips or small outdoor cooking sessions rather than a full-featured outdoor kitchen centerpiece.

Quick Take

In short, the Blackstone On the Go 17 is a solidly built, practical portable grill that excels in heat retention and portability with a modest footprint. Its combination of a single 12,500 BTU burner and foldable design promises reliable performance for camping and tailgating. While lacking some modern bells and whistles, its sturdy materials and efficiency make it a trustworthy choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Closing Recommendation

The Blackstone On the Go 17 may be ideal for users seeking a straightforward, portable gas grill with a good proxy cooking surface area and power, especially for situations where space and portability matter most. It appears to perform best for outdoor campers, tailgaters, and those with limited storage space who value durability and fast heat-up times. For buyers looking for smart tech integrations or multi-zone cooking, exploring higher-end models might be necessary, but for its category, this grill helps users achieve dependable and easy outdoor cooking setups.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe Blackstone On the Go 17 deserves 4.3 out of 5.

• Winner Feature => robust 12,500 BTU burner with quick heat-up and good heat retention for its size.
• Needs Improvement => lacks advanced safety features and integrated temperature controls common in modern grills.