If you’ve been following my “Science-First” cooks here in Northern Michigan, you know that I don’t have much patience for gear that fails when the temperature drops. Whether it’s a probe that loses its calibration at 15°F or a “bargain” charcoal that burns through in twenty minutes, bad gear is a waste of your time and your money.

But let’s be honest: Building the ultimate “Kettle Kitchen” isn’t cheap. High-quality thermal probes, carbon felt welding blankets, and premium lump charcoal can add up fast.

That’s why I’m launching something new: The MI Griller Scouting Report.

Why a Newsletter?

I spend a lot of time “scouting” gear. I’m constantly looking at price trends, testing new accessories, and tracking what the pros are using. I realized that instead of keeping that data in my Field Guide, I should be sharing it with this community.

Every week, I’m going to send out a curated list of the best BBQ deals on the market. But this isn’t just a random list of links.

The “Science-First” Standard

When you sign up for the Scouting Report, you aren’t just getting “cheap” gear. You’re getting gear that meets my standards. If I wouldn’t trust it on my 22-inch Weber Kettle during a 1°F “RealFeel” cook, I’m not going to recommend it to you.

What you can expect every Thursday:

• The “Northwoods” Pick: Gear specifically chosen for its durability and performance in extreme conditions.
• Price Drop Alerts: I use thermal mapping for my meat, and I use price mapping for my gear. I’ll tell you when a high-end grill or accessory hits a 6-month low.
• Fuel Reports: Deals on the charcoal and wood chunks that provide the cleanest “blue smoke.”
• The “Secret” Stash: Warehouse deals and open-box steals that most people miss.

Join the Crew (And Get a Free Gift)

I want to help you master the pit without breaking the bank. When you sign up for the newsletter, I’m also going to send you my latest technical guide: “The 5 Secrets to Sub-Zero Grilling.” It’s the baseline for everything I do here in Bear Lake.

Ready to level up your gear game? Sign up for the Scouting Report here:

👉 Join the MI Griller Scouting Report

Let’s spend less time hunting for deals and more time mastering the fire.

— Tom