Nothing beats the smell of smoke, the sizzle of meat, and the sound of friends laughing around the grill. A backyard BBQ is more than just a meal—it’s a summer ritual. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just figuring out charcoal, this guide has everything you need to pull off your best backyard cookout yet.
Set the Scene
Start with a welcoming setup. Think shaded seating, a stocked cooler, and a music playlist that sets the mood. If you’re hosting into the evening, string lights or lanterns can transform your yard into a cozy outdoor retreat.
Prep Like a Pro
The secret to a smooth BBQ is all in the prep. Marinate your meats early, chop your veggies, and have everything ready to go before the first guest arrives. And just like your grill, your knives need to be hot (well, sharp).
Nomad Series 8" Chef Knife
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Designed with nature in mind, this chef knife is forged from X70Cr17MoV stainless steel and features a stunning mountain burl wood and deep sea epoxy handle. Balanced and sharp, it’s ideal for everyday BBQ prep.
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Blade Length: 8 inches
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Blade Width: 2 inches
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Blade Thickness: 0.2 inches
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Handle: Stabilized burl wood and epoxy resin
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Best For: Slicing, chopping, dicing
Dynasty Series 12" Slicer
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Built for long, clean cuts through brisket, ham, or roasts, this slicer offers a razor-sharp San Mai AUS-10 core and carbonized rosewood handle for unmatched control and elegance.
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Blade Length: 12.1 inches
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Blade Width: 1.4 inches
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Thickness: 0.1 inch
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Handle: Full tang carbonized rosewood
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Best For: Brisket, pork shoulder, turkey carving
Hand Forged Kiri Cleaver
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A hybrid between a Serbian cleaver and a Kiritsuke blade, this high-carbon beast brings brute strength and slicing finesse to your BBQ setup. Perfect for chopping through tougher cuts or showcasing dramatic plating.
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Blade Length: 185 mm
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Blade Width: 87 mm
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Blade Thickness: 3 mm
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Handle: Full tang with ergonomic fit
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Steel: 1095 High Carbon Steel
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Best For: Butchering, power cuts, presentation slices
Grill with Confidence
Gas or charcoal, low and slow or quick sear—great BBQ is about heat control and patience. Keep a meat thermometer handy and resist the urge to flip too often.
Don’t Forget the Sides
Grilled corn, potato salad, watermelon slices—your sides add color and balance. Prep them in advance so you can focus on the fire.
Finish Strong
Let meats rest before slicing. Serve on wooden boards for that rustic look and bring out a signature sauce for a final flourish.
With the right prep, gear, and good company, your backyard BBQ can become the highlight of the season. Want to make it even easier? Browse our knives and make sure your summer setup is ready to go.