Product spotlight: Innovative products from HPBExpo 2006

Tailgating items highlighted at Salt Lake City show

Courtney Mueller -- Casual Living, 3/16/2006 8:24:00 AM

There were plenty of new, innovative products seen while walking the floor of the HPBExpo, held March 8-11 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Products for tailgating were in the forefront, while grill accessories and outdoor firepits and fireplaces caught the eye of many buyers. Here is a sampling of product we saw at the show.

Cook Industries introduced the Cooks Backyard BBQ Series, including a barbecue kitchen designed specifically for tailgating. Made to fit all full-size trucks, the kitchen unfolds to reveal a stainless steel stove, complete with cast iron burners, mini-refrigerator and a microwave oven. A standard 110-volt source or generator powers the kitchen. For more information, visit www.cookind.com or call 877-577-2665.

From Lightstone, FireCones Aromatic Pinecone Firestarters present a unique way to start a fire in firepits, fireplaces and more. Made from 100 percent natural pinecones, they are dipped in a blend of scented candle-grade wax to provide a long-lasting, great smelling fire. For more information, visit www.lightstone.com or call 952-974-9100.

Robert H. Peterson's Real Fyre Designer Series now includes American Oak and Woodstack log sets. Designed to enhance any hearth with natural color and intricately detailed bark, the sets are available in sizes 18/20-, 24- and 30-inches, and in standard and see-thru models. The Charred American Oak log also debuted in the Charred Series. For more information, visit www.rhpeterson.com or call 626-369-5085.

The Salamangrill was introduced by Twin Eagles. Previously exclusive only to commercial kitchens, the grill is now available for residential use. It utilizes an overhead infrared cooking system in which food cooks under the heat rather than traditionally, when food is cooked above burners. A 15,000 btu infrared burner is mounted at the top of the cooking grate to provide instant, constant heat. For more information, email twineagles@dhmg.com or call 732-866-0666.

From Ducane, a brand new line of accessories debuted. In addition to a three-piece stainless steel tool set, which includes a long-handled tong, fork and spatula, the company is offering a stainless steel basket for grilling vegetables, a stainless steel grill pan for grilling fish, a rib rack, roast holder, 21-inch T-brush for cleaning grates, a barbecue mitt and apron and mesquite and hickory wood chips. The items have a suggested retail range between $2 and $25. For more information, visit www.ducane.com or call 800-382-2637.

Not exactly grill-related, but definitely worthy of note, the W.R. Perkins Signature Rocker was launched by The Hammock Source. Created to accentuate Southern memories, the rocker was found under dust and has recently been brought back to life. Crafted from 100% Duracord rope on the seat and back, the rocker is constructed of Brazilian hardwood, angelim pedra. For more information, call 800-334-1078 or visit www.thehammocksource.com.

Modern Home Products launched a hybrid cast aluminum gas grill at the show. The Chef's Choice Heritage Series has 574 square inches total cooking area and is powered by one infrared burner and two cast stainless steel oval burners. The unit has a lifetime warranty on its permanent mold cast aluminum grill housing, cast stainless steel burners, patented SearMagic cooking grids/warming rack and grill mountings. The series is available in natural or LP gas for stationary, portable and built-in applications. Suggested retail ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 depending on options. For more information, visit www.mhpgrills.com or call 888-647-4745.

From Orion comes an innovative outdoor portable fire pit. The fire pit folds itself to form a convenient carrying case and weighs less than 35 lbs. With folding carbon steel legs, ergonomic, fireproof handles and stainless steel construction (also available powder-coated), the fire pit is excellent for camping or tailgating. Suggested retail is below $100. For more information, call 866-891-3663.