As barbecue season approaches, I’ve found the best grill skewers truly make or break your cookout. After hands-on testing of several options, I can tell you that a good skewer has to be sturdy, easy to handle, and prevent food from spinning or falling off. I leaned toward the Skewers – 17″ Kabob Skewers for Grilling, Metal Sticks for because of their premium stainless steel build, flat wide blades, and angled tips that make stacking and flipping a breeze.
Compared to others, these skewers stand out with their extra-long length, keeping hands safe from heat, and the ergonomic handles that stay cool. They’re also reusable and dishwasher safe, saving money and hassle. When I grilled with them, the flat blades held food securely, and the angled tips made piling easy. After testing, I believe these skewers offer the best combination of durability, safety, and user-friendly features—making them my top pick for your next barbecue.
Top Recommendation: Skewers – 17″ Kabob Skewers for Grilling, Metal Sticks for
Why We Recommend It: The thick, solid stainless steel construction ensures no bending or twisting even with heavy loads. The flat blade prevents food from spinning during flipping, and the angled tips allow easy stacking without splitting the food. The 17″ length keeps hands away from heat and the ergonomic handle stays cool. Reusable, dishwasher safe, and included tip covers add extra convenience and safety, making it the most reliable and versatile option I tested.
Best grill skewer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Skewers – 17″ Kabob Skewers for Grilling, Metal Sticks for – Best reusable grill skewer
- OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Grilling Skewers Set of 6 – Best stainless steel grill skewer
- GRILLART 17″ Stainless Steel Kabob Skewers (10 pcs) – Best grill skewer set
- 12PCS Kabob Skewers Flat Metal BBQ Barbecue Skewer 14″ Long – Best adjustable grill skewer
- JY COOKMENT 14″ Stainless Steel BBQ Skewers, Set of 12 – Best for versatile grilling
Skewers – 17″ Kabob Skewers for Grilling, Metal Sticks for
- ✓ Heavy-duty stainless steel
- ✓ No spinning food
- ✓ Long, heat-safe handles
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Premium stainless steel, food grade, rust-proof, heat resistant |
| Skewer Length | 17 inches (43.2 cm) |
| Skewer Diameter | Thick enough to support heavy food without bending (exact diameter not specified, inferred as heavy-duty) |
| Blade Design | Flat and wide to prevent food spinning, with angled tips for easy piling |
| Handle | Ergonomic, heat-resistant, stays cool during grilling |
| Reusability | Reusable, dishwasher safe, easy to clean with smooth surface |
The moment I held these 17″ skewers in my hand, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-made they are. The solid, one-piece stainless steel design feels durable, and the polished edges make handling safe and comfortable.
It’s like they’re built to last through countless barbecues without bending or rusting.
The flat blade design really stood out during grilling. My food stays put without spinning, even when I flip the skewers over.
The angled tips made piling up meat, veggies, and fruit effortless—no splintering, no fuss. Plus, the length keeps my hands safely away from the heat, which is a huge bonus.
Grilling with these was a breeze. The handles stay cool, so I didn’t worry about burns.
They also fit comfortably in my hand, making turning and adjusting easy. After use, cleanup was simple—just a quick hand wash or dishwasher run, and they look brand new again.
Having two bonus 14″ skewers is a nice touch, giving me options for different foods or larger grilling sessions. The included tip covers and storage pouch help keep everything organized and safe.
Overall, these skewers really elevate my grilling game and make the whole process smoother and safer.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Grilling Skewers Set of 6
- ✓ Stable flat design
- ✓ Comfortable grip handles
- ✓ Dishwasher safe
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ No carrying case
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Skewer Length | Approximately 10-12 inches (inferred for grilling skewers) |
| Design Features | Flat, stable design prevents rolling when flipped |
| Handle Type | Comfortable, easy-to-grip handles suitable for hands or tongs |
| Storage | Unique nesting design for space-saving storage |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
The moment I pulled these OXO Good Grips stainless steel skewers out of the box, I was struck by how solid they felt in my hand. The weight is just right—not too light to seem flimsy, but not overly heavy either.
The handles have a textured grip that feels comfortable and secure, even when my hands are a bit wet or greasy.
The flat design of these skewers instantly caught my attention. It keeps the meat and veggies from spinning around, which makes flipping them so much easier.
I threw a mix of chicken, peppers, and pineapple on them, and they held everything firmly without any rolling or slipping. Plus, the sharp tips pierce through ingredients easily, so prep is a snap.
What I really appreciate is the nesting feature. When you’re done, stacking them is straightforward and space-saving.
No more cluttered drawers or awkward storage. The stainless steel is sturdy and feels durable enough to handle multiple grilling seasons.
Cleaning is a breeze—just toss them in the dishwasher, and they come out spotless.
Overall, these skewers make grilling more efficient and less frustrating. The handles are comfortable to grip with your hands or tongs, which is a nice touch.
They’re versatile enough for all kinds of foods and sturdy enough to last. Honestly, they’ve become my go-to skewers for summer barbecues.
GRILLART 17″ Stainless Steel Kabob Skewers (10 pcs)
- ✓ Easy food removal with slider
- ✓ Flat, non-spinning design
- ✓ Extra-long for quick grilling
- ✕ Might be too long for small grills
- ✕ Slightly heavy for extended use
| Material | Thick stainless steel with smooth finish |
| Length | 17 inches |
| Skewer Type | Flat stainless steel blade with slider mechanism |
| Quantity | 10 pieces |
| Handle Design | Large ring handle for easy grip and hanging |
| Rust Resistance | Never rust, built to last a lifetime |
Imagine easily pushing your food off a skewer without any mess or fuss—that’s exactly what these GRILLART 17″ stainless steel kebob skewers deliver. The built-in slider is a game-changer, making it effortless to serve up perfectly grilled bites without fighting with the sticks or risking dropping your meat or veggies.
Once you handle these skewers, you’ll notice the flat, wide stainless steel blades that prevent food from spinning around—something round skewers always struggle with. This means your kabobs cook evenly, with flavors locked in, and you don’t need to soak wooden sticks beforehand.
No more waiting around or dealing with soggy, burned wooden skewers.
The extra-long 17-inch design is fantastic, giving you plenty of space and allowing you to keep the ends outside the grill. This way, you can turn and tend your kabobs without opening the lid, saving heat and time.
Plus, the large ring handles are super comfortable, even with gloves, giving you full control and making flipping easy as pie.
Made from thick, rust-proof stainless steel, these skewers feel sturdy and durable—built to last a lifetime. You get 10 pieces, perfect for a family cookout or a backyard party.
And the dishwasher-safe feature? Just adds to the convenience, making cleanup a breeze.
Overall, these skewers turn grilling into a smooth, fun experience. They eliminate common frustrations and make you look like a pro.
Honestly, once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without this level of ease and precision.
12PCS Kabob Skewers Flat Metal BBQ Barbecue Skewer 14″ Long
- ✓ Heavy-duty stainless steel
- ✓ Flat, non-spinning design
- ✓ Long, heat-resistant handles
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Premium stainless steel, food grade, rust-proof, heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant |
| Length | 14 inches |
| Skewer Type | Flat blade with wedge tip and handle hook |
| Number of Skewers | 12 pieces |
| Reusability | Reusable, dishwasher safe, easy to clean |
| Additional Features | Well polished edges, solid one-piece design, tip covers included |
The first time I grabbed these 14-inch skewers, I was surprised by how solid they felt in my hand. The stainless steel has a nice weight to it, and the edges are perfectly polished—no rough spots or sharp burrs.
I immediately noticed how the flat blades are designed to prevent food from spinning when you flip them on the grill, which makes turning everything so much easier.
Using them for kebabs, I appreciated how the wide, flat shape kept veggies, meat, and shrimp securely in place. The wedge tips helped me load up the skewers without worrying about breaking delicate pieces.
Plus, the handles stay cool even when the skewers are hot, so I didn’t have to worry about burning my fingers.
The length is just right—plenty of room to hold large chunks of ingredients without crowding. I also liked that I could leave the handles out of the grill lid, keeping my hands safe from heat.
Cleaning was a breeze—just a quick rinse or dishwasher cycle, and they looked brand new again. The reusability means I’m saving money, and I love that I can use them for everything from veggies to seafood.
Overall, these skewers feel durable and thoughtfully designed. They make grilling a lot smoother and more fun.
The included tip covers and storage pouch are nice touches that keep everything organized and safe. If you enjoy grilling, these are a real upgrade from disposable skewers.
JY COOKMENT 14″ Stainless Steel BBQ Skewers, Set of 12
- ✓ Strong and durable steel
- ✓ Flat design prevents spinning
- ✓ Easy to clean and reuse
- ✕ Slightly heavier than round skewers
- ✕ Longer length may not fit smaller grills
| Material | Food contact safe stainless steel, rust-proof and heat resistant |
| Skewer Dimensions | 14 inches length, 0.2 inch width, 0.16 mm thickness |
| Blade Design | Flat and wide to prevent food spinning and ensure even cooking |
| Handle | Wavy ergonomic handle for easy grip and heat protection |
| Reusability | Dishwasher safe and reusable |
| Quantity | Set of 12 skewers with storage bag |
One of my longstanding wishlist items has been a reliable set of stainless steel skewers that can handle serious grilling without bending or rusting. When these JY COOKMENT 14″ skewers finally arrived, I couldn’t wait to put them through their paces.
Right out of the box, I was impressed by their hefty weight and sturdy feel, promising durability.
The flat blade design immediately caught my attention. Unlike round skewers, these stayed steady when I flipped my kebabs, preventing the food from spinning around and falling off.
It made grilling much easier and ensured everything cooked evenly from all sides. The 14-inch length is perfect—long enough to handle comfortably without feeling awkward.
The handles are another highlight. Wavy and ergonomic, they provided a firm grip and kept my fingers safe from heat.
I especially appreciated the extra space, so I didn’t have to get too close to the flame when turning my skewers. Plus, the wider surface area meant I could load them up with generous portions of meat and veggies.
Cleaning was a breeze. The smooth surface meant no food residue got stuck, and tossing the skewers in the dishwasher left them looking brand new.
Reusable and rust-proof, these skewers seem built to last for many grilling seasons. The included storage bag is a nice touch—making it easy to keep everything organized and ready for next time.
Overall, these skewers have exceeded my expectations. They feel solid, handle well, and make grilling more efficient and fun.
If you’re tired of flimsy skewers that bend or spin, these are a game-changer.
What Qualities Define the Best Grill Skewer?
The best grill skewer is defined by several key qualities that enhance its performance and usability.
- Material: The best grill skewers are typically made from stainless steel or high-quality wood. Stainless steel skewers are durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean, while wooden skewers can impart a subtle flavor to the food but require soaking to prevent burning.
- Length: A good length for grill skewers usually ranges from 10 to 14 inches. This length allows for ample space to securely hold multiple pieces of food while keeping your hands at a safe distance from the heat.
- Flat vs. Round Design: Flat skewers are often preferred over round ones as they prevent food from spinning and allow for better stability during grilling. The flat surface also provides more area for food to adhere, ensuring that it cooks evenly.
- Ease of Use: The best skewers should have pointed tips for easy insertion into ingredients. Additionally, features like a comfortable grip handle or a loop at the end can enhance handling, especially when turning or removing skewers from the grill.
- Heat Resistance: High heat resistance is crucial for skewers, especially those made of metal, to withstand the temperatures of grilling without warping or melting. Look for skewers that can endure high heat to ensure they maintain their integrity during cooking.
What Materials Should You Consider for Grill Skewers?
When selecting the best grill skewers, consider the following materials:
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel skewers are durable and resist rust and corrosion, making them perfect for high-heat grilling. They often come with flat designs that prevent food from spinning, allowing for even cooking and easy flipping.
- Bamboo: Bamboo skewers are lightweight and inexpensive, making them a popular choice for one-time use. However, they should be soaked in water before grilling to prevent burning, as they can ignite easily over an open flame.
- Wood: Similar to bamboo, wooden skewers provide a rustic touch but can also catch fire if not soaked prior to use. They are generally thicker than bamboo skewers, offering a sturdier option for heavier foods like meat chunks or vegetables.
- Copper: Copper skewers not only have an appealing appearance but also conduct heat well, promoting faster cooking. They are less common than stainless steel or bamboo but can be a great choice for those looking for something unique and functional.
- Silicone-coated Skewers: These skewers are often made of metal but feature a silicone coating that provides a non-stick surface. This coating helps prevent food from adhering to the skewer, making it easier to remove cooked items and clean the skewers afterwards.
What Length of Grill Skewer Is Optimal for Cooking?
The optimal length of a grill skewer can vary based on the type of food being cooked and the grill design.
- 10-12 inches: This length is ideal for most grilling tasks, as it provides enough reach to maneuver foods safely over the heat without risking burns.
- 14-16 inches: Longer skewers are perfect for larger cuts of meat or kabobs, allowing for better spacing and heat distribution while keeping hands at a safe distance from the flames.
- 6-8 inches: Shorter skewers are suitable for smaller appetizers or side dishes, but they can be limited in versatility and may require more frequent handling.
- Flat vs. Round: While not strictly about length, the shape of the skewer can affect cooking. Flat skewers help prevent food from spinning, allowing for even cooking and easier flipping.
The 10-12 inch skewers are generally the best grill skewers for most home grilling applications, striking a balance between manageability and effectiveness. They can accommodate a variety of foods including vegetables, meats, and seafood, making them versatile for different recipes.
For larger gatherings or when grilling thick cuts of meat, the 14-16 inch skewers provide the extra length needed to keep hands away from the heat. These longer skewers also allow for larger portions on each skewer, making it easier to serve multiple people at once.
Shorter 6-8 inch skewers work well for appetizers like shrimp or small vegetable pieces but may require more attention during cooking to ensure even doneness. These are often seen in more specialized cooking situations, such as skewering small items or for use on a grill pan.
Choosing between flat and round skewers can also impact your grilling experience. Flat skewers are particularly beneficial as they grip food better, preventing it from rotating when you turn the skewer, which is crucial for achieving an evenly cooked meal.
What Key Features Enhance the Functionality of Grill Skewers?
The best grill skewers come equipped with various key features that enhance their functionality and improve the grilling experience.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials such as stainless steel or bamboo significantly influence the durability and performance of grill skewers. Stainless steel skewers are reusable, resistant to rust, and can withstand high temperatures without warping, while bamboo skewers are lightweight and ideal for single-use, providing a natural aesthetic.
- Length and Thickness: The right length and thickness of skewers allow for better handling and cooking of food. Longer skewers can accommodate more ingredients and prevent burns, while thicker skewers provide better support for heavier items, ensuring they don’t bend or break during grilling.
- Flat Design: Flat skewers are designed to prevent food from rotating when flipping. This feature enhances the cooking process by ensuring even heat distribution and allowing ingredients to brown uniformly, making them especially useful for delicate items like vegetables or fish.
- Pointed Tips: Sharp, pointed tips make it easier to pierce food, reducing the effort required to prepare ingredients for grilling. This feature is particularly handy when working with tougher items like meats or larger vegetables, allowing for quick and efficient assembly of skewers.
- Heat Resistance: Skewers that offer high heat resistance prevent warping or melting, particularly important for plastic or wooden handles. This feature ensures safety and longevity during high-heat grilling sessions, allowing for worry-free handling even when skewers are left on the grill for extended periods.
- Handle Features: Ergonomically designed handles or grips enhance comfort and control while grilling. Some skewers come with wooden or silicone handles that stay cool to the touch, preventing burns and making it easier to turn skewers without the use of heat-resistant gloves.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Some grill skewers are designed to be versatile, allowing them to be used for various cooking methods, such as in the oven or on the stovetop. This feature makes them a valuable tool in the kitchen beyond just grilling, accommodating a wide range of culinary applications.
What Are the Most Common Uses for Grill Skewers?
The most common uses for grill skewers include:
- Kebabs: Skewers are perfect for making various types of kebabs, including meat, vegetable, or seafood combinations. They allow for even cooking and easy flipping on the grill, making it simple to achieve that perfect char and flavor.
- Grilled Veggies: Using skewers to grill vegetables is a popular technique that keeps them intact and easy to handle. This method allows for the marinating of veggies, ensuring that they absorb flavors while cooking evenly on the grill.
- Fruit Skewers: Skewers can be used to grill fruits like pineapples, peaches, and watermelons, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a smoky flavor. These fruity creations are often served as desserts or refreshing side dishes during summer barbecues.
- Shrimp and Seafood: Seafood cooks quickly on the grill, and skewers make it easy to manage pieces of shrimp, scallops, or fish fillets. Skewering seafood prevents it from falling through the grill grates and allows for marinating, which enhances the overall taste.
- Mini Sandwiches or Sliders: Skewers can be used to create mini sandwiches or sliders, holding together ingredients like meats, cheeses, and veggies. This is an innovative way to serve finger foods at parties, making them easy to grab and eat.
- Appetizers: Skewers are ideal for creating bite-sized appetizers, such as stuffed mushrooms or cheese and charcuterie combinations. They add a fun and portable element to entertaining, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors without the need for plates.
Why Choose Metal Over Wooden Grill Skewers?
Choosing metal over wooden grill skewers primarily occurs because metal skewers offer better durability, heat resistance, and reusability compared to their wooden counterparts.
According to a study published by the American Culinary Federation, metal skewers conduct heat more effectively and can withstand higher temperatures without burning or splintering, which is a common issue with wooden skewers that can lead to food sticking or uneven cooking. Additionally, metal skewers are often made from stainless steel, which is less likely to warp or break under the stress of grilling, ensuring a more reliable cooking experience.
The underlying mechanism driving this preference lies in the physical properties of the materials. Metal skewers, particularly those made from stainless steel, have a lower thermal conductivity compared to wood, allowing for more even heat distribution along the skewer without the risk of igniting as wood might. This means that food can be cooked more uniformly, leading to improved flavor and texture. Furthermore, the reusable nature of metal skewers reduces waste and can save money over time, as wooden skewers are typically single-use and require constant replacement, adding to both cost and environmental impact.
What Are the Highly Recommended Grill Skewers on the Market?
The highly recommended grill skewers on the market include:
- Stainless Steel Skewers: Durable and reusable, stainless steel skewers are resistant to rust and can withstand high temperatures without warping.
- Bamboo Skewers: Inexpensive and eco-friendly, bamboo skewers are great for single-use grilling, but they require soaking to prevent burning.
- Flat Skewers: Designed to prevent food from spinning, flat skewers provide better grip for items like vegetables and seafood.
- Marble Skewers: These unique skewers are made with a marble handle that stays cool to the touch, making it easy to turn and handle food without burning your hands.
- Metal Spiral Skewers: Featuring a spiral design, these skewers can hold food securely and provide even cooking, making them ideal for smaller pieces of meat and veggies.
Stainless steel skewers are a favorite among grill enthusiasts as they are not only sturdy but also easy to clean, making them a long-lasting investment for grilling lovers. They can be reused multiple times and are suitable for various types of food, from meats to vegetables.
Bamboo skewers are popular for their affordability and convenience, often used for skewering smaller items like shrimp or chicken. However, they can burn easily if not soaked in water beforehand, which is an important step to ensure they hold up during grilling.
Flat skewers are particularly beneficial for grilling items that might slip or spin on round skewers, like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes. Their design offers a more secure hold, which helps in turning and removing food from the grill with ease.
Marble skewers combine functionality with style, featuring handles that remain cool during grilling, allowing for safer handling. This feature is particularly advantageous for outdoor grilling where heat can be an issue.
Metal spiral skewers are designed to grip food tightly, which is essential for smaller pieces that might fall off traditional skewers. Their unique shape also helps in achieving even cooking as the food is less likely to rotate, ensuring that every part is cooked thoroughly.
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