The Camp Chef Sport Grill MVP SPG25S is admittedly pricier than some other portable models. What it offers in return is two functions (grill and stovetop) in one grill. This grill uses quality components, such as stainless steel, cast iron and brass parts in its construction.

This unit has two independently controlled burners, which operate in a circular pattern, much like a conventional gas stove top. You can use the MVP either as a portable grill or as a portable two-burner stove, or combine the functions for the best of both. The grill comes with two cast-iron grill plates, an optional stove grate, two removable leg extensions, two removable side shelves and a stainless steel domed hood.

The grill/stove arrived factory assembled so all we had to do to get started was attach the leg extensions, hook up the propane cylinder and twist one of the front control dials to light the burner. The leg extensions are optional (for an additional cost of $27.99) but raise the grill up to a reasonable height for grilling. If you prefer, you can also place the grill (without its legs) on a tabletop or on the ground. We found the separate leg extensions to be a bit awkward at first, but once they were inserted in their designated slots, they proved to be quite stable. We also were impressed with the strength of the side shelves, which can support heavy pots or platters. The side shelves have stainless steel tops and molded utensil hooks.

To use the MVP as a stovetop, simply place the heavy-duty nickel-plated wire stove grate atop the cookbox before you light the grill. The stove can accommodate one or two pots or frying pans up to 12 inches in diameter. The gas burner can be adjusted from low to high and is extremely efficient for boiling water or cooking a wide variety of meals.

To use the MVP as a portable grill, remove the stove grate and place the two cast-iron grates atop the burners. The two grates combine to provide 375 square inches of cooking space. The grates have a solid center section, which sits over the burner to diffuse the flame, and slotted areas in front and back to allow grease and other drippings through. If you prefer griddle cooking, an optional cast-iron griddle plate can be purchased separately.

The igniter is built into the control knob so a quick twist both sends a spark and opens the valve to let gas flow. It took us a couple twists to light the grill initially; once the gas is flowing, one twist will do the trick.

We loved the idea of being able to use the grill as a stovetop. We found that you can use the stove grate with one cast-iron grate in place if you wish to combine functions, to cook hot dogs on one side and baked beans on the other, for instance. The cast-iron grate absorbs much of the heat from the burner, transferring it to the foods for wonderfully seared meats, fish, chicken and more. The burners combine to produce 25,000 Btu, which is more than enough heat to cook thick burners, steaks or chicken breasts.

We liked the easy removal of the various components for cleaning. For portability, the legs and side shelves remove and can be stored underneath the grill frame. The Camp Chef Sport Grill MVP SPG25S is an efficient cooking tool for the backyard, campground or tailgate venue. For the price, you get quality components, the versatility of two appliances and dependable operation.


Pros: Can be used as a grill or gas stovetop, two burners at 25,000 Btu, 375 square inches of cooking space
Cons: Leg extensions are awkward to insert

Warranty
90 days, accessories (limited); 1 year, grill (limited)