Updated: July 2025
Updated By Mike January 2025
Manufacturing origin is a crucial factor for many grill buyers. So, are PK grills made in the USA or China? The answer might surprise you if you haven’t been following recent changes.
If you’re considering a PK grill purchase and want to understand the company’s manufacturing history and current production location, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Investing in a premium charcoal grill represents a significant financial commitment, making it essential to understand exactly what you’re buying and where it’s manufactured.
Many prospective PK grill buyers have legitimate concerns about construction quality, manufacturing location, and materials used in production.
Let’s dive deep into the current state of PK grill manufacturing and what it means for consumers in 2025.
- Interior ash containment and airflow management
- Custom aluminum wheels with rubber tires
- More shelf space
- Ultra high-quality cart construction
- Temperature probe access door
- Reengineered cooking surface with removable fuel door
- Optional Tel-Tru thermometer
2025 Manufacturing Update: The Big Change
The short answer: PK grills are now manufactured in China, not the USA. This represents a significant shift from the company’s original American manufacturing roots.
This information was first brought to our attention by reader Ken, who noticed a “Made in China” sticker on his new PK300 purchase:
Reader Feedback: “I recently read your article about where PK grills are made. I just purchased the all new original and noticed the Made in China label on the box. I thought you would want to know. Thanks, Ken“
What This Means for Consumers:
• Quality concerns: While Chinese manufacturing can produce excellent products, some consumers prefer USA-made goods for quality assurance
• Pricing questions: Many wonder why PK grills maintain premium pricing despite lower manufacturing costs
• Economic impact: Supporting domestic manufacturing versus potentially lower costs
The Bottom Line: Despite the manufacturing location change, PK grills remain high-quality, durable products with excellent performance and rust-resistance. However, consumers should factor this information into their purchasing decisions.
Where Are PK Grills Made Today?
Current Manufacturing Location: PK grills are manufactured in China as of 2025. The company previously produced grills in Arkansas, USA, but has since moved production overseas.
Quality Assurance: Despite the location change, PK maintains quality standards and continues to offer an impressive 20-year warranty on their grills, demonstrating confidence in their product durability.
What the Warranty Covers:
• Structural integrity of cast aluminum construction
• Manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship
• Protection against premature failure under normal use
Why Did PK Move Production to China?
While PK Grills hasn’t publicly detailed their reasoning, the move follows common industry trends driven by several factors:
Cost Reduction: Manufacturing in China typically offers significant cost savings through:
• Lower labor costs
• Reduced material expenses
• Streamlined supply chains
Profit Margin Optimization: Lower production costs allow companies to maintain or increase profit margins while potentially keeping retail prices competitive.
Industry Standard: Many grill manufacturers have made similar moves, making China-based production increasingly common in the outdoor cooking industry.
The Complete History of PK Grills
Understanding PK’s rich heritage helps contextualize the current manufacturing situation.
The Beginning (1950s)
PK grills originated over 70 years ago in Tyler, Texas, when inventor Hilton Meigs designed and built the first charcoal grill and smoker using cast aluminum. He called his innovation the “Portable Kitchen,” which became the PK acronym we know today.
Expansion Era (1960s)
By 1960, Lewis Hamlin purchased the company and moved production to Little Rock, Arkansas, establishing the brand’s USA manufacturing heritage.
The Hiatus (1975-1998)
Production ceased around 1975 following a devastating fire at the Arkansas manufacturing facility. For over two decades, PK grills were unavailable to consumers.
The Revival (1998-Present)
In 1998, Arkansas attorney Paul James discovered a vintage PK grill at a garage sale. Despite decades of exposure to the elements, the grill remained in excellent working condition. Impressed by its durability and performance, James acquired the brand rights and relaunched production.
Modern Era: Today’s PK grills maintain the same fundamental design principles and cast aluminum construction that made the original units legendary, though manufacturing has moved to China.
PK Grill Construction and Materials
Primary Material: PK grills are constructed from cast aluminum, a material choice that provides several key advantages:
Weather Resistance: These grills withstand extreme outdoor conditions including:
• Heavy rain and humidity
• Snow and ice
• Salt air (coastal environments)
• High winds and temperature fluctuations
Rust-Proof Design: PK grills never rust due to aluminum’s natural oxidation process. When exposed to air, aluminum forms a protective oxide layer that:
• Prevents further oxidation
• Self-repairs if damaged
• Maintains structural integrity indefinitely
Heat-Resistant Finish: PK grills feature specialized temperature-resistant paint that completes its curing process during your first cooking session, creating a durable, long-lasting finish.
Expected Lifespan and Durability
Exceptional Longevity: A properly maintained PK grill can easily serve for 50+ years, with many examples lasting 80-100 years or more.
Generational Investment: These grills are designed as heirloom pieces that families can pass down through generations while maintaining consistent performance and quality.
Maintenance Requirements: To achieve maximum lifespan:
• Regular cleaning after use
• Periodic inspection of moving parts
• Proper storage when not in regular use
• Replacement of consumable parts as needed
