If you're serious about grilling and don't mind dropping 4 figures on a grill, this Sabre is for you. It's super high-performance, stainless steel, and can run off natural gas or propane.

Dropping down a few notches is the BK Signet which runs a little over $500. This is the propane model but they offer natural gas models as well. The unit has fold-down shelves for easy storage. This unit is identical to the more pricey ($650ish) Signet 90 but lacks the 10,000 BTU side burner.

Another great choice in the $500 range is the Weber 310. Again, no side burner on this model but a great, easy to clean porcelain enamel surface that's easy to clean. This is a well constructed product that will give you many years of use.

If you've got a tight budget but still want to get your grill on, you could do a lot worse than the Grilling' Pro. It has a smaller cooking surface (630 sq. in.) than the more expensive models but put out strong, even heat and is well made.

Whether your pressed for space or you need a tailgating grill, this Weber is AWESOM. I always have mine out at big cookouts as a backup and for extra cooking area. It's sub $200, weighs about 25lbs, comes in multiple colors and has a stand available (separate purchase).

If gas grills are outside of your budget or you're just old school, the Weber kettle's are a great, time tested, low maintenance option.

If you decide to go the charcoal route, get a chimney fire starter. Seriously, you'll wish you had one.

There is some debate in the grilling community, and by "grilling community", I mean myself and friends who like to grill :),about whether to use a grill cover or not. I always do, but some say they trap moisture and do more harm then good. The choice is yours, I like things shiny.

You can't do the job without the right tools. I like stainless steel (easy clean) but there are some great sets with wood handles for less $$. Again, it's a personal preference and the choice is yours, just get a complete kit with a good case that will last.

If you decide to forgo the full set of BBQ tools, a good grill brush is essential.

Grill gloves aren't a requirement but are really handy ... get it??

On the other hand (yeah, i know), a good meat thermometer is essential. Make sure everything is fully cooked before serving your guests, nothing ruins a cookout more than ... well, you know.