OTB Development History

Komodo Gen II Interactive Evolution The Gen II’s evolution has been a long fascinating journey. At the beginning there was no destination in mind, no maps to follow, just a strong sense of direction and determination. I had no idea of what was possible but as an experienced designer and builder with MacGyver-like ingenuity, I knew much more could be done because the quality of materials, methods of fabrication and the fit and finish of what was being sold on the market was disappointingly average to poor. Early on we discovered that all industrial high temperature containment was achieved using refractory materials. That led to our finding the best in that business, Harbinson Walker. They were chosen to engineer and produce our revolutionary and patented two layer design. From day one our two layer design catapulted us into a class of our own in regards to performance and durability. Another notable first was the self-opening feature along with casting the straps into the body to ensure alignment. Two years into development, the Komodo forum was created. Suddenly we had instant feedback from customers who were passionate about cooking and brought years of BBQ experience to the table. Interactive evolution, you could definitely say that the forum was Komodo’s senior design committee, new designs and ideas were shared on line, within hours the forum members would then contribute feedback and new ideas that would then go into production the next day. From a mis-spent youth modifying cars and having spent time around race cars, I knew of a level of metal fabrication that was way beyond what we were capable of producing in our factory. We tracked down a German metal shop which is a joint venture with Trumpf GmbH, they created sheet metal magic using the latest digital, computer driven CNC machinery. The early business plan was to produce three models. An entry, full feature model with low cost powder painted carbon steel components and a fiberglass rear cover. The second model was built using components created in house from plate 304 stainless. The third model was built using the high-end outsourced components made from brushed sheet CNC cut in the German workshop.. These components took the quality and sophistication of Komodo to an entirely new level. We then decided to build a limited production, flagship over the top, best of the best model following the lead of S class Mercedes AMG line. Uncompromising luxury and eye catching style meets user friendliness. Every component was redesigned, nothing was too much, even rollers and cams were designed into it’s latch. Decadent user-friendly luxury was obviously first and foremost in mind when the three flawlessly form fitted, 3/8″ stainless grills which weigh 42lbs were dreamed up. The weight of the 304 Stainless used in each OTB is a whopping 82 lbs. Plug and play use of EZQ rotisserie cradles and BBQ Guru’s and Stoker temp control devices are an industry first, innovative and thoughtful features are found throughout the cooker. The factory’s obsessive attention to detail and fit and finish are now legendary. When the details of this Gen II cooker were made public, interest in the other models waned and they were discontinued. In just over six years, the Gen II has evolved into the industries unchallenged leader as the ultimate, high performance charcoal grill.