Unboxing The Komodo Kamado 38” Goldilocks
The Complete Unboxing Process and First Walkaround.
Looking to make better BBQ on your Kamado? Download my free "12 Mistakes Kamado Grill Owners Make" guide.
Introduction
Hey BBQ fans, Jake here—and today’s a big day. We are unboxing and setting up my brand-new Komodo Kamado 38-inch grill, which they have nicknamed Goldilocks… because it’s not too small, not too big—it’s just right. It sits perfectly between the 32 and the massive 42, and I can’t wait to show you what makes this thing so special.
Now, I’ve already uncrated it and rolled it up to the patio, but I filmed everything and I’ll walk you through what it’s like to unbox, move, and set up this beast—including all the accessories I added. So grab a drink, settle in, and let’s get into it.
Top Highlights of the Goldilocks Unboxing
1. The Crate & Delivery Process
The grill ships in a large crate—mine had some damage, but Komodo Kamado cleverly designs in an air gap, so no harm done. Pro tip: follow their email instructions carefully. If there’s visible damage to the grill or anything’s missing, refuse delivery. That’s your only protection.
2. Tools & Help You’ll Need
It’s heavy—around 1,300 pounds—so I had a couple of buddies help me build a safe ramp system using MDF and motorcycle ramps. Honestly, four people is ideal. Moving it over a paver patio? Not so easy. You’ll need muscle and patience.
3. Unboxing Strategy
The top of the crate includes the ramp and accessories—charcoal, tables, rotisserie spit, baking stone. Once you unstrap it, take out all the stainless steel grates and parts to lighten the load before rolling it up.
4. Pro Ramp Tip
Buy sturdy ramps rated for at least 3,000 lbs and build yourself a proper structure. I screwed my pieces together to avoid slippage—don’t take shortcuts with this step, trust me. I also bought rubber threshold pieces, which really helped.
5. Upgraded Interior Components
The 38 comes with three-piece cooking grates, a larger charcoal basket, and now includes the basket splitter—previously a paid add-on. The firebox has visible expansion lines—don’t worry, those are intentional.
6. Included Accessories Box
Inside you’ll find extra gaskets, tile repair grout, vent plugs, grill hooks, a tool for spring adjustments, thermometer wires, and more. It’s generous and shows the attention to detail that makes Komodo Kamado different.
7. New Features vs. the 32-Inch
One immediate upgrade: dual springs on the lid instead of one, making opening the 400-pound dome feel like lifting a feather. Also, upgraded stainless components on the handle, vent cap, and firebox housing.
8. Side Tables with Adjustable Leveling
The new teak and stainless side tables now come with an adjustable foot to ensure they stay level on any patio. I went with stainless inserts for looks and ease of cleaning.
9. Unique Duck Hanger Rack
This might be my favorite new toy—it mounts where the top rack would go and lets you hang meats like duck, ribs, or tri-tip vertically for that amazing open-fire flavor.
10. The Burn-In Process
If you're going to grill at high temps (500°F+), you must do a burn-in first to fully dry out any residual moisture in the cement. If you're smoking low and slow, you're good to go right away.'
Final Thoughts
All right, so we’ve got Goldilocks fully assembled and sitting pretty on the patio. She’s gorgeous—everything is 304 stainless, ceramic, and designed for serious cooking. I’ll do a full comparison video between the 32 and 38 soon, but right away, I can tell you: this is a serious upgrade.
If you’re new to Komodo Kamado or to my channel, I post new content every other Sunday alternating between my Komodo Kamado and Yoder pellet grill. Next up: our first cook, the burn-in process, and a 32 vs 38 showdown.
Thanks for watching
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice, these tips will enhance your cooking skills and leave your family and friends raving about your delicious, smoky creations. Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more step-by-step videos, and let's together become the barbecue heroes we were meant to be!
*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. You will pay the same price, but I will earn a small percentage, which will help support the channel.
