The Evolution Of BBQ Gear: From DIY Setups To Stainless Steel Parrillas

This image shows Extendable Spit Roaster and Warrior Spit Roaster

If you think BBQing is just about throwing a snag on a hotplate, think again. The way we cook over fire has come a long way. From simple backyard DIY rigs made with bricks and rebar to today’s precision-engineered stainless steel parrillas, BBQ gear has evolved alongside our love for entertaining.

The Early Days: Backyard Ingenuity

Back in the day, BBQs were all about making do with what you had. A few bricks stacked up, a metal grill from the shed, and some firewood were all it took to cook a meal. Spit roasting often meant finding a long rod, balancing it on two logs, and turning it by hand. It was simple, but far from easy.

Innovation Takes Hold

As BBQ culture grew in Australia, so did the need for better gear. Manufacturers began building purpose-designed spits, charcoal trays, and rotisserie motors. What was once a messy, hands-on job became easier, more reliable, and repeatable. Charcoal chimneys sped up fire lighting, while heavy-duty motors meant you didn’t have to sit there spinning the skewer yourself.

testing the weight of spits in the development phase

Stainless Steel And The Rise Of Modern BBQs

Fast forward to today, and the gear has levelled up. Stainless steel construction means durability and easy cleaning. Adjustable parrillas let you raise and lower grates to master heat zones. Purpose-designed kettles and smokers give you more control over flavour and consistency. What started as backyard improvisation has become precision outdoor cooking.

How We’ve Evolved At BBQ Spit Rotisseries

At BSR, we’ve been part of this journey. From our early days, we’ve always looked at how to make spit roasting easier and more enjoyable for Aussie backyards.

  • The Extendable Spit: Born from the idea that not every cook-up is the same. Sometimes it’s a couple of chooks, sometimes it’s a whole lamb. Our extendable spit gives you the flexibility to adjust for the occasion, no more one-size-fits-all.

Extendable Spit Roaster Before and after comparison

  • The Warrior Spit: Built for the big jobs. Heavy-duty, stainless steel, and designed to handle serious weight without breaking a sweat. It represents just how far spit roasting has come strength, reliability, and the kind of gear you can pass down through the family.
     

 

Warrior Spit Roaster before and after comparison

These products show how innovation and customer feedback drive what we create. We don’t just make gear, we solve real BBQ problems.

Where BBQ Gear Is Heading Next

The future is about versatility and convenience. Think modular setups that let you switch between spit roasting, grilling, and smoking. Smarter designs that save time without sacrificing flavour. But one thing won’t change the magic of cooking over charcoal and sharing a meal with mates and family.

Fire Up With The Best Of Both Worlds

Whether you’re nostalgic for the old-school days or keen to embrace the latest stainless steel gear, there’s never been a better time to be a backyard cook. The evolution of BBQ gear has given us more control, more flavour, and more fun.

Explore our range of spits and parrillas to see how far BBQ has come and how you can take your next cook-up to the next level.

FAQs

Q: Why is stainless steel so popular for BBQ gear today?
A: It’s durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean, making it perfect for outdoor cooking year-round.

Q: Do extendable spits really make a difference?
A: Yes. They allow you to cook everything from small roasts to whole animals on the same setup, saving money and storage space.

Q: What makes the Warrior Spit unique?
A: It’s one of the toughest spits on the market, designed for heavy loads and built to last for decades of cook-ups.

 

Author Name

by: Sasha Halabi