Purcell Trench Grills: Handmade Lightweight Camping Grates for Backcountry Cooking
What Are Purcell Trench Grills?
Purcell Trench is a small manufacturing shop in Addy, Washington (in the Selkirk Mountains region of Northeastern Washington) that hand-fabricates custom lightweight grills and grill bags for backcountry use. Since 1994, the company has specialized in high-quality, purpose-built cooking grates for backpacking, canoeing, mountaineering, and car camping. As of 2025, the company is under new ownership but remains dedicated to the same standard of craftsmanship the brand became known for.
Construction and Materials
Most Purcell Trench grills are made from thin-wall stainless steel or titanium tubing, typically the kind used for hydraulic lines. Each grill is TIG welded (tungsten inert gas welding), a precision welding technique that creates clean, strong joints without the need for additional fasteners. The resulting structure is stiff, lightweight, and resistant to high heat.
The grates themselves are made from expanded stainless steel or titanium sheet metal. Thin-wall construction keeps weight down—a critical advantage for anyone carrying their gear on foot or by canoe. The entire assembly, including custom nylon carrying bags, is hand-fabricated in the USA.
Product Range and Sizes
Purcell Trench offers several models tailored to different trip styles and group sizes. Options include the Packer Grill (compact, minimalist), Traveler Grill (mid-size, versatile), Streamside Voyageur Grill (larger, optimized for open fires), and Titanium variants for those seeking the absolute lightest weight. Each model comes with a fitted nylon carry bag designed for easy packing.
Why Weight Matters in Backcountry Cooking
For multi-day trips, every ounce counts. Most Purcell grills weigh significantly less than traditional camp stoves or portable gas grills, yet they’re far more durable than cheap alternatives. Because they’re designed to sit directly on coals or a wood fire, they work without fuel cartridges or liquid canisters—useful when resupply isn’t an option. They’re also simple: no moving parts, no batteries, no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Durability and Longevity
TIG welding is ideal for lightweight construction because it creates minimal heat-affected zones around joints. This means the material near the weld stays stronger than it would with other welding methods. Stainless steel resists rust even when exposed to wet conditions or salty environments, while titanium is nearly indestructible if weight is no object. Both materials handle thermal cycling (heating and cooling) without warping or cracking, so a well-made Purcell grill can last decades.
Comparison to Other Portable Grill Options
Backcountry cooks have several choices. Ultralight titanium folding grills from brands like Vargo weigh less but often feel flimsier. Propane-powered camp grills are convenient but require fuel cartridges and are heavier overall. Traditional cast-iron grates are durable but much heavier and prone to rust. Purcell Trench occupies a sweet spot: light enough for extended backpacking, built to last a lifetime, and optimized for open-fire cooking rather than relying on fuel systems.
Ordering and the Personal Touch
Purcell Trench is a made-to-order operation. Customers select their size, material (stainless or titanium), and specifications, then wait for the grill to be hand-fabricated. The proprietor has historically included handwritten notes with orders, and there are reports that customers who mention their intended use may receive personalized advice on sizing or model selection. This level of attention is rare in the outdoor gear world.
Cost and Value
Purcell Trench grills are not inexpensive, but they’re competitive with quality backpacking gear when you factor in durability and the hand-welded construction. Because they’re built to last decades and require no replacement parts, the per-use cost drops significantly over time compared to disposable or short-lived alternatives.
Best Uses
These grills excel on canoe trips, backpacking expeditions, river trips, and remote base camps where you’ll cook over wood or charcoal. They’re equally at home in a car-camping setup if you prefer an open fire to a propane stove. They’re less suitable for solo ultra-light hiking (where every ounce matters more than durability) or situations where you need a quick, contained heat source in a tent vestibule.
Maintenance and Care
Stainless steel requires minimal care—rinse after use and it’s ready for the next trip. Titanium grills rarely corrode and can handle neglect better than most materials. After extended use, accumulated char and residue are easily wiped or brushed away. Neither material demands seasoning, protective oil, or special storage conditions.