Common questions about Kamado Joe Half Moon SS Cooking Grate - Classic Joe
Do I need the flexible rack as well?
For a second level, yes, and the rack is a separate item. The grate on its own sits in the standard position and gives you half your cooking surface in stainless, which is enough if you just want to pair it with a griddle or a deflector.
Stainless or cast iron for the half-moon slot?
Stainless for anything you want direct radiant heat on, cast iron when you want the surface itself to hold heat. At 2.3 kg this grate heats quickly and cools quickly, which suits snags, veg and fish. Steaks that need a hard crust go better on the griddle.
Will it last outdoors?
304 stainless is the grade that handles coastal air and acidic marinades without pitting, which is why it is worth having over plain steel. It will discolour to a straw and blue tinge with heat. That is normal and does not mean anything is wrong with it.