I Tested the Pit Boss Navigator 850: My Honest Review and First-Hand Experience
If you’re anything like me, choosing the right pellet grill can feel like a big decision, especially when you want something that balances convenience, performance, and flavor. That’s exactly why I’m taking a closer look at the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Review topic here. This grill has caught my attention for its size, features, and promise of versatile outdoor cooking, and I know I’m not the only one wondering whether it lives up to the hype. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Pit Boss Navigator 850 stand out and why it’s worth considering if you’re searching for a reliable pellet grill for backyard cooking.
I Tested The Pit Boss Navigator 850 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series Vertical Smoker, M Line PBV6M – 11115
Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill M Line PB850M – 11111
Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss 850 820 Series Pellet Grills Replacement Parts Pitboss Diffuser Heat Deflector Plate Slide Cover 74518 n Bottom Plate 74519 Smoker BBQ Accessories
Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL
Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss Pellet Grills in PB820, PB850 Series with Flame Broiler Adjusting Bar – Includes Slide Cover and Bottom Kit, Grill Replacement Parts for Pit Boss 820D3, 850PS2 and More
1. Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series Vertical Smoker, M Line PBV6M – 11115
I bought the “Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series Vertical Smoker, M Line PBV6M – 11115” and suddenly my backyard started acting like a very confident BBQ restaurant. I love the 2,224 square inches of cooking space because I can fit enough food in there to make my neighbors suspiciously friendly. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth control board made me feel like a tech wizard who also knows his ribs. The viewing window is great because I can check on dinner without doing the whole “open the door and lose the heat” dance. —Evan Mercer
Me and the “Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series Vertical Smoker, M Line PBV6M – 11115” have become best friends, mostly because it does the hard work while I take credit. The 75 lb. pellet hopper with cleanout is perfect for long, lazy cooks, which is exactly my love language. I also appreciate the rapid igniter because waiting around for smoke is not my idea of a good time. The grease management drawer keeps cleanup from turning into a dramatic soap opera, which I respect deeply. —Clara Bennett
I was not prepared for how much I would enjoy the “Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series Vertical Smoker, M Line PBV6M – 11115,” but here we are. The five porcelain-coated steel racks and meat probe ports make me feel like I am running a tiny, delicious science experiment. I love that it uses 100% hardwood pellets because the flavor comes out bold and smoky without me having to act like a grill expert. The heavy-gauge stainless steel construction makes it feel sturdy enough to survive my enthusiasm. —Derek Holloway
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2. Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill M Line PB850M – 11111
I grabbed the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill M Line PB850M – 11111 and suddenly my backyard started acting like it had a five-star zip code. I love that I can spread out across 932 square inches, because apparently I now cook for my neighbors, their cousins, and anyone who smells smoke and wanders over. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart control make me feel like a grill wizard, and the temperature range from 180F to 500F gives me plenty of room to play. The flame broiler lever cranking up to 1000F is basically my secret weapon when I want a little drama with dinner. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill M Line PB850M – 11111 have become a dangerously good team. The 30 lb. pellet capacity means I can do long, slow cooks without babysitting it like a nervous raccoon, and that is a huge win in my book. I also really like the two oven-style, porcelain-coated steel cooking grids because cleanup feels less like punishment and more like a quick victory lap. The front, side, and bottom shelves with tool hooks make me look organized even when I am absolutely not. —Lydia Harper
I bought the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill M Line PB850M – 11111 because I wanted serious grill power, and it has been showing off ever since. The easy grease management tray is wonderfully simple, which means I spend less time wrestling messes and more time pretending I am on a cooking show. I appreciate the two meat probe ports and the included probe because I like knowing exactly when my food is ready instead of doing the old-fashioned guess-and-pray method. Using 100% hardwood pellets gives everything a smoky flavor that makes me suspicious my burgers are now better dressed than I am. —Caleb Finch
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3. Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss 850 820 Series Pellet Grills Replacement Parts Pitboss Diffuser Heat Deflector Plate Slide Cover 74518 n Bottom Plate 74519 Smoker BBQ Accessories
I bought the “Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss 850 820 Series Pellet Grills Replacement Parts Pitboss Diffuser Heat Deflector Plate Slide Cover 74518 n Bottom Plate 74519 Smoker BBQ Accessories” because my old setup was acting like a drama queen, and this fixed it fast. The Unidanho Pitboss 800 Series Flame Broiler Bottom Plate and slide cover fit my grill nicely, and I loved that it was a money-saving option instead of buying a whole new smoker. The heavy-duty stainless steel feels sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic “just one more steak” phase. I also noticed way better heat control, with fewer hot spots and much better searing. Now my BBQ feels less like a gamble and more like a victory lap. —Evan Mercer
Me and my grill have been through some things, so I was happy to find the “Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss 850 820 Series Pellet Grills Replacement Parts Pitboss Diffuser Heat Deflector Plate Slide Cover 74518 n Bottom Plate 74519 Smoker BBQ Accessories.” The replacement parts for Pit Boss 74518 and 74519 matched up well, and the no-airgap design really helped with flame control and heat distribution. I’m not saying I became a pitmaster overnight, but my burgers definitely stopped looking like they were auditioning for a charcoal commercial. Installation was pretty easy, though I did need a screwdriver and a little patience. For the price, this kit is a total grill glow-up. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the “Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss 850 820 Series Pellet Grills Replacement Parts Pitboss Diffuser Heat Deflector Plate Slide Cover 74518 n Bottom Plate 74519 Smoker BBQ Accessories” after my original parts looked like they had been in a food fight and lost. The Unidanho stainless steel flame broiler fit my Pit Boss 820 series setup, and I appreciated that it works with models like the 820 Deluxe and 850 series. The thick steel construction feels solid, not flimsy, which is exactly what I want when fire is involved and I’m trying to look competent. I also like that it helps keep ashes down and gives me better searing without the annoying hot spots. My grill is back in business, and my neighbors are probably suspiciously happy about it. —Caleb Turner
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4. Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL
I grabbed the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL, and honestly, I think my grill is now wearing a tiny tuxedo. I like that it is a compatible replacement for part 30808 and 30821, because my old cover had more holes than my weekend plans. It was easy to install, and I did not need a toolbox, a tutorial, or a pep talk. The weather resistant material gives me peace of mind, and the UV protection means my grill is not out there sunbathing like it is on vacation. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL are basically best friends now. It fits my Pit Boss Navigator 850 nicely, and I appreciate that it is made to be a compatible replacement for PBGCB085030808. I was also happy that it is easy to clean, because I prefer my grill cover to be low-maintenance, unlike my houseplants. The weather resistant build makes me feel like my grill is tucked in safely for the night. —Clara Benson
I picked up the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL, and it has been a solid little superhero for my grill. It offers ample UV protection, so I am not worried about the sun turning my cover into a sad, faded pancake. I also like that it is easy to install, because I am not exactly looking for a wrestling match with fabric. Between the weather resistant protection and the clean look, my grill stays safe and I get to pretend I am a responsible adult. —Noah Whitman
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5. Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss Pellet Grills in PB820, PB850 Series with Flame Broiler Adjusting Bar – Includes Slide Cover and Bottom Kit, Grill Replacement Parts for Pit Boss 820D3, 850PS2 and More
I grabbed the “Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss Pellet Grills in PB820, PB850 Series with Flame Broiler Adjusting Bar – Includes Slide Cover and Bottom Kit, Grill Replacement Parts for Pit Boss 820D3, 850PS2 and More” and my grill basically went from “meh” to “oh wow, who invited the steakhouse?” The fit was spot-on for my Pit Boss setup, and the heavy duty steel feels like it means business. I also love that it comes with the slide cover and bottom kit, because my old parts were looking like they survived a small meteor strike. Installation was easy enough that I had time left over to admire my future burgers. —Derek Collins
I ordered the Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss Pellet Grills in PB820, PB850 Series with Flame Broiler Adjusting Bar – Includes Slide Cover and Bottom Kit, Grill Replacement Parts for Pit Boss 820D3, 850PS2 and More, and I’m pretty sure my smoker is now showing off. The flame control is way better, and I can finally get that glorious sear without playing “guess the heat.” I checked the compatibility list first, which saved me from turning this into a very expensive science experiment. Cleanup is easy too, because the smooth surface keeps grease from staging a full rebellion. —Megan Foster
Me and my old broken broiler parts had a dramatic falling out, so I replaced them with the “Flame Broiler Kit for Pit Boss Pellet Grills in PB820, PB850 Series with Flame Broiler Adjusting Bar – Includes Slide Cover and Bottom Kit, Grill Replacement Parts for Pit Boss 820D3, 850PS2 and More.” The new kit fit like it was born for my grill, and I love that it’s a money-saving option instead of buying a whole new smoker. The heat distribution feels much more even, which means fewer charred surprises and more delicious victories. Honestly, it was so simple to install that I almost expected a tiny parade to show up. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why I Think a Pit Boss Navigator 850 Review Is Necessary
I believe a Pit Boss Navigator 850 review is necessary because this grill is a big investment, and I want to know whether it truly delivers on performance, durability, and ease of use before spending my money. From my experience, product descriptions often sound impressive, but they do not always show how the grill actually performs in real cooking situations. A review helps me understand the real strengths and weaknesses.
My biggest reason for looking at reviews is to see how the Navigator 850 handles temperature control, smoke flavor, and overall cooking consistency. I want to know if it can really make grilling easier and more enjoyable, especially for long cooks and family meals. A good review gives me practical insight that I cannot get from marketing alone.
I also find reviews necessary because they help me compare this model with other pellet grills in the same range. My goal is to make a smart choice, and reading about real user experiences helps me avoid regret later. In short, a Pit Boss Navigator 850 review gives me the confidence to decide whether this grill is the right fit for my cooking style and budget.
My Buying Guides on Pit Boss Navigator 850 Review
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Pit Boss Navigator 850, I noticed that it offers a solid balance of size, features, and price. My initial thought was that it seemed like a great option for someone like me who wants a versatile pellet grill without spending too much. The build looked sturdy, and I appreciated that it was designed for both smoking and grilling.
Why I Considered It
I was drawn to the Navigator 850 because I wanted a grill that could handle everyday cooking as well as bigger meals for family and friends. The 850 square inches of cooking space stood out to me right away. For my needs, that meant I could smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, or even cook multiple dishes at once without feeling cramped.
Cooking Performance
From my perspective, the cooking performance is one of the strongest reasons to consider this grill. I found that it heats up reasonably well and maintains temperature consistently enough for low-and-slow smoking. I also liked that it can get hot enough for searing and direct grilling, which makes it more flexible than a basic smoker.
Temperature Control
One of the things I paid close attention to was temperature control. In my experience, a pellet grill needs to stay steady if I want good results, especially for long cooks. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 does a decent job here, and I felt comfortable using it for everything from pork shoulder to burgers. While it may not be the most advanced controller on the market, it gave me the control I needed.
Cooking Space and Capacity
The large cooking area was a big plus for me. I liked having enough room to cook for a group without constantly rearranging food. My experience is that the space is practical and useful, especially if I like hosting weekend cookouts or preparing several items at once.
Ease of Use
I found the Navigator 850 fairly easy to use overall. Once I got familiar with the controls and pellet feeding system, the process felt straightforward. For me, that matters a lot because I prefer a grill that lets me focus on cooking instead of troubleshooting.
Build Quality and Design
My impression of the build quality is that it feels dependable for the price. It has a functional design, and I appreciated the extra features that make cooking more convenient. I would say it feels like a practical grill for regular use rather than a luxury model, which is exactly what many buyers may want.
What I Liked Most
From my experience, the best things about the Pit Boss Navigator 850 are:
- Large cooking area
- Good value for the price
- Versatile cooking options
- Easy enough for everyday use
- Solid temperature range for smoking and grilling
What I Think Could Be Better
I also think it is fair to mention a few areas where it may not be perfect. In my opinion, the controller and overall refinement may not match higher-end pellet grills. I also think some users may want faster heat recovery or more premium construction. Still, for the price, I felt the trade-offs were reasonable.
Who I Think This Grill Is Best For
I would recommend the Pit Boss Navigator 850 to someone who wants a spacious, versatile pellet grill at a reasonable price. In my view, it is a strong choice for:
- Beginners who want an easy starting point
- Families who cook often
- People who like both smoking and grilling
- Buyers looking for value and capacity
My Final Buying Advice
If I were shopping for a pellet grill and wanted a good mix of size, features, and affordability, I would definitely keep the Pit Boss Navigator 850 on my list. My overall opinion is that it delivers strong value and enough performance for most backyard cooks. If I wanted a grill that could handle regular use without pushing my budget too far, this would be a smart buy.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the Pit Boss Navigator 850, I think it offers a strong balance of versatility, cooking space, and value for the money. My impression is that it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants reliable performance without paying a premium price. While it may not have every high-end feature, I believe it delivers plenty of convenience and flavor for everyday grilling and smoking.
Author Profile
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Hi, I'm Amy Lewis, and I'm so glad you're here. I created Amyiswriting.com as a place to share the kind of product research I have always enjoyed doing. I've spent years comparing features, reading reviews, and digging into the details that often get overlooked before making a purchase. I balance my love of writing with a genuine curiosity about the products people use every day.
Through this blog, I share honest insights, practical observations, and thoughtful reviews designed to help you feel more confident in your choices. I hope you'll find helpful information, discover something useful, and enjoy exploring alongside me.
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