Pit Boss Navigator 1150 Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

Pit Boss Navigator 1150 Review — Big Power, Smart Design, and Backyard Versatility

The Pit Boss Navigator 1150 Wood Pellet Grill isn’t just another backyard smoker — it’s a full-fledged grilling station designed for those who take flavor seriously. This massive grill blends the convenience of modern temperature controls with the classic charm of wood-fired cooking. Whether you're grilling, baking, roasting, or smoking, the Navigator 1150 aims to make it simple and consistent. And on paper, it looks like a beast: a 1158 sq in total cooking area backed by digital controls and rock-solid construction.

But does it live up to its promise of “set it and forget it” precision? Let’s dive into what makes this grill stand out — and where it could use a little fine-tuning — based purely on its specifications and available data.

Detailed Specs & Features

At its core, the Navigator 1150 is a pellet grill designed for serious backyard chefs. It’s powered by wood pellets — giving that smoky, natural flavor you can’t get from gas or electric units. With a generous 32 lbs hopper capacity, you can smoke brisket or ribs for hours without refilling. A built-in pellet window and easy cleanout feature help monitor and maintain the fuel effortlessly.

The cooking area is split between 711 square inches on the main grate and 447 square inches on the upper rack. That’s enough space for roughly 46 burgers — a real crowd-pleaser at family cookouts or weekend tailgates. Thanks to the convection fan, heat is distributed evenly throughout, minimizing hot spots and maximizing consistency.

In terms of temperature control, the range goes from a low-and-slow 180°F to a sizzling 500°F maximum temperature. The grill uses an electric ignition and a dual control system — one dial and a digital panel — for intuitive management. While there’s no PID controller for ultra-precise temp tuning, the digital interface still offers reliable accuracy according to specs.

Build quality is where Pit Boss shines. With a steel frame, porcelain-coated cast iron grates, and a powder-coated exterior, the grill is built for durability and weather resistance. And while it lacks stainless steel panels or a storage cabinet, it compensates with thoughtful add-ons like tool hooks, foldable side shelves, and locking wheels for stability.

Design & Build

The Navigator 1150 leans into a utilitarian design philosophy — bold, functional, and robust. The 185-pound build feels substantial, almost reassuring. Despite its heft, the locking wheels and handles make it manageable to move around the patio. Every inch of the grill looks like it was engineered for longevity: the welded construction, heavy-duty steel firebox, and porcelain coating all scream reliability.

The finish is classic black — nothing flashy, but it looks professional and tough. The foldable side shelves are a nice touch, allowing extra prep space without cluttering your setup. One minor downside: it’s not the easiest grill to tuck away if you’re short on space. This unit is clearly meant to live outdoors full-time, preferably under a cover (thankfully, it comes with one).

Performance

When it comes to cooking performance, the specifications suggest an extremely capable machine. The heat recovery speed is rated “fast,” which is impressive for a pellet grill of this size. Its excellent heat retention and even heat distribution mean it should handle everything from searing steaks to smoking turkey without breaking a sweat.

The temperature range from 180°F to 500°F covers practically every outdoor cooking method. While you won’t get the blistering high-heat sear of a gas grill, the Navigator’s indirect cooking options and multi-zone cooking flexibility make it ideal for experimenting. You can bake a pizza on one side while slow-cooking ribs on the other — and yes, it’s even compatible with a pizza stone.

Safety-wise, the Navigator 1150 scores high marks. Auto shut-off, flame shielding, and overheat protection are all built in, and its CSA and UL certifications speak to reliability. Cool-touch handles and stability locks also add a layer of peace of mind when cooking with kids around.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Maintenance often separates the good grills from the great ones. Fortunately, the Navigator 1150 makes life easier with a removable ash pan, a reusable drip tray, and an easy-access ash door. Combined with the grease management system, cleanup becomes more of a quick routine than a dreaded chore. The company’s recommended schedule — a light cleaning after each use and deeper maintenance every few months — feels perfectly reasonable for a grill of this class.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Expansive 1158 sq in total cooking area — ideal for large gatherings
• Excellent heat retention and even cooking distribution
• Sturdy steel build with powder-coated finish for weather resistance
• 32 lb hopper with window and cleanout system adds convenience
• Multiple safety features and certifications (CSA, UL)

Cons

• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
• Lacks PID temperature control for ultra-precise cooking
• Bulky and not easily portable for smaller patios

Price & Value for Money

The Pit Boss Navigator 1150 typically sells for around $819.99 at AceHardware.com. For its size, build, and capability, that’s a very fair price point. Competing pellet grills with similar capacity often reach the $1,000–$1,200 range, especially from premium brands. The five-year warranty sweetens the deal, providing long-term assurance for heavy users.

That being said, the absence of smart features may leave tech-savvy grillers wanting more. But if your goal is consistent, authentic wood flavor without fussing over app connectivity, the Navigator 1150 absolutely delivers strong value for its cost.

Quick Take

The Pit Boss Navigator 1150 is a rugged, no-nonsense pellet grill that prioritizes performance over digital flash. It’s perfect for grillers who value flavor and durability more than phone connectivity. The numbers don’t lie — big capacity, strong materials, and reliable performance make this a smart mid-tier investment.

Closing Recommendation

If you want a large-format pellet grill that can handle any cut of meat with confidence, the Pit Boss Navigator 1150 is well worth considering. It’s made for people who love the ritual of grilling — not just the convenience of automation. While it skips Wi-Fi and PID precision, it nails the essentials: space, stability, and smoky satisfaction.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe the Pit Boss Navigator 1150 Wood Pellet Grill deserves 4.6 out of 5.

• Winner Feature → Massive cooking capacity and excellent heat consistency for large-scale grilling.
• Needs Improvement → Could use smart controls or a PID system for more precise temperature management.