How many pieces do I actually need in a grill tool set?

Most experienced grillers in the subreddit threads we read argue that a heavy-duty pair of long tongs plus a sturdy spatula handles 90% of backyard cooking. Larger 18-to-26-piece sets are mostly useful if you want skewers, corn holders, basting brushes, and a thermometer in one organized case, especially as a gift. The trade-off is that big sets often pad the count with lower-quality accessories.