Choose Your CharcoalThe two most common choices are briquettes and lump charcoal. Lump charcoal is natural wood that has been reduced to charcoal, leaving irregular pieces of different sizes. In my experience, lump charcoal burns hotter, responds quickly to airflow and can often be reused. As summer moves toward football season and cooler evenings, I encourage you to grab a bag of charcoal and light the grill. Something special happens when a charcoal grill is lit.