The real problem w/ a chimney starter is they tend to shoot sparks out of the top of the chimney, especially if you're burning natural wood charcoal. It can be bad if you're in an area like Texas where burn bans occur regularly. I end up spending the first 10 minutes after lighting the chimney insuring that I don't set my yard on fire.

$80 is a lot of money for this device. Still, the idea of Farenheit 451ing my charcoal while not having to worry about torching my place is kind of worth it.