Chris, that was a custom option, but the stainless cook grates are standard. I love the solid shelf, but it does get hot right near where it meets the cooker body.
Biff-- there's a price difference, with the M.C. being a bit more expensive, but there are many standard options that are 'refinements' of the design, such as the standard stainless grates that account for some of the difference. There are other advantages I've found and I think the M.C. cooks better than the Langs that I've cooked on, but in no way does that mean the Langs are sub-par. They are quite respectable....But I would take the M.C. over them any day.
For me, the big reason I didn't buy a lang was that I could pick up the M.C. and be at home seasoning her the same day without paying for shipping.....it made a big difference for me........