Lancaster Cast Iron No. 8

The Lancaster Cast Iron No. 8 represents the pinnacle of modern cast iron craftsmanship, combining vintage-style design with contemporary manufacturing precision. Made by a small company in southeastern Pennsylvania, this skillet immediately distinguishes itself with its remarkably light weight. At just 4 pounds for the 10-inch diameter pan, it is the lightest cast iron skillet tested, weighing a full pound or more less than most comparable pans. This dramatic reduction in weight makes a surprisingly significant difference in hand, making the pan feel far more nimble and comfortable to maneuver than traditional heavy cast iron. The Lancaster features thinner walls than typical cast iron skillets, which allows it to heat up considerably faster. In testing, it came to temperature over one minute faster than pans with thicker walls. Despite the thinner construction, heat retention remains excellent, providing the high heat needed for crisping cornbread edges and searing meats. The cooking surface is smooth and polished, reminiscent of vintage Griswold pans. This smooth surface aids in nonstick performance, with the pan being exceptionally nonstick right out of the box. The design was recently updated to include a helper handle, a welcome addition that improves usability. The main consideration is the cost, as the pan retails for around $175. This is a significant investment, but one that yields a pan capable of lasting generations. The factory seasoning is lighter than on cheaper pans, meaning the surface may become patchy after searing meat initially. This is a normal part of the seasoning development process and resolves with continued use. For those seeking a beautiful, high-performing pan that is a pleasure to cook with and can serve as a family heirloom, the Lancaster is an outstanding choice.