Smithey Cast Iron Skillet (No. 10)

I have been cooking with a cheap cast iron skillet for years and figured I'd treat myself with what I envision is the last one ill ever have to buy. I live in Australia and the options of a premium cast iron pan made here are next to zero. I didn't want a poor quality Chinese mass produced product and I try to support small businesses whether they be here or in the USA, Canada etc. Even though the price of these products are several times more than the cheaper alternative, I endeavour to keep it "local" (even if local is thousands of kms away.) Anyway, I digress... I came across Smithey, liked and appreciated their story and the effort that went in to the foundation of the company. As someone in the engineering business, I understand the risk and commitment it takes to outlay big money for the infrastructure to make these products, and so, with this in mind, I decided to buy their 10" skillet. Ok, so the review. It is not light. It is thick and holds heat for an incredible amount of time. This is a feature I wanted as I often use it to sear steaks and I prioritised minimal thermal loss. However, if you aren't very strong in the forearms it may be a bit much. The handle is nice and wide, however it is rather short and I find that with big hands, my thumb and forefinger are grasping the hot edge of the pan when it's up to temp. This can also be seen as a benefit though, as it means the overall length of the pan is shorter and thus it will fit into smaller ovens if need be. That said, I'd recommend getting a leather handle cover for it. (I'll have to see if Smithey make those as a nice fitted one would be perfect) The finish on the cooking surface is excellent and this is where it stands out from my old cheap pan. It cleans much easier (even though my old one has been seasoned for years) and food doesn't stick as much during cooking, (especially eggs, due to it being a machined surface) i thought it would take several dozen seasonings to get it to this stage but it's great from the box. The depth of the skillet is perfect in my opinion. If it was any deeper it would be too heavy, and if it was shallower it would limit its versatility. I find the radius of the sides perfect for tossing food like chopped veggies or diced meat etc. But again, its a pretty weighty unit and this might be difficult for some. The double pouring spouts are a nice touch and have come in handy when draining fat etc. because it gives you more options in a small kitchen like mine. So, all in all. Is it expensive, yes (especially in AUD and with shipping), is it heavy, yes, however, it looks like this will be the last 10" skillet I buy, and judging by it's quality, my kids won't even have to purchase their first.

Muy buenos sartenes