Stargazer 13.5 Inch Cast Iron Braiser, Bronze

Although not the cheapest cast iron skillet, it feels worth the cost. It is well made, light weight for cast iron, has a very smooth surface and oddly you do not need a mitt to hold onto the handle when hot. Overall it is a well thought out design and execution on a century old design. These are a once in a lifetime purchases so you will enjoy the improvements for decades to come.

This is a wordy review, but since you are thinking of paying a lot for a pan I thought this would be helpful. First, why is the expense justified? The best pans ever are 80-120 years old. They were cast in fine sand molds which resulted in a smooth cooking surface. Unfortunately the process resulted in the workers dying of silicosis. So, thankfully that process is not coming back, ever. These pans are made in the US in a labor intensive process that doesn't kill people but creates a similar smooth surface pan. Some people do OK with the pebbly surfaced pans, but I have never had luck with them, so I gave this a try. I have several vintage pans (Wagner, vintage Lodge) along with some modern pans. The Wagners are great but hard to come by, and a good one will cost you just as much as this new pan. Needed a new pan as the vintage ones had the audacity to warp over their hundred year lifespan. So: Unpacking. The pan was in perfect condition. Perfectly flat with no wobble. No casting imperfections. The seasoning was in perfect condition. Color a bit darker than what I saw online, more of a saddle brown. Seasoning As I said, perfect condition. Fried an egg right out of the box as a test. Did not stick and easily removed with a spatula. Did not slide like a hockey puck, but wasn't expecting that with a new pan. Immediately did three more rounds of seasoning with avocado oil which darkened the pan considerably (which I expected, it's iron after all) Weight. A bit heavier than my vintage pans by about a pound. Takes a bit longer to heat up (5 vs 4 minutes). Handle. Unusual handle. Obviously designed to disperse heat. Less comfortable than a standard handle when cold. However, it also won't sear the flesh off of your hand. I find it perfectly comfortable palm up and less comfortable palm down. Able to pick up a hot pan with just a dish rag--no special silicone cover needed. Rust Obviously none. Have never had an iron pan rust, but I take care of it. 100% certain that if put in the dishwasher it will rust faster than a '72 Datsun. So don't do that. Summary On par with the best of the vintage pans without the warping or other age related issues. Much better than cheaper pebbly pans. Price not out of line given the manufacturing process and what a vintage pan would set you back.

The seasoning on this is only going to get better with time, and not "7-10 years till it's a great pan time" like the cheaper brand that I've always bought and loved (and have a large collection of!) but like, this is only going to take a couple months for the seasoning to be really good. That's how amazingly well made these cast iron pans are. Super smooth cooking surface, lighter weight than my other-brand 12 inch skillet, the size feels amazing, and I KNOW that I can trust this brand since they perform several purity tests throughout their making process to ensure it's safe from heavy metals. You've earned my trust and I am definitely going to be getting all your pans & lids. Already preordered the lid for this one on your website. And I'm going to be sharing your brand with my family!!

The Stargazer 10-inch cast iron skillet is a standout in the world of cast iron cookware. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell this was a high-quality piece. The sleek, polished cooking surface is a game-changer—it’s incredibly smooth, making it more naturally non-stick compared to traditional rough-surfaced cast iron. This also makes cleaning much easier, as food doesn’t cling as stubbornly. The design is both functional and elegant. The handle is longer than most, which not only provides better leverage but also stays cooler for longer when cooking on the stovetop. The flared sides and curved lip are fantastic additions, allowing for easy pouring without spills—a small detail that makes a big difference. In terms of performance, it heats evenly and retains heat exceptionally well, just as you’d expect from good cast iron. It’s perfect for everything from searing steaks to frying eggs or baking cornbread. Once properly seasoned, it performs like a dream, and the seasoning only improves with use. While it is a bit heavier than some other options, I consider this a fair trade-off for its durability and superior cooking performance. The extra weight feels solid and sturdy in your hands, reassuring you that this is a pan that will last a lifetime. Overall, the Stargazer 10-inch skillet combines modern innovation with the timeless reliability of cast iron. It’s not just a pan—it’s an investment in better cooking. Highly recommended for anyone who loves quality cookware!

I’ve mainly been using Lodge and Korean-made cast iron, and I finally picked up a Stargazer that I’d been considering for a while when I found a good deal. The factory pre-seasoning does wear off fairly quickly at first, but after using it a few times, it develops a beautifully smooth, personal seasoning layer. It just keeps getting better with use. I mostly cook on a gas cooktop, and I’ve also used it on induction with no wobbling at all, which is a big plus. The handle and helper handle are generously sized and very comfortable—one of my favorite features. This is the kind of pan you buy once and use for years, so I definitely recommend it.

It's fantastic, love the preseasoning, love the size.

This is my first cast iron skillet and it is very cool. Great universal size. I fry and bake in it. The handle does not heat up. To avoid disappointment, consider the nuances of working with cast iron and caring for it.

Nice cast iron skillet, I recommend it.

This is the best pan i have ever used. Will last a life time. I am so pleased with this buy

These things are machined to the perfect finish. Smooth, but not mirror smooth. Enough micro texture to hold and build seasoning, but still slick enough that you can rub it with a paper towels and not leave behind lint. Combined with the stay cool handle and it reminds me of carbon steel, without the rivets.

Love my skillet