Smithey Cast-Iron Skillet Review: Are They Worth the Price?

I own a lot of cast-iron skillets, and this is my favorite. Smithey cast iron cooks like a dream and doubles as a modern family heirloom to pass down to future generations.

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Hailing from the South, I've used a lot of cast-iron skillets in my day. My father purchased a Smithey for his signature shrimp and grits a few years back, and I've been hooked ever since. After graduating college, I treated myself to a No. 12 Smithey cast-iron skillet for my own kitchen.

With a last name like Smith, how could I not give Smithey a try? This stylish kitchen workhorse replaced every other pan in my arsenal. And, it doubles as a family heirloom to be passed down for generations.

What is the Smithey cast-iron skillet?

 

Daria Smith/Taste of Home

Isaac Morton founded Smithey cast iron in Charleston, South Carolina on an appreciation for timeless vintage ironware. Morton began restoring old cookware and gifting it to friends and family. Smithey was born'a cast-iron cookware collection that marries traditional style and modern technology and processes.

My favorite piece of cookware that I own is the No. 12 Smithey cast-iron skillet. Each piece is handcrafted in the U.S. and backs Smithey's heirloom claim with a lifetime warranty. After all, cast iron only gets better with age! Smithey's cast-iron skillets feature heavy gauge iron, complete with a polished copper finish, a convenient handle, holes on both sides for hanging and pour spouts. The No. 12 weighs around eight pounds and has a 12' diameter with a 2' depth and an 18.1' handle.

The skillet is compatible with seven different cooking surfaces: on gas, induction, glasstop/ceramic or electric stoves, in the oven, over an open fire or on the grill. Cast iron is perfect for baking salmon, roasting game, browning skillet cookies, searing steaks and making biscuits. If cooking for two to four people, the No. 12 is the perfect size with an ample cooking surface.

Smithey's cast-iron skillet has superb heat retention and distribution. Naturally, cast iron is gray. Smithey cast iron takes a copper hue thanks to layers of seasoning. Over time, your Smithey will embody a deep black patina shade.

Pros

• Lasts a lifetime
• Heats evenly
• Heavy-duty pan
• Pre-seasoned
• Naturally nonstick
• Pretty enough to leave on the stovetop
• Coordinating accessories
• Cooks on seven surfaces
• Versatile kitchen workhorse

Cons

• Heavy, as all cast iron is
• $210 price tag

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Is Smithey Cast Iron Pan Worth It?

Daria Smith/Taste of Home

A 12-inch cast-iron skillet is one of the most versatile cookware pieces a home cook can own. Cast iron is virtually indestructible and conducts heat evenly with a nonstick surface that even fried eggs slip right off of if seasoned properly. (But, be careful, you probably don't know you're making these cast iron cooking mistakes!)

Not all of us are lucky enough to inherit an heirloom cast-iron skillet with decades of seasoning. Smithey solves that problem, intentionally crafting heirloom cast iron with time-tested methods.

Smithey cast iron converted me from stainless steel and nonstick cookware to cast iron. The No. 12 skillet replaces almost every other pan in my arsenal. Proudly display your Smithey cast-iron skillet on your stovetop, and put it to work! Just remember to pre-heat your cast-iron skillet before adding food. It's best to start with a lower heat and work your way up. If it's smoking, it's too hot and needs to cool down a bit. Not sure where to start? Dive into our best-ever cast-iron skillet recipes.

I can only say good things about Smithey's customer service team. They stand behind the lifetime warranty of their heirloom cast iron and are happy to replace it if cookware is defective or fails after honest and normal use. Seasoning wore off my skillet after cooking bacon, turning from a shiny copper to a stark silver where the bacon lay. After a quick re-seasoning, as directed by the support team, it looked brand new. For more pro tips, check out our ultimate guide to cooking with cast iron.

When I glance at my Smithey while eating breakfast at the buffet, I can't help but think of all the meals and memories I've relished with friends and family. And one day, I plan to pass it on to the next generation. You can even personalize your cast iron with custom engraving to further take it to heirloom status. Just know that personalized cookware is final sale.

Smithey Cast-Iron Skillet Reviews

Reviewers are blown away by Smithey's heirloom quality and aesthetic appeal. It cooks like a dream and cleanup is a breeze.

Five-star reviewer Robert B. calls his Smithey cast-iron skillet a gem. 'There is no comparison between this one and a run-of-the-mill cast-iron skillet. It gets better with use. This is an investment in quality and a very well-American-made product that will stand the test of time.'

Verified buyer Sean A. loves this skillet. 'I'm a collector of fine iron cookware. Most of which are from the past. This skillet is by far the most well-made and efficient of any in my multiple-skillet collection. Excellent product. Thank you, Smithey.'

Where to Buy Smithey Cast Iron

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Smithey cast iron can be purchased on Smithey's website. The No. 12 Smithey cast-iron skillet is $210, and other skillet sizes range from $85-$240. Smithey cast-iron skillets come in five sizes: No. 6, No. 8, No. 10, No. 12 and No. 14.

In addition to my No. 12 Smithey cast-iron skillet, I have a slew of accessories, including: a No. 12 flat top griddle (versatile for whipping up anything from pancakes to pizzas), chainmail scrubber, metal spatula (for delicate food like fish and eggs), tempered glass lid (for steaming, braising, retaining heat and protecting the stovetop from splatter), leather skillet sleeve and seasoning oil. For a better deal, purchase the cleaning and care kit, which contains a chainmail scrubber, seasoning oil and a soft-bristled cleaning brush. A No. 12 combo set includes the skillet and flat-top griddle, featuring a $45 discount.

I own a lot of cast-iron skillets from various brands, and Smithey is my favorite for whatever kitchen task you may perform. Smithey cast iron heats quickly, stays hot and transfers heat successfully to food. There's no kitchen tool I love more than a cast-iron skillet, and this one is no exception. Enjoy an heirloom piece of cast iron, sure to be a part of family traditions for years to come.

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FAQs

How to clean a Smithey cast-iron skillet?

To clean my Smithey cast iron, I wash it gently under warm water. Add a little bit of baking soda to neutralize odors from the dish you just cooked'I often do this with fish. Then, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or seasoning oil while the skillet is still warm to prolong the seasoning. For stubborn stuck-on remnants, I scrape them off gently with a metal spatula (which is great for flipping delicate fish and eggs) or use a chainmail scrubber and a dab of dish soap. Of course, we have a guide for cleaning your cast-iron skillet, too.

Cast iron is not dishwasher-safe. The worst thing you can do to cast iron is soak it in water. It will rust. However, rusted cast iron can be restored. After cleaning your Smithey cast iron, dry it thoroughly. To keep your Smithey healthy, use it often'the oil from food enhances cast iron.

How to season a Smithey cast-iron skillet?

All cast-iron cookware types must be seasoned, which refers to the layer of oil that's been baked onto the cast iron's surface. Season your Smithey cast iron with the stovetop method. In a nutshell, apply a light coat of oil to your Smithey with a paper towel. Bring the skillet to a searing temperature until the oil begins to smoke. We recommend turning on a fan. Wipe another light layer of oil onto the smoking skillet with a paper towel. Then, the pan will turn a dark shade, and leave it to cool.

Or, use the oven method, and cover the entire pan in a thin coat of pure grape seed oil or seasoning oil with a paper towel. Vegetable oil works too. Place the cast-iron skillet upside down in the oven at 450°F for one hour. Turn the oven off, and leave the skillet inside to cool down.

Every time you use cast iron, the seasoning erodes. For peak performance, season your cast iron regularly. We created a seasoning guide with step-by-step instructions. Seasoning creates a non-stick surface and protects cast iron from air and moisture. Remember, cast iron should be dry. Light and even coats create the best seasoning and a full layer of seasoning develops over time with frequent use.

Don't worry if the seasoning on your cast iron comes off. The rumor that you can't cook acidic foods in cast iron is false. However, bacon can strip the seasoning, leaving silver traces in your copper skillet. I would know, I've done it. Simply follow the stovetop method to re-season, and your skillet is good as new. And, this is the best thing you can do for your cast-iron cookware.

Is Smithey cast iron pre-seasoned?

Smithey cast iron is pre-seasoned with several layers of oil after craftsmen finish making the final product. It's ready to sear up steak right out of the box.

Is Smithey cast iron nonstick?

The more you use cast-iron products, the surface becomes naturally nonstick over time. I recommend using grapeseed oil to get the most out of your Smithey. To improve the non-stick surface, add more seasoning layers and continue cooking.

Where is Smithey ironware made?

Every Smithey product is 100% handcrafted in the U.S. Smithey strives to craft cast-iron skillets in the way they were made over a century ago, starting in an Indiana foundry and finished by hand in the Smithey workshop in Charleston, South Carolina.

Can I use Smithey cast iron in a pizza oven?

Yes, indeed! Smithey cast iron makes quality pizzas and can withstand high temperatures'perfect for cooking in a pizza oven.

Is Smithey cast iron worth it?

If I haven't convinced you already, yes. On the hunt for a versatile kitchen workhorse that lasts a lifetime? Look no further than the Smithey No. 12 cast-iron skillet.

Does Smithey ironware have sales?

Yes, but they are rare. You're lucky if you get to attend a Factory Seconds Sale in Charleston. Save on Smithey by purchasing one of their large cookware sets.

Grey iron castings, also known as gray iron castings , are iron-carbon alloyed parts produced in foundries, not to be confused with forges. Inside foundries , gray iron material is cast and formed via closed mold operations for applications in a wide range of industries.

Are you interested in learning more about Grey Iron casting price? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Grey iron castings, also known as gray iron castings , are iron-carbon alloyed parts produced in foundries, not to be confused with forges. Inside foundries , gray iron material is cast and formed via closed mold operations for applications in a wide range of industries. Read More'

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American Iron & Alloys Corporation is a leading manufacturer of gray iron castings and ductile iron castings. Our Versa-Bar brand of castings comes in various sizes and shapes and can be custom cast. We provide a wide variety of industries with quality cost-efficient castings.

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With over 50 years in cast iron metalworking, you can trust Mesa Castings' expertise in grey iron, white iron, nickel-chromium alloyed & high chromium alloyed castings. The finest ductile and abrasion resistant iron castings individually engineered using the latest technology, exceeding ASTM, ASME & SAE. We combine over 100 years of experience with the finest materials to produce high quality.

Grey iron castings find applications across a wide range of industries, including agriculture, architecture, automotive, construction, electronics, irrigation, machinery construction, transportation, and ventilation.

Grey iron castings bring exceptional durability, hardness, and strength to various applications. Their versatility is evident in their role as non-flammable building components, offering superior fire protection for wooden support structures. Additionally, the graphite content in these castings plays a crucial role in energy dissipation, making them ideal for components like engine blocks and crankshafts that rely on effective dampening of mechanical vibrations.

Products Produced

Grey iron castings are a versatile manufacturing method, employed to create a broad spectrum of components for various industries. Valves, for instance, leverage the material's inherent strength and resistance to wear. Its superior thermal conductivity makes grey iron an excellent choice for cases and engine blocks, where it effectively dissipates heat and maintains structural integrity under high stress. Additionally, the stability and durability of grey iron make it an ideal material for dies in metalworking, as it can endure repetitive mechanical forces with resilience.

Pump housings leverage the corrosion resistance and dimensional stability of grey iron, guaranteeing dependable and enduring performance even in challenging conditions. Pipes crafted from this material excel in facilitating fluid flow and withstanding high pressure, making them perfect for transporting water and other fluids. Brake drums, which demand significant strength and thermal conductivity, benefit from grey iron's heat-dissipating properties, enhancing braking efficiency and overall performance.

Grey iron's versatility shines through in its use for decorative embellishments. Its capacity to capture intricate details enables the creation of visually striking designs in both architectural elements and ornamental pieces. Moreover, grey cast iron cookware, including pans and pots, is a preferred choice among chefs for its superior heat retention and distribution. This ensures even cooking and imparts a distinctive flavor to the food.

Grey iron castings offer a range of advantages due to their remarkable mechanical properties, cost efficiency, and ability to form intricate shapes. Their high strength, wear resistance, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance make them ideal for both challenging conditions and demanding applications. Whether in industrial environments or everyday consumer products, grey iron castings demonstrate their reliability and versatility, making them an excellent choice for creating a diverse range of functional and decorative items.

History

Grey iron, the first type of iron ever to be cast, boasts a rich and storied history. Its origins trace back to China around the 5th century BC, where early cast iron products included weapons, simple pots, plowshares, and shot. Between the 9th and 4th centuries BC, the development of malleable iron casting revolutionized the material, making it significantly easier to work with. It's believed that the Chinese shared their casting techniques along the Silk Road. However, Western Europe did not adopt iron casting until the 15th century AD. It was during this period that artisans used the casting method to produce heavy cannons for the British Royal Navy, following the directives of Henry VIII.

Grey Iron Castings ' OSCO Industries, Inc.

Centuries later, in , British innovator Abraham Darby revolutionized the casting of iron pots by creating thinner walls. This breakthrough enabled the production of cast iron cookware. His method was also adopted by other manufacturers to craft cast iron shields and armor components, and this application of iron casting for armor remained popular until the mid-s.

In the s, James Watt advanced the atmospheric steam engine originally designed by Thomas Newcomen. Watt's improved engine facilitated the use of grey iron casting, resulting in parts that were both more accurate and stronger.

Before the advent of steel, grey iron castings were commonly used for the structural components of bridges. In the early s, steel began to replace grey iron due to its superior tensile strength and hardness. However, grey cast iron proved particularly effective for constructing buildings such as textile mills. Its use significantly reduced fire risks, which was crucial given the flammable fibers and dust prevalent in textile mills. The success of iron in these applications led manufacturers to adopt cast iron for their equipment as well.

Over the past century, grey iron castings have remained a popular choice. In , for instance, the volume of grey iron castings was approximately two and a half times greater than that of other cast metals. That year alone, manufacturers produced more than 14 million tons of grey iron products.

Although grey iron is one of the oldest types of iron, it remains a staple in casting today, highlighting its enduring value. Over the past decade, advancements in manufacturing have significantly enhanced the precision with which grey iron is cast. Improvements in casting thin sections have also been notable. As manufacturers refine these techniques, both dimensional control and product quality are expected to improve further. Efforts are underway to advance mold surface treatments, allowing for the elimination of post-casting mold blasting. This not only speeds up the casting process but also reduces costs. Additionally, ongoing research aims to enhance the strength of grey iron.

Materials Process

Grey cast iron typically comprises about 95% iron by weight, with silicon content ranging from 1% to 3% and carbon content varying between 2.1% and 4%.

The high silicone content in grey iron leads to the formation of graphite when heated, which gives grey cast iron its distinctive color. When grey iron fractures, it reveals graphite flakes, showcasing its graphitic microstructure. These flakes appear as literal flakes in their natural form but as fine lines on a polished surface. The brittleness of graphite flakes enhances the castability of grey iron. Overall, grey iron contains between 6% and 10% graphite by volume.

Carbon content influences both tensile strength and hardness. As the amount of carbon increases, so does the tensile strength and hardness.

The specific appearance of grey iron varies based on temperature and timing. Beyond its appearance, castings exhibit diverse properties such as thermal conductivity, tensile strength, hardness, energy dissipation, wear and deformation resistance, and melting point.

Grey iron castings can contain various additional elements. Some of these may be intentionally introduced by manufacturers to modify specific properties, while others, such as graphite, may appear by chance. Notable among these elements are manganese, carbon, and sulfur. Manganese promotes the formation of pearlite during cooling, enhancing the material's strength, while sulfur contributes to increased hardness. Although other elements may be present, their concentrations are generally lower.

Process Details

1. To obtain grey iron, metalworkers start by mining iron ores or iron oxides. They then process these materials in a specialized blast furnace, such as an electric induction furnace or a cupola.
2. Once metalworkers achieve their desired grey iron material mixture, they move on to the casting process.
3. Iron foundry workers employ various methods to produce grey iron castings, though these techniques generally adhere to a similar process. Initially, the grey iron is melted into a liquid form. It is then poured into a mold, allowed to cool and solidify, and finally removed from the mold.
4. Regardless of the casting method used, newly formed castings typically require secondary processes to refine their finish and eliminate imperfections such as burrs and scale. These processes may involve deburring, annealing, machining, galvanizing, painting, and additional steps. To produce high-quality finished products, many iron foundries are equipped with the necessary machinery and skilled staff to carry out these processes in-house.

Design

Manufacturers select grey iron materials and casting processes based on the specific requirements of their applications. Choosing the right material is straightforward, thanks to ASTM's classification system, which sorts materials according to mechanical properties like tensile strength and ductility.

We select processes based on various factors, including the desired final structure, the rate of casting solidification, cooling rates (which affect properties), dimensional accuracy, wall thickness, part hardness, and budget. If a casting includes an inner core, we choose a method or mold design that can support it. To produce custom castings, we create tailored molds or die casts and/or use custom grey iron materials.

Machinery Used

Manufacturers carry out cast iron casting within foundries. Inside an iron foundry, you will encounter various casting machinery, including die casts, molds, gating systems, and furnaces.

Die casts for grey iron casting are created using two hardened tool steel dies. They can also be produced from non-ferrous metals such as aluminum alloys, zinc, or copper.

Molds can be crafted from various materials based on their intended use. They generally contain a cavity designed to receive molten iron. This cavity is formed in the desired shape of the metal. Manufacturers can adjust the process by incorporating core inserts to create holes or other internal features.

Gating systems enhance molds by directing molten metal through a network of channels into the mold cavity. These systems include essential components such as the pouring cup or basin, sprues, runners, and gates.

Variations and Similar Processes

Grey iron casting can be performed through various processes, including centrifugal casting, die casting, sand casting, and ductile iron castings.

Centrifugal casting is a technique designed for producing cylindrical parts and components, ensuring a fine-grained outer surface with uniform dispersion. The process involves pouring molten grey iron into a rapidly rotating mold. Unlike many casting methods that focus on creating finished parts for specific uses, centrifugal casting primarily generates stock materials that are then machined further. This method allows for grey iron castings of virtually any diameter, length, and thickness.

Die casting is a preferred method for high-speed, continuous production of castings. This process employs reusable molds crafted to match the shape of the final product. To create the castings, manufacturers inject molten metal into the die under pressure. Die casting excels with small to medium-sized components, delivering excellent dimensional stability, precise details, and high-quality surface finishes.

Sand casting, also known as sand molding, is an economical and low-maintenance casting method that employs a sandy mixture as a mold. Manufacturers typically select from four main types of mixtures: no bake, dry sand, skin-dried, and green sand.

No bake molds are single-use molds crafted from sand, a quick-setting resin, and a catalyst. These molds are shaped using a casting flask, typically made of plastic, wood, or metal. They utilize a cold-setting casting process that does not require heat.

In dry sand molding, we blend unbonded sand with an adhesive or chemical binder, shape it into a mold, and then bake it to the required temperature. To create castings, we pour molten grey iron into the mold, allowing it to take on the mold's shape.

To create a mold using the skin-dried molding method, or air-dried molding, operators combine water, sand, a binder such as clay, and bonding additives, then dry the mixture with a torch or heating lamp.

Green sand molds are created similarly, except without the bonding additives and the heat drying process.

Ductile iron casting, sometimes called spheroidal graphite casting, SG iron casting, or nodular iron casting, was pioneered by Keith Mills in . This innovative process involves melting and casting iron alloys with controlled microstructures and adding elements like magnesium, cerium, or yttrium to enhance ductility. Compared to grey iron castings, ductile iron castings offer greater ductility and higher tensile strength. These properties make ductile iron ideal for manufacturing a range of products, including water and sewer pipes, as well as components for windmills, tractors, trucks, cars, piano harps, and oil rigs.

Benefits

Grey iron casting delivers a range of significant benefits. It enhances products with exceptional damping capacity, high compression strength, and impressive tensile strength. The production process is both quick and straightforward, and the presence of graphite flakes improves machinability and weldability. This allows foundry workers to craft a diverse array of intricate shapes with ease. Additionally, grey iron casting minimizes shrinkage during cooling compared to other methods, reducing the need for extensive secondary processing. On top of all this, grey iron castings are cost-effective, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Grey iron castings have a notable disadvantage: they lack shock resistance and can shatter instantly under significant force.

Things to Consider

For top-notch grey iron castings, partnering with a reputable foundry is essential. Explore the listed companies on this page to find a reliable foundry. Their profiles are integrated within our informative content for your convenience.

Before diving into your options, we suggest compiling a detailed list of your specifications. This will help you easily compare and contrast the products and services of different manufacturers. Include your budget, timeline, and delivery preferences in this list. Once your list is prepared, start exploring your choices. Identify three or four casting manufacturers that seem most promising for your needs. Contact each one to discuss your specifications thoroughly. Review everything on your list and don't hesitate to ask plenty of questions. After gathering all the information, evaluate and compare your conversations. Choose the foundry that best meets your requirements within your timeframe and budget, then reach out to finalize your plans.

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Grey Iron Casting Informational Video

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