No. 8 Cast-Iron Skillet

Field Company

Field Company's No. 8 Cast-Iron Skillet modernizes vintage quality with a lightweight, machined-smooth cooking surface. At 4.5 pounds, it balances maneuverability with heat retention for superior searing and cooking performance. Made entirely in the USA using traditional green sand casting, this pre-seasoned skillet works on all cooktops and develops an increasingly non-stick surface with use. Built to become a cherished kitchen heirloom for generations.

Product Specifications

Dimensions:16.13 x 10.25 x 2 inches
Lifespan:N/A
Material:N/A
Country of Origin:USA
Manufacturing:Field Company cast-iron skillets are made in the USA using recycled iron and traditional green sand casting methods; production facilities include locations in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Research Summary

Field Company's cast iron skillet delivers on BIFL fundamentals with the potential to last generations, though at a premium price. Its lighter weight and machined surface make it a modern heir to vintage pans, but demands patience during break-in. The lifetime warranty backs its durability, while the pan's infinite restorability ensures true longevity. Ideal for serious home cooks willing to invest in a pan they'll never replace, though budget-conscious buyers may balk at the $165 price tag for what is essentially the same cooking material as cheaper alternatives.

  • Thinner, lighter profile maintains even heating performance while reducing the arm-strain common to traditional cast iron
  • Virtually indestructible with true self-healing properties - any surface issues can be fixed with basic maintenance
  • Lifetime warranty against cracks, breaks and warping is simple and reportedly honored without hassle
  • At $165, you're primarily paying for improved ergonomics and finish quality versus basic functionality
  • Users consistently praise its similarity to cherished vintage skillets but new owners should expect an extended seasoning break-in period

Repairability Notes

9.5

Cast iron is the gold standard for fixable cookware — Field Company's skillet is no exception, with decades of proven repairability ahead.

  • Self-healing design: Users report most surface issues like sticking, seasoning unevenness, or light rust spots aren't defects — they're part of your skillet's journey and continuing to cook will be the cure
  • Restoration-friendly: Reddit users actively restore thrifted Field skillets, and one noted finding Field skillets at thrift stores and restoring them indicates these pans can be brought back from neglect
  • No proprietary parts: Unlike modern appliances, cast iron needs zero replacement components — just oil, heat, and basic maintenance to last generations

Bottom line: Built like vintage Griswolds that are still cooking 100+ years later, Field's cast iron can be reseasoned, de-rusted, and restored indefinitely with just kitchen basics — true BIFL repairability.

Durability Notes

8.0

Field Company delivers a modern take on vintage cast iron that actually holds up. Users report it performs like their 30-40 year old cast iron and expect to be set for life, with many planning to pass these down through generations.

  • Lighter but tough: The thinner profile makes it easier to handle daily without sacrificing cooking performance - users say it heats evenly and cooks without scorching
  • Smooth finish wins: The machined surface beats Lodge's rough texture, though some users struggle with concentric grooves that can trap food initially
  • Break-in frustration: Eggs will stick at first and you really need to be patient when using cast iron - but once seasoned properly, cinnamon rolls slide out beautifully with no sticking
  • Lifetime backing: Company replaces any pan that cracks, breaks or warps under normal use, though international customers can't return items

Bottom line: At $165, you're paying premium prices for lighter weight and smoother finish - but if you can stomach the break-in period, this pan should outlive you.

Warranty Notes

8.5

Field Company offers a true lifetime warranty for their cast iron skillets that covers manufacturing defects for as long as you own the product.

  • Coverage: Lifetime warranty against cracks, breaks, and warping under normal use conditions. Not covered: accidents, misuse, improper care.
  • Claims Process: Contact via email at help@fieldcompany.com. Support team will troubleshoot and arrange replacement if needed.
  • Additional Benefits: 45-day trial period with full refund option (minus shipping). Ongoing support for maintenance issues even when not warranty-related.

Bottom line: Field Company backs their claim that their skillets are "built to last a lifetime" with a legitimate warranty that consumers report is honored. Their support for non-warranty issues like seasoning advice shows commitment to long-term customer satisfaction.

Social Analysis

7.5

Field Company enjoys strong positive sentiment across Reddit's cast iron communities, particularly for addressing common gripes with modern skillets. Users consistently praise its lighter weight and smoother finish compared to Lodge, with one saying it performs like my 30-40 year old cast iron skillet I bought on auction 30 years ago.

  • Weight advantage: Redditors regularly recommend it for being noticeably lighter than traditional cast iron, making daily use more practical
  • Premium positioning: Viewed as a modern heir to vintage Griswold/Wagner quality, though the high price point divides opinions
  • Seasoning struggles: Mixed experiences with initial seasoning - some report eggs sliding beautifully while others battle sticking issues with the concentric grooves on the cooking surface

Bottom line: Field Company has earned respect as a quality alternative to vintage cast iron, but seasoning challenges and premium pricing keep it from universal acclaim in the BIFL community.

BIFL Score:
8.5Excellent
No. 8 Cast-Iron Skillet
Repair Friendly
Buy on Amazon
$165

Product Scorecard

Durability Score
8.0
Repairability Score
9.5
Social Score
7.5
Warranty Score
8.5

We rate products using a 10-point scoring system focused on what matters most: durability, reliability, and repairability.

Pros and Cons

What Users Love

Lighter than traditional cast iron

Smooth, machined cooking surface

Expected to last generations

Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects

Areas for Improvement

Higher price than competitors

Difficult initial seasoning period

Concentric grooves can trap food

Eggs stick until properly seasoned

Based on our comprehensive product research and scoring methodology

Image Gallery

No. 8 Cast-Iron Skillet - Main view

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Frequently Asked Questions

Product Care & Maintenance Guide

Recommended: After each useClean and lightly oil the skillet after every use to maintain seasoning and prevent rust.

Step 1

Clean

Rinse the skillet with warm water and scrub using a chain mail scrubber to remove food residue. Soap is optional and can be used sparingly at first use only. Avoid harsh detergents and do not soak the pan. Dry thoroughly by heating it on the stove.

Recommended Products

  • Field Chain Mail Scrubber$25
Step 2

Condition / Maintain

After drying, apply a thin, even coat of Field Seasoning Oil or a high-smoke-point oil using a paper towel. Wipe away excess oil and heat the pan until it just starts to smoke to lock in the seasoning.

Recommended Products

  • Field Seasoning Oil$15
Step 3

Protect / Store

Store the pan in a dry place without a lid to prevent moisture buildup. If stacking with other pans, place paper towels between them to protect the seasoning and avoid rust.

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