Kent, know what I noticed right away on the Stargazer? Some of us are not able to use gas, or even electric coils for various reasons, and are stuck with glass surface cooking. Some of the Iron skillets have an exaggerated ring cast in the bottom, probably due to old coal/wood stoves. They don't contact well with the heat on a glass cooking top. The Stargazer is a smooth bottom without a ring! Might be my next cast iron purchase!
Just a week ago I bought 2 lodge iron pans and a dutch oven. I enjoyed polishing the bottoms and season 3 times with flax seed oil. Bacon, eggs and fried taters. Not thing has stuck yet. I'am surprised with the easy cleanup! Keep these videos streaming! Love you both.
Just received the Stargazer 12" I ordered 4/24 (~3 months). First impression after a day: it's the most non-stick skillet (Field, Lodge Blacklock, Marquette Castings) out of the box.
My cast iron issues ended the day I started watching your channel, and since I use cast iron for all my cooking, that has been quite a gift. Thank you!
Bought that Stargazer Skillet for Christmas 2018 and it's a keeper. Never goes in the drawer, stays on top of range cause we use it every day. Thanking you for that Cast Iron RUclips video you did, cause you sold us on the Stargazer.
It would be nice if Stargazer designed a cool lid like Finex did.. I bet you could find a lid that fits it, but it would be cool to have a matching lid with their logo engraved. A larger 12" inch option would be nice, too.
I got this skillet after watching your review. I’m in the process of laying down the seasoning. I do not like the traditional small hot handles. The handle is what sold me on it. Now watching your other videos. You are a treat to watch. Thanks, Rose
I do appreciate the cooler handle design. I took a look at my Lodge skillet on my stovetop with an IR camera and a considerable portion of the handle became hot enough to boil water, which means the rest of the handle was definitely not hot enough to touch. I'd like to see a thermographic photo of this design at typical cooking temperatures. And that flared edge! 😍
I just bought a Lodge skillet and am new to cast iron. It is preseasoned, but I used the oven method and seasoned it a couple more times, once with olive oil, and then with avocado oil since I couldn’t find flaxseed oil. This morning I cooked eggs and bacon and the egg slid right out. No sticking at all so I am happy with my purchase. Love these videos Kent and thanks for all the great advice.
I got 10” Stargazer when it was on Kickstarter. It’s my favorite pan and use it twice a day. Great stay cool handle, stays cooler than Finex Brass knob.
I am just a old country boy from ky. who grew up watching my mom cook on a cast iron skillet. I enjoy watching your videos I have started collecting cast iron I have about 20 or so now I got mine from friends and garage sales for under $10 dollars .we have a lot of fish fries and I use a lodge 12 inch dutch oven to cook it in.so keep up the good work. thanks jerry mcelwain
I love my stargazer skillet. I’ve cooked and deep fried and it is just wonderful. Everything tastes better. I Highly recommend the seasoned version. I made fluffy eggs as my first dish and I haven’t looked back. The handles are appropriate. You’ll appreciate the longer handle going to and from the oven as a finish to your dish.
My Stargazer is my favorite skillet. It's the only cast iron I'll use along side my carbon steel, and copper cookware depending on recipe. The Stargazer does everything amazing. It's not too light, and not too heavy. The best part about the pan is the way it renders fat. You can coat the whole pan edge to edge with bacon and have a ton of bacon fat left to fry with. More so than any of my other cast iron for sure. And the way it sears a crust is perfection. I love it!
I've had my stargazer since August 2017. After many months of regular use it developed the perfect season on the surface: nothing sticks and it's very easy to clean with a bit of water (hot pan) and light surface scrub with a cloth or nylon sponge. It is now our go-to pan for almost everything, even homemade bluecorn tortillas.
I love my Field pans! Perfect weight and perfect handling. I put 3 more seasoning on them when I received them in the oven. Ater using them no stick.Now there black already. Loving them.Cant wait till they come out with the 12 inch.
Thank you, Cowboy Kent! I love this series and I’ve learned a lot about caring for and using cast iron, thanks to you! I love your recipes too. You are a true cowboy and a gentleman to boot.
Stargazer Tip: It took me a while to get the seasoning to stick to the pan. My recommendation is to buy their pan seasoned, and then follow the steps and directions to season it 6 more times before ever using it. This may seem like overkill, but trust me its not and will save you a whole lot of time. Otherwise I love this pan and glad I got it.
I just got a Stargazer, and am pretty satisfied. The handle does get hot, especially compared to my All-Clad. If it's on the stove for long enough, the handle gets hot. If it's not on the stove for long, it doesn't get hot. That being said, wow. It's a huge difference compared to the Lodge skillet I had. I think I screwed up the seasoning, but it took new seasoning really well. I can't knock Lodge too much since it's a $20 pan. I would love to hear about how the sanded Lodge compares
Stargazer has updated their pans a little, they now do some kind of almost sandblast finish vs machining the bottom of the pan. The finish is satin and lets the season stay more easily, it's pretty nice. The weight has increased as well, I don't have an older Stargazer to prove this but I think they made the outer walls thicker. Gorgeous pan, I like the name too.
Just got my first Stargazer. I got the 12 inch and I love it so far. I like the longer Handel and it is quite cool after cooking breakfast, bacon and eggs. Great quality, nice weight. I will be purchasing a 10inch for myself and another 12 for my friend.
I love seeing the old red cabinet in the bachground! It's perfect for the outdoor kitchen! Boy howdy! 👍. With lots of love from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵, 90/61f today, sure hope we don't skip spring!
Glad you finally got a Stargazer. I like mine a lot and the handle design stays cool enough to pick up barehanded for at least one round of bacon frying.
I have a lodge. After watching your cast iron reviews with your lovely wife, I just purchased my stargazer 10.5 pre-seasoned. Even got 15% off from their website. Excited...promise you that!
Welp, I reckon I dun been hooked! I adopted one of these babies just today and I think ima write my other kids out da will! All kidding aside, unboxed it, filled it with oil, deep fried some pies for desert and cleaned up wonderfully! Can’t wait till the morning to make some bacon and eggs in this baby! Stargazer, ya dun gud! Kent, awesome review. Your word is still good with me! Hahaha God bless!
This is a great series comparing cast iron skillets. I only own Lodge but at least the price point on this skillet is more in line compared with the Butter Pat at $200.00. I could almost own a complete basic skillet line up of Lodge for the price of one Butter Pat. I understand you get what you pay for however, I'm extremely satisfied with my Lodge skillets that I've owned for over 20 years. Thanks for sharing and I appreciate you and Shannon taking the time to do a real time comparison. Cheers to y'all!
Bud if you sand out the interior of a Lodge skillet you can make it smooth. It just takes a little time and effort. It's kind of hard to get the sides, but you can make the bottom glass smooth with a rotary sander, followed by an orbit sander, and finally finishing with the orbit sander and 00 or finer steel wool.
Lodge may not be considered high quality by most, but one thing for sure, there's not a better cast iron skillet out there for baking cornbread or biscuits. There's something about the roughish surface that just flat out works. My old Griswold, Wagner and even my Stargazer never see use when it's time for cornbread or biscuits.
This is a skillet where my wallet says, go getcha one. Thank you very much for the review and thanks to Stargazer for the Military discount. I don't ever ask for one but I definitely buy from the companies that support us veterans. Thanks for the recent reviews and the other videos over the years. BTW, I have made several recipes after getting your cookbook at Silver Dollar City. The bad news about that is I may not be buying the relish from your website anymore because the recipe is so easy and is terrific. The good news is I will be buying for seasoning! Kevin
Owned a stargazer 12inch for 3months now. Lovely pan. I love it. I used ghee to season mine. Then did potatoes to build a carbon layer. After a month, I can slide an egg without drowning it in oil or water. Carbon layering makes it non-stick, not the seasoning.... Issues I have with it, the any angle pour spout makes it so I cannot wipe my wood utensil off into the pan. Then it is rather small for a 12inch, for instance it fits inside my 12inch lodge. Think cooking area around 9-10inches. Not a single other issue. I highly recommend this skillet, price is right.
Great video. Looking forward to next week's video. I have a Field, Finex, Stargazer and several lodge pieces. Also have several of my great aunt's Wagner Ware. Love my cast iron. I also have the bottom stand of her old cast iron stove. Put a top on it and it makes a great interesting coffee type table.
I received my stargazer skillet a few days ago I seasoned it with coconut oil three times and fried 4 eggs. Nothing sticking to the pan. Wiped clean with a paper towel. I was impressed! I have a variety of lodge cast iron and an old Griswald I usually use every day for eggs. This skillet is lighter and the handle could be picked up without a pot holder. I have high hopes that this pan will last years for me.
I have the modern Lodge 10.25 inch and it's great. The slight roughness has no problems with sticking, eggs, etc. no sticking. Just use a bit of fat like any other skillet. The grain to the surface of the new Lodge holds on to seasoning very well. This along with it being priced affordably at $20 and made in the USA make it easy to recommend. The best all around cookware IMO. I'd really like to try a machined one too, but not convinced paying $120 with tax+shipping for a Stargazer or Field is worth it. Love your videos though Kent, keep it up.
I own both sizes of Stargazer skillets. Admittedly the handles are big, but I have large hands and really like the way the handles are constructed. Also like being able to put a spoon or ladle in the handle. Getting the seasoning to adhere reminds me of carbon steel. It can be a bit of a challenge at first, but just use it and you will look up one day and it will be fully nonstick. For the first several cooks, I recommend deep frying, making cornbread, and cooking pizza. All three keep the skillet coated in oil for a period of time without any stress to the seasoning.
I bought this one because of the military discount and the design , but when I ordered mine they were changing locations so it was delayed, but well worth the wait!! The other brand I like that didn’t require any sanding smooth like lodges was the Finex....another great cast iron skillet!! Love the videos!
I got one of their 12inch pans unseasoned. Put three grape seed coats on it and have been rocking and rolling ever since. I love cooking in it. Pizza is awesome in them.
That Stargazer looks like the deal of the century! I will be quite interested in how it holds up over time but cast iron generally takes a .45 (not a "rooster bullet" but a Samuel Colt bullet) to put any real damage in it. I really appreciate this series because I am thinking about getting some iron for my father-in-law (he is an ex-firefighter and excellent cook pulling kitchen duty for the firehouse and doing it now for relaxation after a day on the construction site where he is a general contractor). You and Shannon very obviously know your stuff so I trust your opinions. Thanks for doing this series. I have an excellent Calphalon heavy gauge aluminum set of cookware which does an excellent job of cooking tomatoes and other acidic food so I am lucky that way. I have 8-10-12" iron which have served me well for 2+ decades. You're so right about the iron returning the TLC you give it.
This skillet didn't come up when I googled cast iron skillets. I really appreciate this review. I think that I'll save up for one as it fits my budget the best.
Per Stargazer FAQs: "WHAT TYPE OF SEASONING IS USED ON YOUR SEASONED COOKWARE? We use a blend of canola, grapeseed, and sunflower oil. Our oil blend is 100% certified non-GMO and contains no animal products, so it’s vegetarian/vegan friendly. It is also soy and peanut-free, for anyone with allergy concerns." Note they don't give the ratio's of the blend..
Stargazer was smart to send you this Skillet to review. I ordered a new Stargazer Skillet based on your review. Lord only knows how many other Yahoo’s did the same.
Cowboy Kent Rollins : Got it and love it, best cast iron skillet I own. Got tired of sanding down Lodge cast iron cook ware. Once I removed the orange peel they are great skillets, but with my arthritis. It took to much effort. I recently picked up my late mother’s Lodge cast iron skillets. The old stuff is much better. No orange peel.
I like this skillet. The handle looks comfy and it can hold a spoon or spatula on the slightly rolled handle end. Also love the looks of the larger rear open ended handle. The rolled edge looks nice but I think a pour spout on the side would have been nice as Shannon pointed out. The price is great though. I look forward to the other reviews before I get back in to cast iron. God bless and thank you both. Appreciate the education you are giving me.
Really looking forward to your next episode! I have two Lodge skillets that I love but am really thinking about adding a Field. The Stargazer looks great, but I'm thinking that handle may be a bit much for my smaller hands (thanks, Shannon, for mentioning that!).
Thanks for all the cast iron videos. I have a few old Lodge pans that predate the rough seasoning and I like them a lot. My wife wanted a bigger one so we bought a new 12" Lodge. I sanded and smoothed it as per your directions and it cooks great. I would have a hard time justifying the price of these last few you reviewed. Poor folks have poor ways.
I´ve got 3 skillets made in Norway from 1920, 40 and 50s and all of them have long handles. And I love using then nearly every day. But that skillet in this video I would like to buy for sure
I got my Stargazer a few weeks before this review was released. I am very pleased with the skillet but I wish I had got it unseasoned instead. I think I could have put a better base season on it that what they did, but I was feeling a little lazy when I ordered. My mistake. But I do like the skillet and recommend it to cast iron users. If you are comfortable with seasoning it yourself, I suggest doing just that. Appreciate the videos Kent. Keep up the good work.
I just got a 12 inch lodge with a elk carving on the bottom side and it has just about no seasoning in it at all. Gonna be some work on this thing. I have 11 old pieces from my grandmothers collection that i absolutely love
Good reviews. Can’t wait for next one. I still love my field skillet we shall see what outcome with all four. God bless you both and hello from Bakersfield CA 👍🏽😄🍺🍳
Being new to cast iron, I opted to buy cheap and work my way up to a higher price point. I'm now at the stage where I'm trying to create a high quuaoty cast collection, smithy and stargazer are my next pans
I bought a couple “Field” pans after your review. So far, so good. It has only been a couple weeks, but I like them pretty well. It is never too soon to start thinking about Christmas. I try to get “big” gifts bought early in the year for people I know will be getting gifts because they haven’t been naughty. I might spread my business around because the other pans look pretty good.
Just got your cook book for my birthday and can't wait to make some cinnamon rolls and some wagon wheel steak. Great recipes and a great channel. God bless
that’s so affordable!....now i own nothing newer than 1950s but I would be willing to give that one a try!...thanks again for another great video........❤️❤️
Thanks for the review! I actually asked you about this one a few months ago as I was very interested in purchasing one of these bad boys. Glad to see it performed well for you. I currently have a cheapo lodge combo set that's a dutch oven/skillet lid I bought as a last minute purchase before going camping. It's been years (I season after each use) and it's getting better, but that surface is like large grit sandpaper. Looking forward to the head to head against the 4.
That skillet is looking great and I have to consider this brand because of the military discount which makes it even more appealing to me. I ordered a Lodge dutch oven through Amazon and can't wait to receive it so I can see how it works.
I would like to hear about the Smithey which is made in Charleston, SC. I have a field and stargazer also. I can’t wait to hear your summary. Love the channel.
This is the first that I have heard of this product, but I agree, my interest has been spiked after looking at their website and watching one of their videos. Inquiring minds would like to know.
Based off of your reviews of the two so far I believe I like that Butter Pat a little better. But the cost of the stargazer is a little more appealing. Good video and review
Another AWESOME review!!! Looking real hard at the Stargazer so I am looking forward to the comparison video to make my decision. Thank you and keep up the great work!!!!
Another good looking piece of iron ! I do like the handles on it, would make it better for clutzy people like myself to get a hold of ! 😊 Tell miss Shan that she's doing great in front of the camera, enjoy watching the two of you! Thanks for sharing and take care. 👍
I'm ready to order, now I'll wait for your opinion on all 4 but I can tell you that I'm leaning toward the Stargazer or Field. Thank you for the great video, this is the one that I have been waiting for.
After a ton of replies on the comment I made yesterday (it reads like a book), I ordered today after my Military ID was checked. It should arrive the first week of April. 👍🏻 Thanks for the great review.
I BOUGHT THE SMALL STARGAZER AN LIKED IT SO MUCH AFTER COOKING ONE TIME WITH IT, I BOUGHT THE BIG ONE. WHEN THE NEW BIG ONE COMES OUT I WILL GET IT ALSO...LOVE SOME STARGAZER!!!
Cowboy Kent when you cook outside not using soap on your skillets is fine. But if you are cleaning them in you sink it is a good idea to use a mild soap. The reason is not to clean the skillet but to protect your sewer lines. It helps in stopping the grease from sticking to them. This is especially important in septic system's over a period of time it can clog up your lateral lines. It is much cheaper to replace a damaged skillet ,than to have a backhoe digging up your backyard and replacing your whole septic system. Grease will make the ground less porres. Especially if you have a lot of clay in your yard. You would be surprised how much grease is left in your skillets after you pour out the morjorty it. Lard is great four retaining warter the last thing you want in a septic system.
They both cook about the same, but I too find the handle and lip awkward. Plus the field is the most like the old skillets out of the two. Then again I own the Field and a friend has the Stargazer so maybe some bias is in play?
Thank you! Great video! I ordered my fist Stargazer today! The price is higher now (what isn't?) but that's ok. I got 10% off for being a new customer. I'll be following your tips! :) God bless you both!💕
Kent, know what I noticed right away on the Stargazer? Some of us are not able to use gas, or even electric coils for various reasons, and are stuck with glass surface cooking. Some of the Iron skillets have an exaggerated ring cast in the bottom, probably due to old coal/wood stoves. They don't contact well with the heat on a glass cooking top. The Stargazer is a smooth bottom without a ring! Might be my next cast iron purchase!
Just a week ago I bought 2 lodge iron pans and a dutch oven. I enjoyed polishing the bottoms and season 3 times with flax seed oil. Bacon, eggs and fried taters. Not thing has stuck yet. I'am surprised with the easy cleanup!
Keep these videos streaming! Love you both.
Thanks Barry and keep on cooking
Just received the Stargazer 12" I ordered 4/24 (~3 months). First impression after a day: it's the most non-stick skillet (Field, Lodge Blacklock, Marquette Castings) out of the box.
Ya iT's ASSUME Pan✔️.
My cast iron issues ended the day I started watching your channel, and since I use cast iron for all my cooking, that has been quite a gift. Thank you!
Thanks Laura
Never be scared. People buy fully rusted cast iron skillets and bring them back. Live an learn. Life goes on.
The handle is designed that way so you can set your utensil on it without it falling off, it gives you a place to put your tool.
Grandad said never fry anything nekkid....
Bought that Stargazer Skillet for Christmas 2018 and it's a keeper. Never goes in the drawer, stays on top of range cause we use it every day. Thanking you for that Cast Iron RUclips video you did, cause you sold us on the Stargazer.
Good iron it is
It would be nice if Stargazer designed a cool lid like Finex did.. I bet you could find a lid that fits it, but it would be cool to have a matching lid with their logo engraved. A larger 12" inch option would be nice, too.
Yes a Logo Lid, This Pan iS Like ⭐Artwork, Lol.
I got this skillet after watching your review. I’m in the process of laying down the seasoning. I do not like the traditional small hot handles. The handle is what sold me on it. Now watching your other videos. You are a treat to watch. Thanks, Rose
Thanks Rose it is good iron
They just started shipping their new 12 inch skillets.
I do appreciate the cooler handle design. I took a look at my Lodge skillet on my stovetop with an IR camera and a considerable portion of the handle became hot enough to boil water, which means the rest of the handle was definitely not hot enough to touch. I'd like to see a thermographic photo of this design at typical cooking temperatures. And that flared edge! 😍
I just bought a Lodge skillet and am new to cast iron. It is preseasoned, but I used the oven method and seasoned it a couple more times, once with olive oil, and then with avocado oil since I couldn’t find flaxseed oil. This morning I cooked eggs and bacon and the egg slid right out. No sticking at all so I am happy with my purchase. Love these videos Kent and thanks for all the great advice.
Thanks Mary Beth for watching
I got 10” Stargazer when it was on Kickstarter. It’s my favorite pan and use it twice a day. Great stay cool handle, stays cooler than Finex Brass knob.
I am just a old country boy from ky. who grew up watching my mom cook on a cast iron skillet. I enjoy watching your videos I have started collecting cast iron I have about 20 or so now I got mine from friends and garage sales for under $10 dollars .we have a lot of fish fries and I use a lodge 12 inch dutch oven to cook it in.so keep up the good work. thanks jerry mcelwain
Thank you Jerry for watching
I love my stargazer skillet. I’ve cooked and deep fried and it is just wonderful. Everything tastes better. I Highly recommend the seasoned version. I made fluffy eggs as my first dish and I haven’t looked back. The handles are appropriate. You’ll appreciate the longer handle going to and from the oven as a finish to your dish.
Just got my stargazer yesterday! I love how the inside of the pan is smooth
My Stargazer is my favorite skillet. It's the only cast iron I'll use along side my carbon steel, and copper cookware depending on recipe. The Stargazer does everything amazing. It's not too light, and not too heavy. The best part about the pan is the way it renders fat. You can coat the whole pan edge to edge with bacon and have a ton of bacon fat left to fry with. More so than any of my other cast iron for sure. And the way it sears a crust is perfection. I love it!
I've had my stargazer since August 2017. After many months of regular use it developed the perfect season on the surface: nothing sticks and it's very easy to clean with a bit of water (hot pan) and light surface scrub with a cloth or nylon sponge. It is now our go-to pan for almost everything, even homemade bluecorn tortillas.
It is good iron
I love my Field pans! Perfect weight and perfect handling. I put 3 more seasoning on them when I received them in the oven. Ater using them no stick.Now there black already. Loving them.Cant wait till they come out with the 12 inch.
Thanks Faith for watching
I never use soap. For me, I like this skillet review of all the companies. It is great that you have done this for us.
Thanks for watching
Thank you, Cowboy Kent! I love this series and I’ve learned a lot about caring for and using cast iron, thanks to you! I love your recipes too. You are a true cowboy and a gentleman to boot.
Thanks so much
I've had a lot of cast iron over the last 40 years, even some good quality garage sale finds, but my best is the family hand me down Wagner set
LOL I've got dibs on Dad's skillet which was his mom's.
Stargazer Tip: It took me a while to get the seasoning to stick to the pan. My recommendation is to buy their pan seasoned, and then follow the steps and directions to season it 6 more times before ever using it. This may seem like overkill, but trust me its not and will save you a whole lot of time. Otherwise I love this pan and glad I got it.
You don't need to put 6 layers. Just add one or two.
I just got a Stargazer, and am pretty satisfied. The handle does get hot, especially compared to my All-Clad. If it's on the stove for long enough, the handle gets hot. If it's not on the stove for long, it doesn't get hot. That being said, wow. It's a huge difference compared to the Lodge skillet I had. I think I screwed up the seasoning, but it took new seasoning really well. I can't knock Lodge too much since it's a $20 pan. I would love to hear about how the sanded Lodge compares
Stargazer has updated their pans a little, they now do some kind of almost sandblast finish vs machining the bottom of the pan. The finish is satin and lets the season stay more easily, it's pretty nice. The weight has increased as well, I don't have an older Stargazer to prove this but I think they made the outer walls thicker. Gorgeous pan, I like the name too.
Good iron and good people as well
Just got my first Stargazer. I got the 12 inch and I love it so far. I like the longer Handel and it is quite cool after cooking breakfast, bacon and eggs. Great quality, nice weight. I will be purchasing a 10inch for myself and another 12 for my friend.
Good folks and good iron
I love seeing the old red cabinet in the bachground! It's perfect for the outdoor kitchen! Boy howdy! 👍. With lots of love from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵, 90/61f today, sure hope we don't skip spring!
Thanks Suzi
I lol’ed my dinner out at “smooth as a Safeway chicken” lol I love this channel
Thanks for keeping your videos clean . In today's world its like the smell of fresh cofee . God bless .
Thanks and God Bless you as well
My wife and I have a well seasoned lodge that she mostly uses for frying. I just got my 10.5" stargazer today and looking forward to using it.
It is good iron and we hope you enjoy it
Kudos for them offering the military discount. Reasonably priced, I like the bigger handle and front handle. Thanks
So glad you’re doing this series. I’ve sanded my main Lodge skillet twice. Still not happy with the surface. Ready to upgrade. Thanks to both of you.
Thanks for watching
Glad you finally got a Stargazer. I like mine a lot and the handle design stays cool enough to pick up barehanded for at least one round of bacon frying.
I have a lodge. After watching your cast iron reviews with your lovely wife, I just purchased my stargazer 10.5 pre-seasoned. Even got 15% off from their website. Excited...promise you that!
Welp, I reckon I dun been hooked! I adopted one of these babies just today and I think ima write my other kids out da will!
All kidding aside, unboxed it, filled it with oil, deep fried some pies for desert and cleaned up wonderfully! Can’t wait till the morning to make some bacon and eggs in this baby!
Stargazer, ya dun gud!
Kent, awesome review. Your word is still good with me! Hahaha
God bless!
I use the handle to rest spoon while cooking, very convenient. And yes the handle hardly gets too hot to handle. Love this skillet.
Great iron it is, Thank you for watching
This is a great series comparing cast iron skillets. I only own Lodge but at least the price point on this skillet is more in line compared with the Butter Pat at $200.00. I could almost own a complete basic skillet line up of Lodge for the price of one Butter Pat. I understand you get what you pay for however, I'm extremely satisfied with my Lodge skillets that I've owned for over 20 years. Thanks for sharing and I appreciate you and Shannon taking the time to do a real time comparison. Cheers to y'all!
Thanks William for watching
You are most welcome sir. Cheers!
Bud if you sand out the interior of a Lodge skillet you can make it smooth. It just takes a little time and effort. It's kind of hard to get the sides, but you can make the bottom glass smooth with a rotary sander, followed by an orbit sander, and finally finishing with the orbit sander and 00 or finer steel wool.
I have a good size collection of Lodge, but it's ok to have a high-end primary skillet or two
Lodge may not be considered high quality by most, but one thing for sure, there's not a better cast iron skillet out there for baking cornbread or biscuits. There's something about the roughish surface that just flat out works. My old Griswold, Wagner and even my Stargazer never see use when it's time for cornbread or biscuits.
This is a skillet where my wallet says, go getcha one. Thank you very much for the review and thanks to Stargazer for the Military discount. I don't ever ask for one but I definitely buy from the companies that support us veterans. Thanks for the recent reviews and the other videos over the years. BTW, I have made several recipes after getting your cookbook at Silver Dollar City. The bad news about that is I may not be buying the relish from your website anymore because the recipe is so easy and is terrific. The good news is I will be buying for seasoning! Kevin
Thanks Kevin, the jar is a little different with a secret ingredient
Owned a stargazer 12inch for 3months now. Lovely pan. I love it. I used ghee to season mine. Then did potatoes to build a carbon layer. After a month, I can slide an egg without drowning it in oil or water. Carbon layering makes it non-stick, not the seasoning....
Issues I have with it, the any angle pour spout makes it so I cannot wipe my wood utensil off into the pan. Then it is rather small for a 12inch, for instance it fits inside my 12inch lodge. Think cooking area around 9-10inches.
Not a single other issue. I highly recommend this skillet, price is right.
Good iron it is
Great video. Looking forward to next week's video. I have a Field, Finex, Stargazer and several lodge pieces. Also have several of my great aunt's Wagner Ware. Love my cast iron. I also have the bottom stand of her old cast iron stove. Put a top on it and it makes a great interesting coffee type table.
Thanks Brenda for watching
Kent just a update I received my 12 today,I like it They have also changed the packaging
Good iron it is
yes very impressed with it in ways like it better than my Field @@CowboyKentRollins
I received my stargazer skillet a few days ago I seasoned it with coconut oil three times and fried 4 eggs. Nothing sticking to the pan. Wiped clean with a paper towel. I was impressed! I have a variety of lodge cast iron and an old Griswald I usually use every day for eggs. This skillet is lighter and the handle could be picked up without a pot holder. I have high hopes that this pan will last years for me.
I have the modern Lodge 10.25 inch and it's great. The slight roughness has no problems with sticking, eggs, etc. no sticking. Just use a bit of fat like any other skillet. The grain to the surface of the new Lodge holds on to seasoning very well. This along with it being priced affordably at $20 and made in the USA make it easy to recommend. The best all around cookware IMO. I'd really like to try a machined one too, but not convinced paying $120 with tax+shipping for a Stargazer or Field is worth it. Love your videos though Kent, keep it up.
Thanks Justin for watching
I just purchased a seasoned Stargazer for a total of $84.80. ($88.00 - $13.20 military discount + $10.00 shipping).
I have 2 lodge skillets and striped them with easy off heavy duty oven cleaner. And reseasoned them.They turned out great!
I sanded and polished the inside of my Lodge. It is smooth as vintage!
If you can, build a fire and bury it in hot coals for two hours getting it glowing. It will come out looking like it just left the factory.
Faith I stay away from oven cleaner, its hard on my stomach
I own both sizes of Stargazer skillets. Admittedly the handles are big, but I have large hands and really like the way the handles are constructed. Also like being able to put a spoon or ladle in the handle. Getting the seasoning to adhere reminds me of carbon steel. It can be a bit of a challenge at first, but just use it and you will look up one day and it will be fully nonstick. For the first several cooks, I recommend deep frying, making cornbread, and cooking pizza. All three keep the skillet coated in oil for a period of time without any stress to the seasoning.
Good iron it is
C.I. Is all i cook with, been like that for years, now even better with Kent’s tips on up keep. Thank you
Thanks Michael for watching
I bought this one because of the military discount and the design , but when I ordered mine they were changing locations so it was delayed, but well worth the wait!! The other brand I like that didn’t require any sanding smooth like lodges was the Finex....another great cast iron skillet!! Love the videos!
Thanks so much for watching
Another fine looking piece of kitchen gear. Thanks for showing it to us Kent and Shannon.
Our pleasure
Looking forward to the review! My 20 year old daughter loves to cook so I'm looking to buy her first cast iron skillet.
this is one of the modern cast iron pans i'm thinking of getting, mainly because of its design.
I got one of their 12inch pans unseasoned. Put three grape seed coats on it and have been rocking and rolling ever since. I love cooking in it. Pizza is awesome in them.
Good iron it is
That Stargazer looks like the deal of the century! I will be quite interested in how it holds up over time but cast iron generally takes a .45 (not a "rooster bullet" but a Samuel Colt bullet) to put any real damage in it. I really appreciate this series because I am thinking about getting some iron for my father-in-law (he is an ex-firefighter and excellent cook pulling kitchen duty for the firehouse and doing it now for relaxation after a day on the construction site where he is a general contractor). You and Shannon very obviously know your stuff so I trust your opinions. Thanks for doing this series.
I have an excellent Calphalon heavy gauge aluminum set of cookware which does an excellent job of cooking tomatoes and other acidic food so I am lucky that way. I have 8-10-12" iron which have served me well for 2+ decades. You're so right about the iron returning the TLC you give it.
Thanks Eric for taking time to watch
This skillet didn't come up when I googled cast iron skillets. I really appreciate this review. I think that I'll save up for one as it fits my budget the best.
Good iron it is
Per Stargazer FAQs: "WHAT TYPE OF SEASONING IS USED ON YOUR SEASONED COOKWARE?
We use a blend of canola, grapeseed, and sunflower oil. Our oil blend is 100% certified non-GMO and contains no animal products, so it’s vegetarian/vegan friendly. It is also soy and peanut-free, for anyone with allergy concerns." Note they don't give the ratio's of the blend..
Been waiting for the new skillet roundup! Great to hear it's coming soon!
Stargazer was smart to send you this Skillet to review. I ordered a new Stargazer Skillet based on your review. Lord only knows how many other Yahoo’s did the same.
Good Iron it is
Cowboy Kent Rollins : Got it and love it, best cast iron skillet I own. Got tired of sanding down Lodge cast iron cook ware. Once I removed the orange peel they are great skillets, but with my arthritis. It took to much effort. I recently picked up my late mother’s Lodge cast iron skillets. The old stuff is much better. No orange peel.
I like this skillet. The handle looks comfy and it can hold a spoon or spatula on the slightly rolled handle end. Also love the looks of the larger rear open ended handle. The rolled edge looks nice but I think a pour spout on the side would have been nice as Shannon pointed out. The price is great though. I look forward to the other reviews before I get back in to cast iron. God bless and thank you both. Appreciate the education you are giving me.
Thomas thanks so much and God Bless you as well
Mine arrived in New Zealand 2 yrs ago. Love it to bits..............
I’ve had one for a while and it’s one of my favorites!
Really looking forward to your next episode! I have two Lodge skillets that I love but am really thinking about adding a Field. The Stargazer looks great, but I'm thinking that handle may be a bit much for my smaller hands (thanks, Shannon, for mentioning that!).
Thank you for watching
What did you wind up purchasing? I am going between Field and Stargazer.
Thanks for all the cast iron videos. I have a few old Lodge pans that predate the rough seasoning and I like them a lot. My wife wanted a bigger one so we bought a new 12" Lodge. I sanded and smoothed it as per your directions and it cooks great. I would have a hard time justifying the price of these last few you reviewed. Poor folks have poor ways.
Thanks John for watching
I´ve got 3 skillets made in Norway from 1920, 40 and 50s and all of them have long handles. And I love using then nearly every day. But that skillet in this video I would like to buy for sure
IT is good iron
Good Review and Thanks to Stargazer for the Veterans Discount.
It is good iron and a great tribute
Ya That's Reason✔️ to Buy.
I got my Stargazer a few weeks before this review was released. I am very pleased with the skillet but I wish I had got it unseasoned instead. I think I could have put a better base season on it that what they did, but I was feeling a little lazy when I ordered. My mistake. But I do like the skillet and recommend it to cast iron users. If you are comfortable with seasoning it yourself, I suggest doing just that.
Appreciate the videos Kent. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Harrill
I like the features on this skillet and I believe I’ll buy one.
It is good iron
I just got a 12 inch lodge with a elk carving on the bottom side and it has just about no seasoning in it at all. Gonna be some work on this thing. I have 11 old pieces from my grandmothers collection that i absolutely love
Thank you Richard for watching
Kent, you read my mind! I was hoping for an overall comparison of your reviewed cast irons. Looking forward to the next broadcast! Thank you
Thanks James for watching
Good reviews. Can’t wait for next one. I still love my field skillet we shall see what outcome with all four. God bless you both and hello from Bakersfield CA 👍🏽😄🍺🍳
Thanks and God Bless you as well
Do a review on the Finex Cast Iron Skillet. They are made in the USA and definitely a different design. Wow are they spendy though!!!
Rick the more you spend the more pride you take in things and it will last and pass it down thru generations.
Cool Handle on them too, just a Lil short for my liking
Great review! I would like to see the Lodge Pro-Logic Series of cast iron. Let's see how it stacks up against the fancy pans.
Being new to cast iron, I opted to buy cheap and work my way up to a higher price point. I'm now at the stage where I'm trying to create a high quuaoty cast collection, smithy and stargazer are my next pans
Also Marquette is good as well
I bought a couple “Field” pans after your review. So far, so good. It has only been a couple weeks, but I like them pretty well.
It is never too soon to start thinking about Christmas. I try to get “big” gifts bought early in the year for people I know will be getting gifts because they haven’t been naughty. I might spread my business around because the other pans look pretty good.
Thanks C J for watching
Just ordered myself one of these and I’m really looking forward to putting it to work. Thanks for the review, great stuff.
Great piece of iron it is
Just got your cook book for my birthday and can't wait to make some cinnamon rolls and some wagon wheel steak. Great recipes and a great channel. God bless
Thanks Zack and we hope you enjoy our book
that’s so affordable!....now i own nothing newer than 1950s but I would be willing to give that one a try!...thanks again for another great video........❤️❤️
It is good iron
Thanks for the review! I actually asked you about this one a few months ago as I was very interested in purchasing one of these bad boys. Glad to see it performed well for you. I currently have a cheapo lodge combo set that's a dutch oven/skillet lid I bought as a last minute purchase before going camping. It's been years (I season after each use) and it's getting better, but that surface is like large grit sandpaper. Looking forward to the head to head against the 4.
Thanks Carl for watching
That skillet is looking great and I have to consider this brand because of the military discount which makes it even more appealing to me. I ordered a Lodge dutch oven through Amazon and can't wait to receive it so I can see how it works.
Hope you enjoy it Sidney
I would like to hear about the Smithey which is made in Charleston, SC. I have a field and stargazer also. I can’t wait to hear your summary. Love the channel.
This is the first that I have heard of this product, but I agree, my interest has been spiked after looking at their website and watching one of their videos. Inquiring minds would like to know.
Thanks Bill so much for watching
Based off of your reviews of the two so far I believe I like that Butter Pat a little better. But the cost of the stargazer is a little more appealing. Good video and review
I want this skillet! Beautiful. The handle is really upper class. Great review. I am buying one.
It is good iron
Curious to see you do a video on Finex. I prefer vintage Wagner or Gris, but I sure do enjoy watching your videos.
Thanks so much
Honestly... one of my top fav channels
Thanks for taking time to watch
Love the series! I hope you're able to review and compare a Finex skillet with the rest. I love my 12" Finex!!!
Another AWESOME review!!! Looking real hard at the Stargazer so I am looking forward to the comparison video to make my decision. Thank you and keep up the great work!!!!
Thanks for watching
Another good looking piece of iron !
I do like the handles on it, would make it better for clutzy people like myself to get a hold of ! 😊
Tell miss Shan that she's doing great in front of the camera, enjoy watching the two of you!
Thanks for sharing and take care. 👍
Thanks so much my friend and it is always good to hear from you
I'm ready to order, now I'll wait for your opinion on all 4 but I can tell you that I'm leaning toward the Stargazer or Field. Thank you for the great video, this is the one that I have been waiting for.
Thanks Donald
Mine is arriving on Monday and it's bare unseasoned. It was VERY affordable with the military discount ($68) I must say.
Hope you enjoy
Got my stargazer today. Can’t wait to get started with it.
Good iron it is
After a ton of replies on the comment I made yesterday (it reads like a book), I ordered today after my Military ID was checked. It should arrive the first week of April. 👍🏻 Thanks for the great review.
Thanks for watching and your service my friend
Another great review. You and your wife work well together.
Thanks Judy
Found stargazer skt 105 02b at goodwill for approximately $11.00 very excited, cooked steak and onions, love it....
I BOUGHT THE SMALL STARGAZER AN LIKED IT SO MUCH AFTER COOKING ONE TIME WITH IT, I BOUGHT THE BIG ONE. WHEN THE NEW BIG ONE COMES OUT I WILL GET IT ALSO...LOVE SOME STARGAZER!!!
Wow, the price is right on these skillets. They appear to be in high demand too! Thumbs up!
It is good iron
Cowboy Kent when you cook outside not using soap on your skillets is fine. But if you are cleaning them in you sink it is a good idea to use a mild soap. The reason is not to clean the skillet but to protect your sewer lines. It helps in stopping the grease from sticking to them. This is especially important in septic system's over a period of time it can clog up your lateral lines. It is much cheaper to replace a damaged skillet ,than to have a backhoe digging up your backyard and replacing your whole septic system. Grease will make the ground less porres. Especially if you have a lot of clay in your yard. You would be surprised how much grease is left in your skillets after you pour out the morjorty it. Lard is great four retaining warter the last thing you want in a septic system.
I'm already excited for next week's episode!
I’ve used both the Field and the Stargazer. There both great, but for me the Field wins hands down.
I've got a Field, but curious why your preference... What do you think separates them. Thx.
They both cook about the same, but I too find the handle and lip awkward. Plus the field is the most like the old skillets out of the two. Then again I own the Field and a friend has the Stargazer so maybe some bias is in play?
GOD BLESS YOU BOTH ALWAYS! BE SAFE! HAVE FUN! ENJOYED! WE GOT SOME SNOW A COUPLE DAYS AGO ALL MOST GONE!
Thanks David and God Bless you as well
I got mine today. It’s great. Love it immediately.
Looking forward to the comparison show!
Thank you!
Another great review. Can't wait till the next video. Looking forward to hearing your opinion on some iron.
Thank so much for watching
Can't wait for the comparison video!
Thank you! Great video! I ordered my fist Stargazer today! The price is higher now (what isn't?) but that's ok. I got 10% off for being a new customer. I'll be following your tips! :) God bless you both!💕