Lodge L8SK3 10.25 Inch vs Smithey No. 12
Lodge L8SK3 10.25-inch wins — The Lodge L8SK3 is the right choice for most cooks
Scores: Lodge L8SK3 10.25 Inch 7.2/10 · Smithey No. 12 7.1/10
The Lodge L8SK3 is the right choice for most cooks. The Smithey No. 12 is worth the premium for cooks who will use cast iron daily and genuinely care about the polished surface finish for delicate cooking.
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Lodge L8SK3 10.25 Inch | Smithey No. 12 |
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| Price | ~$35 | ~$200 |
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| Size | 10.25 in | 12 in |
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| Weight | 5.35 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
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| Interior Finish | Textured (sand-cast) | Machined smooth |
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| Made In | USA (Tennessee) | USA (South Carolina) |
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| Break-in Time | Longer | Shorter |
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Lodge L8SK3 10.25 Inch
What works
- ~$35 — the most accessible entry point in cast iron
- Made in South Pittsburg, Tennessee since 1896
- Virtually indestructible — documented 50-year-old Lodge pans still in use
What doesn't
- Pebbly textured surface means longer break-in period for delicate cooking
- Heavy for its size at 5.35 lbs — No. 12 comparison is larger pan
- Assist handle loop is small — harder to grip with thick mitts
Smithey No. 12
What works
- Machined smooth interior — better release from day one
- More refined aesthetics — better looking on wall or stovetop
- Generous pour spouts and assist handle
What doesn't
- $200 — nearly 6x the price of Lodge for comparable long-term performance
- Heavier than Lodge for the same diameter
- Less available — online and specialty kitchen stores only
Bottom line
Our pick: Lodge L8SK3 10.25 Inch.
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