Field Company

Field Company No. 10 Cast Iron Skillet

Field Company's No. 10 is a 12-inch cast iron skillet machined to a smooth cooking surface and trimmed down in weight compared to most traditional cast iron of the same size.

Shopi's verdict

Field Company's No. 10 is a standout 12-inch cast iron skillet for cooks who want the heat retention and durability of cast iron without the wrist-straining weight of vintage or Lodge-style pans — the smooth machined cooking surface also puts it closer to a seasoned nonstick than most cast iron out of the box. The premium USA manufacturing and refined design come at a higher price than mass-market alternatives, so it's harder to justify if you just need a workhorse pan for occasional use. A strong pick for enthusiasts who cook large meals regularly and care about long-term quality; budget-focused buyers or occasional cooks should look at more affordable options.

### Overview

Field skillets are machined smooth, modeled on the best vintage cookware — thinner walls, less weight, and a surface that builds great seasoning fast. The No. 10 is Field's large-format option: an 11.5" smooth skillet that's large enough to roast a chicken. Proudly made in the United States with American-sourced recycled iron, Field Company's casting process uses green sand castings — the same process used by their inspiration companies, Wagner and Griswold.

### Pros

- **Machined smooth surface:** Field skillets use a machining process modeled on the best of vintage cookware, precisely dialed in to be as smooth as possible while leaving just a touch of texture on the cooking surface to hold a great seasoning — meaning you build a nonstick patina faster than with a rough "as cast" pan. - **Lighter than typical large cast iron:** At 6 pounds, the No. 10 offers an ideal balance for an easy-to-handle large skillet — maneuverable around the stovetop, oven, and grill while retaining the heft needed for high-heat searing. That's a meaningful difference if you're moving a full pan from burner to oven regularly. - **No synthetic coatings:** No synthetic coatings, no PFOA, no PTFE — just pure iron that gets more nonstick with every meal. This matters for cooks who want to avoid chemical coatings entirely and prefer a pan that improves with age. - **Ready to cook out of the box:** Your pan arrives pre-seasoned with three coats of organic grapeseed oil, ready to cook from day one. No initial seasoning ritual required before your first meal.

### Cons

- **Requires ongoing seasoning maintenance:** Hand-wash only — never in the dishwasher. Towel dry and warm on the stovetop to evaporate moisture. Never drip-dry or store wet. This is standard cast iron care, but it's a real commitment compared to stainless or nonstick. - **Still heavy for some users:** At 6 lbs, the No. 10 is lighter than comparable large cast iron, but it's still a substantial pan — users with wrist or grip limitations may find it challenging to maneuver when full. - **Premium price point:** Field Company sits at the higher end of the cast iron market; buyers who cook infrequently or are new to cast iron may not get enough use out of it to justify the cost over a budget option. - **Heat ring can be a quirk on smooth cooktops:** One user noted that on an electric smooth-top, the underneath rim keeps the pan from making full contact, and wasn't sure why it was designed that way. Field states the clearance is minimal and doesn't affect performance, but it's worth knowing if you cook on a flat electric range.

### Who It's For

This skillet is built for home cooks who want a large-format, everyday workhorse — whether you are roasting, frying, or baking, this pan offers supreme heat retention and a naturally nonstick finish that allows you to masterfully prepare roasted meats and veggies, fried chicken, or decadent desserts. It's especially well-suited for those who've been frustrated by the rough texture or excessive weight of mainstream cast iron brands like Lodge, and want something closer to a prized vintage Griswold. Field offers a 45-day trial in your own kitchen — if you don't love it, you can return it for any reason, which lowers the risk of trying it.

### Not Right For

Buyers who cook solo or in small portions most of the time — the No. 8 (10.25") is a better fit and easier to handle daily; the No. 10's size and weight only pay off when you're regularly cooking for four or more.

Researched across 8 sources: fieldcompany.com, everythingkitchens.com, amazon.com, homeoutletdirect.com.

Key features

All the heat retention of full-size cast iron, without the wrist-punishing heft.

What stands out

  • Smooth machined interior promotes better seasoning and more even food release than rough-cast alternatives
  • Lighter than comparable 12-inch cast iron skillets, making it easier to handle and manoeuvre
  • Made in the USA, with Field Company's reputation for careful quality control
  • 12-inch cooking surface suits larger meals, family-sized portions, and batch cooking

What to weigh

  • Premium American manufacture comes at a higher price point than mass-market cast iron
  • Cast iron of any kind requires ongoing seasoning and hand-washing — not dishwasher-safe
  • Lighter construction still outweighs stainless or carbon steel pans of the same diameter

Great fit if

  • Cooks who want full-size cast iron capacity but find standard 12-inch pans too heavy
  • Those who value a smooth cooking surface for better seasoning build-up and easier release
  • Home cooks willing to invest in a long-lasting, made-in-USA piece

Skip it if

  • Anyone looking for a low-cost entry into cast iron cookware
  • Cooks who prefer the convenience of dishwasher-safe or low-maintenance cookware
  • Those who already own a well-seasoned 12-inch cast iron they're happy with

Try Ask Shopi free · Explore guides · Blog