Classic 10.25" Skillet (L8SK3)
The "standard issue" skillet. Heavy, durable, and versatile. It is the reference point for all other modern cast iron.
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United States · EST 1896
Lodge
Last assessed 17 Dec 2025
Recommended
The definitive entry point for American-made cast iron. Their core seasoned iron products are virtually indestructible and offer the best value-for-money in the cookware industry. However, their enameled line (colored pots) is almost exclusively imported and does not share the same "Made in USA" pedigree.
Lodge is the oldest family-owned cookware foundry in America, based in South Pittsburg, Tennessee. They are credited with saving the cast iron industry by introducing "pre-seasoned" cookware in 2002, eliminating the complex initial setup that deterred modern consumers. Today, they are the high-volume standard for skillets, griddles, and dutch ovens.
Brand History
History
1896
Joseph Lodge opens the Blacklock Foundry.
1910
Foundry burns down; rebuilt as Lodge Manufacturing Company.
2002
Launch of "Lodge Logic" (Pre-Seasoned) line, saving the company from bankruptcy.
2013
Completed major foundry expansion to increase US capacity by 50%.
2019
Launch of "Blacklock" premium line (lighter weight, triple seasoned).
2023
Launch of "USA Enamel" line, attempting to onshore enamel production.
2025
April: "USA Enamel" line is discontinued; production ceases.
Warranty & Returns
- Seasoned Iron: Limited Lifetime. Against manufacturing defects.
- Enameled Iron: Limited Lifetime. Against manufacturing defects.
- Exclusions: Rust (considered user error), commercial use, and thermal shock chipping.
Returns: 30 Days for items in new/unused condition. Logistics: Customers are responsible for all return shipping costs. Due to the weight of cast iron, returns are often economically impractical.
Why They're Listed
Lodge is listed for its Seasoned Cast Iron collection. These skillets (e.g., the L8SK3) are manufactured in the US, cost less than $30, and are functionally immortal. At that price point, a skillet that outlasts its owner represents an uncommon value proposition.
Noteworthy Products
Double Dutch Oven (L8DD3)
A clever raw cast iron design where the lid converts into a dual-handle skillet. Made in the USA, it is a favorite for sourdough bakers and campers.
Important Context
The "USA Enamel" Failure: In April 2025, Lodge officially discontinued their "USA Enamel" line after just two years of production. While some "Made in USA" colored pots may linger on clearance shelves, the experiment failed due to high costs. All current production of Lodge Enameled Cast Iron (Dutch Ovens) is once again imported from China.
Rough Surface Texture: Modern Lodge pans have a "pebbly" texture similar to fine sandpaper. This is not a defect. Unlike vintage (pre-1960s) pans that were hand-polished smooth, Lodge leaves the sand-cast texture to reduce costs and anchor the seasoning. It will smooth out over years of use, but it will never be glass-smooth out of the box.
Rust is Not a Defect: The most common warranty claim—rust—is automatically denied. Lodge considers rust a result of user error (leaving the pan wet). The solution is to scour and re-season the pan yourself, not to return it.
Manufacturing: Raw cast iron and carbon steel are poured and finished in Tennessee. However, all enameled line production is currently imported from China.
Further Information
South Pittsburg (The Foundry): Lodge is the economic engine of South Pittsburg, Tennessee (pop. ~3,000). Unlike brands that just assemble in the US, Lodge pours the molten iron from recycled steel and pig iron in their two local foundries. The company is currently led by the great-grandsons of Joseph Lodge.
Enamel Fragility (China Line): The Chinese-made enameled dutch ovens are popular for their price (often 1/4 the cost of Le Creuset). However, users should treat them as "consumable" over a long timeline (5-10 years). The enamel is thinner than premium French brands and is more prone to "crazing" (fine cracking) if overheated.
The Blacklock Difference: For those who find the standard Lodge skillets too heavy or rough, the Blacklock line (launched 2019) is cast thinner (reducing weight by ~25%) and seasoned three times at the factory. It is the company's attempt to bridge the gap between modern durability and vintage weight.