What do numbers on cast iron mean?

The number actually refers to the diameter of the pan in inches across the bottom of the pan, not across its flared top, which is the industry standard way to measure skillet size. According to Lodge: “The 10 comes the days from when cast-iron pots and pans were sized to fit on the numbered eyes of a woodstove.

How do you date a Lodge cast iron pan?

3:176:40Lodge Cast Iron - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis is a lodge you can tell by the three gate marks right there three little notches okay that isMoreThis is a lodge you can tell by the three gate marks right there three little notches okay that is before they stamped made in the USA.

What does gate mark mean on cast iron?

Cast iron is made with a sand mold in which liquid iron needs to be poured into it (or injected into the mold.) The liquid iron then hardens and the mold is removed from around it. In the 1800s the iron was poured in via a line on the bottom of the mold which left the line, or gate mark, on the iron once it hardened.

What does the number on the bottom of a cast-iron cauldron mean?

Whether the products were skillets, waffle irons, or griddles, nearly all vintage pieces made by major foundries had one identifying marking in addition to such things as logos. Namely, size numbers. In fact, these numbers instead indicate a size of old-time stove burners.

What should I look for in vintage cast iron?

3 Things to Look Out for When Buying Vintage Cast IronWarping. Check to see how flat the pan lies and to see if there is movement when pressing along the upper edge. Cracks. Some cracks are easily visible, while others may be buried under layers of rust and seasoning. Pitting.29 Sep 2016

Can you use olive oil to season a cast-iron skillet?

Do not use olive oil or butter to season your cast-iron pan — theyre great to cook with, just not for initial seasoning. Turn off the oven, leaving the pan in the oven to cool completely as the oven cools down.

How do you clean and season a cast iron skillet?

2:096:02How to Restore, Season and Clean a Cast Iron Skillet - YouTubeYouTube

What is the best vintage cast iron?

Top Vintage Cast Iron PansThe Pan Handler.eBay.Grannys Vital Vittles eBay Link.Wrinkled Willy Collector.The Cast Iron Collector – Just a lot of good info here.Feb 3, 2015

Where can I find old cast iron?

Youll find vintage cast iron pretty much anywhere you would look for other antique items. Check out flea markets, garage, and estate sales, antique stores, thrift stores, eBay, even Craigslist. As long as you know what to look for, you should be able to find a great vintage piece for a steal.

What is a heat ring on a cast iron skillet?

The ring on the base of the cast-iron skillets — which is sometimes called a “heat ring” or “smoke ring” — allowed the skillet to slot into the eye and lift it slightly out of the flame. The ring does hold the pan a touch higher over the flames in the woodstove, but not enough to make a difference.