

I’m using a revereware pan that’s been with my family for 35 years, lightweight and works very well for my uses. Sure, a heavier one would hold more heat but I’ve never found myself wanting a different pan. I also have a larger, newer one, a cuisinart pan that is a heavier due to size but nothing compared to cast iron.

My big question with older cast iron is had they been used to melt lead down to make bullets? I know it’s at least an occasional concern - another reason along with the cleaning issues and having them always smoke up kitchens to happily avoid them. I would refuse one as a gift, even.