The Smithey No. 14 Skillet is a premium, American-made piece of cast iron cookware that aims to bridge the gap between heirloom craftsmanship and everyday usability. At 14 inches, it’s one of Smithey’s largest skillets, designed for cooks who want generous cooking space without sacrificing the refined performance the brand is known for.
The No. 14 Skillet stands out for its exceptional build quality, smooth cooking surface, and versatile performance across stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire. It’s a skillet that feels substantial—both in weight and in craftsmanship—and rewards users who appreciate cast iron that’s ready to perform right out of the box.
Smithey’s hallmark is its polished interior surface, and the No. 14 continues that tradition. The cooking surface is hand-polished, giving it a smoother feel than traditional rough-cast iron. This helps reduce sticking, especially once the seasoning builds over time.
The skillet features:
• Dual handles for easier lifting
• Thick walls and base for heat retention
• A wide 14-inch diameter that provides ample cooking space
• Classic Smithey aesthetics, including the signature logo and elegant curves
The craftsmanship is immediately noticeable. Everything—from the machining to the seasoning—feels intentional and refined. It’s the kind of skillet you could display proudly in your kitchen.
Cooking Performance
The No. 14 excels in tasks where even heat distribution and high heat capacity matter. Searing steaks, frying chicken, sautéing vegetables, and baking cornbread all benefit from the skillet’s ability to hold heat and deliver consistent results.
Key performance highlights:
• Heat retention: Outstanding, thanks to its mass and thickness.
• Versatility: Works on gas, electric, induction, grill grates, and open flame.
• Seasoning: Arrives pre-seasoned, but improves significantly with use.
• Surface: The polished interior helps food release more easily than many cast iron pans.
Because of its size, the No. 14 is ideal for cooking for families or groups. You can fit multiple steaks, a large batch of vegetables, or a full breakfast spread without crowding.
Usability, Handling and Durability
At 14 inches, this skillet is undeniably large—and heavy. The dual handles help, but users who prefer lightweight cookware may find it cumbersome. That said, the weight contributes directly to its performance, especially for searing and oven-based dishes.
Cleaning is straightforward: warm water, a brush, and a quick dry. The polished surface makes maintenance easier than expected for cast iron.
Smithey skillets are built to last generations. The No. 14 is no exception. With proper care, it will only improve over time, developing a deeper seasoning and smoother performance. The brand’s reputation for durability is well-earned, and many owners treat their Smithey as an heirloom piece.
At $250, the No. 14 Skillet sits firmly in the premium category. This is not a budget-friendly option, but it’s priced appropriately for the craftsmanship, materials, and performance it delivers. For cooks who value artisanal quality and long-term durability, the investment is justified.
Highlights:
• Exceptional build quality
• Smooth, polished cooking surface
• Large cooking area
• Versatile across cooking methods
• Heirloom-level durability
Final Verdict:
The Smithey No. 14 Skillet is a standout piece of cookware for serious home cooks and cast iron enthusiasts. Its combination of craftsmanship, performance, and durability makes it one of the best large-format skillets available today. If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle big meals, deliver excellent heat performance, and last a lifetime, the No. 14 is an outstanding choice.
It retails for $250 at https://smithey.com/collections/castiron/products/no-14-traditional-style-cast-iron-skillet
