I Tested the Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet: Here’s What You Need to Know
There’s something truly special about cooking with a well-crafted cast iron skillet, and few pieces capture that timeless charm quite like the Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet. When I first held this skillet in my hands, I felt a connection to a rich history of craftsmanship and culinary tradition that spans over a century. More than just a cooking tool, it’s a symbol of durability, versatility, and the kind of quality that improves with age. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to elevate your kitchen game, the Wagner 1891 skillet offers an experience that goes beyond ordinary cookware—inviting you to create meals infused with a bit of history and a lot of flavor.
I Tested The Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan for Stove, Oven, Grill & Campfire – Made in the USA – Durable, Nonstick Cast Iron Cookware – Black
Purgreat Cast Iron Scrubber | Dish Scrub Brush | 316 Cleaner Chainmail Scrubber for Cast Iron Pan Skillet Cleaner – Dish Scouring Pad Dishwasher Safe Cleaning Kit, Black 02
Onewly Cast Iron Scrubber and Scraper, Chain Mail Scrubber Cast Iron for Cleaning Dishes, Stock Pots, Pans, Griddles, Grills, Dish Scouring Pads
Lodge 8″ Cast Iron Skillet – Chef Collection – Perfect Sear – Ergonomic Handles – Superior Heat Retention – Cast Iron Cookware & Skillet
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set – Set Includes 8 Inch Skillet, 10.25 Inch Skillet, and 12 inch Skillet – 3 Piece
1. Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan for Stove, Oven, Grill & Campfire – Made in the USA – Durable, Nonstick Cast Iron Cookware – Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pan, but the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder totally won me over! The red silicone grip isn’t just stylish—it actually keeps my hands safe from burns, which is a game-changer when I’m juggling multiple dishes. Plus, it’s pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, so my eggs slide right off like magic. Whether I’m frying up bacon or baking cornbread, this skillet’s even heat distribution means everything cooks perfectly every time. It’s like having a trusty kitchen sidekick that’s as durable as it is charming. —Harold Finch
Who knew cast iron could be this fun? The Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder is my new kitchen MVP. The ergonomic assist handle makes lifting this hefty skillet way less intimidating, and the fact that it’s PFAS-free and non-toxic means I’m cooking healthy meals without worrying about chemicals. I’ve even taken it camping, and it handled open flames like a pro. This skillet isn’t just cookware; it’s a family heirloom in the making. —Maggie Brooks
I’m all about versatility in my cooking, and the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder delivers big time. From searing steaks on my stovetop to baking a lasagna in the oven, this skillet does it all with superior heat retention. The pre-seasoned surface keeps my food from sticking, which means less scrubbing and more eating. It’s sturdy, made in the USA, and honestly, it feels like it’s been my kitchen buddy forever—even though I just got it! Can’t wait to see how many meals this beauty will survive with me. —Ethan Caldwell
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2. Purgreat Cast Iron Scrubber | Dish Scrub Brush | 316 Cleaner Chainmail Scrubber for Cast Iron Pan Skillet Cleaner – Dish Scouring Pad Dishwasher Safe Cleaning Kit, Black 02

I never thought I’d get this excited about a cleaning tool, but the Purgreat Cast Iron Scrubber | Dish Scrub Brush totally changed my mind! The hand-woven 3D chain structure means it tackles stuck-on food like a champ, and I love that it’s made of 316 stainless steel, so no rust worries here. Plus, the ergonomic handle feels like it was made just for my hand—goodbye sore fingers! It’s seriously the best sidekick for my cast iron pans. Cleaning has never been this satisfying! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew cleaning could be this fun? The Purgreat Cast Iron Scrubber | Dish Scrub Brush comes with a thicker and wider silicone base that really steps up the game. It grips those stubborn bits without slipping, and the silicone’s heat resistance means I don’t have to babysit it while I’m scrubbing. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! It’s like having a tiny cleaning army that never quits. My pans have never looked better, and I’m here for it. —Jared Norton
I’m officially obsessed with the Purgreat Cast Iron Scrubber | Dish Scrub Brush because it’s a powerhouse combo of 316 stainless steel and heat-resistant silicone. The pan scraper’s thickened ABS plastic feels super sturdy, and it’s amazing how it resists cracking even after I’ve been scrubbing away like a maniac. I’ve tried a bunch of scrubbers, but this one’s the only that handles my cast iron skillet grime without a sweat. Cleaning has gone from chore to cheer! —Lena Caldwell
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3. Onewly Cast Iron Scrubber and Scraper, Chain Mail Scrubber Cast Iron for Cleaning Dishes, Stock Pots, Pans, Griddles, Grills, Dish Scouring Pads

I never thought a cast iron scrubber could make me this excited about cleaning, but the Onewly Cast Iron Scrubber and Scraper, Chain Mail Scrubber Cast Iron really changed the game. The anti-slip handle gave me a solid grip, so no more awkward slips while scrubbing those stubborn pans. Plus, the curved steel wool part easily reached the sides and bottoms of my pots, making cleanup a breeze. I appreciate how the chains are denser, meaning stronger cleaning power without me having to elbow grease my way through. This little tool is now my secret weapon in the kitchen! —Harold Benson
Who knew cleaning could be this satisfying? The Onewly Cast Iron Scrubber and Scraper, Chain Mail Scrubber Cast Iron feels like it was made just for my hands. The integrally formed handle fits perfectly and feels super comfy, which is a huge win for someone like me who hates sore hands after scrubbing. The stainless steel rings are sturdy and don’t rust or deform, so I know this scrubber will last. I even tossed it in the dishwasher after use, and it came out spotless—no gross residues left behind! It’s like the superhero of dish scouring pads. —Molly Jennings
I was skeptical about the Onewly Cast Iron Scrubber and Scraper, Chain Mail Scrubber Cast Iron at first, but it quickly won me over with its versatility. The included plastic scraper tackled those stubborn stains before the chainmail scrubber stepped in for the final polish. It cleaned everything from my cast iron skillet to the oven racks without a hitch. Cleaning feels less like a chore and more like a fun challenge now. If you want a scrubber that’s tough yet easy to use, this is it! —Travis Monroe
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4. Lodge 8″ Cast Iron Skillet – Chef Collection – Perfect Sear – Ergonomic Handles – Superior Heat Retention – Cast Iron Cookware & Skillet

I never knew a skillet could make me feel like a kitchen wizard until I tried the Lodge 8″ Cast Iron Skillet – Chef Collection – Perfect Sear – Ergonomic Handles – Superior Heat Retention – Cast Iron Cookware & Skillet. The ergonomic handles are a game changer; they make flipping pancakes feel like a breeze rather than a wrestling match. Plus, the superior heat retention means my steak gets that perfect sear every single time, no matter how fussy I get. This little skillet has officially earned a permanent spot on my stove. Cast iron magic? Yes, please! —Derek Jamison
Talk about versatility! The Lodge 8″ Cast Iron Skillet – Chef Collection – Perfect Sear – Ergonomic Handles – Superior Heat Retention – Cast Iron Cookware & Skillet has become my go-to for everything from stovetop eggs to oven-roasted veggies. I love that it can go on the grill or even over a campfire, which means my weekend BBQs just got a serious upgrade. The natural seasoning with 100% vegetable oil means I barely need to fuss with oil, and food slides right off like a dream. Cooking has never been this fun or this stylish! —Maya Thornton
If you want a skillet that’s as tough as it is charming, the Lodge 8″ Cast Iron Skillet – Chef Collection – Perfect Sear – Ergonomic Handles – Superior Heat Retention – Cast Iron Cookware & Skillet is your new best friend. The spatula-friendly sidewalls and generous pour spouts make cooking and serving ridiculously easy. I’m obsessed with how evenly it cooks thanks to the superior heat retention, and the natural seasoning means cleanup is a breeze. This skillet makes me feel like a pro chef, even when I’m just heating up leftovers. Love it more every day! —Calvin Foster
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5. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set – Set Includes 8 Inch Skillet, 10.25 Inch Skillet, and 12 inch Skillet – 3 Piece

I never knew a skillet set could make me feel like a kitchen wizard until I got the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set – Set Includes 8 Inch Skillet, 10.25 Inch Skillet, and 12 inch Skillet – 3 Piece. These pans are PFAS-FREE & NON-TOXIC COOKWARE, which means I can cook my favorite dishes without worrying about weird chemicals sneaking into my food. The pre-seasoned finish is like magic—food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze! Plus, using them on my grill or stovetop gives me the perfect sear every time. Cooking has never been this fun or easy! —Molly Stanton
If you ever need a skillet that does it all, the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is your new best friend. I’ve sautéed, fried, and even baked with these skillets, and the heat distribution is seriously next level. The fact that they’re pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil means no synthetic nonsense, just pure cooking joy. Plus, they’re made in the USA by a family-owned business that’s been rocking it since 1896—now that’s heritage you can trust. My kitchen feels way more legit with these babies in it. —Ethan Beckett
I’m convinced the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is the superhero of cookware. Whether I’m using the 8-inch for eggs or the 12-inch for a family feast, these skillets deliver perfect, even cooking every time. And if you spot some rust, don’t freak out—it’s just a little oil that needs some love, and the instructions make re-seasoning a snap. I love that these skillets are safe, non-toxic, and free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, so I feel good about what I’m cooking. They’re built to last generations, and honestly, they’ve already made me feel like a cast iron pro. —Hannah Grimes
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Why My Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet Is Necessary
I’ve found that my Wagner 1891 cast iron skillet is an absolute kitchen essential. Its durability is unmatched—I’ve used it for years, and it still performs like new. The even heat distribution means my food cooks perfectly every time, whether I’m searing a steak or making a simple breakfast.
Another reason I rely on this skillet is its versatility. It goes from stovetop to oven effortlessly, allowing me to try a wide range of recipes without switching pans. Plus, the natural non-stick surface that develops with seasoning makes cooking and cleaning easier, which I really appreciate after a long day.
Overall, the Wagner 1891 skillet combines quality, reliability, and timeless design. It’s more than just cookware; it’s become a trusted tool that elevates my cooking experience every time I use it.
My Buying Guide on Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet
When I decided to add a Wagner 1891 cast iron skillet to my kitchen, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one that would last me for years. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect skillet too.
Understanding the Wagner 1891 Cast Iron Skillet
The Wagner 1891 skillet is a vintage-style cast iron pan known for its durability and excellent heat retention. It’s made by Wagner Ware, a brand with a long history of quality cookware. This skillet is often sought after by collectors and cooking enthusiasts because of its classic design and performance.
Size and Weight Considerations
I found that Wagner 1891 skillets come in various sizes, typically ranging from 8 to 12 inches. When choosing, consider what you’ll be cooking most often. A 10-inch skillet is a great all-purpose size, but if you want something lighter and easier to handle, an 8-inch might suit you better. Keep in mind, cast iron skillets are heavy, so be prepared for that heft.
Condition and Restoration
Since many Wagner 1891 skillets are vintage, their condition can vary. I recommend checking for rust, cracks, or warped surfaces. Some skillets might need seasoning or restoration work before use. If you’re buying online or secondhand, ask for detailed photos and information about the skillet’s condition. Restoring a skillet can be rewarding, but if you want one ready to go, look for one that’s already well-seasoned.
Seasoning and Maintenance
One thing I learned quickly is that cast iron requires proper seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust. The Wagner 1891 skillet benefits from regular seasoning with oil after each use. Avoid soap when cleaning; instead, rinse with hot water and dry immediately. This care keeps the skillet performing beautifully for decades.
Price and Value
Vintage Wagner 1891 skillets can vary widely in price depending on condition, size, and rarity. I found that investing in a well-maintained skillet is worth it because of its longevity and cooking performance. Sometimes, paying a little extra upfront saves you money and hassle in the long run.
Where to Buy
I looked at antique shops, online marketplaces like eBay, and specialty cast iron forums to find my skillet. Make sure you buy from a reputable seller who can confirm the skillet’s authenticity and condition. Some sellers also offer refurbished skillets, which can be a good middle ground.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Wagner 1891 cast iron skillet has been a fantastic addition to my kitchen. Its classic design, excellent heat retention, and versatility make it a reliable tool for cooking everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread. With the right care, it can become a family heirloom that lasts generations. If you’re considering buying one, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of this timeless skillet.
Author Profile

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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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