Thread: Cast iron?

I recently found a Miami #8, an unmarked Wagner #8 and a #5 unmarked Wagner. They are all in great condition, I'll post pics when they are re-finished.

As Gugi said, they used to mill the inside of the pans and they do not anymore. That being said, they also use a finer grain sand in the casting mold. Once again, they don't do that any longer. I have read that cast iron is cast iron. That is NOT true. The quality of cast and the quality of molding speaks WORLDS of the finished product. The finer grain will not crack as easily and is more durable. I have taken newer pans and "milled" the inside. That is to say sanded and ground the metal smoother with great results. Just like the used to do. I love cast iron. Plays hell on a glass cook top if you can't get your wife to pick it up to move it though. After all, sliding the SOB across the top is much easier.

Ditched our glass top and installed a gas stove 10 years ago, would never go back to electric.

Serously doubt that any milling was done to the older stuff,just better castings.
If you have ever Milled or turned cast iron you will undrestand why.

Well, if you look at the older stuff, you will see the mill marks. so.... But yes, better casting as well. Perhaps grinding is a better word than milling. Either way...

Originally Posted by okiwen

Well, if you look at the older stuff, you will see the mill marks. so.... But yes, better casting as well. Perhaps grinding is a better word than milling. Either way...

None of mine have milling marks,some are well over 100 yrs old,they were sanded with rotory sanders and slurrys when orig. made
Over many yrs of use they become smooth as glass,all great stuff.

The newest finds. Two unmarked Wagners and a Miami

Next on the list is to find my first Erie, Sydney and National

Went out on the hunt today but didn't find what I wanted. Did find an Erie but it was a #8 and I have more of my share of #8's. The National had heavy pitting on the back side but the cooking surface was good, another #8 DARN IT.

So I got a square BSR skillet and a Best Made #9 (Griswold made for Sears) Pics when they are cleaned up.

New finds, a #5 iron mountain and a#9 nickel Wagner