Smithey No. 6 Skillet Review: Is It the Right Size for Your Kitchen?

When you’re looking for a new cast iron skillet, size matters just as much as seasoning and heat retention. The Smithey No. 6 Dual Handle Skillet sits in a sweet spot—smaller than a standard 10-inch pan but larger than a dedicated egg pan. In this review, we’ll break down its dimensions, cooking performance, and who will get the most use out of it.

We’ve spent time cooking with the No. 6 in real kitchens, testing everything from seared chicken to cornbread. We’ll also compare it to the Little Farmhouse Skillet so you can decide which Smithey cast iron skillet fits your daily routine best.

No. 6 Skillet Size: What You Can Actually Cook

The Smithey No. 6 Dual Handle Skillet measures about 8 inches across the cooking surface. That’s enough room for two eggs, a single chicken breast, or a small batch of cornbread. Because the walls are slightly flared, you get a bit more usable area than the listed diameter suggests.

If you typically cook for one or two people, this size is practical. It heats quickly compared to larger cast iron pans, and the dual handles make it easy to lift even when full. For bigger meals, you might want a 10-inch skillet, but the No. 6 excels at sides, sauces, and single-serve dishes.

One tradeoff: the shorter handle means less leverage when tossing food. But the second handle gives you a secure grip, which is a nice compromise for a pan this size.

• Cooking surface: ~8 inches, ideal for 1-2 portions
• Dual handles make it easy to move from stovetop to oven
• Faster preheating than larger cast iron skillets

Cooking Performance and Versatility

Smithey’s cast iron is known for its smooth, polished cooking surface, and the No. 6 is no exception. After a few uses, the seasoning builds into a naturally non-stick finish. We fried eggs, seared fish, and baked a small frittata—all without sticking.

The pan is oven-safe up to 500°F, so you can start a dish on the stovetop and finish it under the broiler. It’s also compatible with induction, gas, electric, and even open flame, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

One thing to note: because the pan is smaller, it doesn’t hold as much heat as a larger skillet. That’s fine for delicate foods, but if you’re searing a thick steak, you may want to preheat longer or use a bigger pan.

• Smooth surface develops a reliable non-stick layer
• Oven-safe to 500°F for stovetop-to-oven recipes
• Works on all cooktops, including induction

Smithey No. 6 vs. Little Farmhouse Skillet

If you’re considering the No. 6, you might also be looking at the Little Farmhouse Skillet. Both are smaller cast iron pans, but they have different designs. The Little Farmhouse has a single long handle and a slightly different shape, which some cooks prefer for flipping and tossing.

The No. 6’s dual handles give you more control when moving the pan, especially when it’s heavy with food. The Little Farmhouse is a bit more traditional and might feel more familiar if you’re used to classic skillets.

In terms of size, they’re similar, but the No. 6 offers a slightly larger cooking surface. If you often cook for two, the No. 6 is the better choice. If you want a compact pan for single servings, either works—think about which handle style feels more comfortable in your hand.

• No. 6: dual handles, slightly larger cooking area
• Little Farmhouse: single long handle, classic feel
• Both are great small cast iron skillets—choose by handle preference

Who Should Buy the Smithey No. 6?

The No. 6 Dual Handle Skillet is ideal for singles, couples, or anyone who wants a smaller pan for quick meals. It’s also a good second skillet if you already own a larger one and need something for eggs, sauces, or side dishes.

If you regularly cook for a family or like to batch-cook, you’ll likely want a bigger pan. But for everyday cooking, the No. 6 is easy to handle, clean, and store. It’s also a great pan to travel with—if you’re camping or vacationing, its size and weight are manageable.

For those new to cast iron, the No. 6 is forgiving. It heats evenly, and the smooth surface makes seasoning easier to maintain. Plus, Smithey’s craftsmanship means this pan will last for decades with proper care.

• Best for 1-2 person households
• Great as a second skillet for eggs and sides
• Portable enough for camping or small kitchens

The Smithey No. 6 Dual Handle Skillet is a well-made, versatile small cast iron pan that earns its place in many kitchens. Its size is perfect for everyday cooking for one or two, and the dual handles add extra control. If you’re weighing it against the Little Farmhouse Skillet, consider your handle preference and cooking style. Either way, you’re getting a premium pan that will serve you well for years.