Cast Iron Performance. Half the Weight. Naturally Non-Stick.
Imagine getting that perfect sear, that restaurant-quality crust, that even golden-brown finish—without lugging around heavy cast iron. The Pathfinder 8" Carbon Steel Skillet delivers all the cooking power of traditional cast iron in a lighter, faster-heating package that develops a naturally non-stick surface the more you use it. This is the skillet serious outdoor cooks have been waiting for.
Why Carbon Steel Beats Cast Iron for Outdoor Cooking:
- Lighter & Faster — At just 1 lb 4 oz, it's significantly lighter than cast iron but heats up faster and distributes heat more evenly
- Naturally Non-Stick Surface — Case-hardened carbon steel develops a slick, non-stick patina with use. No chemical coatings, just pure cooking performance
- No Seasoning Required — Unlike cast iron, this skillet comes ready to cook. Just oil it after cleaning and you're good to go
- Scratch-Resistant & Metal Utensil Safe — Use metal spatulas, forks, and tongs without fear. This skillet can take the abuse
- Locking Folding Handle — Locks securely for safe cooking, then folds flat for compact packing. No wasted space in your kit
- Perfect 8" Size — Ideal for 1-2 people. Cook eggs, bacon, steaks, stir-fries, or complete one-pan meals
- 2" Depth — Deep enough for sautéing, shallow frying, and dishes with sauce without spilling over
- Built to Last Generations — Carbon steel actually improves with age as the seasoning builds. This is an heirloom piece
Specifications:
- Material: Case-Hardened Carbon Steel
- Diameter: 8"
- Depth: 2"
- Weight: 1 lb 4 oz
- Handle: Locking folding design
- Features: Scratch-resistant, metal utensil safe, laser-etched logo
Simple Care for Maximum Performance:
Carbon steel is easy to maintain—just follow these basics:
- After Cooking: Wipe clean with minimal soap, dry immediately, apply a thin layer of oil before storing
- Avoid: Dishwashers, harsh scrubbing, soaking for long periods, cold water shock on hot pan
- For Stuck Food: Simmer water in the pan to loosen, then scrape with a wooden spatula
The more you cook with it, the better it gets. Each use builds the natural non-stick surface.
What You Can Cook: Breakfast (eggs, bacon, hash), seared steaks and fish, stir-fries, fajitas, cornbread, pan-fried potatoes, campfire quesadillas, and anything else that needs high heat and a perfect sear.
The Pathfinder Difference: While others are still hauling heavy cast iron or settling for flimsy aluminum, you'll be cooking like a pro with a skillet that's light enough to pack anywhere but tough enough to last forever. This is the sweet spot between performance and portability.
Carbon Steel Skillet Cooking Tips with Dave Canterbury:
Backed by the Pathfinder Promise

Shipping Charges are calculated at checkout.
Within United States:
Packages are shipped via:
- UPS
- FedEx
- USPS for PO Boxes
Outside the United States:
Shipping charges DO NOT INCLUDE any duties, taxes, and/or import fees imposed by your country's custom and/or clearance offices.
We offer the following services to most areas:
- DHL Express
Frequently Asked Questions
What are your hours of operation? Customer Service is open 9am to 3pm EST Monday thru Friday (we are closed all major holidays)
Do you have a retail store? No, we are online only.
What time zone is your sales and promotions based on?
Eastern Standard Time.
Do you offer Rain Checks or Extend Promotional Prices?
No, sale prices are only available during the promotional period.
How do I cancel an order?
To cancel an order please call Customer Service at 317.791.8777 Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm (Eastern Standard Time). Once an order has been processed for shipment (meaning a label has been created), it cannot be canceled. Sending an email will not guarantee it will be canceled prior to shipping.
Can I add to an order?
If your order has not started to be processed through our shipping department, you can modify the order. However, you must call Customer Service at 317.791.8777 to make modifications. Once an order has started processing through the warehouse, it cannot be modified, only canceled.
What cards do you accept?
Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay.
Do you accept check or money orders?
Yes, we do. Make checks out to The Pathfinder School, and mail to:
Self Reliance Outfitters
6050 Churchman Bypass
Indianapolis, IN 46203.
If we do not receive your payment within 14 business days, your order will be canceled.
Are orders shipped insured?
Yes, all orders where product total equals $25 or more are shipped insured. For more information about the insurance and claim process, please click here.
How long does it take for an order to ship from the warehouse?
Orders typically take 2 to 5 business days to process through our shipping department. During the holidays or during high-volume order influxes, it may take up to 7 business days. UPS 2-DAY orders will be processed the next business day.
How long will it take for my package to arrive?
Once it leaves our warehouse, it will depend on the shipping option you choose.
What shipping options do you offer domestically?
Flat Rate
UPS Ground
UPS 2-Day
What international shipping options do you have?
DHL
To learn how to sign up, earn points, and redeem points, please click here.
Can I send it back for an exchange?
No, but you can send it back for a store gift to use towards your next purchase. Include a copy of your receipt or email confirmation and indicate what you wish to get as a store gift card. Return shipping is at your expense.
Send to:
Self Reliance Outfitters
6050 Churchman Bypass
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Attn: New Return
How will my refund be processed?
Domestic customers: Refunds (including canceled orders) will be processed by the original payment method or issued a store gift card if requested.
International customers: Refunds (including canceled orders) will be processed by the original payment method or issued a store gift card if requested.
Refunds on returned merchandise will be processed within 7 business days upon receipt of the returned merchandise.
Can I return an unwanted item?
You may return any unused item (in its original packaging) within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. Drop ship items are not returnable. Return shipping is at your expense.
Send to:
Self Reliance Outfitters
6050 Churchman Bypass
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Attn: New Return
What is the warranty on your products?
Most products (except PKS Knives & DIY Blanks) carry a 1-year warranty. View the Pathfinder Promise for our Pathfinder Stainless Steel gear - click here.
Does your PKS DIY Blanks have a lifetime warranty?
No, since they are a DIY item and an unfinished knife, blanks come with a 6-month warranty.
What is the warranty on PKS Knives?
All PKS knives (except DIY blanks) come with a lifetime workmanship warranty.
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