Pathfinder Folding Skillet and Lid

Excellent for back country cooking around camp. Its thicker solid bottom distributes heat evenly, the lid retains heat and prevents splashing, and the foldaway handle is easy to use and sturdy.

You have to feel for bushcraft legend Dave Canterbury—he lost everything in a house fire earlier in the year. Not only is he a genuine and humble person, he has made a massive contribution to how we live, work, and thrive in the outdoors. This skillet is a great addition to any camp cook setup and while heavier than some options, its superior cooking performance and quality is worth the extra weight. It weighs 635g and is 20.3mm in diameter. 

The pan is made from steel which is much better at retaining and distributing heat than titanium and does not have the alleged health risks associated with aluminium. The bottom is thicker than other camping fry pans which prevents food from scorching. It means food can be cooked at lower temperatures and, combined with the lid, more cooking methods are possible.

Whilst there are other Teflon coated non-stick versions on the market, it is possible to cook food without it catching, it just takes a bit more thought and preparation. Furthermore, the pan can be used directly on an open fire as well as gas. If the skillet is to be used on gas try to use a burner with a wide flame distribution. If a burner such as an MSR PocketRocket is used it will still heat the centre of the pan more and result in scorching (such burners really are best suited to rapidly boiling water).

In use the pan has worked well for me on gas and on a wood-burning stove to cook sausages, eggs, even small ragu sauces for pasta. The pan lid was really useful for this when simmering. The handle snaps into place positively and its locking mechanism design meant that it did not accidently fold on itself when used. Stowed away, it wraps neatly round the bottom. Some might argue that this is extra faf and weight but this skillet is designed more for camp use than on the trail and it is good to know that, if like me you are forgetful and can never find the pan holder when you most need it, this removes this problem!

That said, if you are a bit of a gourmet, I would happily carry this pan and ignore the slight amount of extra weight knowing that it will help cook a decent meal beyond dehydrated boredom. To clean it, I use a nylon scouring pad rather than wire wool, which would scratch the metal. 

Over all, I am really happy with this pan. Due to its size, It is best suited for solo or two people. The locking handle and heavy bottom make it an ideal addition to any camp kitchen whether it be wood or gas based. It should also last a lifetime given its strong steel construction.

Background

Used camping in the UK for a variety of cooked meals on a wood burner and a gas burner.