Cookware Handles

Q: Is there a reason that the handles of current high-end cookware rise at such an angle to the pot, instead of being perpendicular to the pot side? I can understand the angle with a saute pan, as the angled handle helps in the flipping maneuver, but I find the angled handles on the pots to be cumbersome, making the pots harder to "handle." I'm considering taking my All Clad sauce pans and sauciers to a local metal shop and having the handles bent so they will be horizontal. I'm wondering if there is some good reason for the angle, or if it's just a matter of style. I'd appreciate any info. Thanks.

A: The handles on AllClad pots owe their design to the cast iron handles of heavy copper cookware. The handle is at incline to provide added support and stability when the pot is full and heavy - if you hold the pot the right way. Most people want to hold the pot as far away from the heat as possible and without towels or pot holders, and the inclined handles can feel tippy and unsteady like that depending on your arm and hand strength. If you hold the pot with a towel at the narrow point nearest the pan and let the handle run up the inside of your arm you will find that you can hold a heavy pot very steadily. That is how you handle heavy copper with cast iron handles, and that is how AllClad style handles work best. If you have the handles bent at a metal shop you'll probably void the warranty that came with your pots. Should be, "...if hot liquids..." What about the "helper handles" on many pots? Aren't you supposed to use them? They have the same alleged disadvantage as "choking up" on the handle - you have to get close to the pot to use them and you need some kind of insulator (towel or pad). If it is so bad to put your hand near the pot then why do manufacturers put them on pots? I agree that in the hands of inexperienced or careless cooks holding the pot close in can be dangerous, but everything in the kitchen can be dangerous in careless hands. I think helper handles are more dangerous than choking up on the handle. First, both hands are involved. If you slosh the pot, both hands will get it and then you'll really be in trouble. Second, you have to hold the pot relatively close to and across your body. If you use the angled handle as I described, you won't need the helper handle. You still have a free hand, if needed, and you can work with your body at arm's length from the pot. I'm not going to respond to the rest of your rant. It seems "Mr. Hyde" gets the better of you there. Take a deep breath and find your "happy place." There. Feel better?

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