Re: Ultrex Cookware

I've been looking for some experienced users of this Ultrex cookware. What got my attention was that the handles weren't riveted on. I've got a few pieces of cookware with various kinds of non-stick coating. Even when new, the pans are always hard to clean around those rivets. Metal handles often have these tiny crrevices where the metal is rolled over that seems to attract muck. They also get HOT. I've had a few unpleasant surprises that could be dangerous with kids or pets around. So the Ultrex handles were attractive.

I was also nervous about ordering from Home Shopping Network, to be frank. I went to their web site and the Tools "auction" was so overpriced, I was afraid the whole outfit was just shlockware.

Have you been getting _really_ even heating all over the bottom on these pans? How long have you had the set? Are the bottoms staying intact? (I ask because several of my fry pans seem to scrape their color off just being moved on the burner.) Do you use metal utensils in them? Do they "keep" heat a long time after you take 'em off the burner? Would you make egg-type sauces in these or dump the contents the minute you wanted to stop the cooking process? I've noticed that heavy-bottomed pans can sometimes cook a thing to death even after you turn off the burner. How heavy are these things, anyway?

How many pans do you actually get in the "10 piece set"? (I'm not sure this is that important, the set's very cheap compared to the usual big brands. I paid $40 for a Farberware pot that burns everything but soup. I won't even begin to complain about Revereware, which my Mum loved and I hated.)

Would you buy them again? Would you buy other pieces made the same way? Is there anything missing from the set? I remember seeing several accessory pieces - one of which looked pretty good: a double boiler setup with a pasta insert or something like that.

Sorry for such a long message, but I'm looking for a set NOW and Ultrex made the short list.