The experts keep saying look for 18/10 overlay with a thick base to ensure even heat distribution. We’re finding that older stainless steel cookware tended to generate hot spots which can cause concerns for the cook who’s not watching the pot.
In addition to even heat distribution is knowing that the cookware will respond quickly to changes in temperature settings on the stove top or in the oven. I’m still looking for recipes that cook anything over 450 let alone 500 and almost all of the dutch ovens I’ve seen are rated this high.