Which Range Cooker?

oysteroyster

Hey all. I know it's been discussed a few times on here (and elsewhere) but I'm still confused as exactly which range cooker to go for. I'm a keen home cook and prepared to spend a little bit of money on one, but unfortunately don't have an unlimited budget. And yes, I know that integrated ovens are generally much better value for money but our kitchen suits a range and I'm happy enough with one.

We're looking for 110 in size (or 120 is doable) and our budget is about £2.5k for the time being, which has initially led us down the path of a higher end Rangemaster - I like the Nexus for its stainless steel handles - but I'm not entirely won over by its construction and wondering whether I should venture into the low end of some of the slightly more "premium" brands.

This has led me to consider the Falcon Continental 1092 - I know it's still part of the Aga-Rangemaster brand and there's quite a lot of crossover, but from what I've read the Falcons are superior under the skin. Disappointed that it (and indeed all Falcon models) possess plastic handles and still feels a bit wobbly in places, but it seems to get the thumbs up by people in the industry. I also quite like some of the Britannias (would love a Delphi 120, but it's pricey). Have also considered Bertazzoni, Mercury and ILVE. Things like Everhot, Aga, Lacanche, Esse all look wonderful but they're too expensive for right now and I don't know what my "forever house" of the future might look like.

Does anyone have any experience / opinions on the matter? I'm not too fussed about gimmicky things like rotisserie function or even having a timer (which the Falcon doesn't have) - I just want a solid oven that's going to last and cooks well. Also probably leaning towards a dual fuel as opposed to induction, mainly for the aesthetics. Something that's fairly easy to clean would be a bonus (I know induction would be better for that) and I like that the Falcon has gloss enamelled pan stands that will wipe / dishwasher clean better than rough cast iron.

Thanks!

Gloomendoom

We have an AGA Six-Four dual fuel that is pretty solid.

redlady_1

I have a Rangemaster Classic deluxe 110 induction and love it! But then I am used to cooking on electric. Dont forget if you buy induction the chances are you will need new saucepans.

oysteroyster

Ha, yes I bet it is, Gloomendoom - maybe one day!

@redlady - yeah, we used to have induction, so our pan collection is already suitable... just in time to potentially return to gas!

A Rangemaster is still tempting, but I'm waiting for somebody to tell me why the Falcon has the higher price tag, but fewer features. I potentially don't need gimmicky extras, so if the core oven and burners are of a better quality, it could swing it for me.

vansboy

Don't know which is the best to suggest, but I do know that when I was looking, it's worth watching the one you do choose, for a few weeks, before buying.

There were HUGE price changes overnight, depending on which supplier was keen to get orders, plus there were additional cashback - £200ish - from the makers, in addition to what you apy the supplier.

looks like theres plenty of bargaining once you do choose!!

I've not bought one ....probably will go for an 'ordinary' oven!!

VB

MX5huggy

If you really want a AGA get a second hand one, I sold mine for £750. 12 years old no significant wear.

Of course I don't recommend you get one, bloody awful expensive to run, lump of iron.

ryder72

If you are serious about your cooking, consider built in ovens. Generally speaking, range cookers simply arent going to give you that performance.

Gastines3

Moved loads of times and in each house have had a Rangemaster Falcon.Usually a 900 as it fits our kitchen plans and use better. BUT for some unknown reason,probably cost,The makers now don't finish the top holders in a decent enamel finish.They have a rough finish now which are difficult to keep clean.I did contact the makers but got a reply of not available any more. If it works well,why change it?

LandyAndy

ryder72 wrote: »

If you are serious about your cooking, consider built in ovens. Generally speaking, range cookers simply arent going to give you that performance.

This. I am serious about cooking. I have two Siemens built in ovens at eye level and a six burner Siemens gas hob and they come in well inside the OP's budget. No more bending down for me.


The Siemens ovens have masses of features and have a great 'quality' feel to them.

70sthrowback

We have recently fitted a new kitchen and had the same dilemma. In the end we went with a Rangemaster Classic 110 dual fuel. However we had problems with the gas hob being as they sent an LPG not Natural gas one in error, we returned it and got our money back.We then decided to buy a 2nd hand (refurbished) Falcon for just under £1k. Its a more basic cooker and I can't give you specifics, but it looks and feels a lot more solid build than the Rangemaster.

Given he choice I would do the same again, obviously this is just a personal opnion.

J_B

redlady_1 wrote: »

I have a Rangemaster Classic deluxe 110 induction and love it!.

We have the same, we are underwhelmed!