Things have changed quite a bit from years ago. The fact is metals themselves are much more expensive today than yesterday. I know some manufactures have cut cost by using less material,, but this cheapens the pot and it's not going to cook the same. Also the durability and the stainless steel do not seem to be the same. With that said this is one manufacture that DID NOT cheapen cost by eliminating material and with thicker sides, lid and seems to cook well as the stainless also seems to be ok. You get what you pay for but not always, and I have experience from other manufactures that do not come close to this manufactures price quality. There is one other manufacture that's much better, but for the money this is the better purchase, and this manufacture seems to be worthy for long term use.