The handles do get hot, use pot holders and there is no issue. If you have larger burners you will need to reduce your burners or the flames will go up the sides of the pan. I like the pan, but I was replacing a 7 quart one (since we are empty nesters) so I am also adjusting to the smaller size, especially for a batch of chili! The handles are comfortable, a big deal to me. The pan is attractive, but honestly most cuisinart products are. It is a solid pan and has been clutch for us in boiling our water for drinking water after the Marshall Fire. Might have gotten the larger size in retrospect, but that was a choice I made and is not a slam on the pan. I didn’t give five stars, because I almost never give them.