GI Metal 8" Round Aluminum Pizza Peel

GI Metal 8″ Round Pizza Peel — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GI Metal 8″ Round Pizza Peel?

The GI Metal 8″ Round Pizza Peel is a small turning peel (or “small round peel”) designed for rotating, turning, and retrieving pizzas in high heat ovens. It combines a round blade and long handle to safely maneuver pizzas at depth.

What are its specifications and construction?

• Blade (head) diameter: 8″ (round)
• Handle length: 47″ (overall length ≈ 55″)
• Material: Aluminum head (or aluminated steel in some versions)
• Blade type: Solid (non-perforated) in the ATBBQ listing; GI Metal offers both solid and perforated versions (e.g. I-20F/120 is perforated)
• Handle features: polymer sliding grip + stationary grip, hanging loop, head-to-handle joint reinforced with three rivets
• Weight: ~1 lb 7 oz (≈ 23 oz) per ATBBQ listing

What are the advantages of the round design?

• The round blade allows sliding under pizzas from the side or front, offering flexibility when accessing pizzas in deep ovens.
• Easier turning inside the oven (rotations) due to symmetric shape.
• Fewer corners means less risk of snagging or catching dough edges.

How should I use this peel properly?

1. Slide the blade under the pizza by gently angling it and pushing forward.
2. Use the sliding grip to help maneuver and rotate the pizza while baking.
3. When retrieving, lift carefully and maintain a level orientation to support the pizza.
4. Use the peel more for turning and retrieval rather than launching the pizza (for that you'd use a launching peel).

How should I clean and care for it?

• Hand wash only. Avoid dishwashers, soaking, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scouring pads.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion or warping.
• If aluminum, avoid letting it rest on hot surfaces for long when not in use.
• Store by hanging via the loop or lying flat to avoid bending.

What are its strengths and limitations?

Strengths:
• Excellent for turning and repositioning pizzas mid-cook
• Long handle keeps hands farther from oven heat
• Reinforced head and handle joint reduces vibration and improves durability
• Lightweight enough to handle, yet robust for oven environments
Limitations:
• With a small 8″ head, larger pizzas may require extra care to fully support the crust
• Solid head versions don’t shed excess flour as easily as perforated heads
• Because it's intended for turning/recovery, launching pizzas from prep to stone may be harder
• Aluminum / aluminated steel can be more prone to damage or wear if mishandled