In this self-defence series, we will consider the humble frying pan, used in movies such as Lord of the Rings, notably by Sam in one scene. But, as usual, the disclaimer, that this is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Ok, here is the Australian medieval weapons expert, Shadiversity, going into the physics of frying pan use. In a nutshell, the frying pan can be used, being better than nothing, but in terms of the physics of weapons, it is not great. Well, even Sam from Lord of the Rings might agree with that, seeing its primary purpose to fry eggs, sausages, and whatever out in the scrub.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UT6Y6JSKCU
Still, the average pan has a relatively large surface area, so it would be good for defence, in blocking in-coming attacks. After the danger has passed, the pan can be washed off, and something tasty cooked. Try doing that with a machete! Anyway, lunch time here in the scrub, out with the frying pan, and in with some camp pie and eggs, olive oil, some bush herbs, a pot of billy-boiled tea … my idea of a happy lunch. Healthy can wait in line.