Get on the All-Clad VIP factory seconds email list. They share good deals on seconds but also first quality pots with packaging damage.

They make a pan called the French skillet that has a gradual edge.

Be careful with the d5 pans in the dishwasher. I don't know if this is true for the d3 as well, but at the lip of the pan, the center layers are exposed and can rust horribly if left to air dry or put in the dishwasher. I read a ton of complaints about this issue when I was shopping around, so I hand wash mine.

I have the d5 set and it came with stainless lids. Got it a few years back on an insane black Friday deal at Macy's.

Both butter and lard are nutritionally better for you than seed oils, but you could certainly use less. A tablespoon seems enough to coat the bottom of a large pan, which would prevent sticking better than spotty coverage.

Nonstick pans require special care to prevent the coating from flaking off into your food, but their benefit is that they don't require butter at all if that's your main concern.

If you're looking for an upgrade that will last, go for porcelain. I had a beautiful ceramic set that started chipping after less than a year. I registered for Fitz & Floyd everyday white organic, which is porcelain and thick. While I haven't gotten a good chance to test it out extensively, it seems to be very good quality.