Our favorites are:
- Gladiator Series 18 Piece Colossal Knife Set with Block
- Gladiator Series 5-Piece Knife Set with Modular Block
- Shadow Black Series 12-Piece Knife Block Set
- Vanquish Series 24-Piece Knife Block Set
- Gladiator Series 8-Piece Steak Knife Set with Storage Block
- Quantum 1 Series 5-Piece Knife Block Set
- Phantom Series 6-Piece Knife Set
- Shogun Series 4-Piece Cheese Knife Set
- Gladiator Series 3-Piece Paring Knife Set
- Valhalla Series 5" Steak Knife Set
1. The Importance Of Quality Kitchen Knife Sets
Gladiator Series 8-Piece Knife Block Set
A good kitchen knife set isn’t just a collection of blades -- it’s the backbone of your kitchen. These tools turn raw ingredients into culinary masterpieces (or at least into edible meals). The right knife can make slicing and dicing a joy, while the wrong one might have you debating whether takeout is the safer option.
The secret weapon in your kitchen arsenal
Think of your knife block set as your starting lineup. Each knife has a role to play: the chef’s knife is your all-star quarterback, the paring knife is the nimble point guard, and the bread knife is your trusty goalie (slicing baguettes without crushing them is a noble task). A great set contains knives included for every possible kitchen scenario, from mincing garlic to carving a turkey.
But why does it matter so much? Because cooking is part technique and part tools. Even if you’re not slicing sushi-grade tuna with a Japanese damascus steel knife set, having high-quality kitchen knives can elevate your everyday meals. Whether you’re using Chicago Cutlery or admiring an 8-piece knife set at Amazon, the right tools transform your time in the kitchen from a chore into an experience.
Sharp knives are safe knives
Ever heard that phrase before? If not, you're probably new to this blog, because it's one we keep ringing like a bell every chance we get.
It sounds counterintuitive, but a dull knife is a recipe for disaster. Without a sharp edge, you’re more likely to slip off a tomato’s skin or a crusty baguette and cut yourself instead. High-carbon stainless steel blades stay sharp longer, meaning less time spent sharpening and more time slicing. And let’s be honest -- no one enjoys wielding a steak knife against a watermelon like it’s a sword fight.
This is why essentials knife sets, like the Victorinox Swiss Classic or a 10-piece knife block from Williams Sonoma, often come with sharpening steels or self-sharpening blocks to keep your tools in prime condition. Hand washing and careful maintenance can also extend their lifespan, ensuring your knives remain reliable for years.
Read about the 5 Tips for Caring for Kitchen Knives: Dos and Don'ts, here.
Versatility and variety
A quality knife set overall includes an array of knife types designed to tackle different culinary tasks. A chef’s knife chefs knife is your jack-of-all-trades, while a paring knife helps with delicate jobs like peeling or coring. Knife bread knives handle crusty loaves with ease, and steak knife sets make every dinner feel like a restaurant meal.
But it’s not just about the knives themselves -- storage matters too. Block sets or magnetic knife blocks aren’t just about counter space; they also protect your blades. After all, throwing knives into a drawer is a quick way to dull them.
Built to last (and Impress)
Ever noticed how some knives just feel better in your hand? Handle material and weight distribution make a huge difference. A steel knife with a balanced blade and comfortable grip feels like an extension of your arm, while a poorly designed knife feels like a chore. Premium options, like Japanese knives made of Damascus steel, are not only functional but also works of art.
Investing in a knife block set with highcarbon stainless steel blades or a ninja foodi system can save you from endlessly replacing dull knives. And let’s not forget aesthetics -- whether you’re pulling out your Dalstrong or showing off a sleek Japanese damascus steel knife set from Dalstrong, a good set adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
The right knife for every job
Using the wrong knife for a task isn’t just inconvenient -- it’s downright maddening. Have you ever tried slicing a crusty loaf of sourdough with a straight-edged knife? It’s less slicing and more bread-wrestling, and you’ll end up with crumbs everywhere and a loaf that looks like it was mauled by a bear. Or worse, imagine trying to fillet a fish with a chef’s knife -- your fish deserves better. That’s why a well-rounded set of kitchen knives, with the right blade for every job, is crucial.
Chef’s Knife: Your main go-to
The chef’s knife is the star of your kitchen knife block set. At around 8 inches (though some prefer a longer blade), it’s the one you’ll reach for 90% of the time. Whether you’re slicing tomatoes, dicing onions, or chopping through a butternut squash, this blade is your workhorse. A high-quality chef’s knife -- like those in a Damascus steel knife set -- delivers precision and power with every cut. Its slightly curved blade also makes it perfect for rocking motions, making tasks like mincing herbs feel effortless.
Paring knife: Small but mighty
When it comes to delicate tasks, the paring knife is your go-to. Small and nimble, it’s ideal for peeling fruits, deveining shrimp, or removing the core from strawberries. It’s the unsung hero of kitchen knives, often underestimated but essential in any set. A good paring knife should feel comfortable in your hand and sharp enough to handle intricate cuts without hacking away at your ingredients.
Bread knife: Serrated superpower
A bread knife isn’t just for bread (though it’s excellent for crusty loaves and soft rolls alike). Its serrated edge makes it a versatile kitchen tool for cutting through anything with a tough exterior and soft interior -- think tomatoes, melons, or even cakes. A dull bread knife can crush and tear instead of slicing, so investing in a quality one, like those included in top-tier block sets or Chicago Cutlery collections, is worth it.
Utility knife: Jack-of-all-trades
Think of the utility knife as the middle sibling between the chef’s knife and the paring knife. It’s not as big as a chef’s knife, nor as small as a paring knife, but it’s great for those “in-between” jobs. Trimming fat from meat, slicing cheese, or cutting sandwiches into neat triangles -- it’s the perfect blade for medium-sized tasks. Utility knives are often overlooked, but a good set will include one to fill this important gap.
Steak knives: A table essential
Steak knives might not be the flashiest part of your set, but they’re the ones your guests will thank you for. There’s nothing worse than sitting down to a beautifully cooked steak, only to saw at it with a dull knife that’s better suited for butter. Good steak knives are sharp, durable, and balanced, making every meal feel a bit more indulgent. Steak knife sets are often included in larger block sets, though some brands offer them separately if you want to upgrade.
Specialized knives: For when you need extra precision
Beyond the basics, some knife block sets include specialized knives for more advanced tasks:
Boning knife: Thin and flexible, perfect for filleting fish or trimming meat from the bone.
Santoku knife: A Japanese-style knife ideal for precise chopping and mincing.
Slicing knife: Long and narrow, great for carving roasts or slicing through cakes without crumbs sticking to the blade.
Companies like Dalstrong have made a name for themselves creating innovative knives that combine multiple elements from various knife types, so you'll see even more interesting specialized knives among their collections.
2. Key Features To Consider Before You Buy
Gladiator Series 8-Piece Knife Block Set
Choosing the perfect kitchen knife set isn’t just about grabbing the first block you see on the shelf. Whether you’re upgrading from your mismatched collection of dull blades or investing in your first proper chef knife set, it’s worth understanding what makes a good set great. Let’s dig into the features that separate the winners from the wannabes.
What’s in the block?
Remember the lineup of essential knives we discussed earlier? When considering a knife set, you’ll want to ensure the right knives are included for your cooking needs. Most quality sets, like Dalstrong's Gladiator series sets, the Mercer Culinary Genesis 6-piece or Wüsthof Classic Ikon 6-piece starter, come with:
Chef’s knife (8-inch): Your everyday hero.
Paring knives: For those delicate, precision tasks.
Bread knives: Essential for bakers and sandwich lovers.
Serrated utility knife: A more specialized tool for cutting softer foods like tomatoes or fruits.
Boning knife: Found in more comprehensive sets, perfect for meat and fish prep.
Steak knives: Often found in larger sets, a must-have for dinner parties.
Before you buy, check the sets included. A 6-piece knife set like the Ikon starter might be perfect if you need the basics, but if you’re an ambitious home cook, consider a 7-piece knife block or larger set such as Dalstrong's Gladiator Series 18-piece Colossal Knife Set to cover more ground.
Blade material: The backbone of your knives
The blade is the heart and soul of every knife, and its material determines not just how it feels in your hand but how well it performs on the cutting board. From slicing delicate herbs to tackling dense butternut squash, the right blade material can mean the difference between effortless prep work and a frustrating struggle.
High-carbon stainless steel: The all-rounder
If Goldilocks were choosing a blade, this would be her pick -- it’s just right. High-carbon stainless steel balances sharpness, durability, and resistance to rust, making it the MVP of many tested and reviewed knife sets. Brands like Mercer Culinary Genesis use this material to craft blades that stay sharp longer while requiring less maintenance than carbon steel alone.
What makes it special? High-carbon stainless steel combines the hardness of carbon steel with the corrosion resistance of stainless steel. You’ll find it in chef knife sets designed for everyday use, where reliability is key. Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle everything from chopping onions to filleting fish, which is why it’s often included in a 7-piece knife set or larger collections.
Japanese steel and Damascus steels: Artistry meets function
Japanese steel and Damascus steels are high performers and jaw-droppingly beautiful. Japanese knives, known for their razor-sharp edges, are typically made from harder steel, allowing for thinner, precision blades perfect for delicate tasks like slicing sushi or finely chopping herbs. However, their hardness means they can be more brittle, requiring careful handling.
Damascus steels take things up a notch with their striking wavy patterns, created by layering and folding different types of steel. Not only are they gorgeous, but they’re also designed for exceptional edge retention. These blades are common in luxury knife sets and often become prized kitchen tools. Owning a damascus steel knife is like having a piece of functional art -- you’ll want to show it off every chance you get.
German steel: The workhorse
German steel is synonymous with durability and balance. Think sturdy, dependable blades that feel solid in your hand and handle tough tasks without flinching. Dalstrong knives are a perfect example, combining heft and strength with excellent edge retention.
Unlike Japanese blades, German steel knives are often thicker and have a softer steel composition, which makes them more forgiving. You can cut through chicken bones or stubborn squash without worrying about chipping the blade. They’re the ultimate "do-it-all" knives.
Full tang and blade construction
The material is important, but how a blade is constructed can make or break a knife’s performance. Full tang construction -- where the blade extends through the handle -- provides better balance and durability. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about their kitchen tools, as it ensures your knife feels secure and stable during use.
Hollow edges are another feature to look for, especially in chef’s knives or santoku knives. These dimples on the blade help reduce friction and prevent food from sticking, making slicing and dicing smoother.
Ultimately, the best blade material depends on how you’ll use your knives and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. If you want a low-maintenance workhorse, high-carbon stainless steel is your best bet. If you’re a precision enthusiast who loves the idea of owning functional art, a damascus steel knife or Japanese blade might be your match. And for those who value strength and longevity, German steel is an easy choice.
Handle material: Comfort matters
Even the sharpest, most precise blade can feel like a burden if the handle doesn’t sit right in your hand. A knife handle is more than just something to grip -- it’s a crucial part of the knife’s overall balance, control, and comfort. Whether you’re mincing garlic for a sauce or carving a roast for Sunday dinner, the handle needs to feel like a natural extension of your hand.
Wood handles: Timeless tradition
There’s something undeniably appealing about a knife with a wooden handle. It’s warm, classic, and brings a touch of elegance to your kitchen. However, wood handles come with a caveat: they need a bit of TLC. Since wood is porous, it can absorb water and warp over time if not properly cared for. Hand washing is a must -- dishwashers are the mortal enemy of wood-handled knives.
For many, the beauty of a wood handle is worth the extra care. They’re often found in higher-end knives or traditional designs, making them a favorite among purists who appreciate the aesthetics of their kitchen tools as much as their function.
Plastic or composite handles: Practical and dependable
Plastic and composite handles are the workhorses of the knife world. Lightweight and durable, these handles are a staple in many block sets with high-carbon stainless steel blades. They’re resistant to moisture and less prone to cracking or warping, making them a great low-maintenance option.
Composite materials, which blend plastics with other elements like resin, often strike a balance between the durability of plastic and the appearance of wood. This is why you’ll often find them in versatile knife sets. They’re built to withstand everyday use while maintaining a sleek, modern look.
Ergonomic designs: Made for comfort
Ergonomic handles are designed with one thing in mind: comfort. These handles often feature contoured shapes that fit naturally into your hand, reducing strain during prolonged use. For home cooks who spend a lot of time prepping meals, ergonomic designs are a game-changer.
Many modern knife sets prioritize ergonomic handles to ensure that even longer tasks, like dicing large batches of vegetables or breaking down a chicken, don’t leave your hand cramped. These designs are especially helpful for people who cook frequently or have smaller hands, as they provide better grip and control.
Finding your perfect handle
When choosing a knife, don’t underestimate the importance of the handle. It’s the part you’ll be interacting with the most, so it needs to feel right. The best way to decide? Pick it up. A great handle will feel balanced, secure, and comfortable -- whether it’s made of wood, plastic, or a high-tech composite material.
From the classic beauty of wood to the practical durability of plastic and the all-day comfort of ergonomic designs, handle materials are about more than just looks. They’re key to making sure your knives aren’t just tools, but trusted kitchen companions.
Storage blocks: A home for your knives
Where you store your knives matters just as much as what’s in the block. A well-designed storage block protects your blades and keeps them within easy reach.
Magnetic knife blocks
Sleek and modern, these save counter space and let you admire your collection of damascus steels.
Traditional storage blocks
The classic option, found in many beloved sets. They’re sturdy, convenient, and protect your knives well.
In-drawer storage
A great choice for smaller kitchens, where counter space is at a premium.
special features that make life easier
The best knife sets don’t just stop at great knives – they often come with extras to make your life easier.
Self-sharpening blocks
Found in some 7-piece knife sets, these blocks keep your blades sharp without the need for extra tools.
Lifetime warranty
A sign of quality and a promise that the manufacturer stands by their product.
Additional tools
Some sets include honing steels or kitchen shears, making the set feel more complete.
Tested and reviewed: What the experts say
Many popular knife sets have been rigorously tested and reviewed by experts. These tests go beyond sharpness and durability -- they consider factors like balance, comfort, and how well the knives perform a variety of tasks, from chopping herbs to slicing through crusty bread.
When looking for a set, check whether it’s been tried in a test kitchen or by trusted reviewers. The set we tested that consistently ranks high? We're listing it at the top of our "Top 10 best kitchen knife sets" section below.
Beyond the basics: Expanding your toolkit
Some sets stick to the essentials, while others venture into advanced kitchen tools. Think beyond knives:
Cutting boards
Often overlooked but crucial. A good board protects your blades and makes prep work cleaner and easier.
Honing steels
For maintaining sharpness between uses.
Kitchen shears
Handy for cutting herbs, trimming meat, or opening stubborn packaging.
When considering a knife set, it’s about more than just the number of pieces. Look at the details -- the blade material, handle design, storage blocks, and any special features like self-sharpening or lifetime warranties. A quality knife set is a huge investment in your cooking experience.
3. Top 10 Best Dalstrong Kitchen Knife Sets
1. Gladiator Series 18 Piece Colossal Knife Set with Block
If you’ve ever dreamed of having every knife you could possibly need (and then some), the Gladiator Series 18-piece set might just be your dream come true. These knives are forged from high-carbon German steel, so they’re sharp, durable, and ready for action. Whether you’re slicing a roast, dicing veggies, or tackling a crusty loaf of bread, there’s a knife in this set that’s perfect for the job.
PROS:
- Includes an amazing variety of 18 knives, from everyday essentials like the chef’s knife to specialty tools like the Nakiri and Santoku.
- Made from high-carbon German steel for sharpness that lasts and resists stains, so you spend less time sharpening and more time cooking.
- The walnut storage block is not just functional -- it’s a showpiece that keeps everything organized and easy to grab.
- Designed with safety and performance in mind, featuring NSF certification and comfortable white ABS handles for easy use.
CONS:
- Having 18 knives might feel like overkill if you’re more of a “three good knives” kind of person.
- The look of the knives is pretty traditional, in case you're looking for a flashier design.
2. Gladiator Series 5-Piece Knife Set with Modular Block
You know how sometimes you just want the essentials, but you still want them to be really good? That’s what this set is all about. The Gladiator Series 5-piece knife set gives you all the core tools you need without overwhelming you with options you’ll never use. The knives are sharp, durable, and look fantastic, but the real highlight here is the oak wood block. It has this cool modular design where you can keep it upright to show off your knives or flip it flat to save counter space. Plus, each block has its own unique grain pattern, so yours will be one of a kind.
PROS:
- The knives are made from high-carbon ThyssenKrupp German steel, so they stay sharp and sturdy even with regular use.
- Comes with the must-haves: chef’s knife, slicing knife, bread knife, utility knife, and paring knife -- nothing extra, just the essentials.
- The oak block is modular, so you can switch between upright display and flat storage depending on your vibe (or how much counter space you have).
- Hand-sharpened to 16 degrees per side, which means these knives make slicing and dicing feel almost effortless.
CONS:
- If you’re not into the whole modular block thing, it might feel like an unnecessary feature.
- It’s a smaller set, so if you’re looking for specialty knives or a broader selection, this might not cover all your bases.
3. Shadow Black Series 12-Piece Knife Block Set
This 12-piece set is as much about performance as it is about looking seriously cool. The knives are coated in sleek black titanium, and the handles are inspired by the F-117 Nighthawk, giving the whole set a futuristic, edgy vibe. Beyond the looks, though, these knives are workhorses. They’re super sharp, durable, and come with a solid lineup of essentials, from an 8” chef’s knife to a set of four steak knives. The matching black oak wood block ties it all together, making this set stand out on your counter in the best way possible.
PROS:
- The high-carbon steel blades are ridiculously sharp and coated with black titanium for extra durability, stain resistance, and non-stick slicing.
- Includes a great mix of knives, like the Santoku for precision chopping, a filet knife for delicate cuts, and steak knives that look just as cool on your dinner table.
- The fiber-resin G10 handles are ergonomic, moisture-resistant, and comfortable to hold -- even if you’re doing a lot of prep work.
- The black-on-black design, complete with a matching oak wood block, makes this set unlike anything else out there.
CONS:
- The bold, almost futuristic design might not be for everyone -- if you prefer a classic look, the Gladiator Series might feel more your speed.
- While it covers most kitchen basics, it’s not as expansive as the 18-piece Gladiator set, so specialty tasks might require an additional knife or two.
4. Vanquish Series 24-Piece Knife Block Set
If you’re the kind of cook who likes to have a tool for every task, the Vanquish Series 24-piece knife set might be your perfect match. This set is built for people who want no-nonsense performance with a touch of classic elegance. The knives are forged from high-quality German steel, giving you sharp, durable blades that can handle anything you throw at them. From an 8” chef’s knife to a 6.5” cleaver to eight steak knives, this set is a true arsenal of kitchen tools. It all comes housed in a carbonized ash wood block that’s as functional as it is stunning, with an aluminum alloy rim for a modern touch.
PROS:
- This is a comprehensive set with 24 pieces, including specialty knives like a Nakiri, cleaver, and filet knife, so you’re covered for every type of kitchen task.
- The blades are forged from German X50CRMOV15 stainless steel, offering sharpness, durability, and stain resistance.
- Comes with practical extras, like sharpening steel and forged scissors, along with eight steak knives for a complete dining experience.
- The carbonized ash wood block with its slight incline keeps everything organized and ready to grab, while the aluminum alloy rim adds a sleek, modern finish.
CONS:
- With 24 pieces, this set might feel overwhelming if you don’t have the counter space or don’t need such a wide variety of knives.
- The design is elegant and classic but might lack the bold, dramatic flair of the Shadow Black Series for those who love a statement look.
5. Gladiator Series 8-Piece Steak Knife Set with Storage Block
You know that moment when you’re at a nice dinner, and you’re fighting with a dull steak knife, sawing away at a perfect cut of meat? This set is the cure for that frustration. The Gladiator Series steak knives are sharp, sturdy, and just feel right in your hand. The blades are made from high-carbon German steel, so they’re tough enough to handle any cut of meat, and the little dimples on the blade mean nothing sticks -- your steak just falls away cleanly. Plus, the oak storage block they come with is not only practical but looks great on the table or countertop.
PROS:
- The blades are insanely sharp, made from high-carbon German steel, and honed to perfection for smooth, effortless cutting.
- Those little rock-hollow dimples on the blades aren’t just for show -- they make sure your steak doesn’t stick as you slice.
- The oak storage block is clever; it can stand upright or lay flat, so you can store it however works best for your space.
- The handles, whether you go for the sleek black or colorful options, are super comfortable to hold and built to last.
CONS:
- This set is laser-focused on steak knives, so if you’re looking for more variety, you might want to check out the larger Gladiator or Vanquish sets.
- The oak block, while functional and attractive, might not fit in with more modern, minimalist kitchen aesthetics.
6. Quantum 1 Series 5-Piece Knife Block Set
This 5-piece set is sleek, insanely sharp, and built to handle whatever you throw at it in the kitchen. The blades are made from American BD1N-VX steel (basically, steel that’s ridiculously tough), with a Nova Prime pattern that makes slicing smoother and less of a workout. And let’s talk about those handles -- fiber-resin and carbon fiber hybrid, which sounds fancy because it is. They’re comfortable, durable, and won’t bat an eye at heat, cold, or moisture.
PROS:
- The blades are made from high-carbon American steel and sharpened to an almost absurd 8-12° per side, so they’re seriously sharp and precise.
- The Nova Prime blade pattern is a cool touch -- it actually reduces drag, so chopping and slicing feel easier and more efficient.
- The handles are a perfect mix of fiber-resin and carbon fiber, meaning they’re practically indestructible and super comfortable to hold.
- With just five knives, this set focuses on essentials, so you’re not overwhelmed with tools you won’t use, and it doesn’t take up much counter space.
CONS:
- It’s a smaller set, so if you’re looking for more specialized knives or a larger variety, something like the 24-piece Vanquish set might be a better fit.
- The bold design, especially the patterned blades, might not be everyone’s cup of tea if you lean more traditional in your kitchen aesthetic.
7. Phantom Series 6-Piece Knife Set
This 6-piece set is elegant, precise, and razor-sharp, making it a joy to use for everything from chopping herbs to slicing bread. The blades are crafted from Japanese AUS-8 high-carbon steel and hand-sharpened to an impressive 13-15° edge for precise, effortless cuts. The pakkawood handles are comfortable, beautiful, and designed for superior control.
PROS:
- The Japanese AUS-8 high-carbon steel blades are incredibly sharp and retain their edge well, making every cut smooth and precise.
- The traditional Japanese D-shaped pakkawood handles are as comfortable as they are beautiful, offering great control and a non-slip grip.
- Includes a carefully curated selection of essential knives -- chef’s, santoku, utility, and paring -- plus a Kiritsuke for versatility and a bread knife for perfect slices.
- The Dragon Spire double-sided magnetic block is not just practical but also an eye-catching way to display your knives.
CONS:
- With just six knives, this set focuses on essentials, which might leave some users wishing for a broader range like the 12-piece Shadow Black or 24-piece Vanquish sets.
- The partial tang design is less robust than the full tang construction found in other series, though it still delivers excellent performance for most tasks.
8. Shogun Series 4-Piece Cheese Knife Set
If you’re into charcuterie boards -- or just love cheese -- this set is a game-changer. The Shogun Series 4-piece cheese knife set gives you the perfect tool for every type of cheese, whether you’re slicing into a block of aged cheddar or scooping up creamy brie. These knives are crafted from Japanese super steel with a hammered finish that’s not just gorgeous but also helps prevent sticking.
PROS:
- The blades are made from Japanese AUS10V super steel, which means they’re sharp, durable, and built to last.
- Each knife is designed for a specific task, so whether you’re slicing, spreading, or serving, you’ve got the right tool for the job.
- The handles are made from G10 fiberglass, which is tough, moisture-resistant, and comfortable to hold -- even during a long charcuterie prep session.
- The hammered finish on the blades isn’t just pretty; it helps keep cheese from sticking, which makes everything easier.
CONS:
- This is a very specific set for cheese and charcuterie, so it’s not as versatile as something like the Gladiator or Phantom series.
- If you don’t make cheese boards often, this might feel like more of a luxury than a necessity.
9. Gladiator Series 3-Piece Paring Knife Set
If you’ve ever tried to peel an apple with a chef’s knife or slice a cherry tomato with something that feels like overkill, this set is here to save you. The Gladiator Series 3-piece paring knife set is all about precision and control for those smaller, detailed kitchen tasks. Made with high-carbon German steel and comfortable G10 handles, these knives are small but mighty.
PROS:
- Includes three specialized knives -- bird’s beak, serrated paring, and sheep’s foot -- so you’ve got the perfect tool for peeling, slicing, and precision work.
- The blades are made from high-carbon German steel, hand-sharpened to 16-18° for exceptional sharpness and durability.
- The G10 handles are tough, moisture-resistant, and ergonomically designed for comfortable use, even during intricate tasks.
- Full-tang construction with triple rivets ensures these knives are as sturdy as they are versatile.
CONS:
- This set is very focused on paring knives, so it doesn’t have the variety of larger sets like the Gladiator 5-piece or Phantom 6-piece sets.
- If you don’t often peel, core, or slice small produce, you might not use these knives as often as other essentials like a chef’s knife.
10. Valhalla Series 5" Steak Knife Set
These knives are seriously sharp, making it easy to slice cleanly through any cut without tearing or sawing at the meat. What really sets them apart, though, are the handles. Each one is made from wood and resin, and every knife has a slightly different design, so no two are exactly alike. It’s a small detail, but it makes them feel special.
PROS:
- The blades are razor-sharp, hand-sharpened to 8-12°, which means no more struggling to cut through a steak.
- The wood and resin handles are not only durable but also completely unique, giving each knife its own personality.
- The rubberwood storage block is compact and keeps your knives organized without hogging all your counter space.
- RockHollow divots on the blades help reduce friction, so slicing feels smooth and effortless.
CONS:
- It’s a set of four knives, which is perfect for a small group but might leave you short-handed if you’re hosting a big dinner.
- The partial tang design is less heavy-duty than the full tang knives in the Gladiator or Phantom series, though it’s plenty sturdy for steak knives.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of knife for the kitchen?
It depends on the job! A chef’s knife is your go-to for most tasks, but a bread knife and paring knife are must-haves for specialized cutting.
Which brand is best for knives?
According to our tests, the top brand for knives, balancing quality and value, is Dalstrong.
