A Guide To Buying The Best Kitchen Knives And Knife Blocks

A set of quality kitchen knives and knife blocks is at the heart of every great kitchen. These tools are the backbone of any culinary endeavour, allowing you to chop, slice, and dice your way to delicious and nutritious meals. With so many different types of knives, it can feel daunting to choose the right one. This buying guide will cover the different kitchen knives and knife blocks, the materials used to make them, the factors to consider when buying them, and how to care for your knives to keep them in top condition.

So, let's start our journey to find the perfect kitchen knives and knife blocks to elevate your cooking experience and help you create unforgettable meals.

Quick Links

• Why Invest In Quality Knives And Knife Blocks
• What Kitchen Knives Should I Buy?
• What To Consider When Buying Knives And Knife Blocks For Your Home
• Care And Maintenance
• Invest In The Best Kitchen Knives And Knife Blocks

Why Invest In Quality Knives And Knife Blocks?

Investing in high-quality knives and knife blocks can have several benefits in your home:

• Improved cooking experience: Good knives are essential for preparing food efficiently and effectively. A sharp and durable knife can make all the difference in the kitchen, allowing you to chop, slice, and mince easily.
• Increased safety: A dull knife is more dangerous as it requires more force to cut through food, increasing the risk of injury. Investing in a sharp knife can reduce the risk of injury and improve your safety in the kitchen.
• Prolonged knife lifespan: Storing knives properly in a knife block can help to protect the blades and prolong their lifespan. Knife blocks protect the edges from damage, reducing the need for sharpening and maintenance. Investing in a quality option will also mean you have great knives for years to come.
• Kitchen organisation: Knife blocks keep your knives organised and within reach, making it easy to find the right knife for the job. No more searching through a drawer for the right knife - with a knife block, everything is at your fingertips.
• Kitchen decor: Knife blocks come in various designs and styles, so you can choose one that fits your style and enhances the decor of your kitchen.

What Kitchen Knives Should I Buy?

The options for kitchen knives can seem endless - however, every kitchen should have a few essential knives. At Harris Scarfe, you can choose from options like a chef's knife, a paring knife, a Santoku knife, a utility knife, and a serrated bread knife.

Types of Kitchen Knives

Each type of knife serves a specific purpose and is designed to make a particular task in the kitchen easier.

• Chef's knife: The chef's knife is versatile and can handle various tasks, from chopping to dicing.
• Paring knife: Choose the paring knife for precision tasks like peeling and trimming.
• Santoku knife: The Santoku knife is a Japanese-style knife that you can use for slicing, dicing, and mincing.
• Bread Knife: With a serrated edge, the bread knife is ideal for slicing bread and other baked goods.
• Utility Knife: The utility knife is smaller than a chef's knife, great for lighter tasks.
• Boning knife: The boning knife removes bones from meat and poultry.
• Cleaver: A large knife common in industrial kitchens for cutting through meat, bone and other tough ingredients.

If you're still having trouble deciding which knives your kitchen is missing, check out our comprehensive guide on the types of kitchen knives for a more detailed explanation of the purpose of each knife.

Specialty Knives For Dining And Other Purposes:

You may have heard about other useful specialty knives that are not used for preparing food in the kitchen but are more for enjoying food in a specialised way. These include:

• Cheese knives: Special small knives for enjoying cheese.
• Steak knives: Serrated knives designed for cutting through steak and meat at the dinner table.
• Butter knives and table knives: Basic knives for use at the dinner table.

Types Of Knife Blocks

There are several knife blocks to choose from at Harris Scarfe, including:

• Slot knife blocks: Slot knife blocks are the traditional option and offer a specific place for each knife.
• Magnetic blocks: Magnetic knife blocks allow you to see and access your knives easily, but they may not be suitable for all blades.
• In-drawer knife blocks: These are a space-saving option that can be tucked away when not used.

What To Consider When Buying Knives And Knife Blocks For Your Home

When shopping for kitchen knives, you may be unsure of what to look for and overwhelmed with the choices available. The below points will help you narrow down your options and choose knives that

Opt for a suitable material

The type of material used to make a kitchen knife can significantly impact its performance and durability. The most common materials used for kitchen knives include stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, and high-carbon stainless steel.

Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its resistance to rust and staining. Still, it can be less durable than other materials. Carbon steel is a harder and sharper option but requires more maintenance to prevent rusting. Ceramic knives are lightweight and extremely sharp but more fragile and difficult to sharpen. High carbon stainless steel combines the best of both worlds, offering the durability and resistance of stainless steel with the sharpness of carbon steel.

Consider blade shape and size

The shape and size of a knife's blade can significantly impact its performance. The blade can range from 6 to 14 inches, depending on the type of knife. The width of the blade can also vary from narrow to wide. The blade's tip can be rounded or pointed, and the heel of the blade can be flat or rounded.

Consider blade capacity

Before choosing a knife block, it's essential to consider how many knives you need to store. Some knife blocks have a capacity of only a few knives, while others can hold up to 20 or more. Consider the size and number of blades and choose a knife block with enough capacity to hold all your knives.

Handle material and comfort are key

The handle of a knife is just as important as the blade. A comfortable grip can make all the difference when using a knife for extended periods. Handles can be made from various materials, including wooden and synthetic handles. Wooden handles are traditional and offer a classic look, while synthetic handles are more durable and easier to clean. Some handles also feature an ergonomic design, providing a comfortable grip, even during intense cutting tasks.

Think of the block size

The size and dimensions of a knife block are also essential to consider. Knife blocks can range from small countertop blocks to large freestanding ones. Consider the size of your kitchen and the available space before choosing a knife block.

Factor in design and style

You can also find a range of designs and styles, from traditional wooden blocks to modern metal blocks. Choose a knife block that fits your style and enhances your kitchen decor.

Don't forget to budget

When it comes to kitchen knives and blocks, there is a wide range of prices. Budget options can be found for under $20, while high-end options can cost several hundred dollars. Mid-range options fall somewhere between, offering a balance of quality and affordability.

Care And Maintenance For Kitchen Knives

A quality kitchen knife is an investment and needs looking after. Sharpen the blades regularly to maintain their performance. Also, clean after each use and store safely to prevent damage. Some knife blocks can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while others may need hand washing. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintaining your knife block to keep it looking its best.

Be sure to read our article on how to sharpen your kitchen knives for a comprehensive step-by-step guide.

Bonus Tips When Shopping For Kitchen Knives

Before purchasing, research the brands and manufacturers, and look for products with warranties or guarantees.

Make sure to pay attention to quality. Investing in high-quality knives and knife blocks will pay off in the long run with improved cooking experiences, increased safety, and a prolonged lifespan.

Take the time to find the perfect set of knives and knife blocks for your home. You'll use these tools daily, so ensure they fit your cooking style and kitchen decor well.

Invest In The Best Kitchen Knives And Knife Blocks

Start exploring the world of knives and knife blocks today and find the perfect one for you. Whether you're looking for something traditional or modern, choosing one that suits your needs will help optimise your time in the kitchen, allowing you to glide effortlessly between different kitchen activities. Harris Scarfe's comprehensive range of knife and knife blocks can help you find everything under one roof. We also have an exhaustive guide all about kitchen knives and Santoku knives to help you use your kitchen tools best. Invest in high-quality kitchen aids today. Shop the full kitchen & dining range online or visit us at your nearest store to browse the collection in person.