The range of kitchen knives today is quite wide, and far from all products are the same. It is not uncommon that a fashionable and well-known brand offers its customers products of not very high quality, and some little-known company puts up for sale reliable and durable products at an attractive price.
Knives are products that are used daily, so you should select them carefully enough so that they are not only attractive, but also comfortable, durable, durable and strong. Our today's review is devoted to the selection of knives for the kitchen, especially since there is a fairly wide range on sale, which is very easy to get confused. However, before proceeding to a direct analysis of the characteristics of the models included in our rating of the best kitchen knives this year, let's first figure out what to look for when buying such products.
Summary of the rating:
Important points when choosing a kitchen knife
There are quite a few varieties of knives: there are products for cutting meat, vegetables and fruits, fish, slicing bread and so on. It will be much easier to navigate the variety of products available on the market if you separate them according to the material from which the blade is made. It is from this factor that the operational quality of the product, the service life of the structure, as well as the features of knife care, are directly dependent.
Most often, knives are made of steel - a material that is an alloy of iron and various other elements. There are a lot of brands, but not all of them are used to make kitchen knives. Typically, such products are made of carbon steel. The result is an inexpensive, solid and easy-to-sharpen design, characterized by low resistance to corrosion processes. If such a knife is improperly looked after and stored, it can quickly become rusty. Stainless steel knives are insensitive to corrosion, however, such material is much softer, therefore, the products will have to be sharpened more often, which will reduce the life of the blade. Units made of high-carbon stainless steel combine the advantages of the two knives discussed above, respectively, they can be called almost ideal in use. Most of the knives on the market today are made of steel - the choice is quite large. They are very durable, in addition, if necessary, they can be sharpened with your own hands.
One of the most popular are ceramic knives, which are made from zirconium powder, which during firing forms a fine-crystalline structure. Thanks to this, the material becomes very durable, approaching diamond in this indicator. Such knives can be of various colors. One of the main advantages of such products is the sharpness of the blade, which will last for many years. Sharpening these knives at home is not recommended - it is better to use the services of a special workshop.
Another well-known material from which knives are made is titanium.Despite the advertising claims that this is an eternal tool, such products are significantly inferior to steel and ceramic in their operational characteristics. Titanium spraying has high hygienic properties, does not leave a metallic taste on products, is insensitive to most acids, and does not rust.
The shape and size of the blade are also of great importance. It is unlikely that the hostess will be able to do without a universal knife, which is found in any set. The average length of the blade is in the range from 13 to 20 cm, it can be used for a variety of operations. The length of the blade of the cook knife is about the same, but it is much wider, the blade has a semicircular shape, which makes it perfectly suitable for shredding. There are also a huge number of other highly specialized knives on sale.
When drawing up our rating of the best knives of the year, we took into account all these factors, and also relied on the feedback of users and housewives. The ratio of price and quality of the model was taken into account. For each model, we tried to collect as much information as possible so that it would be easier for you to decide on the choice of products. Now is the time to start analyzing the useful characteristics of each knife included in our review.
Steel products
5. HATTORI HD Series
This is an elite product manufactured in Japan and featuring the highest quality workmanship and a sufficiently long service life. The product is characterized by the perfection of lines, on the blade you can find a delicate and intricate damask pattern. The blade is excellently polished and well sharpened, which significantly distinguishes these knives from other similar products. Each knife that goes on sale is sharpened manually by experienced Japanese craftsmen. The edges are slightly rounded, the mass of the knife is quite decent, but it fits comfortably in the hand, does not slip out of the palm of the hand.
All the hieroglyphs engraved on the blade can be viewed only upon close examination. The handle pads are not perfectly fitted: you can see minor gaps between them, but this does not affect the usability of the product. Finishing sharpening is almost mirror-like, the risks are perpendicular, and this is almost imperceptible. The product is made of 63-layer Damascus steel, stainless steel V-Gold No. 10 acts as a core. On the Russian market, you can find about 16 varieties of knives from this series, all of which differ in symmetrical sharpening. The handle is made of composite materials that are not afraid of water and do not absorb odors.
Benefits:
- Very strong and reliable knives thanks to modern production technology;
- The blades are quite sharp and flexible, it is very convenient to cut them;
- Both righties and lefties can use them;
- The handle is narrow, it fits well in the palm of a woman;
- The edges do not crinkle, even after many sharpenings, they retain their original shape;
- They are sharpened instantly, remain sharp for a long time.
Disadvantages:
- After washing, wipe thoroughly, otherwise it may begin to rust;
- When cutting meat, it is undesirable to fall on the bones, otherwise microscopic nicks may remain.
4. WUESTHOF Epicure
This is the latest collection from the German company Wuesthof, which perfectly combines German pedantry, attention to detail and quality and the eastern traditions of the manufacture of knives and other cutting products. This includes a variety of products - for cleaning and slicing vegetables and fruits, products for steak, bread, making sandwiches and so on. The units have a blade made of proven X50 CrMoV15 steel, and this material has long been known for its high performance and resistance to rust and other negative influences.
Knife handles are made of so-called stabilized wood (its other name is wood plastic), which is distinguished by its attractive appearance, resistance to external influences.She will maintain her attractive appearance even in an aggressive environment, has good hygienic qualities. Manufacturing is carried out using Full Tang technology, which ensures reliability and durability of products. handles are superimposed with special rivets. Each knife is equipped with a polished stainless steel bolster.
Benefits:
- Wide and balanced blade;
- Optimum quality of steel - it is strong enough, but not fragile, even when working with durable materials notches will appear;
- Sharpening is made according to Japanese technology at an angle of 15 degrees;
- The shank is monolithic, it is one with the blade.
Disadvantages:
- Dull enough quickly, but sharpening them is very simple.
3. MASAHIRO Hi-Tech
Another excellent Japanese brand, which is widely known not only in the east, but throughout the world. Both professional masters and lovers of dishes prepared at home, increasingly prefer this particular product. The company itself has a rather long and noteworthy history - its founders are representatives of the ancient Hattori clan, who have been famous for making battle swords for centuries. Times are different today, but the quality of the products is on top. There are several series of knives, however, the Hi-Tech collection is by far the most modern and popular among users.
Products are characterized by excellent hardness - 63 HRC. With such indicators, the blades do not have much flexibility, so they are best suited for slicing vegetables and fruits, as well as for other culinary operations that do not need filigree subtlety. One of the distinguishing features of this product is the asymmetric sharpening of the blade, which is typical for this company.
Benefits:
- Very sharp blades with a small sharpening angle - about 10-15 degrees;
- Able to maintain their sharpness for a long time;
- Good resistance to the effects of corrosion processes despite the fact that high-carbon steel is used in the manufacture;
- Handles are all-metal - they will not crack and fall apart;
- Perfectly balanced.
Disadvantages:
- The occurrence of the so-called pitting sores on the blade is not excluded, so the knives must be carefully looked after.
2. GIPFEL Professional
The knives produced by this company are always distinguished by the highest quality and reasonable cost. They are perfect for both professional and domestic use. In addition, such products are characterized by a rather long period of operation. Knives have all the necessary properties and qualities that are required for confident use. All of them are perfectly balanced, which ensures the safety of use. The shape of the handle is ergonomic, it is made of special plastic - bakelite. This material is well resistant to various kinds of aggressive influences: it is insensitive to acids, alkalis, and can withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees. At the same time, he will maintain his attractive appearance for a long time, fits comfortably in your hand, absolutely safe.
The blade has a high level of strength, it is made of carbon or stainless steel, chrome, molybdenum or vanadium are added there. Such products retain their sharpness for a long time, but need special care during operation. There are a lot of varieties of products - you can find knives of various shapes and weights, thanks to which you can comfortably work with a variety of types of products.
Benefits:
- It is an adequate price for professional products;
- The handle does not slip in the palm of your hand, very comfortable;
- Blades, even during prolonged use, are not jagged;
- Very sharp, do not need regular sharpening;
- It is allowed to use for slicing frozen meat and chopping bones.
Disadvantages:
- Carbon steel products can rust quickly, so they must always be kept dry.
1. TRAMONTINA Professional Master Chefs
Excellent geometry and flattening of blades made of medium carbon steel with stainless properties. Thanks to a special treatment, all unnecessary elements are removed from the steel, which ensures high hardness values - about 56 Rockwell. The handles are very comfortable, made of high-quality plastic, which becomes rougher closer to the blade. This prevents the knife from slipping out of hand during operation, which minimizes the likelihood of injury. There are no gaps between the handle and the blade, the handle has an antibacterial treatment. The steel of which the blade is made is quite sharp, almost not dull during operation. It’s not necessary to sharpen knives very often, you can do it at home, which provides additional ease of use.
It is advisable to use this product at home, for professional cooking, these knives are not very suitable. The fact is that here the sharpening of the blade is made at a sharper angle, therefore, when working with solid products, various micro notches can form.
Benefits:
- Quite flexible and durable blades that do not crumble during operation;
- If desired, they can be imprisoned at home, this will not have to be done very often;
- An anti-bacterial coating is provided on the handles;
- Very affordable product prices.
Disadvantages:
- Do not over-sharpen the blade - this can lead to the fact that the steel at the edge is wrapped.
Ceramic products
3. SABATIER Ceramix
These are the products of a French company that has been manufacturing such products since the century before last. The knife tip is packed in a special silicone tip so that it retains its sharpness, also this moment allows you to provide a high level of security during the transportation of the product. The average length of the blade is 12.5 cm. It is made of high-quality steel, resistant to corrosion processes, which is coated with special powder compositions and passes through special heat treatment, after which it is sharpened on professional equipment. This gives the knives a phenomenal sharpness, which will remain with the product throughout its entire service life - you won’t have to sharpen it.
The logo of the manufacturer is engraved on the blade. The knife perfectly copes with products such as meat, vegetables and even freshly baked bread. The products do not need additional care, after use it must be thoroughly washed and put away for storage. The handle is made of rubberized materials that do not slip in the hand. It fits perfectly into the female palm, but for a male hand it may seem a bit narrow. The appearance is excellent, and it will be maintained throughout the entire period of operation.
Benefits:
- Very sharp blades that do not need frequent sharpening - about three to four years of active use do not have to think about it;
- Does not need special care;
- The kit includes a special shockproof cover that will not allow damage to the blade from damage during a fall or when stored with other knives;
- A blade protector is available for sale;
- There are black and white products on sale.
Disadvantages:
- Finding original knives for sale is not very simple, but fakes are enough.
2. FISSMAN Margo
These reliable and durable knives are designed to greatly facilitate the daily work in the kitchen. This product is made from zirconium powder, and it is also perfect for people who do not like to regularly mess with straightening the blade and sharpening the tool. According to users, it is best to purchase products painted in black, which indicates a significant density of this material - much higher than that of white products. The lineup does not include too many blades, but all available are the most common. A storage case is supplied with the knife.Manufacturers do not recommend the use of products when working with glass or stone surfaces of boards - this can ultimately lead to scratching the surface and jagged blades, which will make them blunt.
You can cut with such products absolutely any products except frozen and bones. It will not oxidize fresh products, they will not have an extraneous taste, because ceramics do not react with food acids. Caring for this knife is quite easy - just wash it thoroughly after use with a soft sponge with a liquid product, wipe it lightly and put it into the cover. It is not recommended to wash products in the dishwasher, as this can lead to damage to the knife. The hardness of the product is almost equal to diamond.
Benefits:
- Very easy to clean;
- Perfectly cut any products and keep sharpness for a long time;
- Do not react with products, preserving all the beneficial substances, including vitamins;
- Pretty reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- In addition to the need for sharpening in the workshop, not found.
1. SAMURA Ceramotitan
Another Japanese-made product, which is on the verge between titanium and ceramic products. These knives are characterized by a high level of strength. The base of the blade here is titanium, which is coated with special zirconium oxide of an increased level of strength. They are also additionally coated on top with a layer of titanium, due to which the tool acquires even greater durability. The length of the blade can be different - from 14.5 to 17.5 cm. Knives are well suited for various products. They are distinguished by excellent durability. The kit comes with a special cover with slots for ventilation.
The manufacturer’s logo is applied on one side of the blade, the original knives are made in Japan, if the country is indicated on the packaging, then it will be a real fake. The handle is plastic, has a corrugation closer to the blade, providing a high level of protection against cuts and other injuries.
Benefits:
- Thanks to the titanium coating, the probability of breaking the blade when the knife falls is greatly reduced;
- Plastic handle with soft-touch coating;
- There are kits for sale that have a matte or glossy finish;
- Universal sharpening - both right-handed and left-handed people can use a knife.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Titanium products
2. FOREVER Titanium Diamond
Another product made in Japan. The product is made on the basis of a titanium alloy, where diamond dust and zirconium oxide are added, due to which the knife becomes very hard. Silver plating provides a good antibacterial effect. Titanium itself is a fairly lightweight material that weighs significantly less than steel, so your hands will not get tired even when you have to hold it in your hands for a long time. High product strength is achieved by firing at high temperature with the gradual addition of all the main components. The cutting edge resists wear and tear. Both the blade and the handle are hypoallergenic and are not exposed to corrosive processes.
If necessary, the knife can be sharpened at home. The blade sharpening is symmetrical and double-sided, which makes the product universal for right-handed and left-handed people. It is worth noting that these knives are very suitable for professional use. They are not sensitive to the effects of water - the blade will not become stained. Blades wear out for a long time, and they do not need to be sharpened.
Benefits:
- The blade and the handle have good antibacterial characteristics, which ensures excellent hygiene;
- The blades have excellent flexibility, so these knives are well suited for milling;
- Reliably resist wear, do not blunt;
- Not subject to corrosion.
Disadvantages:
- The blade is very light, because of which the center of gravity of the knife moves to the handle, which upsets the balance.
1. BERGHOFF Ron
It has blades of the highest strength, they are made of high quality titanium alloy, moreover, they are additionally reinforced with small particles of diamonds. In addition, zirconium oxide and silver are added to them, which makes the product even stronger compared to other similar products. The knife is equipped with a plastic handle with a soft-touch coating, thanks to which the product will not slip out of hands. As many users note, the handle is a little thick, so it is more suitable for men's hands than for delicate female hands. However, literally after one or two weeks of active use, you simply forget about this inconvenience.
The blade has a black engraving with the company logo. Knives can cut any meat, even hard enough and frozen, sinewy, and so on. It is rarely dumb, it will have to be sharpened about once every two years, and this can be done at home.
Benefits:
- The titanium coating prevents the products from sticking to the blade;
- The handle is heavy enough, this ensures a good balance of the blade;
- The hardness of the cutting edge is quite high, but there is also a good viscosity, due to which the blade will not heal when cutting bones;
- Titanium spraying is applied in a vacuum at significant pressure - it will not be scratched or rubbed off.
Disadvantages:
- Do not wash in a dishwasher.
Finally, a useful video
Our rating of the best kitchen knives has come to an end. We hope that the information provided here will be enough for you to choose the most optimal product for yourself. If you decide to clarify for yourself some points or share your experience in using such products, then welcome to comment on this article.
(2 ratings, average: 5,00 out of 5)
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