If you are having trouble with your kitchen knives, it may be time to toss them, and get something good for a change. Cheap knives dull quickly, and dull knives cause more injuries than sharp. Here are some things to look for in a quality kitchen knife set, which will not break your budget.
Knife Block
Look for something that comes with a hardwood block. This will give you excellent storage. If you place everything in a drawer, things will get banged around, and it is a very good way to cut one's self.
Small children in the house can get into many things. It is important to keep sharp tools as far away from the little ones, as possible. A good block can fit high on the counter, where it will be harder to reach.
When you have all of your cutting tools in one place, they are much easier to access. If you require a tool for chopping, it is there for you. When you need something for peeling, it is within reach. These things can save a lot of time and trouble, when preparing meals.
Santoku
Although not absolutely essential, a good Santoku can serve as three tools in one. They are excellent for chopping things like vegetables. Also, they are sharp enough to slice a tomato. If you need to cut the ends from vegetables like carrots, your Santoku can do that too. You may find yourself using only one knife sometimes. This makes the process of preparing a meal, much easier. Also, there are two less things to have to clean up and take care of.
Full Tang
Full tang is a very good feature to have. You may notice that the blades in some knives only go as far as the handle. This does not make for a well balanced cutting tool. Many good knives have a full tang, which means that the blade runs the entire length of the tool, including the handle. A full tang with three stainless steel rivets, is one of the sturdiest tools you can have. Not only that, it will feel good in the hands.
Ergonomics
Everyone knows that ergonomics is very important these days. The way you sit at your computer and mouse, can make a world of difference. However, in the kitchen, ergonomics is also important. It can take thirty minutes or more to prepare a meal sometimes. You may be holding your knife for long periods of time. A pistol grip handle will make it easier on your hands.
Other Knives
Most sets include some good steak knives, and you also will want something to cut bread. These things are usually made with serrated edges. However, if all of your knives are made from high carbon stainless steel, serrated edges may not be necessary. The better the steel, the longer it will hold an edge. You really do not need a serrated chef, boning, paring, or Santoku knife, as good steel will be easy to keep sharp.
Scissors
Some block assemblies hold more than just knives. You also may have room for a good set of utility scissors. This makes it very handy, when you need to open something.
