Amazon.com Review

Housed in a nine-slot wood block, this Grand Prix set offers Wusthof’s excellence in a highly-versatile grouping. The set includes the following knives: 2-3/4-inch narrow-bladed trimming parer; 5-inch serrated and pronged tomato knife; 6-inch all-purpose sandwich knife; and a hefty 8-inch chef’s knife for chopping, dicing, and slicing. Also included are kitchen shears and a 7-inch sharpening steel. The Grand Prix knives feature a pebble-grain synthetic handle molded over an extended tang for a sure, comfortable grip. Because the steel tang does not run the full length of the handle, a Grand Prix knife offers slightly less heft than its Classic counterpart, yet more than the trim Le Cordon Bleu. Grand Prix differs from Grand Prix II in that the latter features a more ergonomically-curved handle with a blunt end. Grand Prix handles are straighter with rounded ends.

All Grand Prix knives are precision forged from a single piece of high-carbon, stain-resistant German steel. Each blade has been impeccably honed by hand and its edge laser-tested for uniformity. An edge may be re-sharpened professionally or with a sharpening steel. Though the utensils are dishwasher-safe, Wusthof recommends washing all fine cutlery by hand. Made in Germany, the set is fully guaranteed to be free of defects in materials and/or craftsmanship. --Ann Bieri

What’s in the Box
1 knife block set. The set consists of: wood storage block; 8-inch chef’s knife, 6-inch sandwich knife; 5-inch tomato knife; 2-3/4-inch paring knife; kitchen shears; 7-inch sharpening steel. ... Read more

Features

• Made in Germany; lifetime warranty
• Set includes: 2-3/4-inch trimming parer, 5-inch serrated tomato, 6-inch sandwich, 8-inch chef's, 7-inch sharpening steel, kitchen shears, and wooden block
• Knives are precision forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel
• Molded synthetic handle with rounded end provides nonslip comfort
• Not-quite-full tang lessens weight without sacrificing heft or balance

Reviews (7)

what a bargian
as a wife, and mother of 5 this is a gift set perfect for the whole family.With a knife for each kid, no longer will i have to be the mediator of fights and arguments.this allows self expression, not commonly found in average families.and boy punishments just are not the same.Some mothers might think i am crazy, but how many of your kids cancut a steak in 15 seconds.a great buy, and this product not only looks good, but you could say its "sharp"

Wusthof Grand Prix 7-Piece Block Set with Bonus knife
I received my set which also did not contain the silverpoint bonus knife. I e-mailed customer service and got a reply in a couple of hours that they would rectify the problem. Practically the next day I received a new set which, to my disappointment,also did not contain the touted silverpoint knife. However, now I had to go to the post office and return one of the sets.At this point I beleive that none of the sets contain the knife.
This problem aside, the knives are awsome. They were sharp right out of the box and I was able to slice grapes with just one stroke while holding them over my cup of cereal.

Missing item too. Hope Amazon makes good on it.
I received the set today and I, too, am missing an item. I am missing the bonus Silverpoint knife. I have written to Amazon and hope they do make good on it.

The knives were sent in a cardboard box, stuffed with rolled up packing paper. Each knife had a cardboard sleeve. But an extra sleeve with no knive in it. I assume this sleeve was for the missing silverpoint knife.

The knives had little white dots on the handle but removable with a little water and wipe. The steel had streaks but also easily cleanable.

But for $154.99, I really expected to get the whole set as shown and written above. Be sure to check yours, it's easy to pass over it. Just waiting for my reply....

Product Not as described
I just received this knife set and although I've not yet used the knives, the product description stated that it would include a bonus 3-inch Silverpoint paring knife that was NOT included in the box.I have just notified Customer Service and sincerely hope that Amazon will make good on this item.

The knifes are great but one is missing
The set I recieved is missing either a trimming knife or a 2-3/4-inch paring knife:
According to the label on the box, the set should include a trimming knife, cook's knife, tomato knife, sandwich knife, sheers, sharpening steel, block set.
According to the item description on Amazon site, the set should include: 8-inch chef's knife, 6-inch sandwich knife, 5-inch tomato knife, 2-3/4-inch paring knife, 7-inch sharpening steel, kitchen shears, 9-slot storage block, and bonus 3-inch Silverpoint paring knife.
Neither trimming knife nor 2-3/4-inch paring knife came with the set.
... Read more

Amazon.com Review

This knife block set carries a useful assortment of standard knives for outfitting a kitchen. The set includes an 8-inch chef’s knife, an 8-inch carving knife, a 5-inch serrated utility knife, and a 4-inch paring knife as well as a sharpening steel and a pair of shears. All components fit within an 11-slot hardwood block, which offers four extra slots for future knife acquisitions.

Part of Henckels’s Twin Signature of knives, the cutlery in this set have high-carbon, stainless-steel blades that have been stamped from one piece of metal. The edge is cut by laser for a more consistent angle on the blade and hand-honed for sharpness. Blades have also undergone Henckels’s Friodur ice-hardening process, which further strengthens them and protects them from discoloration. The ergonomically designed traditional-style polymer handles are securely fastened to the balanced full tangs with three rivets. Handles seamlessly encase the tangs on these knives so no food particles can ever become trapped in a gap. Twin Signature knives are all dishwasher-safe (although Henckels recommends washing by hand) and are covered by a lifetime warranty. --Cristina Vaamonde

What’s in the Box
8-inch chef’s knife, 8-inch carving knife, 5-inch serrated utility knife, 4-inch paring knife, shears, sharpening steel, 11-slot hardwood block. ... Read more

Features

• 7.8 pounds; lifetime warranty
• Includes 8-inch chef's; 8-inch carving; 5-inch utility; 4-inch paring
• Also: sharpening steel, shears, 11-slot hardwood block
• Stamped high-carbon stainless-steel blades with laser-controlled edge
• Ice-hardened blades for strength; hand-honed for sharpness

Reviews (3)

A good starter knife set but don't expect too much
Having used some of Henckel's higher-priced professional lines, when the time came to buy a new set of starter knives I figured I'd stay with the brand. I ended up choosing the Twin Signature line 7-piece block set because it was a good compromise between quality and price.

Because the knives are stamped, not forged, you won't get the precise lines you get on the $80-a-knife lines, but the edges are well-finished and stay fairly sharp if you hand-wash them. I've been generally pleased with how they cut, and the chef's knife in particular has an excellent heft and balance for my somewhat larger hands.

The paring knife and the serrated utility knife are also gems. They're extremely well-sized, and have just enough flex to get the job done without feeling flimsy.

The scissors are sharp and extremely sturdy; I'm hard on this particular piece of kitchenware so I'm very pleased by that. Finally, the block is well-made and thought out. It has room for several more knifes as you expand your set.

The tips on the larger knifes aren't as well-finished as I would like, but that's about my only complaint. Just don't expect the sort of sturdiness you'd find on professional knives; these won't last quite as long without sharpening and you can't bang them about quite as much. For a serious home cook on a budget, though, they'll do just fine.

My plan is to use these for starters, and over time pick up two more Twin Signature paring knives, and one more 8-inch chef's knife from the Five-Star series for serious work.

Excellent quality, excellent price...
My mom & aunt bought these Henckels Twin Signature 7-Piece Block Sets and they absolutely love them.
I bought a Pro S set at Macys last year but didn't get a good discount like Amazon does... The knives are 1 of the best investments in my kitchen.

More Bang for Your Buck!
I SPENT A GOOD FEW HOURS LOOKING OVER ALL THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HENCKELS KNIVES AND REALIZED THAT THE TWIN COLLECTIONS HAD PRETTY MUCH ALL OF THE SAME FEATURES AS THE 4 AND 5 STARS YET THEY WERE ATLEAST HALF THE PRICE. THEY ARE MADE IN GERMANY, FORGED, ICE HARDENED, FULL TANG, STAMPED HIGH-CARBON STAINLESS STEEL BLADES WITH LASER-CONTROLLED EDGE ETC. I ALSO LIKED THAT THIS BLOCK SET CAME WITH KITCHEN SHEERS AND A SERRATED KNIFE, WHICH SOME OF THE OTHERS DON'T. FOR AN AVERAGE PERSON WHO COOKS AT HOME AND IS LOOKING FOR A DEPENDABLE KNIFE TO DO THE TRICK, THESE ARE WELL OVER QUALIFIED. JUST ONE NOTE: I GIVE THUMBS DOWN TO AMAZON FOR SHIPPING THE KNIVES ONLY IN THEIR MANUFACTURER'S BOX AND NOT IN AN AMAZON BOX AS WELL. THESE WERE TO BE A GIFT BUT CAME UNDISGUISED AND RUINED THE SURPRISE. I WOULD THINK AMAZON WOULD HAVE ENOUGH BRAINS TO KNOW BETTER BUT THEN AGAIN I'M SURE THEY ARE LOOKING AT IT FROM THE POINT OF VIEW THAT THEY ALREADY COME IN THEIR OWN BOX SO WHY SPEND THE EXTRA MONEY TO PUT IT INDSIDE ANOTHER ONE. THAT'S PRETTY BAD! SHAME ON AMAZON! ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Razor Sharp
I had purchased a Sabatier knife sharpener some years ago, recommmended by a Bloomie's salesperson/ knife aficionado. The unit had one slot, and kept a reasonable, but not great, edge on my Henckel knives. When I finally mangled my Henckel serrated bread knife to a completely dull edge with that sharpener (silly me), I had a dilemma. My current knives needed sharpening, and I wasn't getting the results I wanted with the Sabatier. I wasn't about to buy a whole new set of knives, either. I read some of the reviews here, and decided to take the plunge with the Chef's Choice.Good move!

The sharpener took my dull knives and brought them back to life, as I would have hoped. My 8" Chef's knife is sharper than when I first got it.I have to be extremely mindful when using it now, as it can slice carrots and lop off a finger with ease.

My serrated bread and tomato knives, which had less cutting ability than a butter knife, are much better after numerous passes through the serrated blade slot. While not what they once were (I have myself to blame, using my old sharpener on both standard and serrated blades), they at least provide some service now, versus none before. I am happy to report that the three-stage process in this model has the separate slot for serrated knives, which is great.

One could argue a moderate set of knives is less expensive than buying this sharpener. However, if you believe it better to use what the pros use, and have invested in world-class knives, as I have, then this sharpener will keep them honed to an edge you will appreciate.

Dear "cooking for a living"
You obviously haven't a clue what you are talking about.I own two of these, an industrial version for my restaurant and this model for home.The industrial version makes very quick and sanitary work on the 40 some odd knives we invariably have to sharpen.They both do almost as good of a job as I can but in a lot less time.I paid $400 for it (the commercial 2000 version) and it has saved me much, much more than that in both time (for those times I sharpened them myself) and money (for those times I sent them out).

This particular model I have at home (in fact I just ordered another for a friend), and it is a godsend when it comes to removing that particular chore from my life.It doesn't get them quite as sharp as I can get them, but they get closer with every update.The only knives I don't use this for are my many japanese knives especially those with a single bevel edge (such as my usuba knife) and my boning knives (the machine just can't get at the tight angle near the bolster, and I like that to be sharp, funny enough automotive sandpaper stuck to a mouse pad is the best sharpener I can find for that job).The vast majority of culinary professionals will send their knives out to be sharpened, as they don't have the time to waste on sharpenening knives.

Wusthof recommends this particular sharpener for use on it's knives, so there goes that theory.

Oh, and I didn't go to culinary school I studied in France, Italy and Japan in various 3 and 4 star restaurants.

So, in summary, stop trying to insult everybody while trying to elevate yourself, you aren't special, and learn what you are talking about BEFORE you rate something.

The Real Deal...Recommended By Wusthof-Trident
While most home "sharpeners" merely hone your knives, this product actually crafts a new, razor sharp edge on your knives.The term "sharpener" is a misnomer applied to many gadgets which are, in reality, only honers.Having fallen prey to this bit of deception myself (over the years, I have purchased ceramic rods, grinding wheels, carbide shapeners and a product called The Chantry), I am very pleased to have finally found this no-nonsense , genuine sharpener.I have used this product with "factory new" results on all of my Wusthof-Trident Culinar knives. And contrary to statements posted by another reviewer, this sharpener is in fact recommended by Wusthof-Trident for use on their knives--please refer to their "Comprehensive Guide On Honing and Sharpening" available on their website.One word of caution, though; this product is designed to sharpen knives with approximately a 20 degree cutting edge. Knives with cutting edges less than 20 degrees (i.e., Japanese knives) are probably not suited for this sharpener.Altogether, I highly recommend this product.

better than the model it replaced
I had some trepedations buying this sharpener. I had purchased the 110, a 3-stage sharpener from Chef's Choice some years ago. Had those lousy metal bars in the grooves that kept getting stuck occasionally. But my wife is very hard on knifes. She rarely hones them with the steel, and for the occasional times I cook, it drives me crazy to use dull knives. I appreciate a good quality knife, and collect pocket knives, so getting cheap knives and replacing them frequently was not an option for me. I bought this unit because I don't have the time to manually sharpen over a dozen different types of knives we use.

Wow, what a great sharpener! While the results I got on the 110 were inconsistent, and I had to resharpen after testing, the 120 sharpened knives consistently sharp every time. The real test came when I had to sharpen the carving knife to cut the Thanksgiving turkey. I like to slice the breast meat thin, and it's a good sign of how sharp the knife is. Got thin slices quickly with minimum effort. I would have rated the 110 2-3 stars, but this unit deserves the 5 I'm giving it. And while it's easy enough for my wife to use, I still sharpen the knives because she just doesn't bother to care for them. Now if I could only find something to take care of that....

The perfect sharpener - count on it.
If you have invested in a good set of knives - do yourself a very big favor and invest in a quality knife sharpener. I wish I had purchased this months ago - it is a bit expensive but worth every penny. Don't mess with manual sharperners - to many chances for a mistake that can ruin a quality knife. One thing to mention if you buy this - READ THE MANUAL - that's a must. There are different wheels (for sharpening) based on how you will use your knives - if you read the manual and do exactly what it says, you can't go wrong. ... Read more

Features

• Made in China; hand washing recommended
• Includes chef's, slicer, bread, utility, and paring knives
• Also includes 6 steak knives, shears, sharpening steel, 13-slot block
• Precision taper ground blades made of heavy-gauge high-carbon steel
• Full-tang construction and stainless-steel rivets for balance; resin handles

Reviews (6)

Excellent Knives
These knives are great. I decided on getting new knives after ours starting looking trashy (they were wood handle ones that were starting to split). After spending days (literally) researching and reading reviews I decided on this set. I wasn't about to spend over $100.00 and up for a knife set...I don't really care that much. But this is a $100.00 set for a great price. These are worth it. They are heavy, fit great in your hand, and sharp right out of the box. The only problem was one of the knives had a "ding" on the top of the blade, but this doesn't affect the cutting and wasn't that noticable to ship back. My husband really like them too. Anyways, this knife set is well worth the price and I think one of my best purchases on Amazon.

I got this set about 6 months ago from amazon friday sale
It is a great set and I haven't had any rust problems as some earlier comments. Maybe its b/c I don't put them into the DishWasher. The scissors alone are worth the 30 bucks in my opinion. Definetely a good buy. I bought two sets for future gifts...

These are great knives!
(...) I'm writing from the point of mainly using grocery store knives except for my wonderful Wustof Bread Knife, which I try to use for just about everything. The block is reasonably nice (mine had two hairline cracks - not noticeable enough to exchange). The knives came sharp - I haven't used the sharpening tool yet. When cutting up peeled and boiled potatoes the chef knive cut them like it was going through butter. In comparison to my Wustof bread knife, this bread knife does tear a tad and the handle is a bit mightier. Also the steak knives don't sit in the slots perfectly even but they work nicely with very slight tearing. The scissors are great! This set is steel, not stainless steel. Therefore, you can not put them in the dishwasher (though the scissors have gotten in the dishwasher 2x without any problems). They suggest you hand wash and throughly dry.

Great Knives at Great Price
You will not find a better set of knives anywhere for 3-times the price. The chefs knife alone should sell for over $30. Great balance, weight & feel.

Great Value on Farberware Knives
I ordered this set a few weeks ago and used the super saver shipping. Received them pretty quick - within four days. The knives are pretty good quality and are actually thicker and heavier than I would have thought for the price. They are also well balanced and feel good in my hand. The finish (urethane)on the block that came with the set was not applied properly and probably should not have passed QC. Other than that I'm very happy with the knives. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Known worldwide for their superior performance, Wüsthof knivesare the cutlery of choice among many professionals and bydiscriminating amateur chefs. The Classic series features a traditionalstyling that makes it the most popular of the Wüsthof lines. The bladesare formed with the perfect balance of high-carbon steel and astain-resistant alloy so they retain their edge longer and are easierto resharpen. The blade is ground and polished by computer, ensuringperfect tapering from bolster to tip, and the edge is then hand honedfor precision slicing. The sturdy feel of this knife is achieved by theweighted bolster, which is considered to be Wüsthof's signaturefeature. The tang runs through the synthetic handle and is secured withthree rivets.

Perfect as a wedding gift, this 10-piece set has all the kitchencutlery basics with room to grow. The knives in the set include an8-inch cook's knife, an 8-inch carving knife, a 6-inch sandwich knife,an 8-inch serrated bread knife, a 5-inch serrated sausage knife, a4-1/2-inch utility knife, and a 3-1/2-inch paring knife. A pair ofkitchen shears and a 9-inch sharpening steel complete the set.Everything fits neatly into the rubber-footed oak block, which hasspace to eventually add six steak knives and two more prep knives.Cristina Vaamonde

What's in the Box
8-inch cook's knife; 8-inch carving knife; 6-inch sandwich knife; 8-inch serrated bread knife; 5-inch serrated sausage knife; 4-1/2-inch utility knife; 3-1/2-inch paring knife;kitchen shears; 9-inch sharpening steel; rubber-footed oak block with eight extra slots. ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty; hand washing recommended
• Blades formed with perfect balance of high-carbon steel and stain-resistant alloy
• Blade is ground and polished by computer, ensuring perfect tapering from bolster to tip
• Edge is then hand honed for precision slicing; precision forged for a single piece of German steel
• Sturdy feel achieved by weighted bolster; synthetic handle secured with three rivets

Reviews (8)

Why Spend All That Money??
The best answer I can give is that in cooking, the knife you use to dice the onion before you start cooking or carve the roast you did to perfection can make a major difference in the final product. A good knife used appropiately makes a huge difference, and I cannot describe the difference between a Wusthof and an inferior knife. It is something you need to experience for yourself to fully appreciate. Suffice it to say that there is a reason other than snobbery the pros still slice, dice, and mince by hand as opposed to using a deli slicer or food processor.

Great Knives
I bought these knives and I love them. They are a joy to use. Top quality. Check the model #8243 on the Wusthof web site and you'll see they are the real deal. I got them on Amazon when the price was at $239.99. What a steal!

If your house is on fire, run back and save these!!!!!!
I read once that the best is the cheapest and I find that to be certainly true. These are the best knives ever! They will last a lifetime and save you a lifetime's worth of constantly buying one 20 dollar knife after another. The knives I use time and time again are probably the chef's knife (which I used to find intimidating but no longer) and the 5.5 inch sandwich knife. I love the sharpness, the feel and the weight. It makes cooking and prepping so much faster and easier. I chose the GrandPrix over the traditional styled Classic because of the way the rounded handles felt in my hands and the textured grip makes for never having to stop to dry my hands in between kitchen prep duties. After you have been dicing and slicing for more than 15 minutes, the GP handle doesn't give me the cramped hand feeling that the traditional handles give me. Some people say that the handles easily get scratches but I have had mine for 3 years and don't notice any but I always handwash mine (wonder if that makes a difference) and besides, I consider them tools and workhorses not decoration. I think they say you're supposed to sharpen high quality knives each time before you use them. Yeah right! I never sharpen my knives because they can keep the edge sharp for so long plus I'm plain lazy. My husband does that for me once every 3 months and I notice the difference. But even "dulled" after 3 months with no sharpening, I haven't met a slab of meat or veggie my knives couldn't make quick work out of.

With a forged Wusthof, you can't go wrong!
I own the 8 piece classic set; which came with the following: an 8"Chefs,Carving,& Bread knife; 4 1/2" utility, 3 1/2 inch paring, sharpening steel, take apart shears, a well made deluxe oak block which also has room for 6 steak knifes. I also purchased 4 Classic Mignon steak knifes, a Santoku knife, a serrated tomato knife & that still left room for 2 extra knifes.
These are the best investment I ever made in a set of kitchen knifes. They are very well balanced and cut like a dream & hold an extremely sharp edge! I put most of my other kitchen knifes into retirement except for an electric knife on holidays when visiting, and a few special ones. A lifetime guarantee comes with each Wusthof plus I consider it a lifetime investment unless you happen to lose one.
Once you use a Wusthof for a short while, you will appreciate what a well made knife is! (Rated #1 by Consumer Reports magazine.)

Outstanding!
I finally replaced my inexpensive knives after 7 years. What a world of difference! All I can say is that if you cook, it is worth every penny to invest in a superior set of knives like these. They handle so beautifully and slice through vegetables as if they were butter. All without having to sharpen them before every use. I cook a lot and can go several weeks between sharpenings.

This set is such a bargain. I've seen the knives sold individually in cooking shops for $50-100 a piece. It's a fabulous wood block, also, with extra slots in case you hang on to some of your cheaper knives or you plan to purchase more knives later.

Every time I use one of these, I wonder why I waited so long! ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Tough polypropylene handles with full, visible tangs and thetraditional three rivets distinguish Classic knives from Wüsthof'sother cutlery lines. Otherwise Classic knives are identical to otherWüsthof knives, embodying all the virtues that have earned theGerman manufacturer world renown. The principal parts of a Wüsthofknife--blade, bolster, and tang--are forged from a single piece ofhigh-carbon stainless steel, and the blade is precisely tapered frombolster to tip and from back to hand-honed edge. The blades andbeautifully formed bolsters are not as thick as on some knives. As aresult, despite their heft, strength, and durability, Wüsthofknives are pleasingly delicate and marvelously balanced in action.

This 7-inch santoku is a Japanese cook's (or chef's) knife, featuring alow-tip style with a broad blade. The cutting edge is minimally curved,so it provides less rocking action than a European-style cook's knife.For straight-down slicing and precise chopping, however, it's superb.Alternating hollows on each side of the blade create air pockets,allowing slices to fall away cleanly. This knife should be hand washed.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Japanese-style cook's knife designed for chopping, slicing, dicing
• Alternating hollows on blade's sides prevent food from clinging
• Blade, bolster, tang forged from single piece of high-carbon stainless steel
• Tough polypropylene handle with full tang and traditional three rivets
• Made in Germany

Reviews (29)

Santoku Knife for Sushi, Sashimi, & Carpaccio
After being so pleased with a fine-edge Santoku knife that I use for chopping and slicing vegetables, I decided to add this hollow-edge Santoku knife to my collection of Wüsthof-Trident Classic knives. I've been using less-expensive Asian knives for a long time, but the Wüsthof Santoku knives have now become my favorites because of the shapes of the blades and the quality of the handles. On this hollow-edge Santoku, there are oval indentations or 'kullens' on the side of the high-carbon, no-stain steel blade, so you can quickly and easily make very thin slices of your meat, fish, and veggies. I use this Santoku for preparing sashimi and carpaccio. (I don't make sushi, but this knife would be excellent for that, too.) So far it has stayed very sharp without any need for professional sharpening. I hand-wash and dry it and store it in a wooden knife block.

SPLENDID CHOICE FOR CHEFS OR AMATEUR COOKS
For those of us who love to cook much of our pleasure is experienced in the preparation - whipping egg whites to a perfect frothy peak, cutting cookies into imaginative shapes or slicing cleanly, quickly and neatly the ingredients for casserole or soup.

This Japanese inspired Santuko knife by Wusthof has certainly added to my joy in the kitchen. It's the perfect implement for slicing, dicing or chopping. Alternating indentations prevent food from sticking to the blade, while its heft and balance are perfection.

A razor sharp blade allows me to slice as thinly as I wish, whether it be for carpaccio or the prosciuto we so enjoy. It's ideal for the cheese and ham in panini, and makes quick work of onions and celery for a family recipe for vegetable soup.
Of course, an added bonus is the Wusthof name, which we have learned means quality.

I do recommend that you hand wash it, just as you would a fine piece of silver. Believe me, this knife is sterling in every way.

- Gail Cooke

BEST SANTOKU KNIVES: Cook's Illustrated magazine
BEST SANTOKU KNIVES: If you're ready to chop and dice the summer harvest, Cook's Illustrated magazine rated the best Japanese santoku (chef) knives in its July/August 2004 issue:

MAC Knives Superior Series SK-65 - Superior Santuko - 6 1/2 inch ($55) finished first, followed by Kershaw Shun Classic ($89.99), Wustof Grand Prix ($69.99) and Global Oriental Cook ($78).

Our reputation as the World's finest knife is based on the experiences of MAC knife owners who use our knives every day. They tell us that once they began using their MAC knives, they could never go back to their "old" knives--Henckels, Wusthofs, Sabatiers, Gerbers, Chicagos, Globals, Cutcos.

****FACTS

RAZOR SHARP EDGE. The MAC knives are truly razor sharp. In head-to-head tests against all other manufacturers, we have never found a sharper knife.

STAYS SHARP. Our special alloys and hardening processes have created edges which stay sharper many times longer than other knives.

THIN BLADES FOR RESISTANCE FREE SLICING. Our thin blades glide effortless through each slice Other knives "wedge" and get stuck in the cut because of their forged construction or grind type.

ERGONOMIC DESIGNS. Each and every one of our designs have been tested and optimized for their particular application. Put any of the MAC knives to the test by actually using it and you will appreciate and understand the difference.

The knife that received top honors in both Bon Appetite and Cook's Illustrated magazines against all other knives tested.

We agree, this has been our top knife recommendation for the last two years for a chef style knife. MAC Knives Superior Series Superior Santuko Knife - The ideal Japanese-style chef's Knife, this MAC santuko knife is a multiple-use, 6 1/2 inch kitchen knife that offers durability, sharpness and convenience.

The knife that received top honors in both Bon Appetite and Cook's Illustrated magazines against all other knives tested. We agree, this has been our top knife recommendation for the last two years for a chef style knife.

***Note: Cook's Illustrated (July/August 2004) didn't find a granton edge helpful.

I need more things to chop
After chopping and slicing everything in the refrigerator since I got this knife yesterday, I thought I should take a break and write a review. This kinfe is just amazing.
I have a set of OK knives that until yesterday I thought were pretty good. I've never had a really expensive knife before, though.
After reading all of the great reviews here of the Wusthof Santoku knife and seeing how popular it is on the Food Network (Yea, I know, I'm a little susceptible. I also have an Eggstractor)I went to the store to check one out. I couldn't believe how well-balanced and light it was, without feeling flimsy. I took the plunge and do not regret it a bit.
The first time I chopped up an onion it sliced through it with hardly any effort. I just stood there in awe.
It's incredibly sharp and feels comfortable in my hand. I also like the shape, kind of a cross between a chef's knife and cleaver. I suspect my old knives will be relegated to chopping up bones and other things that would damage this one. But for anything that requires a bit of finesse, I will reach for the Santoku.
Well, I think I've gushed enough.

Very Well Balanced!
This knife is fantastic. Makes the boring job of chopping a whole lot easier. One thing to be careful of though, when things stick to the sides of the knife, it is best not to use your finger to slide them off, it will get ya. Otherwise, I highly recommend it. It is worth every penny! ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Fine craftsmanship and premium materials make this 15-piece Calphalon cutlery set a fabulous addition to any kitchen. The solid maple block comes with the following knives and implements: 4-1/2-inch paring, 6-inch utility, 8-inch slicing, 8-inch bread, 8-inch chef, 6-inch fork, 10-inch sharpening steel, six 5-inch steak knives, and kitchen shears. Horizontal slots in the angled block save wear and tear on the hand-ground blades. Each of the beautifully balanced, full-tang implements is constructed of a single forged piece of high carbon, no-stain, rust-resistant steel. Contoured for comfort, the seamless handles will not absorb moisture, crack, or chip. Each Contemporary piece is etched on the end with its name and/or size, allowing quick identification when stored in the block. The set is covered by a lifetime warranty. --Ann Bieri

What's in the Box
4-1/2-inch paring, 6-inch utility, 8-inch slicing, 8-inch bread, 8-inch chef knife, 6-inch fork, 10-inch sharpening steel, 6 5-inch steak knives, kitchen shears ... Read more

Features

• Horizontal slots save wear on blades
• Contemporary knife and maple block set
• 4-1/2-inch paring, 6-inch utility, 8-inch slicing, 8-inch bread,
• 8-inch chef knife, 6-inch fork, 10-inch sharpening steel
• Also 6 5-inch steak knives and kitchen shears

Reviews (11)

Kindest cut for your bucks
After a year of researching knives and about 10 years struggling with a bad-quality set, I settled on the Calphalon 15-piece for a few reasons...

*The collection included in this set is comprehensive and sufficient, especially the fact that it includes the steak knives and a scissors.
*You get the "full tang" construction of expensive brands like Henckels and Wusthoff but without the price
*The handle construction is more sealed off and sturdy than the one Wusthoff knife I own, which has rivets in the handle that rust!
*The blades are strong and sharp, and cleanup is easy.
*The labels on the ends of each knife are so helpful--what a great idea!

I am very happy with this set, although I do wish the block had a few more slots. It only fits the knives in the main collection plus three steak knives. They are quite heavy, so do take care when wielding one. Nonetheless, good price, good quality, and great looks!

Very good value
I finally grew out of my cheap kitchen knife set as my cooking frequency and skills have increased. I looked around at Henckel's and others, and even bought some single pieces. Everyone advises to get German steel, full tang, and a riveted handle. Well, unless you are hung up on the rivets, this is the set. The price is excellent. The heft is great, and the knives fit my large (male) hands very well. After dealing with a "starter" set it's like I've moved on to a whole new level of enjoyment in cooking. As far as the rivets, I noticed that one of the high-end Henckel's (I think 4) doesn't have rivets either. Since purchasing this set, I have also bought the boning knife separately and have found this to be a nice addition.

Best Set For the $$$
I just bought my first set of Calphalon Contemporary cutlery and wow what a difference between this set and some other sets I've owned. The edges are incredibly sharp and the labeling concept is truly an ingenious idea. Not to mention the overall design of the product is fantastic. Design, balance, comfort, and a lifetime warranty for half the cost, how can you go wrong? I've owned lesser sets of cutlery before that have cost me far more money. I'm sold on Calphalon's latest line of cutlery and I know I'll never buy any other brand again.

Excellent set for the serious beginner
Excellent set for the serious beginner/advanced chef. Has all the blades you could think of and you just have to pick up the 6 inch chef or the 7 inch santoku to complete this set. Other blades are also available as well. Slices like a dream even under heavy use. Overall this should be your second set. Still chopping and slicing...

A great set
I recieved a set of these knives for Christmas this year, and they're a real joy to work with. After working with a set of ill suited cheap Farberware knives that never cut well to begin with and couldn't be sharpened, I was (and still am) amazed how quickly these can get any task done, and how easy it is to make accurate cuts. The curving of the handle seen in the large knife in photo (on all handles too!) is a great feature to make grip easier, and they have a good weight to them without being too heavy and cumbersome. Just be sure you hand wash these to keep them in top condition :) ... Read more

Features

• Lightweight; easy-to-clean; lifetime warranty for manufacturing or materials defects
• 7-inch santoku; designed for and used by celebrity chef Rachael Ray
• Rocks like rounded, Western-style chef's knife, yet chops like traditional santoku
• Made of single piece of high-carbon stainless steel; seamless, hygienic construction
• Wedge-shaped, ergonomic handle with slip-resistant grooves; co-designed with arthritic chefs

Amazon.com Review

The blades in this set of slim, lightweight knives are stampedin stainless steel, and their edges are microserrated and thereforetouted as never needing sharpening. The handles are formed of toughpolypropylene and are seamless, allowing for better hygiene. The setincludes six kitchen knives, six 5-inch steak knives, and arubber-footed wood block that has slots for them all. The kitchen knivesinclude an 8-inch chef's knife with a curved blade for rocking througha chopping task; a 5-inch tomato knife with a narrow, curved blade; an8-inch bread knife; a 6-inch utility knife; a 6-inch boning knife formeats, poultry, and fish; and a 2-1/2-inch paring knife for peeling andcleaning vegetables and fruits. As a bonus, a pronged-tip knifedesigned to slice cheese and spear the slices is included. While theknives are dishwasher-safe, they should be hand washed to preservetheir edges. Unlike Henckels's premier knives, which are made inGermany, these knives are made in China; however, they do carry thecompany's lifetime warranty against defects. --Fred Brack

What's in the Box
8-inch chef's, 5-inch tomato, 8-inch bread, 6-inch utility, 6-inch boning, 2-1/2-inch paring, six 5-inch steak knives, hardwood block ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects
• Includes 8-inch chef's, 5-inch tomato, 8-inch bread, 6-inch utility, 6-inch boning, 2-1/2-inch paring, and six 5-inch steak knives in hardwood block
• Bonus cheese knife ideal for slicing cheese and spearing slices
• Stamped, mirror-polished, stainless-steel, micro-serrated blades
• Durable, hygienic, polypropylene handles

Reviews (27)

Great set for a new kitchen
Several years ago, I purchased this set as a housewarming gift for a friend, who raved about them so much that I ended up buying a set for myself. As an impoverished college student at the time, my selection really came down to the price being right. Fortunately, the knives were right, too. I still use these knives every day, 4.5 years later, often mistreating them, with no ill effects. Now that I'm ready to move on to one of the premiere lines, I will hand these down to a younger sibling, as they still have numerous years of use left in them.

For the money... you can't go wrong!!
We purchased these knives...and think they've been worth every penny. They're sharp, comfortable to grip, aesthetically appealing, and come in a nice assortment. Certain knives like the Chef's knife and the table/steak knives have become the proverbial 'work horse' of the set while the tomato knife hasn't really seen the light of day since it left the box. The polypropylene handles are capable of withstanding high temperatures and, because of their nature, do not harbor bacteria like some sets that contain rivets or those with wooden handles.

While this is a great set, it is not a high-end set, so you may want to look elsewhere if that's what you're after. None of the knives have a full-tang (where the steel goes all the way through the handle) or rivets. The handles are plastic. Also, the steel is from Japan (if I'm not mistaken) instead of Germany and boy, do the Germans know how to make steel!

So, dear friends, if you're looking for a set that you can pass on to your children and your children's children then you should indeed move up the Henckels line or look into Cutco (my favorites) or another high-end set. If you're looking to buy a good, inexpensive set that looks great and is every bit as functional, then look no more!

Also, consider looking into a pair of kitchen shears... they're indespensible!

Great knife for it priced
This is a very great set knife for its value! I heard Henckels made great knife but very priced. I am not a professonal who needed a expensive knife so this set will do it. It helped me so much when I cook, also I love how it comes with the knife holder. Only thing I don't like about this set it's maybe water stain gets on the knife and my roommate keep on using my knife!!

Henckels should be Ashamed
This product does not live up to Henckels reputation. The quality is inferior and completely not what I expected. The knives are unbalanced and flimsy. The handles are too small to provide adequate support for the blade.

So sharp my husband cut off half his finger the first time!
Really sharp. I mean, really sharp! If you're used to dull knives, be prepared. These are sharp. They'll slice through anything- frozen food, fresh tomatoes, my poor cutting board, and that bouquet of flowers that you need to trim the stems on. They work great. This company is great, and these knives are amazing, even besides the price. Love 'em. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

A great gift, this seven-piece set equips a cook with fiveessential kitchen knives, a 9-inch sharpening steel to keep blade edgesaligned, and a hardwood block to store knives and steel on the counter.The knives are a 3-1/2-inch paring knife, a 5-3/4-inch utility knife,an 8-inch carving knife, an 8-inch bread knife to slice crusty loaves,and an 8-inch chef's knife for rocking through chopping and mincingtasks. The knives don't have bolsters and are stamped, not forged fromstainless steel. The steel is of lesser quality than Henckels' premierlines. Handles are also formed of stainless steel, and their satinfinish contrasts stylishly with the blades. The knives aredishwasher-safe and carry a lifetime warranty against defects.--Fred Brack

What's in the Box
3-1/2-inch parer, 5-3/4-inch utility, 8-inch slicer, 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch bread knife, 9-inch steel, hardwood block ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects
• Set includes 3-1/2-inch parer, 5-3/4-inch utility, 8-inch slicer
• Also: 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch bread knife, 9-inch steel, hardwood block
• Knives stamped from stainless steel
• Satin-finish stainless-steel handles

Reviews (3)

Just OK
I am not a professional chef, but I am an avid cook and I found this knife set to be a bit disappointing. I purchased it with hopes of getting a good set of Henckels knives with a longwearing stainless steel handle. Instead, these knives feel VERY light, the shape is hard to handle for fast chopping or dicing, and the handles frankly just feel strange in your hand (they have a sort of a sandpaper texture.) I would only recommend these knives for someone who prefers beauty to function- they are attractive in the block on the counter. In my house, however, they never leave the block.

A bargain at twice the price
By far the best cutlery set you will ever own.
A+ in my book, even if this set was twice the price.

Very Polished
The same quality founded in all Henckel's family but with a very polished and contemporary finish at a very affordable price. It looks great in any Stainless Steel countertop, ideal for people who likes quality and beauty in the same object. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Representing Wüsthof’s Gourmet series of knives, this block set features less expensive versions of the knives in the manufacturer’s Classic series. Knives in the set include an 8-inch cook’s knife, an 8-inch carving knife, a 6-1/2-inch santoku, an 8-inch bread knife, a 6-inch sandwich knife, a 4-1/4-inch tomato knife, a 4-inch utility knife, a 3-inch paring knife, six 4-1/2-inch steak knives, a 6-inch kitchen fork, kitchen shears, and a 9-inch sharpening steel. Everything fits within the 17-slot rubber-footed oak block. Although the blades are still made of high-carbon steel with a stain-resistant alloy, the difference in the Gourmet series is that the blade is a thinner quality metal and is cut by a precision laser instead of by hand. The blade still has an ideal shape as it is ground and polished by computer to ensure perfect tapering from tip to bolster. Full tangs extend through the synthetic traditional-style handles, which are triple-riveted for strength. These knives are dishwasher-safe but handwashing is recommended to preserve the edges on the blades. The Gourmet series is an excellent alternative for those who want to own quality Wüsthof cutlery but are on a budget. --Cristina Vaamonde

What’s in the Box
8-inch cook’s knife; 8-inch carving knife; 6-1/2-inch santoku; 8-inch bread knife; 6-inch sandwich knife; 4-1/4-inch tomato knife; 4-inch utility knife; 3-inch paring knife; six 4-1/2-inch steak knives; 6-inch kitchen fork; kitchen shears; 9-inch sharpening steel; oak block. ... Read more

Features

• Synthetic traditional-style handles; packed in 17-slot oak block
• Moderately priced versions of Wüsthof's famed Classic forged knives
• Laser-cut high-carbon steel blade with stain-resistant alloy
• Precise tapering from grinding and polishing procedure
• Full, seamlessly encased triple-riveted tangs

Features

• Lightweight; easy-to-clean; lifetime warranty for manufacturing or materials defects
• 5-inch santoku; designed for and used by celebrity chef Rachael Ray
• Rocks like rounded, Western-style chef's knife, yet chops like traditional santoku
• Made of single piece of high-carbon stainless steel; seamless, hygienic construction
• Wedge-shaped, ergonomic handle with slip-resistant grooves; co-designed with arthritic chefs

Amazon.com Review

With grooved channels to catch juices for making sauces and,these three inexpensive cutting boards are ideal for carving roasts andpoultry. The boards' rounded edges make them unusually attractive forserving at table. Plus, they flip over to provide flat sides to prepvegetables or slice and serve bread. Because the set consists of alarge, medium, and small board, all cutting and carving needs aresatisfied. The large board measures 17-1/2 by 11-1/2 inches, the mediumis 11-1/2 by 9 inches, and the small is 8-3/4 by 6-1/2 inches. Made offarm-grown hardwood (no forest trees involved), the 5/8-inch-thickboards are sealed with food-grade mineral oil so they won't dry out.Wipe them clean with soapy water and dry and they will last severallifetimes. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Sizes: 17-1/2 by 11-1/2 inches; 11-1/2 by 9 inches; 8-3/4 by 6-1/2 inches
• Ideal for slicing and serving roasts, poultry, bread
• Grooved channels catch juices
• Flip over to flat sides to slice bread, prep vegetables
• Made of farm-grown hardwood

Reviews (13)

You cannot get better for the price.
What happens when you take razor sharp, tempered, high-carbon steel knives to wood? Well duh, the knives cut into the woood. I'm so tired of hearing complaints about wooden cutting boards showing knife marks. I read one review where the writer complained that they would probably have to replace the board after a few years. This is natural. If you don't want to see cut marks or replace your cutting board ever, get a slab of marble. It's bad for your knives, but these people seem not to care about that.

This Farberware 3-piece cutting board set is great. For the price, it's fantastic. These are the only cutting boards your average home cook should need. They are reversable (though only one side has grooves) and offer three various, useful sizes. The large is about the size of two sheets of paper side by side; big enough yet still managable in the sink to wash. The medium is about the size of one sheet of paper. The small is about the size of your avarage hardcover book. All are about as thick as the handles of your knives.

They are hard wood providing a nice cutting surface. The wood is well oiled to help protect it from water damage. After a while, your bound to have many cut marks, but so what? Take a look at the price again. You buy cutting boards so they take the damage, not your knives (or your counter).

The boards I received were all smooth and straight (not warped). None have any signs of cracking and seem well made. They are easily worth two or three times the price amazon.com sells them for.

You get that for which you pay...
If this seems like a ridiculous deal for three hardwood cutting boards, well it is. Only problem is two of the boards have split since I bought the set six months ago. I don't know if the wood is not cured correctly or what, but I have certainly not abused these cutting boards, nor have I subjected them to extreme temps or soaked them in water.
If I had it to do over again, I would get one good cutting board that would last, as these will have to be replace as they continue to split.

There's such a thing as too much of a good thing
Yes, it is nice to have a juice channel, but does one really need a concentric ring of three juice channels to slice a loaf of bread?

Is There Such a Thing as 'Too Much Juice'? I say Yes.
Marketed in the standard Papa, Mama, and Baby Bear configuration, these cutting boards are, I'm told, quite attractive. They certainly feel nice to the touch. Oh--didn't you know? I'm blind, a blind architect. To continue: after struggling with my Henckels Birch Cutting Board through more chopping fiascos than I now have fingers to tote up, I decided to make a move to Farberware. Chopping things can be a tricky business for the sightless, and I wanted every possible advantage. I'm pleased to report that I absolutely thrilled to the responsive, one could almost say intuitive, feel of these three boards. I was also pleased to see (so to speak) that these boards come with juice channels. Henckels has certain advantages, but apparently the Germans just like the juice from the things they chop to go all over the place. Ah, well. Who'd have thought it of the people who brought us Kraftwerk? Yet, these boards are ringed with juice channels. Not a single droplet of juice is lost. When my wife entered the kitchen, looking droopy with sleep after her customary six hour nap, she first shrieked, and then fell into a dead faint, after seeing how much juice I'd unwittingly collected from three vidalia onions. If you've ever had to feel around a kitchen floor for a small unconscious person while cooking a white sauce you'll know how difficult it can be. So--good job, Farberware. But easy on the juice next time, eh?

Unbelieveable deal!
These are excellent boards for the price. Get a set before they run out...you can't go wrong! ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

With its three-stage, high-speed polishing system, this Chef’s Choice electric knife sharpener keeps all household blades hair-splitting sharp, honed, and polished. The machine quickly sharpens gourmet kitchen knives, butcher knives and cleavers, hunting and sporting knives--it even sharpens serrated knives. Using 100-percent diamond abrasives of differing grit, the sharpener creates two blade facets in the first two stages. The third stage strops and polishes, completing the sharpening with a micro bevel and microflute cutters. Together, these processes combine to create Chef’s Choice patented Trizor-Plus edge.

A compact unit, the sharpener features three separate sharpening platforms with left and right slots and internal springs to guide knives securely. The weighted base and non-skid feet keep it stable in use. It also includes a rocker power switch, durable housing, and a manually activated cleaning/dressing tool to clean the honing disks in stage three. Measuring 9-3/4 by 4 by 4-1/4 inches, the sharpener carries a three-year warranty. --Emily Bedard ... Read more

Features

• Measures 9-3/4 by 4 by 4-1/4 inches; 3-year warranty
• Electric knife sharpener with precision angle control for Trizor-Plus edge
• Use with chef knives, butcher knives, sporting knives, and serrated blades
• 100-percent diamond abrasives in stages 1 and 2 sharpen and hone
• Stropping and polishing in stage 3 for hairsplitting sharpness

Features

• Lifetime Warranty
• Contoured comfort grip handle
• Labeled for easy identification
• Fully forged, full tang design
• High Carbon No-Stain German Steel

Amazon.com Review

If top-shelf Henckels knives will break your bank, you can still get high-quality performance and construction with the mid-range Henckels Gourmet line. A full-size collection, this 18-piece set thoroughly outfits a chef, as well as eight steak dinner guests. Each Gourmet knife is stamped from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel, honed by hand, and hardened by the Friodur ice process, for maximum strength and stain-resistance. These knives boast a full tang, which is triple-riveted to a contoured handle made of Novadur polypropylene. This construction is impact-resistant, comfortable to hold, and durable. Complete with its own storage block, the set includes seven kitchen knives: a 3-inch parer, a 6-inch utility, an 8-inch carver, an 8-inch chef’s, an 8-inch bread, a 6-inch chef’s, and a 5-inch serrated utility. It also includes eight steak knives, a 9-inch steel for sharpening, and a pair of kitchen shears. The block has three extra slots for adding knives as needed. The set is safe for the dishwasher, but washing by hand is recommended. Henckels includes a lifetime warranty. --Emily Bedard

What's in the Box
3-inch parer, 6-inch utility, 8-inch carver, 8-inch chef's, 8-inch bread, 6-inch chef's, 5-inch serrated utility, 9-inch steel, kitchen shears, 8 steak knives, and storage block ... Read more

Features

• Friodur ice-hardening results in superior cutting performance
• Includes 3-inch parer, 6-inch utility, 8-inch carver, 8-inch chef’s, 8-inch bread, 6-inch chef’s, 5-inch serrated utility
• Also comes with 9-inch steel, kitchen shears, 8 steak knives, and storage block
• Stamped high-carbon stainless steel
• Hand-honed, laser-controlled edge, and balanced full tang

Amazon.com

Forged of high-carbon stainless steel, the knives in this14-piece set equip the kitchen for every essential need and outfit thedining room for slicing steaks, chops, and roasts when family andfriends gather for dinner. The five kitchen knives have wide bolstersfor control and balance and finely ground edges. Included are an 8-inchchef's knife for rocking through chopping tasks, an 8-inch slicer forcarving roasts and poultry, an 8-inch bread knife with a serrated edge,a 5-inch utility knife, and a 3-1/4-inch paring knife. Synthetichandles on both the kitchen knives and the six 4-1/2-inch steak knivesare attached to full bolsters with three rivets for traditional style.Accompanying the knives are an 8-inch sharpening steel to keep edgesaligned and 8-inch kitchen shears with a bottle opener between thehandles. All pieces fit into a stylish, three-tier, hardwood storageblock slanted for easy access. The knives are dishwasher-safe butshould be hand washed to preserve edges. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 18/8 Stainless Steel Satin Finish
• Knives include 8-inch chef's, 8-inch slicer, 8-inch bread, 5-inch utility, 3-1/4-inch paring, six 4-1/2-inch steak
• Set also includes 8-inch shears, 8-inch sharpening steel, hardwood storage block
• Forged stainless-steel knives with traditional three-rivet, full-tang handles
• Lifetime warranty against defects

Reviews (5)

A Big Disappointment
I'd read great things about these knives -- they were even rated a Best Buy by Consumer Reports. However, having now owned them for a week, I can say they are a big disappointment, and I would not recommend them. Contrary to what others have written, the knives are comfortable, well-balanced and feel great in your hands. However, they are very very dull -- you can't cut anything with them the way they arrive. I ended up spending $ 120.00 dollars on a knife sharpener to try to make this set usable, but while that improved things, the knives still don't feel that sharp. Finally, the knives don't appear to be "stainless" steel. After one hand-washing, three of the knives became discolored, and now have "rust"-like spots on them that will not come off. It looks like things get worse and worse with each use and washing. Overall, it would have been worth it to spend $150.00 to $200.00 more dollars to get something decent, and I could have afforded that with the money I had to spend on the knife sharpener!

Love this set!!
We bought this set about a month ago and we have been really happy with it since the day we got it. I was looking for a nice set and was willing to spend the extra money on nice knives, but when I came upon the reviews of this set and how everyone loved them, I decided to give them a try. The handles are nice and easy to grip. They are somewhat heavy, but I like that to guide me in cutting. You won't be disappointed with this set.

Fine for the price
The blades on these knifes are effective, and it's nice that they can go in the dishwasher. The shears are great. However, the knifes are heavy and the handles don't feel good in your hand. If you're going to do daily cutting, go for more expensive knifes.

Great deal
I bought this set based on CR's review fo them as a "Best buy." For comparison I also bought one of the Wusthof Grand Prix knives, which were rated the best overall. I would say that the Wusthof is a slightly better knife, but I fully agree with CR that the price difference is not worth paying. The Farberware set is very good and cuts really well. It stays sharp and does everything you might ask a knife set to do. After pondering the issue a while, I have decided I would be foolish to spend the extra money for the higher end knives. This set is really a great deal -- you get a very good set of knives at a very reasonable price.

Just fine for the everyday person
We purchased this set about 1 month back and have found it to be very nice and does what we need it for. We are not chefs, just everyday people with everyday kitchen needs. We use the full set and found each knife to be very sharp, feels good in the hands, and is able to cut very well. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Cuisinart's electric knife adds a little electricity to anycarving or cutting job, providing the extra power a real kitchencommando needs. Its powerful motor combines with two stainless-steelblades (one for carving and one for bread) to make short work of almostevery slicing task, whether you're working with a roast, French bread,or vegetables. It has a comfortable ergonomic handle designed to beused by right- or left-handed people, a solid-wood butcher-blockstorage tray with a safety lock system for storage in a drawer or onthe counter, a one-touch pressure-activated on/off trigger control, andspace for wrapping the cord. --A.J. Rathbun ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic handle
• High quality stainless steel blades
• Wood block storage tray
• Includes bread blade, carving blade
• Also includes butcher block holding tray

Reviews (11)

This knife is a cut above the rest
I bought this knife to replace an older electric knife I owned. I am into baking breads and other cooking and my old knife had this big screw at the end of it to hold the two blades together and it wouldnt go into my bread slicing guide very easily and it was just a real chore to cut a slice of bread. So, I started to look for another knife and I came across this one. I was a bit leary with the price and all but decided to buy it anyway. I have to say that this knife cuts through the bread so easily and it doesnt get caught on the slicing guide like the other one did and there are hardly any crumbs. The blades are thin but sturdy and the screw/bolt that holds them togther is small and doesnt get into the way of cutting anything. I havent used the meat knife yet but I am sure I wont be disappointed judging from how the bread knife works. The stand is really nice too. I just sit the stand on my counter and all the parts stay on it. I keep the knife plugged in at all times and use the safety switch to turn it on and off. The safety switch is really great to have since I have children and it wont work if the switch is activated. The colors go great and match with my kitchen and other appliances which are black and silver as well. The only complaint I have with this machine is that the handle part is a tad bit large for my hand. I have very small hands and I cant hold it at the end. I have to hold it very close to the silver band at the beginning of the handle. Other than that the machine is excellent. I highly recommend this machine. You get what you pay for and this is no exception.

Superior Electric Knife
The Cuisinart CEK-40 Electric Knife is by far the best ever, and I've used three other brands. The knife and blades store securely in the very attractive tray and the attached cord tucks away neatly behind the stand. I especially like the bread knife which works wonderfully on crusty breads. The blades slip easily into the knife handle and are just as easily removed. This is definitely a quality product and well worth the price.

overpriced junk
The first knife I got was broken (new). I sent it back and 1 year later, the spring that holds the knife in was shot. We only used this knife for bread and turkey (2 times a week, max). I previously bought a cheap Hamilton-Beach knife that lasted almost a decade. Basically, this is a nice looking yugo of a knife. Giving this knife one star is a stretch.

Can't add much to other reviewers - it's great!
I received mine for Christmas. For some reason, they don't make many electric knives anymore, but this one exceeds my expectations.

I've used it to cut breads and cheeses (for fun) and a multitude of other unnecessary things and it works great. Attractive looking too.

The Best Electric Knife on the Market
This knife will spoil you. Cutting through the thickest of meat is a breeze. I wanted to order a few for Christmas presents, but they wouldn't guarantee a by Christmas delivery. This is a gift that keeps on giving with years and years of great service! ... Read more

Features

• Made in China; hand washing recommended
• Includes chef's, slicing, bread, Santoku, utility, paring, and 8 steak knives
• Also includes cleaver, kitchen shears, poultry shears, sharpening steel, wood storage block
• Precision taper ground blades made of heavy-gauge high-carbon steel
• Full-tang construction and stainless-steel rivets for balance; resin handles

Amazon.com Review

This set supplies a cook with a variety of cutting edges and a solid wood block to store them in. The set consists of four kitchen knives, sturdy kitchen shears, a sharpening steel, and the block, which has four extra slots. An 8-inch chef's, a 3-inch paring, an 8-inch carving, and a 5-inch serrated utility knife make up the knives in the set. Classic three-rivet handles distinguish Pro S from Henckels's other quality knives. That makes Pro S handles heavier and knives less weight-forward. Handles are also smaller, which those with small hands might appreciate. Except for fully forged blades less than 6 inches long, such as the paring and utility knives in this set, the blades and bolsters of Henckels's first-rate cutlery lines are formed by a high-tech welding process that combines three high-carbon, stainless-steel types into what appears to be a single piece so a knife's parts have distinct, desirable characteristics. All pieces in the set carry a lifetime warranty against defects. --Fred Brack

What's in the Box
8-inch chef's, 8-inch carving, 3-inch paring, 5-inch serrated utility, sharpening steel, shears, and wood block ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects
• Knives include 8-inch chef's, 8-inch carving, 3-inch paring, 5-inch serrated utility
• Set also includes sharpening steel, shears, and wood block
• High-carbon stainless-steel blades
• Black synthetic, three-rivet, full-tang handles

Reviews (4)

a bit disappointed, but okay and will keep it.
i just got this set after reading the rave reviews posted here. Upon receiving the item, i did a thorough examination and was a bit disappointed with the quality and the packaging. the packaging used is cheap thin corrugated cardboard box and the knives are loosely placed in it where rattling and banging are sure to occur during shipping; though, individual blades are protected with a clear plastic sleeve, except the sheer, that can only be removed by torn it into pieces from the blade and thus made it unusable for future storage purposes. i also examined the sharp edges of the blades the way a carpenter would examine the straightness of a long piece of wood and found that the blades are all crooked, with the chef knife having the most noticeable skewness. With this kind of price, one would expect, at the LEAST, that the sharp edges of the blades to be straight. As for the wood block, all the opening slots where knives are inserted are roughly carved with wood sprinkles noticeably shown all around. Overall it's a good product, but not worth this kind of pricing. Another overhyped and overpriced European product. I would say if you are not looking for brand name, you can get lesser expensive non-European products that are as effective and save your money for your kids' education.

Great for a start
I'm not an expert in the kitchen, but I wanted a good set of knives. I debated between this and the 9 piece set. The 9 pc. set adds an 8" bread knife and a 6" utility knife to this set, for more [$$$]. I opted instead for this set, and purchased a bread knife (actually the 9" French bread knife) . Instead of the utility knife, I bought a carving fork through open stock to complement the carving knife. Total cost was about the same as the 9 pc. set.

Do a little searching on the Internet; you will find plenty of tutorials on how to hone your knives, how to sharpen them, and how to use them correctly. I had never really used good knives before, and now I actually look like I know what I'm doing. These knives wipe clean easily; don't ruin your investment by putting them in the dishwasher.

Incidentally, I thought I would never use the utility scissors, and I find myself using them all the time.

Great set
I love this set. I wish I had it years ago. It would have saved alot of tearing. Cuts through a cabbage in less than 2 seconds. Steel scratches easily though, but other than that, the quality is great. I thought of buying a non-German brand that came with more knives for less cost, but it turns out that this set has all the knives most people need, except the bread knife.

The Best Knives I'VE ever used!!
I'm no knife expert, but I've never regretted purchasing this set: they're beautiful and they really do the job! To be able to easily slice through raw meat, vegetables, tough skinned tomatoes - well, it's a pleasure to work with these knives! I can't recommend them highly enough! ... Read more