A Knife Buyer’s Guide

What should I look for? Any particular brands?

Victorinox Swiss Classic 8-Inch Chef’s Knife with Victorinox Swiss Classic 3-Piece Chef’s Set. Amazon $ 99.00

The best “test” for buying knives: affordable, easy to replace, easy to keep sharp, and able to complete varied tasks. Here are brands that check the boxes: Dexter, Victorinox, and Misen.

Good tools simply don’t have to cost a lot. An expensive knife doesn’t mean food will taste better (although the edge could last longer!). Think about this: you could buy a $ 50,000 stove, but the food won’t necessarily be better than if it were cooked on a modest stove.

Should I not consider the high-end Japanese or German knives? No, of course not. Beautiful things mean more than just the work they do. If you can afford it, and you’ll appreciate the immense artistry in terms of look and feel, by all means, get them.

Misen Ultimate 8 Inch Chef’s Knife – Pro Kitchen Knife – High Carbon Japanese Stainless Steel – Hybrid German and Japanese style blade – Craftsmanship for Culinary Enthusiasts, 8 in – Blue. $ 63.75 Amazon

Dexter 8” Chef’s Knife. Amazon $ 24.00

The best value if budget is the most important consideration. They are thin and light, but despite it all, come very sharp and hold an edge well. Perfect for saving money but insisting on reasonable performance or simply protecting knives from careless room mates.

Amazon $ 9.80 for the set of two. “Kiwi Knife Cook Utility Knives…”, No. 171 an 172.

Wedgek HXT Ceramic Thick Sharpening Rod and Angle Guides, 11-Inch Shatter Resistant, White 1500 Grit
ATK review of honing rods

A great birthday gift: a 6 “petty” knife. Swiss Army 5.2003.15-X8 Fibrox Straight Chef’s Knife Black 6 in. Amazon: Appr. $ 33

YouTube ATK petty knife review:

John Boos Maple Wood Cutting Board for Kitchen Prep, 1.5 Inch Thick, Large Edge Grain Rectangular Reversible Charcuterie Boos Block, 20″ x 15″ x 1.5″. Amazon $ 95.00