Cutlery Buying Tips

While knives are generally more affordable when purchased in a set there are times when you need a knife for a particular job and some idea of what to look for helps to make a good decision. With literally hundreds of brands and cutlery manufacturers to choose from the task can seem daunting. To make choosing a little easier start with the cutlery buying tips below.

What jobs do you want the knives to do? Sometimes it helps to jot down a quick list of the tasks you want to be able to use the knife for. And it often helps to make things clearer as you read descriptions if you keep those tasks in mind.

If you like to “feel” the weight of a utensil in your hand then select traditional western knives from manufacturers like Wusthof, Henckels, Furi or Sabatier. Stick with knives that are forged and well balanced to get that heft in the hand. Stamped clones are going to feel light and clumsy and won’t have that great “extension of the hand” feeling.

Traditional Japanese knives are made for precision cutting. If your interest is in lightweight ultra sharp blades that fit like hand to glove this is the place to start. Look to manufacturers like Kershaw Shun, Furi and Kyocera for Santoku, Sashimi and cleavers to fulfill your needs.

Get the most bang for your buck and stretch your dollar further without skimping on quality by purchasing a knife set. Most manufacturers package their knives in multiple types of 2, 3 and more knives in boxed and block sets. Knife sets will definitely save you money…just make sure that the type of knife and size is included in the sets you’re looking at. I know that sounds obvious. Just keep in mind the job of the knife you want when you’re looking.