Global Vegetable Knife GS-91 (14cm, Fluted Blade)

What makes the fluted blade different from regular vegetable knives?

The fluted blade has grooves along its surface that create air pockets when cutting. These pockets prevent vegetables from sticking to the blade, which is particularly useful when slicing onions, potatoes, or leafy greens. Regular smooth blades often have vegetables clinging to them, requiring you to stop and remove the food. The fluted design allows for continuous cutting without interruption.

Can this knife handle tough vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes?

Yes, the Cromova 18 steel construction and 15-degree edge make it capable of cutting through dense vegetables. However, this 14cm blade is optimised for medium-sized vegetables. For very large or extremely hard vegetables like whole butternut squash, a larger chef's knife might be more suitable. The knife excels with onions, carrots, courgettes, peppers and similar vegetables.

How do I properly maintain the sharp edge?

Hand wash immediately after use with warm water and mild detergent, then dry completely with a soft cloth. Never put it in the dishwasher as this can damage the edge. For sharpening, use a Global Minosharp or similar ceramic sharpener designed for Japanese knives. The 15-degree edge requires specific sharpening angles, so avoid generic knife sharpeners that might alter the blade geometry.

Is the handle comfortable for people with smaller hands?

The handle measures approximately 12cm long and has a cylindrical design that suits most hand sizes. The sand-filled hollow construction makes it lightweight at 132g whilst providing excellent balance. People with very small hands might find the smooth stainless steel surface requires a firmer grip, especially when wet. The ergonomic balance reduces fatigue during extended use.

What's the difference between this and a standard chef's knife for vegetables?

This vegetable knife has a flatter blade profile that makes full contact with cutting boards for cleaner cuts. Chef's knives have more curved blades suited for rocking motions. The fluted surface specifically addresses vegetable prep challenges like sticking. At 14cm, it's also more manoeuvrable than larger chef's knives when working with smaller vegetables or in tight spaces.

How long will the blade stay sharp with regular home use?

With proper care and normal home use, the Cromova 18 steel typically maintains its sharpness for 6-12 months before requiring professional sharpening. The exact duration depends on cutting frequency, technique and what you're cutting. The high-carbon content and ice-tempering process create exceptional edge retention compared to standard stainless steel knives.

Can I use this knife for fruits as well as vegetables?

Absolutely. The knife works excellently for fruits, particularly those that tend to stick to blades like apples, pears and stone fruits. The fluted design prevents fruit pieces from clinging during slicing. The sharp edge makes clean cuts that don't bruise delicate fruits. It's particularly good for preparing fruit salads or garnishes where presentation matters.

What safety considerations should I know about this knife?

This knife is extremely sharp and requires age verification for purchase (18+). Always cut away from your body and keep fingers curled under when holding food. The smooth stainless steel handle can become slippery when wet, so ensure hands are dry. Store in a knife block or magnetic strip rather than loose in drawers. The razor-sharp edge can cause serious cuts, so treat it with appropriate respect and caution.