Hoshanho 3 Pieces Knife Set (High Carbon Steel, Grey)

What steel type is used in these knives and why is it superior?

The knives feature 10Cr15CoMoV super steel cores, a premium material specifically engineered for knife manufacturing. This steel composition provides exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance and durability. The 10Cr15CoMoV designation indicates precise carbon and alloy content that allows the blades to achieve Rockwell hardness exceeding 60+ whilst maintaining toughness. This steel holds razor-sharp edges longer than standard kitchen knives.

Are these knives dishwasher safe and how should I care for them?

No, these knives are not dishwasher safe and require hand washing for optimal care. The high carbon steel construction and specialized edge geometry can be damaged by dishwasher heat and harsh detergents. Hand wash with warm soapy water, dry immediately and store in protective sheaths or knife blocks. This care routine preserves the blade sharpness and prevents corrosion.

What's included in the 3-piece set and what tasks is each knife designed for?

The set includes an 8-inch chef knife for general cutting and chopping, a 7-inch santoku knife for precise slicing and dicing and a 3.75-inch paring knife for detailed work. The chef knife handles large vegetables and meat portions, the santoku excels at vegetables and fish preparation, whilst the paring knife manages small fruits, garnishes and intricate cutting tasks.

How sharp are these knives out of the box and do they need sharpening?

The knives arrive extremely sharp with hand-stropped three-step elite edges finished on cloth wheels. This creates the sharpest possible cutting surface for immediate use. The 15-degree edge geometry and premium steel composition maintain sharpness significantly longer than standard kitchen knives. Initial sharpening is unnecessary, though eventual maintenance sharpening will be required after extended use.

What does the hot-drop hammer forging process achieve?

Hot-drop hammer forging creates one-piece blade construction that's stronger than welded or assembled alternatives. This traditional process compresses the steel grain structure, making it finer and more uniform. The result is superior blade strength from heel to tip, better edge retention and enhanced durability. This forging method is preferred by professional knife makers for premium kitchen cutlery.

Are the handles full tang construction and how does this affect performance?

Based on user feedback, these knives appear to use partial tang construction rather than full tang. The blade extends partway into the handle rather than running the full length. Whilst this reduces weight and cost, it can create slight blade-heavy balance. The ergonomic handle design and heavy bolster help compensate for this, providing adequate control for most kitchen tasks.

What age restrictions apply to purchasing these knives?

These knives require age verification and are restricted to buyers aged 18 and over. Online age verification checks are mandatory during purchase. Upon delivery, the driver may request photographic ID with date of birth to confirm the recipient's age. This is a legal requirement for knife sales in the UK and helps ensure responsible ownership.

How does the hammer pattern design benefit cutting performance?

The delicate hammer pattern serves multiple functional purposes beyond aesthetics. The textured surface creates small air pockets that prevent food from sticking to the blade during cutting. This reduces drag and allows smoother slicing action, particularly with sticky ingredients like cheese or cooked meats. The pattern also contributes to the blade's anti-rust properties by disrupting moisture contact points.