KitchenAid Forged Knife Set (11 Piece, Black)

What knives are included in this 11-piece set?

The set contains one 20cm chef knife, one 20cm bread knife, one 13cm santoku knife, one 9cm paring knife, six stamped steak knives and one pair of utility shears. This combination covers all basic kitchen cutting tasks from food preparation to dining. The steak knives are particularly useful as they're often stored separately in cutlery drawers where they become dull quickly.

How does the built-in sharpener work?

The birchwood block features an integrated sharpening slot that hones knife edges as you insert and remove the blades. This system uses ceramic or steel elements to realign the blade edge with each use. Simply draw the knife through the sharpener at the correct angle before storage. This maintains sharpness between uses without requiring separate sharpening tools or professional services.

Are these knives suitable for dishwasher cleaning?

Yes, all knives are top-rack dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning. However, hand washing is recommended to extend their lifespan and maintain appearance. Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can affect the handle finish over time. Always dry knives immediately after washing to prevent water spots and maintain the blade's pristine condition.

What makes Japanese steel superior for kitchen knives?

Japanese steel contains higher carbon content than standard stainless steel, creating harder blades that hold sharper edges longer. The forging process aligns the steel's grain structure for superior strength and edge retention. This steel composition resists chipping whilst maintaining flexibility for precise cuts. Professional chefs prefer Japanese steel because it requires less frequent sharpening whilst delivering consistently clean cuts.

How should I store these knives properly?

The included birchwood block provides optimal storage with individual slots for each knife. This prevents blade damage from contact with other utensils and maintains sharpness between uses. Store the block away from heat sources and moisture to preserve the wood finish. Never store knives loose in drawers where blades can become damaged or create safety hazards.

What's the difference between the chef knife and santoku knife?

The 20cm chef knife features a curved blade ideal for rocking cuts and chopping motions, making it perfect for dicing vegetables and herbs. The 13cm santoku knife has a straighter edge with a wider blade, designed for precise slicing and dicing with a chopping motion. The santoku excels at cutting meat, fish and vegetables with clean, straight cuts. Both knives complement each other for different cutting techniques.

How do I maintain the triple-riveted handles?

Clean the handles with warm soapy water and dry immediately to prevent moisture buildup around the rivets. Avoid soaking the knives as prolonged water exposure can affect the handle material. The triple-rivet construction is permanent and requires no special maintenance. If food particles accumulate around rivets, use a soft brush to clean thoroughly before drying.

Can I sharpen these knives with other sharpening systems?

Yes, these knives are compatible with whetstones, electric sharpeners and professional sharpening services. The Japanese steel responds well to various sharpening methods. For best results, maintain the original blade angle when using alternative sharpening systems. The built-in block sharpener handles regular maintenance, whilst whetstones provide more aggressive sharpening when needed for heavily dulled blades.