Shan Zu Damascus Kitchen Knives Set (7-Piece, 67 Layers Steel)

What makes this Damascus steel authentic rather than fake?

This set uses genuine Damascus steel created through traditional forging methods. The pattern forms by layering 67 sheets of carbon steel, then folding and forging repeatedly under high heat. This creates a pattern that goes through the entire blade thickness. Fake Damascus knives only have surface laser etching that wears away over time, whereas authentic Damascus patterns become more visible with polishing and remain permanent.

How hard are these blades and what does 62HRC mean?

The blades achieve 62HRC on the Rockwell hardness scale, which measures steel hardness. This rating places them in the premium knife category, harder than most German knives (typically 56-58HRC) but slightly softer than some Japanese knives (63-65HRC). The 62HRC rating provides excellent edge retention whilst maintaining reasonable durability for home kitchen use.

Can I put these knives in the dishwasher?

No, these knives should not go in the dishwasher. The high heat, harsh detergents and contact with other items can damage the blade edge and handle material. Hand washing with warm soapy water immediately after use is recommended. Dry thoroughly and store in the wooden block to maintain blade sharpness and prevent damage.

What type of cutting board should I use with these knives?

Use wooden or plastic cutting boards to preserve blade sharpness. Avoid glass, marble, or ceramic surfaces as these are harder than the blade edge and will quickly dull the knives. End-grain wooden boards are ideal as they're gentler on blade edges. The high hardness of these blades means they're more susceptible to chipping on hard surfaces compared to softer German steel knives.

How do I maintain and sharpen these knives?

The included honing steel helps maintain the edge between sharpenings, though ceramic or diamond-coated rods work better with this hardness level. For actual sharpening, use whetstones (1000-6000 grit), professional sharpening services, or quality electric sharpeners. Avoid pull-through sharpeners as they may not effectively sharpen this hard steel and could damage the blade geometry.

Are these knives suitable for cutting bones or frozen foods?

No, these knives are designed for meat, vegetables and fish preparation only. The high hardness that provides excellent sharpness also makes the blades more brittle. Cutting bones, frozen foods, or other hard materials can chip or crack the blade edge. Use a dedicated cleaver or softer steel knife for these tasks to prevent damage.

What's the difference between the chef's knife and santoku knife in this set?

The 8-inch chef's knife features a curved belly ideal for rocking cuts and general food preparation. The 7-inch santoku has a straighter edge with a wider blade, perfect for chopping vegetables and precise cuts. The santoku's design originated in Japan and excels at push-cutting motions, whilst the chef's knife handles both rocking and chopping techniques effectively.

How should I store these knives properly?

Use the included wooden block for safe storage, ensuring blades don't contact each other. The block protects blade edges and keeps knives organised. Alternatively, use magnetic knife strips or individual blade guards. Never store loose in drawers where blades can knock against other utensils, as this damages the sharp edges and creates safety hazards.