Shan Zu Knife Set 16 Piece (Stainless Steel, High Carbon)

What makes these knives sharper than regular kitchen knives?

The knives use Japanese high carbon stainless steel with a 15° cutting edge angle. Most Western knives have 20-22° angles, making these significantly sharper. The high carbon content allows for finer edge geometry whilst maintaining durability. Advanced forging techniques create a harder blade that holds its edge longer than standard stainless steel knives.

Are these knives dishwasher safe?

No, hand washing is recommended to maintain the knives' performance and appearance. Dishwashers can cause edge damage from contact with other items and harsh detergents may affect the blade finish. The high temperatures and moisture can also damage the pakkawood handles over time. Simply rinse with warm water and dry immediately after use.

How often do these knives need sharpening?

With proper care, these knives can maintain their edge for months of regular use. The included sharpener makes maintenance simple when needed. A quick touch with a honing steel before each use helps maintain the edge. Most users report sharpening only once or twice per year with normal home cooking frequency.

What's included in the wooden knife block?

The wooden block stores all 11 knives safely and includes slots for the scissors and sharpener. It protects blade edges from damage and keeps your kitchen organised. The block is made from solid wood with a natural finish that complements any kitchen décor. Proper storage in the block extends knife life and maintains sharpness.

Can these knives handle heavy-duty tasks like breaking down poultry?

Yes, the chef knife and carving knife are designed for heavy-duty tasks. The full tang construction and high carbon steel provide the strength needed for breaking down whole chickens, cutting through joints and handling tough cuts of meat. The filleting knife is specifically designed for fish preparation and delicate work.

What's the difference between these and Damascus steel knives?

These are not Damascus knives - they're made from Japanese high carbon stainless steel with laser-engraved patterns. Damascus knives feature folded steel construction creating distinctive wavy patterns throughout the blade. These Shan Zu knives offer similar performance to Damascus at a lower price point, with decorative laser engraving rather than forged patterns.

How do the steak knives perform compared to the main knives?

The six steak knives feature serrated edges designed specifically for cutting cooked meat at the table. They maintain the same high carbon steel construction and ergonomic handles as the main knives. The serrated design stays sharp longer when cutting through meat and requires less frequent sharpening than straight-edge steak knives.

What does the lifetime guarantee cover?

The lifetime guarantee covers manufacturing defects and material failures under normal use. This includes handle separation, blade chipping from manufacturing flaws and premature wear. The guarantee doesn't cover damage from misuse, dropping, or improper care. Shan Zu provides customer support and will replace defective knives when contacted directly.