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12 Best Starter Knives - Top Rated And Buying Guide

Martin Kruger
  Apr 20, 2024 6:10 AM

If you're just starting out in the kitchen or looking to get serious about your cooking skills, having the right tools is key. Without a great knife, many culinary tasks become more difficult and time-consuming than they should be. Finding the perfect starter knife can sometimes be daunting; there are so many makes, models, and price points that it's hard to know where to start.

To make things easier for you, we've curated this list of 12 of the best starter knives on the market today with something for everyone – whatever your budget may be! We'll also walk you through our buying guide so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing a new knife set. Keep reading and get ready to sharpen up your knife game!


Top rated

Best durable: WÜSTHOF Classic IKON 3-Piece Starter Knife Set

The Wüsthof Classic IKON 3-Piece Starter Knife Set is the kitchen workhorse you’ve been missing. Outfit yourself like a pro by having an 8” Classic IKON cook's knife for chopping, mincing, slicing and dicing - a key ingredient to success in every dish! 

The sleek and sophisticated black handle of the Classic IKON Series features a double bolster for exceptional balance and beauty while allowing you to experience ultimate cutting satisfaction.

Reap lasting benefits from the set with its 3 1/2" Paring Knife, 8" Bread Knife and 8" Cook's Knife. Create fast and efficient during meal prep without worrying about accidental slips - let precise strokes become second nature with these knives. 

Best versatile: Cangshan Sanford Series 1027051 

The Cangshan Sanford Series 1027051 German Steel 17-Piece Knife Block Set is perfect for any kitchen because it has a forged bolster and high-alloy German steel blade that is incredibly durable and easy to maintain.

This set features 8" Bread Knife, 8" Chef's Knife, 7" Santoku Knife, 6" Boning Knife, 5" Tomato/Cheese Knife, 5" Serrated Utility Knife, 5" Serrated Utility Knife, 6 x 5" Serrated Steak Knives, 3.5" Paring Knife, 2.75" Peeling Knife, 9" Come-Apart Shears, 8" Honing Steel and an Acacia Wooden Block for easy storage. Plus with their meticulously precise ULTRA6 heat treatment process each knife will stay sharp for longer! 

Best for any chef: Shun DMS0540W

The Shun Cutlery Classic Blonde 5-Piece Starter Block Set allows you to showcase your culinary creativity without worry. This collection of premium knives is handcrafted in Japan using only the highest quality materials for superior sharpness, durability, and lightweight maneuverability.

Each knife gets its timeless classic design from its distinctive blades made of Japanese high carbon steel injected with 34 layers of Damascus alloy. The elegant, mirrored details add an unexpected layer of luxury to each knife, making sure that you stand out in any kitchen.

And because precision matters so much in the kitchen, each blade is sharpened by experienced craftsmen to deliver razor-sharp edges while offering optimum balance and exceptional resistance to corrosion and dulling over time.

Best price: Cangshan TS Series 1020878

The Cangshan’s TS Series 1020878 Swedish 14C28N Steel Forged 8-Piece Knife Block Set to be your go-to kitchen companion is designed with the highest quality of stainless steel, perfect for slicing and dicing a variety of meats, vegetables, and fruits.

The blades are specially crafted to ensure maximum sharpness and lasting durability - much longer than other brands. What really sets it apart is the walnut block that provides safe storage plus an added element of style in any kitchen. 

No task will be too difficult when you have a set this advanced. The exclusive steel alloy has greater strength and a higher level of corrosion resistance than traditional German or Japanese knives.

You won’t have to worry about rusting due to the microbeads applied between the blade and handle that seal up moisture. Cut through meat, crusty bread and slippery veggies easily with precision control – even delicate tomatoes! 

Best easy to use: Shun DMS300

The Shun Cutlery Classic 3 Piece Starter Set includes an 8” Chef’s knife, 6” Utility knife and 3.5” Paring knife. Each of these stunning Japanese knives is handcrafted from the highest quality materials and treated with an exquisite 32-layer Damascus cladding for maximum strength and performance.

The blades boast a razor-sharp, 16° double beveled edge that stays sharp for a longer duration and delivers precise cuts with minimal effort.

The ergonomic Pakkawood handles ensure comfort even during prolonged use; they also have a slip-resistant grip to keep them firmly in your hand while cutting ingredients. Whether you're an aspiring home cook or an experienced chef, this starter set is designed to provide you with top-notch cutting results every time! 

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Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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What to consider

The Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Starter Knife

If you’re on the hunt for your first knife, it can be tougher than expected. With so many different types of knives available, it can be difficult to figure out which one is right for you.

But don’t worry - we’ve done the hard part and put together a comprehensive beginner’s guide to choosing the right starter knife. Read on to learn five important factors to consider before buying your first blade.

1. Type of Steel:

Blade steel is an important factor to consider when looking for a starter knife. Different types of steel respond differently, so look for one that is suited to your needs. For example, stainless steel blades are more resistant to corrosion and rust than carbon steel knives.

2. Design:

Different knife designs offer different functionality and performance in different situations. Consider pocket knives, folding knives, and fixed blades to determine which style is best for you.

3. Edge:

The sharpness of the blade’s edge is an important factor that can affect how your knife performs. Most starter knives come with a one-sided beveled edge (also known as a V-edge). However, if you’re looking for sharper performance, consider a two-sided beveled edge (also known as a double V-edge).

4. Handle:

The handle of your knife should also be taken into consideration. Handles come in different sizes and materials, making it important to find one that fits comfortably in your hand.

5. Price:

Finally, consider the price of the knife. There is a wide range of starter knives in different price points. Shop around and read reviews to find one that fits both your needs and budget.

Shun Cutlery Classic Blonde 5-Piece Starter Block Set


Final words

It's clear that a good starter knife isn't just about its price. Finding the right balance between quality, value and usability can be tricky, but with the 12 knives featured here, you can't go wrong. Whether you're looking for a reliable workhorse or something pretty to show off, each option offers its own special features – so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs perfectly.

Ultimately, having the right starter knife in hand takes skill and practice – so above all else, stay safe and have fun when handling these sharp tools!  With some patience and dedication it will become as second nature as driving a car – ultimately giving you confidence in your cooking and preparation.