Every kitchen needs a set of quality knives to handle several culinary tasks. However, choosing the best high end kitchen knife sets is not an easy peasy task.
With the wrong blade, a 10-min prep work job can easily turn into a tedious, grueling experience. Hence, you want to splurge on professional, high end knives to allow you to perform just about any culinary task with ease.
Sadly, there are hundreds of options out there, which makes choosing the right model a bit tricky and overwhelming.
Luckily, we’ve expertly handpicked the top 8 best professional knife sets to help improve your culinary skills. Also, we included a detailed buying guide to ensure you are making an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Top 8 Best Professional And High End Kitchen Knife Sets Reviews by Consumer Reports
#1 – Cuisinart C77SS-15PK 15-Piece Stainless Steel Hollow Handle Block Set
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Cuisinart’s 15-piece Superior high-carbon stainless steel blades for precision and accuracy
- TOTAL CONTROL: Strong, durable bolster for perfect stability and control. Lightweight knives that slice, carve, and chop – also easy to clean
- WELL BUILT: Precision-tapered ground blades that narrow gradually to an extremely sharp, fine edge – Ergonomically designed stainless steel handle provides comfort and stability
Taking our top spot is the Cuisinart C77SS-15PK 15-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Set. This product is a decent choice for anyone with basic culinary skills.
These tools are designed to cover any prep job you will likely encounter in your kitchen. Plus, they are easy to maintain and hassle-free to store. With a wealth of innovative new knives and block styles, this product allows home cooks to customize their arsenal.
Further, the blade is crafted with high carbon stainless steel that delivers incredible accuracy and high cutting precision. Another thing to like about this set is its ergonomically designed stainless steel handle that guarantees each piece fits comfortably in the palm and ensures a secure grip.
The Cuisinart C77SS-15PK 15-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Set comes with a block that includes a 5.5” Serrated Utility Knife, 3.5” Paring Knife, 3.5” Bird’s Beak Paring Knife, 7” Santoku Knife, 8” Chef Knife, an All-Purpose Household Shear, 8” Slicing Knife, and 8” Sharpening Steel.
This 15-piece set features lightweight construction, offering more control and flexibility. Hence, it’s a perfect choice for beginners in the culinary world. To top it all, these stainless steel knives are dishwasher-safe for a convenient cleaning experience.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- It comes complete with a storage block and honing steel
- High-carbon stainless steel blades
- Comfortable stainless steel handle
Cons:
- Its lightweight design makes it perfect for only beginners.
#2 – Cangshan Z Series 1024180 German Steel Forged 17-Piece Knife Block Set
- Hand crafted full tang knives forged from tight grained, X50CrMoV15 German Steel for incredible durability, stain resistance and exceptional edge retention. 2019 Houseware Design Award Winner. USPTO Patented Design.
- Each blade goes through an (ultra6) stage heat treatment ensuring every blade maintains it strength and function. Hand sharpened to a 16-degree angle per side. HRC 58 +/- 2 on the Rockwell Hardness Scale.
- Set Includes: 8" chef's knife, 8" bread knife, 7" santoku knife, 6" boning knife, 5" serrated utility knife, 5" tomato knife, 3.5" paring knife, 2.75" peeling knife, 6 x 5" straight-edge steak knives, 8" honing steel, 9" 2-piece Shears and a solid walnut wood block that houses each knife perfectly.
One of the new kitchenware companies making a big wave in this space is Cangshan. This brand started out making budget-friendly cutleries offering good value for money,
Recently, Cangshan started a high end series of knives forged with German steel for incredible durability and outstanding edge retention. As such, we should expect this series to come with a higher price tag.
With their high-quality steel Construction, these knives earned a spot on our list of best high end kitchen knife sets. Each piece features full-tang construction for extra durability. The blades are touted to have gone through 6 heat treatment stages to ensure superior cutting performance and outstanding strength.
These stain-resistant blades are hand sharpened to a 16-degree angle and have a 58 Rockwell Hardness, ensuring better_ edge retention and ultra-sharp blades suitable for any culinary task.
The Cangshan Z Series 1024180 17-Piece Knife Set comes complete with a 6” boning knife, 8” bread knife, 7” santoku knife, 5” paring knife, 8” honing steel, 5” serrated steak knives, 9” 2-piece Shears, 5” tomato knife, 8” chef’s knife, 2.75” peeling knife, and 5” serrated utility knife. These knives are housed in a solid walnut wood block.
Above all, the manufacturer stands by these 17 pieces with a Lifetime warranty to protect you from any manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- ULTRA6 Heat Treatment Process
- High-alloy X50CrMoV15 German Steel construction
- High edge retention
- Impressive cutting performance
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons:
- Questionable durability
#3 – HENCKELS Graphite 20-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Set with Block
- SET INCLUDES: 3-inch Paring knife, 4-inch Paring knife, 5-inch Serrated Utility knife, 5.5-inch Prep knife, 6-inch Utility knife, 5.5-inch Boning knife, 7-inch Santoku knife, 8-inch Bread knife, 8-inch Carving knife, 8-inch Chef's knife, Eight 4.5-inch Steak knives, kitchen shears, self-sharpening knife block
- QUALITY DESIGN: Stylish brushed stainless-steel cap and stained ash wood base self-sharpening block
- SELF SHARPENING: Self-sharpening slots that sharpen each time a knife is removed or replaced
Next on our list is the HENCKELS Graphite 20-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Set. each piece is built to last, thanks to its German stainless steel construction. The blades offer high performance and reliable durability. They are fully-forged for superior balance, weight, and edge retention.
Each piece features a full tang design and comes with an elegant triple-riveted handle to offer a more comfortable grip on the knives. In addition, the stained ash wood base is integrated with a sharpener to ensure the blades stay sharp with its self-sharpening mechanism.
Talking of the block, this wooden base is virtually appealing and will improve your kitchen decor. The HENCKELS Graphite 20-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Set comes with everything you need to improve your culinary skills.
The base holds 8-inch Carving Knife, 8-inch Chef’s Knife, 3-inch Paring Knife, 5.5-inch Prep Knife, 5.5-inch Boning Knife, 7-inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife, Eight 4.5-inch Forged Serrated Steak Knives, 6-inch Utility Knife, 8-inch Bread Knife, 3.5-inch Paring Knife, 5-inch Serrated Utility Knife, Stainless Steel Come-Apart Kitchen Shears, and Self-Sharpening Knife Block.
Pros:
- Full tang construction
- Triple-riveted ash handles
- Superior cutting performance
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Although the manufacturer claims to forged these knives from German steel, they are actually made in China.
#4 – J.A. Henckels International Statement 14-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set
- Stylish brushed stainless steel cap and stained ash wood base self-sharpening block.
- Tailor-made for the J.A. Henckels International Statement knife series.
- Self-sharpening slots that sharpen each time a knife is removed or replaced.
Earning another spot is the J.A. Henckels International Statement 14-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set with high-quality stainless steel fabrication. This knife features satin-finish blades to improve hardness, strength, and flexibility.
These professional knives boast design excellence and durability. The J.A. Henckels International Statement 14-pc Self-Sharpening Knife Set is honed for long-lasting sharpness that offers an effortless and confident cutting experience.
Another thing worth mentioning is the one-piece, lightweight, stamped blade construction, which makes handling these blades a breeze. It delivers maximum maneuverability and fatigue-free use.
Furthermore, the handle is triple riveted to the full tang for balance and comfortable handling. One of the highlights is the ergonomic design of the handle for comfort and grip and the stainless steel endcap to improve the visual appeal of this set.
On top of that, they are easy to care for since they are dishwasher safe. However, it’s best to handwash these blades for optimum cutting edge and better retention.
Pros:
- Lightweight stamped construction
- Long-lasting sharpness
- Easy to care for
- Stained ash wood base self-sharpening block
- Better edge retention
Cons:
- The shear tends to rust
#5 – DALSTRONG Knife Block Set – 5 Piece – Gladiator Series
- Outstanding craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, stunning design elements, and premium materials. Peak performance has never looked so good at this price.
- Incredibly razor sharp, full-tang, imported high-carbon German steel with a hand polished edge at 16-18 degrees per side. Precisely tempered and stain resistant. This set will last a lifetime.
- Famed design, with satisfying heft, premium materials and quality feel. Luxury ABS Polymer handles are triple-riveted with a grip that ensures comfort and maneuverability. Laminated and polished for a sanitary build, perfect for busy kitchens.
If you hate to have lots of knives in your arsenal, you’d be better off with the DALSTRONG Gladiator Series 5 Piece Knife Block Set. The gladiator series is the brand’s entry-level line of products. However, it delivers incredible performance despite its affordable price point.
This set comes with five different knives and a stunning handmade acacia wood block for storage. These knives are full tang, which means the handle and the blade are one piece. With the full tang construction, you can expect each piece to be comfortable to handle and more durable.
Unlike other models, these full-tang knives are well-balanced. The DALSTRONG Knife Set is made using high-carbon German steel with a 56+ Rockwell Hardness Rating. Forged from steel, the blades have better edge retention and are stain-resistant.
Sadly, they are not very sturdy, even though they have been polished to a satin finish. On the bright side, the blades are carefully tapered to improve flexibility and minimize slicing resistance. With each side hand polished to a 14 – 16 degree edge, the cutting performance is exemplary.
All in all, the DALSTRONG Gladiator Series 5 Piece Knife Block Set is a decent choice for anyone on a budget but looking to get a set of knives with premium performance and reliable durability.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Money-back guarantee and Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Full tang design for durability
- Ultra-sharp edge for unparalleled cutting performance
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable handle
Cons:
- Entry-level
#6 – Wusthof 1095070703 Gourmet Knife Block Set
- WÜSTHOF GOURMET SERIES – 7 Piece Starter Knife Set with triple riveted synthetic polypropylene handles that resist fading, discoloration, heat and impact. Precisely laser-cut stamped knives offer superb quality and value
- RAZOR SHARP – High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades, precisely cut with the latest state of the art technology for incredible sharpness and easy maintenance. WÜSTHOF kitchen knives are Hand Wash Only
- WÜSTHOF KNIFE SET – Includes 3" Spear Point Paring Knife, 4 1/2" Utility Knife, 6" Serrated Utility Knife, 6" Cook's Knife, 9" Steel, Come-Apart Kitchen Shears, and 9-Slot Block
The Wusthof 1095070703 Gourmet Knife Block Set comes in 7 pieces. Each features a triple-riveted synthetic polypropylene handle that won’t fade or discolor with time.
The blades are made from high carbon stainless steel and precisely cut with cutting-edge technology to guarantee knives that are easy to maintain and ultra-sharp. Keep in mind that these knives are NOT dishwasher safe.
The Gourmet Series has been known for its incredible durability and stunning cutting performance. This German-made knife undergoes Precision Edge Technology (PEtec). It is tempered to 58 degrees Rockwell Hardness rating for a long service life of the blade.
Another thing to like about this set is the Full bolster and finger guard to ensure safety; this set includes the essential tools from 3” Spear Point Paring Knife to 9” Steel, Come-Apart Kitchen Shears, 4-1/2” Utility Knife, 3” Spear Point Paring Knife, 6” Serrated Utility Knife, 6” Cook’s Knife, and 9-Slot Block.
Overall, the WÜSTHOF Cutlery is built to resist dulling and corrosion. You don’t have to take our word for it; the manufacturer offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty to give customers confidence in their purchase.
Pros:
- Full tang and triple-riveted handle for precise control
- High Carbon Stainless Steel Blade
- Dulling and corrosion resistant
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Full bolster and finger guard
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
- Quality is not up to par as touted
#7 – HENCKELS Statement 20-pc Kitchen Knife Set
- SET INCLUDES: 3-inch Paring Knife, 4-inch Paring Knife, 5-inch Serrated Utility Knife, 5.5-inch Boning Knife, 6-inch Utility Knife, 7-inch Santoku Knife, 8-inch Chef's Knife, 8-inch Bread Knife, 8-inch Carver Knife, 8 Steak Knives, 9-inch Sharpening Steel, Kitchen Shears, Knife Block
- DURABLE BLADE: Single-piece, precision-stamped blade construction provides durability
- STAYS SHARP LONGER: Professional, satin-finished blade boasts precision cutting and is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness
Another spot, another Henckels; this kitchen knife set includes the essential cutleries, from serrated bread knife to the workhorse Chef’s knife, Steak knives, Kitchen shears, and sharpening steel. This set from Henckel Comes complete to allow you to perform any culinary task.
The Statement knives’ blades are ham polished to a satin -finish to improve the blade’s hardness and optimize its cutting performance. Each piece is forged from premium quality seamless steel for chewability and precision cutting.
What’s more? These knives feature a single-piece stamped construction to ensure lightweight to provide a fatigue-free Cutting experience. In addition, the handles feature an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to grip these tools. The handles are triple-riveted to the full tawny for balance and better maneuverability.
Similarly, HENCKELS Statement 20-pc Kitchen Knife Set features a stainless steel endcap to add an elegant accent to add styles to your kitchen countertop. Lastly, they are dishwasher safe, but it’s best to hand wash them for long-lasting edges.
Pros:
- Ergonomic, triple-riveted handle
- Fatigue-free cutting and maximum maneuverability
- High-quality stainless steel construction
- Better edge retention
Cons:
- Might notice Some rust spots after awhile
#8 – Master Maison 19-Piece Premium Kitchen Knife Set
- PREMIUM KITCHEN KNIFE SET - 8-inch chef's knife, 3.5-inch paring knife, 7-inch santoku knife, 8-inch carving knife, 5-inch utility knife, 8-inch serrated bread knife, 4.5-inch non-serrated steak knives (6), knife sharpener, all-purpose household shears, and a sleek wooden storage block for space efficient storage.
- CULINARY QUALITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE - Master Maison was founded by 2 lifelong cooks who struggled to find professional-quality knives at everyday prices. Our Californian founders partnered with dozens of professional chefs to design stain-resistant and rust-resistant knife sets at an affordable price point.
- SUPERIOR ERGONOMICS AND PRECISION - Each Master Maison knife is forged from a single piece of high-carbon, German stainless steel. Our premium steel and innovative design result in a blade that is razor sharp and a balanced weight that minimizes fatigue while maximizing cutting precision.
Warping up our list of the best high-end Kitchen knife sets is the Master Maison 19-Piece Premium Kitchen Knife Set. These culinary tools are professional quality knives designed for everyday use.
They are rust-resistant and stain-resistant available at affordable prices. Each piece is fabricated from a single piece of High carbon German stainless steel to ensure exceptional durability and performance. Each Master Maison knife is ultra-sharp and guarantees unparallel cutting performance with its innovative and premium steel.
In addition, they have perfectly balanced weight to maximize cutting precision and minimize wrist fatigue. Also, the handles are ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip and Secure handling.
Another highlight of the Master Maison 19-piece Premium kitchen knife Set is the sleek, modern hardwood block that easily complements kitchen decor. Even better, the block has an in-built sharpening system to allow you to maintain your knife’s edge as you remove and replace them.
Above all, this complete set of premium knives is backed by a 1-year warranty to protect your investment. Remember that this set should be hand washed and not tossed into your dishwasher.
Pros:
- Sleek hardwood block with a self-sharpening system
- 1 -year manufacturer warranty
- Sturdy, high-quality stainless steel construction
- Full tang design with triple-riveted handle
- Balanced weight for fatigue-free and better-cutting precision
Cons:
- Made in China
Factors to Consider When Shopping for the Best High End Kitchen Knife Sets
When shopping for a high-end knife set, you want to consider a couple of factors to ensure you make an informed decision:
Material
There are different material options to choose from; these materials affect the durability, performance, and price of these knives.
Stainless Steel
Most seasoned chefs prefer stainless steel cutleries since they are rust-resistant, easy to sharpen and maintain. These knives blend easily and are incredibly flexible. One of the major downsides of the stainless steel blade is the poor edge retention. However, a block with a self-sharpening system solves this problem.
Carbon Steel
Another decent option is carbon steel. They retain their edges better and are super easy to sharpen. Hence, you won’t have to resharpen anytime soon. Sadly, they are prone to corrosion and rust, making them challenging to maintain.
Damascus Steel
This material offers the best of stainless steel and carbon steel, which explains its high price. The Damascus Steel blade has a stunning design and is usually handmade. Hence, there’s a limited supply, and most products out there are fake.
Ceramic
If you want a lightweight set of knives, you’re better off with ceramic models. They retain their edges longer and are rust-free. The major concern with this material is the chipping and high maintenance.
Weight
This factor depends on your preference. For home cooks, you might want to stay away from light knives. However, you want a knife that isn’t too light or too heavy to allow you to achieve high-precision cutting. Besides, when the blade is too heavy, maneuvering can be challenging or, worst, lead to wrist fatigue.
Tang
There are three options – full tang, rat-tail tang, half tang. We prefer the full tang since the handle, and the blade is one piece. This option is more durable and perfect for heavy-duty use.
The Ultimate Guide to Picking The Perfect Kitchen Knife
Conclusion
All in all, the best high-end kitchen knife set is one that includes the essential pieces you need to complete your culinary task. While all the products reviewed on this list will deliver incredible cutting performance, we strongly recommend that you check out our buying guide to ensure you’re making a smart decision.
Last update on 2022-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
[…] Choosing the best kitchen knife sets is not an easy peasy task. Everyone is faced with two options – settling a pre-made knife set or making one yourself. While the formal might seem like an obvious choice, you can end up with a wrong collection that only works well as a fancy object to beautify your countertop. […]