This five-piece set featuring three core knives, a whetstone, and storage block is the foundation of a good collection (and saves 5% when purchased together). The chefs, utility, and paring knives are part of the Kai Shun Classic range, which we consider the best of the best for its high-quality stainless steel blades and comfortable handles.

—DETAILS—

Kai Shun adapts centuries-old samurai blacksmithing to make exceptional Japanese knives for the modern cook. Every knife in their world-renowned Classic range has a steeply tapered blade, which makes it much sharper than a Western knife. A core of hard VG MAX steel, surrounded by 32 layers of Damascus steel, makes it extremely durable and rust-resistant, ensuring the knife retains its edge in between sharpeningswith a whetstone only. The layers, which create a unique pattern on each knife, help prevent food from sticking to the side of the blade. The tarnish-proof pakkawood handle has a chestnut (or D) shape that moulds perfectly to a right-handed grip. The balance and overall lightness of these knives make this set a great investment, and the inclusion of a sharpening stone and a magnetic block that protects the blades ensure maximum effectiveness.

Included in this set:

• Chef’s Knife (20cm)
• Paring Knife(8.5cm)
• Utility Knife (15cm)
• Walnut Magnetic Knife Blockwith a stainless steel base
• Whetstone

Read our Japanese knife care guidehere.

—BENEFITS—

‘A Kai Shun Classic knife glides effortlessly through ingredients with the most satisfying degree of precisionespecially when they are freshly sharpened.’