A mid-range line for the proficient or aspiring home chef, this R.H. Forschner block set consists of a selection of the most commonly used kitchen cutlery. The blades, hand-finished in Switzerland, are constructed of high-carbon, no-stain steel, with a full tang for superior strength and balance. The knives retain their sharp edges and are readily resharpened when necessary. All the utensils feature black fibrox handles, molded in an ergonomic shape that is designed to reduce wrist tension over extended periods of use.
The five knives in this set consist of a 4-inch paring, 6-inch boning, 8-inch chef's, 8-inch bread, and 10-inch slicing. Completing the selection are a 10-inch sharpening steel and pair of kitchen shears. All come with designated slots in the solid hardwood block, angled for quick access. Covered by a lifetime warranty against defects, the cutlery in the set is dishwasher-safe, although washing by hand is recommended.
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Who is Victorinox?
Although Victorinox is known the world over as the creator of the Original Swiss Army Knife, the company started out in 1884 as a cutlery workshop. By the time company creator Karl Elsener delivered his first pocket knife to the Swiss Army, his cutlery business was already booming. Over the next century, Victorinox cutlery became a top-rated choice among professionals worldwide, with over 300 blades to offer. Victorinox knives have regularly appeared as highly ranked and recommended kitchen tools in Cook’s Illustrated, Men’s Health, The Cincinnati Enquirer, New York Magazine, and Natural Health, just to name a few. In 2009, the company announced a partnership with professional chef, Daniel Humm, of Eleven Madison Park in New York City. In addition, building on the success of its cutlery business, Victorinox has brought all the same quality and expertise to a wider range of products and accessories, including other kitchen tools, pocket tools, watches, luggage, and clothing.
Who is R.H. Forschner?
Victorinox had been a staple in European commercial cutlery for over 50 years when approached by New York’s R.H. Forschner, known since 1855 as a builder of scales for butchers, to be their sole cutlery supplier. The two companies joined forces in 1937, and R.H. Forschner subsequently became North America’s dominant professional brand, as ubiquitous in the bustling meatpacking plants of the Midwest as it is in the gleaming, four-star restaurant kitchens of Midtown Manhattan.
As a division of Victorinox/Swiss Army Brands, R.H. Forschner marketed cutlery under the brand name “RH Forschner by Victorinox” and distributed to the commercial, food service, and retail trade classes. That brand has been considered a top choice of professionals worldwide with over 300 styles of blades bearing the R.H. Forschner name. However, in 2009, in conjunction with Victorinox’s 125th anniversary, the company, Victorinox Swiss Army, Inc., has decided to remove the “RH Forschner” name from all blades. Blades thenceforth only include the “Victorinox” name.
What is a stamped blade?
A stamped knife can usually be identified by the absence of a bolster. Stamped blades are cut into their shapes from cold-rolled pieces of steel and then ground, tempered, and sharpened. Creating them requires many less steps than forging and results in lighter, narrower blades. Some professionals prefer the thicker, heavier forged blades, but many pros, who spend much of their day cutting and slicing, enjoy a lighter knife since it’s less fatiguing and easier to manipulate at speed.
Stamped knives are easier to produce and therefore less expensive. They perform very well and can approach the quality of a forged blade, but not the weight or feel. Victorinox manufactures a complete range of stamped blades with unique, patented Fibrox handles and they are considered among the greatest values in the knife industry.
What knives do I need to own?
Knife choice or selection is determined by many factors--size, function, style, and preference. The most important factor is function. Different knives have different uses. It is important to use the proper knife for a specific task, since proper knife selection and the use of a proper-sized, sharp knife make for safe cutting. General kitchen tasks and the knife to use for them are as follows:
Paring: The most common to own and use, a paring knife is generally for small cutting jobs and peeling of vegetables or fruit. The blade size is usually from three to four inches. Choose the shape and size to fit your hand. Since this is one of the more versatile knives, owning more than one is recommended.
Chef's: The most important tool and essential to every cook, a chef‘s knife is most often used in a rocking method to mince, dice, and chop vegetables and herbs. This one is known as the chef’s best friend.
Slicer: Most commonly used to slice meats, poultry, and seafood, the slicer is an important companion to any host or hostess.
Boning: As its name suggests, a boning knife is used to trim or remove meat and fish from the bone.
Bread: Designed with a special edge, a bread knife makes easy work of cutting through crusty bread, pastries, or any item with a crust and a soft interior.
Fillet: Most often used by pros and seasoned home chefs, the fillet knife is used to fillet meat and fish.
Cleaver: An important addition to any collection, a cleaver is often used to cut or chop through bones.
Santoku: This knife combines the features of a cleaver with a chef's knife. The curved blade helps the rocking motion used for chopping, and the wide blade works well for scooping sliced food off a cutting board and for crushing garlic. The santoku can also be used to slice meat and has a narrow spine for making thin cuts.
Utility: An all-purpose knife often referred to as a sandwich knife, the utility knife peels and slices fruits and vegetables, and even carves small meats.
Shaping: With its curved blade, a shaping knife is great for small precision cuts where control is essential, such as peeling, trimming, or garnishing.
What are the different knife edges and what do they do?
Straight: The vast majority of Victorinox knives come with a straight or fine edge. This means it has a perfect taper along the blade and no serrations. It is designed to cut without tearing or shredding.
Serrated: An edge designed with small, jagged teeth along the edge.
Scalloped: A blade with waves along the edge generally used to cut breads with a hard crust and soft interior, as well as tougher-skinned fruits and vegetables.
Granton: This edge has hollowed-out grooves or dimples on the sides of the blade. These grooves fill with the fat and juices of the product being cut, allowing for thin, even cuts without tearing. Even with the grooves, these are still straight-edge knives and can be honed with a sharpening steel.
How should I care for my cutlery?
After use, knives should not be allowed to soak in water. The best practice is to hand wash and dry them immediately. This is especially true if they have been used on fruit or salty foods, which may cause some staining, even on stainless steel. Most knives require very little maintenance and it is worth the effort to protect your investment.
Though Victorinox knives are dishwasher safe, this is strongly discouraged. The dishwasher’s agitation may cause damage. Additionally, harsh detergents can be harmful and cause pitting and spotting on the blades. The handles may also discolor and develop a white film with constant use of the dishwasher. Plus, intense heat associated with dishwashers is not good for the temper of the blade.
How do I keep my knives sharp?
All quality knives require proper maintenance to keep them in perfect cutting shape. The best of edges will quickly dull if it strikes metal, glass, or Formica. A wooden cutting board makes the best cutting surface. And, if a slip occurs, a proper cutting board is safer for the user. Frequent use of a Victorinox sharpening steel will keep blades in tip top working condition. All straight-edge knives need steeling to keep their edges.
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How to ""Steel"" a Knife
1. Hold the steel firmly in your left hand with the guard positioned to stop the blade should it slip.
2. Hold the knife in your right hand and place on top part of steel as shown.
3. Raise back of blade one-eighth inch.
4. Now, moving the blade only, draw it across the steel in an arching curve, pivoted at your wrist. The blade tip should leave the steel about two-thirds of the way down.
5. Repeat the same action with the Blade on the bottom side of the steel. Always maintain the same pressure and angle on both sides of the steel.
6. Repeat five or six times.
When a sharpening steel no longer does the job, it’s time to take the knife to a qualified knife sharpener who will place a new edge on it. This, along with use of the sharpening steel, will give you many years of sharp, safe blades.
Please note that electric knife sharpeners can be harmful. They have to be used carefully as they remove too much metal, can harm the temper of the blade, and most important can change the factory-applied edge angle.
How should I store my knives?
Safety is the biggest concern of storage, both to the user and to protect the knife's edge. Choices include a knife magnet, knife block, drawer insets, and also individual knife protectors.
The R H Forschner by Victorinox 8-piece Block Set includes: 4-inch Paring Knife, 6-inch Boning Knife, 8-inch Chef's Knive, 8-inch Bread Knive, 10-inch Slicing Knife, 10-inch Sharpening Steel, Kitchen Shears and Slant Hardwood Block. All knives feature high carbon, stainless steel blades, hand finished at Victorinox in Switzerland by skilled craftsmen. A special tempering process is used to produce an edge that can be resharpened over and over again, so the knife can keep its original sharpness throughout the entire life of the blade. Victorinox handles are ergonomically designed to minimize wrist tension. They provide a natural fit. A good heft and comfortable, positive grip are indications of a well-made knife. A sure-grip handle with a finger guard is valuable feature since the handle inevitably gets greasy, wet, or both. Although cutlery steel is naturally sanitary, materials and construction details of the handle minimize crevices what would offer hospitality to bacteria.
Chicago Cutlery Walnut Signature Forged 12-Piece Knife Block Set Review
Chicago Cutlery Walnut Signature Forged 12-Piece Knife Block Set Feature
- Professional high-carbon stainless steel forged blades with patented walnut handles
- Exclusive Taper Grind edge technology provides optimum sharpness for precise cutting and is easy to re-sharpen
- High-carbon stainless steel creates a stronger, harder blade resisting stains, rust and pitting
- Full metal tang extends from the tip of the blade to the end of the knife forming part of the handle; provides added strength, balance, and control
- Forged bolster keeps your fingers from running up on the blade It also increases weight, balance and safety
Walnut Signature Forged collection has professional high-carbon stainless steel forged blades with patented walnut handles. Forged bolster keeps your fingers from running up on the blade for added safety. It also increases weight, balance and safety. The knives are all backed by a full lifetime guarantee. These professional performance knives are perfect for the everyday cook that is looking to prepare meals more skillfully.
Chicago Cutlery Forum 10-Piece Knife Set Review
Chicago Cutlery Forum 10-Piece Knife Set Feature
- Professional high-carbon stainless steel forged blades with stainless steel handles
- Exclusive taper grind edge technology provides optimum sharpness for precise cutting and is easy to re-sharpen
- High-carbon stainless steel creates a stronger, harder blade resisting stains, rust and pitting
- Includes 8-inch chef's knife, 7-inch santoku, shears, 3.6-inch paring knife, 5-inch utility, four 4-inch steak knives, block with sharpener
- Forged bolster keeps your fingers from running up on the blade. It also increases weight, balance and safety
Forum collection is constructed of high-carbon stainless steel blades and features our exclusive Taper Grind edge technology which is extremely sharp and enables precision cutting. The full bolster provides balance and safety while ergonomically designed stainless steel handles combine comfort and safety with sleek, contemporary styling. The knives are all backed by a full lifetime guarantee. This collection is perfect for beginner cooks that are looking for simple cutting solutions at an everyday value.
Masterchef 13-Piece Knife Set with Block, Red Review
Masterchef 13-Piece Knife Set with Block, Red Feature
- Never needs sharpening
- Full tang
- Triple riveted handle
This set includes a 7-inch santoku, 8-inch carving, 6-inch boning, 3-inch paring, 4-inch vegetable, 6 steak knives, and kitchen shears.
J. A. Henckels International 13-pc. Fine Edge Pro Knife Bock Set. Review
J. A. Henckels International 13-pc. Fine Edge Pro Knife Bock Set. Feature
- Size: 13-pc.
- Origin: China
- Cleaning & Care: Handwash
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Model No.: 35345-000
No kitchen is complete without a quality cutlery set from the very best! In this case, it's this 13-pc. Cutlery Block Set from the Henckels Fine Edge Pro line. Satin-finished stainless steel blades are triple-riveted to black polypropylene handles. Full-length tang construction gives each knife strength and stability. Precision stamped. Dishwasher safe. This set includes: 3-in. Paring Knife 5-in. Serrated/Utility Knives 8-in. Chefs Knife 7-in. Hollow Edge Santoku Knife 9-in. Sharpening Steel 1 Pair of Kitchen Sheers 6 4-in. Steak Knife Knife Block.
Chicago Cutlery Forum 8-Piece Knife Set with Block Review
Chicago Cutlery Forum 8-Piece Knife Set with Block Feature
- 8-piece knife set: 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch slicing knife, 8-inch bread knife, 5-inch utility knife, 3-1/2-inch paring knife, 3-inch peeler, 8-inch sharpening steel, and hardwood block
- High-carbon stainless-steel blades; designed to resist rust and stains
- Exclusive Taper Grind edges stay sharp and are easily re-sharpened
- Ergonomic, stainless-steel handles with sleek, contemporary styling; full, forged bolsters for balance
- Hand wash only; made in China; covered by lifetime warranty
Chicago Cutlery Forum 8-Piece Block Set includes 1-Each 3-Inch peeler, 1-Each 3-1/2-Inch paring knife, 1-Each 5-Inch utility knife, 1-Each 8-Inch bread knife, 1-Each 8-Inch slicer knife, 1-Each 8-Inch chef knife, 1-Each 8-Inch sharpening steel, 1-Each hardwood block. Chicago Cutlery Forum collection is constructed of high-carbon stainless steel blades and features our exclusive Taper Grind edge technology which is extremely sharp and enables precision cutting. The forged bolster provides balance and safety while ergonomically designed stainless steel handles combine comfort and safety with sleek, contemporary styling.
Totally Bamboo 20-7930 3-Piece Cutting Board Set Review
Totally Bamboo 20-7930 3-Piece Cutting Board Set Feature
- Be prepared in the kitchen with a handy set of 3 bamboo cutting boards measuring 6 by 8 inches, 8-1/2 by 11 inches, and 9-1/2 by 13 inches
- Each is 3/8 of an inch thick, making them maneuverable and easy to store
- Constructed of organically grown Moso bamboo; tri-ply, cross laminate construction with a specially formulated high temperature adhesive
- Distinctively attractive and super strong; bamboo is 16-percent harder than maple and naturally anti-microbial
- Easy to maintain; wash with warm water and occasionally use Totally Bamboo?s Revitalizing Oil to extend life and keep beautiful
This 3-piece bamboo cutting board set includes three cutting boards. Boards measure 6 by 8 by 3/8-inch, 8-1/2 by 11 by 3/8-inch and 9-1/2 by 13 by 3/8-inch. Don't be caught again without an extra cutting board. 3/8 of an inch thick means that these boards are maneuverable and easy to store. Made up of strong, bamboo. They're also durable; they have a tri-ply, cross laminate construction with a specially formulated high temperature adhesive. Each piece is distinctively attractive, super strong, and totally "green" The benefits of using bamboo are numerous. For example: bamboo is 16-percent harder than maple, it’s naturally anti-microbial and it holds the promise of a sustainable, cost effective, and ecologically responsible alternative to the widespread clear cutting of our old growth forests. Totally Bamboo uses organically grown Moso bamboo, so you need not worry about harmful pesticides or fertilizers. Plus, this bamboo is not a food source, or a habitat, for the Giant Panda. Totally good for you and totally good for the environment! Boards are easy to maintain. Wash with warm water and use Totally Bamboo’s Revitalizing Oil, occasionally, to extend the life and keep them looking beautiful.
J.A. Henckels International Fine Edge Pro 7-Piece Knife Set with Block Review
J.A. Henckels International Fine Edge Pro 7-Piece Knife Set with Block Feature
- 3-inch Parer, 5-inch Serrated Utility, 8-inch Chef's, 7-inch Hollow Edge Santoku, Kitchen Shears, 9-inch Steel, Hardwood Block
- Stamped stainless-steel blades
- Knives have black plastic, three-rivet, full-tang handles
- Knives made in China
- Lifetime warranty
This set represents a revelation for any cook with a drawer full of stained, blunt knives. Nearly every basic kitchen-cutlery need is satisfied in one package compact enough to place on the counter within reach. The set includes a 7-inch hollow-edge santoku, an 8-inch chef's knife, a 5-inch serrated utility, and a 3-inch paring knife for peeling and cleaning vegetables and fruits. A 9-inch sharpening steel keeps their edges in order, and a pair of kitchen shears to snip herbs, flowers, or string is also included. Everything fits into the rubber-footed, solid hardwood block. International Fine Edge is an inexpensive cutlery line made in countries other than Henckels's home of Germany. The knives don't have bolsters and the steel is of lesser quality than Henckels's premier lines--the blades are less strong. Knives are dishwasher-safe, but it's not recommended.
--Fred BrackWhat's in the Box
7-inch hollow-edge santoku, 8-inch chef's knife, 5-inch serrated utility, 3-inch paring knife, 9-inch sharpening steel, kitchen shears, and a solid hardwood block.
J.A. HENCKELS Fine Edge Pro 7-Piece Knife Set with Hardwood Block
