In order to become a better cook, you have to have the proper tools when working in the kitchen. But not only do you have to shop the right tools for the job, but they should also be of good quality. Having a quality knife set can truly elevate your cooking skill set, taking you from a home cook to a home chef. To learn how to pick the best cutting tools for your needs, take a look at what you should look for in a quality knife set.

Blade Material

The best quality knife blades are made from high-end stainless steel. Shopping for high-end stainless steel knife sets is a fantastic choice because they resist staining and corrosion much better than other common blade materials such as ceramic or lower-grade stainless steel. They also tend to have a super sharp edge, which makes cutting through thick meats and breads a whole lot easier.

Tang

Tang points to how far the metal of the blade extends into the handle. If you have a full tang knife, that means its metal stretches through the entire handle, providing great stability whenever you use it. If you have a partial tang knife, that means its metal only stretches partway into the handle. When looking for a quality knife, full tang knives are a wiser choice because they have a more appropriate weight distribution, helping them to last longer.

Handle Material

You can find a wide selection of handle materials, including wood, plastic and rubberized synthetics, each with their own unique features and benefits. For example, if you prefer a classic handle, wood is the best material for the task, but it requires more care. On the flip side, synthetic handles are not always as visually appealing but tend to be more low maintenance.

Weight

Did you know that the weight of your knife can point to its effectiveness? If your knife is too lightweight, you may have to apply more pressure when cutting through foods. And if it’s too heavy, you’ll likely have to apply more pressure for a more precise cut. A great knife should feel substantial in your hand but not overly heavy. To ensure your knife is a good one, test it out first! You can do this by holding and simulating a chopping motion to get a better feel of its weight.

Sharpness

There’s nothing worse than a dull knife. Not only does it make cooking a lot harder, it can be potentially dangerous to use. To protect yourself and your loved ones, take a look at the edge of the blade to spot any imperfections. A quality knife should be precision sharpened to a fine edge.

7 Quality Knife Sets for Home Cooks

Having a set of quality knives can make a world of difference in your cooking experience. And now that you know what to look for, you can start shopping for a set that’s right for you. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite quality knife sets for home cooks. Take a look:

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