Key Features

Blades. The most common material is high carbon Stainless Steel which is the middle option between full carbon steel and stainless steel. It provides strength without being overly heavy and is able to hold an edge and not discolour. Easy to maintain and sharpen. The manufacturer will quote an HRC figure which indicates the ‘strength’ of the steel after it has undergone a Rockwell Hardness test (C is for steel). The higher the number the harder the steel and the longer the blade will maintain it’s edge.

Laminated blades use a combination of hardened and softer steels.

Titanium is a more recent material and offers a lighter more flexible option but is more expensive and thus has a more limited range of styles

Ceramic blades are a serious alternative to metal blades. They maintain their edge for a very long time and are incredibly hard however, they are difficult to sharpen and easy to damage or will break if dropped.

Steel knives can be either forged or stamped. Stamped knives are cut or punched from a sheet of steel and then the edge is ground and sharpened. They lack the hardness associated with forged steel but are no longer considered to be inferior. Forging a blade allows the manufacturer to heat and cool the steel to increase its hardness and add layering.

Handles are an integral part of the knife and is essential to its efficiency as well as its aesthetic appeal. The handle should sit comfortably in the palm of the hand without it feeling too big or too small, as though it was an extension of your arm.

Wooden handles have been the traditional material as they are easy to shape and attach to the knife. The feel and look of wood appeals to most people but because of their porosity they must be correctly dried and maintained.

Stainless steel handles are popular as the knife is made in one piece which makes it stronger and resilient to wear and contamination. To prevent the steel being too slippery when wet, ridges or grips are added. The distribution of the steel in the handle can ensure a well balanced knife.

Composite materials are now being utilised which offer the appearance of wood but with the hygienic qualities of plastic, excellent grip and with no shrinkage.