Isn’t honing a knife bothersome? Well, for me, it is.
I used to use my knife prudently so that I do not have to sharpen it. No matter how many YouTube videos I watched, it did not help me increase my sharpening technique. I could not help myself from buying a self-sharpening knife when it first came on the market.
It makes the job so much easier. You can get a sharpened knife before every use without any extra trouble. It is both time and energy-saving.
If you wish to get your hand on one of them but are confused about which one to invest your money on, you are at the right place. Because here, I will be reviewing the best self sharpening knife set available on the market. You can surely choose the perfect one for you from here.
3 Best Self Sharpening knife sets in My Choice
- Editor’s Choice Best Self Sharpening knife set: Calphalon Contemporary Self-Sharpening 20-Piece Knife Block Set
- Budget Pick Self Sharpening knife set: Chicago Cutlery Insignia2 18-Piece Knife Block Set
- Best Seller Self Sharpening knife set: McCook® 20 Piece Knife Sets
Top 10 Self Sharpening Knife Set Reviews
01. JA henckels 20 piece self-sharpening knife set
JA Henckels is a popular name in the knife market. It is one of the first companies that brought a self-sharpening knife set. The knives of this set are made of brushed stainless steel. There are 20 knives in this block set. You can get all knives at once if you buy this one.
This set has two paring knives of 3 and 4 inches. It has a serrated utility knife and a plain utility knife of 5 and 6 inches, respectively. It also has the perfect-sized Chef knife of 8 inches with a Bread knife and a Carving knife of the same size.
The set comes with a Prep knife, Boning knife, and Santoku knife of 5.5, 5.5, and 7 inches, respectively. This set has 8 steak knives, which are fairly enough for two families. It also has kitchen shears.
The self-sharpening knife block is made of stained ash wood with a brushed stainless cap. The knives’ names are labeled on the top, so you know which knife goes where.
It is the best self sharpening kitchen knife set if you want all knives in one.
Pros
- All variations of knives
- Elegant design
- Efficient self-sharpening
- Labeled slots
Cons
- The storage block is a bit large
- Expensive
02. Calphalon 15-Piece Self-Sharpening Knife Set
This is also one of the best self sharpening knife set with 20 items. This knife set has pretty much the same knives as the first set. However, the building materials of the knives and blocks are different.
The knives are made of stainless steel from high carbon and are forged with a full bolster and tang. They are made of German steel except for the steak knives.
This knife block set includes only one paring knife of 4.5 inches. It has a Boning and a Santoku knife of 5 inches and inches Purer. It has 6 inches Utility knife. The Chef knife and Bread knife are 8 inches. This set also has 8 steak knives with a 7-inch Santoku knife.
The block has built-in ceramic sharpeners and is made of dark wood. The handles of the knives are ergonomic with a convenient grip. The handles are labeled for easy sorting.
Pros
- Forged stainless steel
- SharpIN Technology
- Full tang and Bolster
- Labeled handles
Cons
- Expensive
03. Gold handle self-sharpening knife set
You are gonna love this if you prefer cooper knives and rose gold color. If knife set surely stands out from the other knives sets of my list with its looks. This set has 14 pieces of 12 knives and a block and scissors. This knife block set has 6 steak knives in total.
The paring knife of this set is the smallest so far. It is 3.5 inches only. The Carving, Chef, and Bread knife is 8 inches.
The set also has a Santoku and Utility knife of 7 and 5 inches, respectively. The remaining pieces are scissors and a beautiful black block. The black block with rose gold handle knives makes an elegant combination for modern kitchens.
The knives are made of stainless steel. The sharpener is built in the slot of Chef Knife. It can sharpen any unserrated knife of the set.
Pros
- Beautiful rose gold handle and silver blade combination
- Perfect for present
- Stainless steel
- Easy to re-sharpen
Cons
- High maintenance
- Only one sharpener in the Chef Knife slot
04. Farberware 13 piece self sharpening knife block set
Farberware is the number 1 selling cutlery brand in the U.S.A. This set has 13 pieces with a block. In this set, the primary slots have built-in ceramic sharpeners. The knives get honed every time it is taken out or placed back to the storage block.
The blades of these knives are built of high carbon. The stainless steel blades keep the knives sharp for a long time. The black handles are three riveted with the full tang blades. They are ergonomically devised for an easy grip.
This set includes a Chef knife and a slicer of 8 inches. It has another Chef knife with kullens of 5 inches. The paring knife is 3.5 inches only, and the serrated utility knife is 5.5 inches. This set has six steak knives. Enough for a large family. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable grip
- Edge keeper technology for perfect sharpening
- Fully forged stainless steel
- Affordable
Cons
- Only primary slots with the built-in self-sharpener
- No Bread knife
05. Calphalon 15 piece self sharpening knife set
This is the most silver knife set on my list. This is the best knife set with a self-sharpening block if your kitchen decor is metallic or silver. This is one of my personal favorite knife block set from Caphalon. It is excellent in not only looks but also the construction of the knives.
The knives are built of full forged stainless steel. The blades are full tang, and the metallic handles are designed ergonomically to reduce fatigue and give a comfortable grip.
The block has a built-in ceramic self-sharpener. The handles are labeled for easy identification and storage in the block. This self-sharpening knife block set comes with 8 steak knives. The amount is perfect for two small families.
It has a 3.5 inches paring knife. Pretty small but handy. The Chef and Bread knife are 8 inches. The Utility and Santoku knives in this set are 5 and 7 inches, respectively. It comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Metallic handles
- Ergonomic design
- Beautiful design
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
06. Sabatier self-sharpening 12-piece Knife block set
This one is a beautiful black self-sharpening knife set with 12 pieces. Both the block and handles of the knives are black. This makes it perfect for black decor kitchens.
The knives are handcrafted and forged from superior carbon. The blades are stain and corrosion-resistant. The blades are razor-sharp with high edge retention that ensures precise cuts every time.
The full tang blades are triple-riveted to ensure utmost grip and stability. This set includes a Chef and Slicer knife of 8 inches. It has another Chef knife with kullens of 5 inches. The Utility and Paring knives are 4.5 and 3.5 inches, respectively.
The block is an edge keeper self-sharpening block of Sabatier. It is made of dark wood that compliments the black handles of the knives very well. This knife set comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Affordable
- Classy design
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Forged steel
Cons
- No bread knife
- Not dishwasher safe
07. Chicago cutlery 18-pieces self-sharpening knife set
This set has all essential knives in one block that also with a self-sharpening slot. The knives are fully forged with a heavy-duty bolster. The blades have a full tang and are attached with the handle with three rivets.
This Chicago Cutlery knife set has two paring knives of 3 and 3.5 inches. The Chef’s knife and the slicer are 8 inches. The serrated Bread knife and Santoku knife are 7 inches. The utility knife of this set is 5.5 inches, and the boning knife is 5 inches.
This set also has 8 steak knives, a wooden block with a self-sharpener, and scissors. The handles are ergonomic with three stainless steel rivets. This provides the handles good grip.
Pros
- Triple rivets
- Full tang blades and forged bolsters
- Limited Lifetime warranty
- Affordable
Cons
- No labels on knife or block
08. McCook mc29 15-piece knife set
The knives of this set look similar to the Calphalon knife set on the list. The knives are all silver. The blades and handles are made of high carbon. They are steel and corrosion-resistant. If you do not want the classic black three riveted knives for your kitchen, then you can try buying this one.
The design is ergonomic and modern. It can fit in any kitchen. The size of the block is also perfect. Not so big, not so small. The taper-ground edge technology used here makes the blades super sharp and durable. The block has one built-in sharpener to resharpen the knives.
This set includes 6 serrated steak knives. Usually, the steak knives are not serrated in the block sets. But in this set, you get serrated knife sets that can slice through your steak even before you realize it!
This set has two kitchen shears, unlike the other sets. It comes with a Chef and a Slicing knife of 8 inches and a Utility and a Santoku knife of 5 inches. It has another serrated Utility knife of 5.5 inches.
The paring knife in this set is 3.5 inches. The wooden block is of walnut color. The silver and walnut combination is stunning. Among the knife sets under $100, this is one of the best one.
Pros
- Cheap
- Serrated steak knives
- High Carbon Stainless Steel
- Ergonomic handles
Cons
- No Bread Knife
- Only one sharpening slot
09. 7-piece self-sharpening knife set
This is the elite knife set of the series. This is a two-tone black and gold kitchen knife set with a self-sharpening block by Styled Settings.
Let us start with the construction of the knives. They are built with premium stainless steel. The blades are full tang. The full bolsters are golden in color. The black handles with golden bolster and three brass rivets make the classy black and gold combination.
The black handles are made of Pakkawood. So, they do not only look beautiful. They are also durable and corrosion-resistant. The block is of a lighter black shade. The knives hone every time you take it out and put it in the storage block slots.
This set includes fewer knives but the essential ones, however. There are five knives in the set- a paring knife, a carving knife, a chef knife, a utility knife, and a bread knife.
This beautiful knife set is worth showing off on your kitchen counter.
Pros
- Elegant design
- Compact size
- Self-sharpener in each slot
- Premium stainless steel
Cons
- Fewer knives
- Handles or block is not labeled
10. zwilling four star 7-pc self-sharpening block set
This is the show stopper’s best self sharpening knife set of Zwilling J.A. Henckels. This set has five knives with kitchen scissors and a self-sharpening block. This knife set is the 7-piece set of the first set on my list. The only difference is the design of the handle.
In this set, the handles do not have rivets. The ergonomic handles are made of polypropylene without any gap or partition. The knives are built of brushed stainless steel. The blades are rust and corrosion-resistant.
The knives are Sigma forged and have laser-controlled edges for ultimate sharpness. The block has a brushed stainless-steel cap labeled with the knives’ names.
The blades are ice-hardened so, they stay sharp longer. This set has a Chef and Break knife of 8 inches. It also includes a fine edge paring knife, a prep knife, and a serrated utility knife of 5.5, 4, and 5 inches. The ash wood base has extra slots for eight steak knives and another knife.
Pros
- Brushed stainless steel cap
- Labeled slots
- Sigmaforge knife
- Extra slots
Cons
- No steak knives
Self-Sharpening Knife Sets Buying Guide
1. Understand the Basics
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what a self-sharpening knife set is. These sets typically include a variety of knives stored in a block with built-in sharpening mechanisms. Each time you remove or replace a knife, the mechanism hones the blade, maintaining its sharpness.
2. Types of Knives Included
Check the types of knives included in the set. A good set should cover a range of culinary needs. Common knives in a set are:
- Chef’s Knife: Versatile and used for various cutting tasks.
- Utility Knife: A smaller, versatile knife for slicing and trimming.
- Paring Knife: Ideal for peeling and precise work.
- Bread Knife: For cutting bread and other baked goods.
- Steak Knives: Often included for dining purposes.
3. Material and Build Quality
The material and construction of the knives are crucial for performance and durability.
- Blade Material: High-carbon stainless steel is preferred for its sharpness, durability, and resistance to rust and stains.
- Handle Material: Look for ergonomic, slip-resistant handles made from materials like pakkawood, stainless steel, or durable polymers.
- Full Tang vs. Partial Tang: Full tang knives (where the blade extends through the handle) provide better balance and durability.
4. Sharpening Mechanism
Different brands use various sharpening mechanisms. Look for:
- Built-in Honing Mechanisms: Ensure the sharpening slots are positioned correctly and are effective at maintaining the knife edges.
- Quality of Sharpeners: Ceramic or diamond-coated sharpeners are often more effective and durable than basic metal ones.
5. Brand and Reviews
Consider reputable brands known for quality kitchen tools. Reading reviews from other customers can provide insights into the set’s performance, durability, and value for money.
6. Price and Warranty
Self-sharpening knife sets are available in various price ranges. Set a budget but be willing to invest in a higher-quality set for better performance and longevity.
- Warranty: Check for a warranty that covers defects in materials and craftsmanship. Some brands offer lifetime warranties, which can be a sign of quality.
7. Maintenance and Care
While self-sharpening knife sets reduce the need for regular sharpening, proper maintenance is still necessary.
- Cleaning: Hand wash the knives to preserve the blade’s integrity and the handle’s condition. Avoid dishwashers, which can damage both.
- Storage: Use the provided block for storage to protect the blades and keep them sharp.
8. Ergonomics and Comfort
The knives should feel comfortable and well-balanced in your hand. Consider the handle design and weight distribution to ensure it suits your cutting style and reduces fatigue.
9. Safety Features
Look for additional safety features like:
- Non-slip Bases: Ensures the block stays stable on your countertop.
- Finger Guards: Some knives come with built-in guards to protect your fingers during use.
10. Aesthetics
While functionality is key, the knife set should also match your kitchen’s style. Many sets come in different finishes and designs, allowing you to choose one that complements your kitchen decor.
FAQ For Self-sharpening Knife Set
What is a self-sharpening knife set?
A self-sharpening knife set includes knives and a storage block with built-in sharpening mechanisms. These mechanisms sharpen the blades each time they are inserted or removed from the block, ensuring the knives stay sharp with minimal maintenance.
How does a self-sharpening knife block work?
The knife block is equipped with ceramic or tungsten carbide sharpeners positioned at the ideal angle. When the knife is inserted or withdrawn, the blade is automatically sharpened by these built-in sharpeners.
Are self-sharpening knives safe to use?
Yes, self-sharpening knives are safe to use. The sharpening mechanism is enclosed within the block, and regular sharpening ensures that the knives are always sharp, reducing the risk of accidents caused by dull blades.
Do I need to manually sharpen self-sharpening knives?
Generally, no. The built-in sharpeners maintain the edge of the blades. However, depending on the frequency of use and the type of food being cut, you might occasionally need to fine-tune the edge with a manual sharpener or honing rod.
How often do self-sharpening knives need to be replaced?
The lifespan of self-sharpening knives depends on the quality of the knives and how frequently they are used. High-quality knives can last many years if properly maintained. The sharpening mechanism in the block also lasts for a considerable time but may need replacement eventually.
Can self-sharpening knives damage the blades?
When designed properly, self-sharpening knife blocks are meant to maintain the blade’s edge without causing damage. However, using a poor-quality block or improperly using the knives can lead to uneven sharpening or excessive wear.
Are self-sharpening knife sets more expensive than regular knife sets?
Self-sharpening knife sets are typically more expensive than regular knife sets due to the added technology and convenience they offer. However, they can save money in the long run by reducing the need for professional sharpening services.
What are the benefits of using a self-sharpening knife set?
The main benefits include consistent sharpness with minimal effort, enhanced safety due to sharp blades, and the convenience of not needing to manually sharpen the knives.
Can I use any knife in a self-sharpening block?
No, self-sharpening blocks are designed for specific knives that come with the set. Using different knives may not provide the correct sharpening angle or could damage the block.
How should I care for my self-sharpening knife set?
Care for your self-sharpening knife set by regularly cleaning the knives and block, avoiding cutting hard materials like bones or frozen foods that can damage the blade, and storing the knives properly in the block when not in use. Avoid putting knives in the dishwasher as it can damage the blade and handle.
Are self-sharpening knife sets worth it?
Yes, for many people, self-sharpening knife sets are worth it. They provide the convenience of maintaining sharp blades without the need for separate sharpening tools or professional sharpening services, ensuring that the knives are always ready for use.
Do self-sharpening knife sets really work?
Yes, self-sharpening knife sets are effective in keeping the knives sharp. However, the degree of sharpness maintained can vary depending on the quality of the knife set and the sharpening mechanism used.
What types of knives are typically included in a self-sharpening knife set?
A typical self-sharpening knife set includes a variety of knives such as a chef’s knife, utility knife, paring knife, bread knife, and sometimes steak knives. The exact composition can vary depending on the brand and model.
Can I use self-sharpening knives on any cutting surface?
To maintain the longevity of the knives, it is recommended to use them on cutting boards made of wood, plastic, or bamboo. Avoid using them on hard surfaces like glass, marble, or granite, which can dull the blades.
How long do self-sharpening knives stay sharp?
Self-sharpening knives can stay sharp for a considerable amount of time, but the duration depends on the frequency of use and the quality of the sharpening mechanism. Regular use of the sharpening block helps maintain the edge, but the knives may still need occasional manual sharpening for optimal performance.
Can self-sharpening knife sets replace professional sharpening?
While self-sharpening knife sets are great for maintaining sharpness, they may not completely replace professional sharpening. Over time, even the best self-sharpening mechanisms might not be enough to restore the original edge, and professional sharpening may still be necessary for precision.
What are the best brands for self-sharpening knife sets?
Some of the best brands known for high-quality self-sharpening knife sets include Calphalon, Zwilling J.A. Henckels, Farberware, and Sabatier. These brands are known for their reliable sharpening mechanisms and durable knife materials.
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Are there any downsides to self-sharpening knife sets?
Some potential downsides include limited sharpening compared to professional methods, possible wear on the blade over time, and the need for eventual replacement of the sharpening mechanism. Additionally, lower-quality sets may not perform as well, leading to dissatisfaction.
Final Verdict
The self-sharpening knife set saves the extra effort of honing knives after every use. The in-built ceramic sharpener sharps your knife every time you put in and take out the knife.
All the knife sets on my list of best self sharpening knife sets come with a self-sharpening block. There are a variety of knives in each set with their unique features and construction.
You can choose the best knife set with a self-sharpening block for you according to your need and space. Make sure to dry every knife after handwashing to prevent rusting and increase their lifetime.
I am Luna L. Rusk, a passionate content writer. Always I provide accurate product reviews and information for quicker shopping. I love to cook for my family. In my leisure time, I love spending time with chefs for learning new cooking.