Smeg 50's Style Knife Block Set (Cream, 6 Piece)

What knives are included in this Smeg knife block set?

The set includes six essential knives: an 8cm vegetable knife for delicate produce work, a 13cm multipurpose knife for varying food consistencies, a 15cm meat knife for protein cutting, an 18cm Santoku knife ideal for meat, fish and vegetables, a 19cm bread knife with serrated edge and a 19cm chef's knife as the kitchen workhorse. Each knife is specifically designed for different cutting tasks, providing complete kitchen knife coverage.

How do I maintain the stainless steel blades properly?

Hand wash the knives immediately after use with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots. Avoid dishwashers as harsh detergents and high temperatures can damage the blade edge and handles. Store knives in the provided block to protect blade edges. Regular honing with a steel rod maintains sharpness between professional sharpenings. Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the blades.

What are the dimensions of the knife block and will it fit my counter?

The knife block measures 40cm length x 21cm width x 29cm height and weighs 2.4kg. This compact design fits most standard kitchen counters whilst providing stable storage for all six knives. The acacia wood and carbon steel construction creates an attractive countertop presence that complements both modern and traditional kitchen designs. The non-slip base prevents movement on smooth surfaces.

Are these knives suitable for professional kitchen use?

Yes, the German stainless steel construction and professional blade geometry make these knives suitable for demanding kitchen environments. The high-quality steel maintains sharpness under heavy use, whilst the ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during extended cutting sessions. However, professional kitchens may require additional specialised knives beyond this six-piece set for specific tasks like filleting or boning.

What makes the Santoku knife different from the chef's knife?

The 18cm Santoku knife features a straighter edge and wider blade compared to the 19cm chef's knife's curved profile. Santoku knives excel at precise chopping, dicing and slicing with a straight up-and-down cutting motion, whilst chef's knives use a rocking motion. The Santoku's design makes it particularly effective for vegetables and fish, whilst the chef's knife handles heavier tasks like breaking down large cuts of meat.

How sharp are these knives when delivered?

The knives arrive factory-sharp and ready for immediate use. The German stainless steel blades are professionally ground and honed during manufacturing. Users report excellent initial sharpness that handles paper-cutting tests easily. However, like all knives, they will require periodic maintenance through honing and eventual professional sharpening to maintain peak performance depending on usage frequency.

Can I purchase replacement knives if one gets damaged?

Smeg typically sells this as a complete set rather than individual replacement knives. However, the 2-year manufacturer guarantee covers repair or replacement if knives become faulty during normal use. For accidental damage or loss, contact Smeg customer service to enquire about individual knife availability. The high-quality construction means these knives should last many years with proper care and maintenance.

What's included in the 2-year Smeg guarantee?

The guarantee covers manufacturing defects and faulty materials when you register the product free with Smeg after purchase. This includes blade defects, handle issues, or block construction problems that occur during normal use. The guarantee allows return for repair or replacement of faulty items. However, it doesn't cover damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear from regular sharpening and use.