ZWILLING Henckels International Self Sharpening Knife Block (20pc, Black/Gray)

How does the self-sharpening system work?

The block contains built-in ceramic honing wheels positioned at the correct angle for each knife slot. When you insert or remove a knife, the blade passes through these ceramic wheels which automatically hone the edge. This happens every time you use the knife, maintaining sharpness without any effort from you. The ceramic material is harder than steel and gently realigns the blade edge.

Can I put these knives in the dishwasher?

Yes, the knives are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is strongly recommended. Dishwasher detergents and high heat can cause staining and may affect the blade's finish over time. Some customers report rust spots appearing after dishwasher use. Hand washing with warm soapy water and immediate drying will preserve the knives' appearance and performance much better.

What knives are included in this 20-piece set?

The set includes: 8cm paring knife, 10cm paring knife, 13cm utility knife, 14cm prep knife, 14cm boning knife, 15cm utility knife, 18cm santoku, 20cm carving knife, 20cm bread knife, 20cm chef's knife, eight 11cm steak knives and kitchen shears. This covers all essential kitchen cutting tasks from delicate work to heavy-duty chopping and carving.

How much counter space does the knife block require?

The ash wood block measures 40.6 x 30.6 x 25.5cm and weighs 6.74kg. This is quite substantial and requires significant counter space. The angled design makes it longer than traditional upright blocks. You'll need a permanent spot with enough clearance to easily insert and remove knives. Consider your kitchen layout carefully before purchasing.

Are the knives suitable for professional use?

These knives offer excellent performance for serious home cooking but are designed primarily for domestic use. The German stainless steel provides good edge retention and the variety of blade types handles most kitchen tasks well. However, professional chefs might prefer individual high-end knives for specific applications. The self-sharpening feature is particularly useful for busy home kitchens.

Do I need to sharpen these knives manually?

No manual sharpening is required thanks to the built-in ceramic honing system. However, the self-sharpening only maintains the existing edge - it won't restore a severely damaged or chipped blade. If you damage a knife through misuse, you may need professional sharpening. Normal use with proper storage in the block should maintain sharpness indefinitely.

What's the difference between honing and sharpening?

The ceramic wheels in this block perform honing, which realigns the blade edge and removes microscopic burrs. This maintains the existing sharpness. True sharpening removes metal to create a new edge. The honing action keeps knives performing like new, but won't fix chips or restore completely dull blades. For normal kitchen use, honing is sufficient to maintain excellent cutting performance.

Is this knife set good value for money?

At current pricing, this represents good value compared to buying individual quality knives. The self-sharpening technology adds convenience worth considering. However, some customers feel the price reflects the innovative block more than premium steel quality. The comprehensive selection means you get everything needed for kitchen tasks. Compare against individual knife costs and factor in the convenience of automatic sharpening.