Zwilling Professional S Knife Block Set (7 Pieces, Brown Bamboo)

What knives are included in this seven-piece set?

The set contains four knives: a 20cm chef's knife (257g), 20cm bread knife (160g), 13cm utility knife (75g) and 10cm paring knife (65g). Additionally, you receive 21cm multi-purpose scissors, a sharpening steel for maintenance and a bamboo storage block. This combination covers all essential kitchen cutting tasks from precision work to heavy-duty chopping.

How does the FRIODUR ice-hardening process improve the blades?

FRIODUR ice-hardening is Zwilling's proprietary treatment that subjects the forged blades to sub-zero temperatures, creating a more refined steel structure. This process increases blade hardness, improves edge retention and enhances corrosion resistance compared to standard stainless steel. The result is knives that stay sharper longer and resist staining, reducing the frequency of sharpening and maintenance required.

Are these knives suitable for dishwasher cleaning?

Whilst the knives are technically dishwasher safe, hand washing is strongly recommended to preserve blade sharpness and handle integrity. Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can dull cutting edges and potentially damage the synthetic handles over time. Hand washing with warm soapy water and immediate drying maintains optimal performance and extends the knives' lifespan significantly.

What makes SIGMAFORGE forging superior to stamped knives?

SIGMAFORGE forging creates each blade from a single piece of steel through precision hammering and shaping, resulting in superior strength and balance compared to stamped alternatives. This process eliminates weak points where blade and tang meet, creating a seamless transition that improves durability. Forged knives also offer better weight distribution and cutting performance, making them preferred by professional chefs.

How do I properly maintain the sharpening steel included?

The included sharpening steel should be used regularly to maintain blade edges between professional sharpenings. Hold the steel vertically and draw each knife blade down at a 15-20 degree angle, alternating sides with light pressure. Use 8-10 strokes per side before each cooking session. The steel itself requires minimal maintenance - simply wipe clean and dry after use to prevent corrosion.

What are the dimensions of the bamboo knife block?

The bamboo block measures 29cm in height, 16cm in width and 11.5cm in depth, with a total weight of 2.5kg when fully loaded. This compact footprint maximises worktop space whilst providing secure storage for all seven pieces. The block's slots are precisely sized for each knife, ensuring safe insertion and removal whilst protecting blade edges from damage during storage.

Can the handles withstand commercial kitchen use?

The ergonomic synthetic handles are specifically designed for professional environments, featuring triple-riveted construction that withstands heavy daily use. The plastic material resists moisture, bacteria and staining whilst maintaining grip security even when wet. These handles are used in commercial kitchens worldwide and are engineered to provide comfort during extended cutting sessions without causing hand fatigue.

How long do these knives typically maintain their sharpness?

With proper care and regular use of the included sharpening steel, these knives maintain their factory sharpness for 6-12 months depending on usage frequency. The FRIODUR ice-hardened steel holds its edge significantly longer than standard stainless steel knives. Professional resharpening every 12-18 months will restore the blades to original condition, with many users reporting excellent performance after decades of use.