Walnut wood knife block by Kai Shun

The most common length for a chef's knife is 20 cm (8 inches), which is perfect for most kitchen tasks. However, the ideal choice depends on several factors: Hand size: Smaller hands handle 16–18 cm blades more comfortably, while larger hands may prefer a 21–25 cm blade. Personal habits: Those who favor broad movements and long cuts might lean toward longer knives; those who prioritize precision or work in tight spaces might prefer a shorter blade. Experience level: Beginners tend to choose shorter, more manageable blades, while professionals often prefer 21 or 24 cm knives for greater efficiency. In short, there is no “perfect” size for everyone — the right length should be chosen based on comfort, control, and intended use.

Avoid keeping them loose in drawers, where they can get damaged or become a safety hazard. It’s better to use a wooden block, magnetic strip, or blade guard. You can find the right solution in our catalog.

Yes, in our ecommerce store you will find only professional and high-quality chef knives. Each model is selected to meet the needs of chefs, cooks, and cooking enthusiasts who seek reliable, sharp, and durable tools. We offer a complete range of professional kitchen knives, ideal for precision cutting, meat, fish, vegetables, and much more. You will find slicing knives, santoku, paring knives, and other models commonly used in professional kitchens. We collaborate only with brands recognized at the professional level, such as [e.g., Victorinox, Global, Kai, F. Dick, Ambrogio Sanelli, Wüsthof, etc.], to offer you the best in performance and safety in the kitchen

It’s highly discouraged. High heat and aggressive detergents can damage both blade and handle. Knives can also knock against other items, dulling the edge.

Hardness refers to how resistant the steel is, measured on the Rockwell scale (HRC). The harder the steel, the better it retains its edge—but it’s also more brittle and prone to chipping.

A knife case is ideal for professional chefs, culinary students, or anyone who enjoys cooking outside the home. It keeps your knives organized, protected, and always ready for use.

It depends on your kitchen space, how many knives you own, and your style. You can choose from vertical blocks, horizontal blocks, or magnetic ones. On AFcoltellerie, you’ll find a full range to compare.

That depends on your needs. Basic sets typically include 3–5 essential knives (chef’s knife, paring knife, bread knife, carving knife). Professional sets may contain 10 or more tools, such as sharpeners, kitchen scissors, and carving forks.

If you’re just starting out or want a complete setup in one go, a set is a practical and cost-effective choice. If you’re experienced, building your own collection piece by piece might suit you better.

It depends on the product. Some come pre-filled with knives, while others are empty and compatible with most standard knives. Always check the product description to know what’s included.

Wooden blocks should be cleaned with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Knife cases can be wiped down with a mild detergent. Avoid dishwashers or soaking in water.

Yes! If the combination of knives, block, or case you’re looking for isn’t listed, feel free to contact us. We’ll help you put together a custom set tailored to your needs and cooking style.

Blades can be made of stainless steel (rust-resistant), carbon steel (very sharp but delicate), or ceramic (lightweight and razor-sharp but fragile). Premium knives often use Damascus steel or advanced alloys. Not sure which to choose? Contact us—AFcoltellerie has them all.

Handles can be made of wood (classic but delicate), plastic (durable and hygienic), or technical materials like micarta or G-10, which are extremely tough and non-slip even when wet.

European knives are sturdier, with thick, curved blades for rocking cuts and tough ingredients. Japanese knives have thinner, harder blades for clean, precise slicing—but they’re also more fragile. In short: Europeans are durable and versatile, Japanese are sharp and surgical.

A 20 cm chef’s knife is the most versatile option to start with. Paired with a paring knife, it covers most everyday kitchen needs.

The grooves or “granton edge” reduce friction and prevent food from sticking to the blade. They’re especially useful with wet or soft foods like fish, cheese, or vegetables.

Yes. Some single-bevel Japanese knives are made specifically for right- or left-handed use. Many universal knives, with a double bevel, work well for both.

A complete block already comes with a matching set of knives, often with a honing steel or scissors, and each slot is designed for a specific knife. An empty block is for storing knives you already own or will choose individually: in that case a magnetic or bristle block is the better choice, because it doesn't depend on the shape of each blade.

The KAI ACCESSORIES series brings together tools designed to support every stage of kitchen work: from ingredient preparation — with utensils such as peelers and tongs — to blade care, thanks to sharpening stones developed to KAI's exacting standards. Each accessory is crafted with the same attention to quality and functionality that defines the brand's entire range.

In slotted blocks each knife has its own slot: they are compact, but only take blades of compatible size. In magnetic blocks the blades cling to the sides of the block, stay visible and can be of different shapes; some models rotate. In bristle blocks, a bundle of plastic rods holds blades in any position. In-drawer blocks hold knives horizontally inside a drawer and keep the worktop clear.

It is suitable for both professionals and cooking enthusiasts who want to complete their kitchen kit with reliable, precise and long-lasting tools that integrate seamlessly with KAI knives.

For slotted blocks, compare the length and height of your blades with the measurements on the product page: tall blades, such as santokus, cleavers or some Japanese knives, often won't fit standard slots. For magnetic blocks, check the maximum blade length and number of knives stated by the manufacturer. Never force a blade into a narrow slot: it damages the edge.

Preparation utensils such as peelers and tongs are designed for intensive daily use, while sharpening stones are ideal for those who want to keep their blades in optimal condition over time, with precise edge control.

Slots are hard to clean inside, so only put knives away clean and completely dry: moisture left in the slots encourages mould and odours. Every so often, turn the block upside down to shake out dust and debris. If hygiene is a priority, magnetic blocks, which wipe clean with a cloth, and blocks with removable bristles are easier to keep clean.

Kitchen utensils should be cleaned after each use, and hand washing is recommended to preserve the materials. Sharpening stones require thorough rinsing after use and should be stored dry; some types need to be soaked before use — always follow the specific product instructions.

Yes, compared with a drawer where knives knock against other utensils. In angled slotted blocks, it's best to insert the blade edge-up, so it doesn't drag along the bottom of the slot. On magnetic blocks, place the spine first and then the blade, without letting the edge snap against the surface.

Wooden blocks should be wiped with a slightly damp cloth and dried straight away: no soaking and no dishwasher. Removable bristles can be washed in warm water with a mild detergent and refitted only once dry. For steel models, a cloth with a non-abrasive cleaner is enough. For any wood treatment, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

The KAI series stands out for the combination of Japanese tradition and modern manufacturing, providing reliable knives for conscious and precise kitchen use.

It is suitable for professionals and advanced enthusiasts seeking consistent performance and quality.