Learning Karate - Shuto Uke Kokutsu Dachi (Knife Hand Block Back Stance) Part 1

Shuto uke in kokutsu dachi or knife hand block in back stance, is probably one of the most awkward karate techniques, in shotokan karate. Many shotokan karate dojo do not practice this technique until the karateka has been attending karate lessons for several months. Even if you are still attending karate lessons for beginners, the sooner you understand the basic fundamentals of this karate move, the faster you will progress.

Knife Block

In this article we will cover the arm movements associated with shuto uke.

Knife Block

The blocking arm positions for the three shotokan karate basic mid level blocks (soto uke, uchi uke, shuto uke), are almost the identical.

1. The blocking arms elbow is approximately a fist, to a fist and a half distance from the body.

2. There should be a 90 degree bend at the blocking arms elbow.

3. The finger tips of the blocking hand are approximately shoulder height, shoulders down and relaxed.

4. The blocking hand should be at a slight angle, so do not have the palm facing completely down, or the edge of the hand (shuto), facing down. The shuto is somewhere in between. A good gauge is having the back of the bent thumb, on the blocking shuto, facing directly at you, at completion of the block.

5. The hikite (pulling arm), is placed on the stomach, so that the edge of the hand is on the belly button, finger tips approximately level with the forward side of the body. Fingers and wrist straight, whilst keeping the thumb bent and tight. Feel like you are pulling the tip of the thumb, to the the base of the thumb, on the inside of the hand. The whole length of the hikite arm, from elbo to finger tips, should be parallel with the floor.

So now we have the arm positions for shuto uke. Keep practicing the finished arm positions for shuto uke. Feel the muscles working when you kime or tighten the muscles. Practice this on both sides.

In part two, we will cover stepping forward knife hand block in back stance. Always take things slowly at first, especially if you are trying to learn karate at home. Understand every little detail and try and get your karate sensei to check it out, before you speed up.

Learning Karate - Shuto Uke Kokutsu Dachi (Knife Hand Block Back Stance) Part 1

Knife Block

Special Price!!! Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block <<

Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block Feature

• Use 3 ways: on the counter, in a drawer, or on a wall
• Made from attractive, durable solid bamboo
• Safely stores knives for quick, easy access
• Measures 13-1/2 by 3-1/2 by 2-1/5 inches

Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block Overview

The Kyocera Bamboo 3 Slot Block is made of handsome bamboo and has room for 3 Kyocera advanced ceramic knives with blades up to 7 inches. It can be used 3 ways: mounted on a wall, placed in a drawer or placed on a countertop. Sleek clever design prevents knives from falling out; compact footprint is ideal for kitchens with limited space. Solves a common storage problem and keeps those frequently used Kyocera advanced ceramic knives close at hand. Measures: 13.5"L x 3.625"W x 2.5"D.

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Kyocera KBLOCK3 Bamboo 3-Slot Knife Block Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Natural Vitamin Epson Home Cinema

Learning Karate - Shuto Uke Kokutsu Dachi (Knife Hand Block Back Stance) Part 2

In the first article we described the arm positions for shuto uke. In this article we are going to explain stepping forward shuto uke (knife hand block) in kokutsu dachi (back stance).

Knife Block

Although this is classed as a basic karate technique, most people find this difficult and uncomfortable. So we are going to break this step down, into small sections.

Knife Block

Get into the habit of breaking new karate moves down, they then become much easier to understand the small detail.

Starting with the left leg in front.

1. Start the step by driving the front (left) knee forward. Imagine someone has a hold of your left wrist and they sharply pull you forward, so really stretch the left arm forward, hand open, fingers and wrist straight.

2. At the same time as you perform number 1. Lift the right arm straight up from the stomach to the left shoulder. Keep the forearm close to the body as you lift the arm and keep the elbow in the center of the chest. When the right hand reaches the left shoulder (palm facing the neck), the hand is open, fingers and wrist straight.

3. The front knee and two arm movements above, should be done at exactly the same time. As the above moves are executed, immediately start to step with the right leg, pushing the right side of the body forward.

4. Keep the same height throughout the step, knees come close together at the half way point, body square and both feet facing forward.

5. As you start the second half of the step, from the half way point, keep your body weight over your back (left) leg.

6. Still keep both feet facing forward as you move through the here quarter stage of the step. At this point, start to block with the right arm and pull the left hikite arm back.

7. As the hikite arm pulls back, keep the palm facing down and as the blocking arm goes out, keep the palm facing towards you and the elbow down. The back of the blocking forearm, slides down the inside of the hikite arm.

8. As you land in the full kokutsu dachi (back stance), sharply pivot on the left (back) foot, turning your left foot and knee out to the side.

9. As you complete the arm movements, rotate both forearms sharply, so the palm of the hikite (left) arm, faces up and the palm of the blocking arm, faces to the inside and down slightly.

10. Both numbers 8 and 9, should be performed at exactly the same time.

11. Breath in on the preparation and out on the execution of the block.

Most karateka start practicing this particular karate technique, a few moths into their karate training. Of all the basic karate moves, this is one of the hardest to master. Whether you are attending a karate dojo, or learning karate at home, I recommend you break the techniques down and repeat again and again. Start slowly and gradually build up to maximum speed.

We covered the basic arm positions for shuto uke in the first article at Shuto Uke Kokutsu Dachi (Knife Hand Block Back Stance) Part 1

Learning Karate - Shuto Uke Kokutsu Dachi (Knife Hand Block Back Stance) Part 2

Knife Block

Special Price!!! Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block <<

Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block Feature

• 14-piece block set with kitchen shears
• Knives forged in Japanese 420 series stainless steel; satin finish on blades and handles
• Full tang; blades are serrated on both sides for clean cuts for left- and right- handed users
• Knives store in painted hardwood block; knives never need sharpening and are dishwasher- safe
• Knife block measures 8-1/2 by 6 inches and weighs 9 pounds; limited lifetime warranty

Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block Overview

Ginsu knives have commercial quality, high carbon, Japanese stainless steel blades. Stainless Steel handles are built for extreme strength and durability. Hardwood storage blocks keep your knives organized, safe and ready to use. This set includes: chef's knife, santoku, 6 steak knives, bread knife, boning knife, utility knife, paring knife, shears and versatile hardwood storage block.

Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block Specifications

Any person that has ever tried to slice the golden crust of a baguette with a paring knife, or to peel an apple with a chef’s knife, knows the importance of stocking a wide variety of cutlery in the kitchen. A single recipe may require four or five different knives to cut, dice, and slice with efficiency and ease. To cover this wide gamut, Ginsu offers a new comprehensive cutlery set. From the International Traditions cutlery line, the 14-piece set comes equipped with a 3-1/2-inch paring knife, 4-1/2-inch utility knife, 5-inch boning knife, 8-inch slicer, 8-inch chef’s knife, 8-inch bread knife, six 4-1/2-inch steak knives, kitchen shears, and knife block. With this wide variety of blades, the set makes a wonderful housewarming gift for a young family establishing their first household.

The blade of each knife was forged from Japanese 420 series stainless steel with full tang for increased balance and permanence. The hygienic stainless-steel construction resists rusting, staining, and corrosion. The craftsmen at Ginsu employ a specialized Symmetric Edge technology, notching matching serrations on both sides of the blade for enhanced precision and smoothness for left- and right- handed users alike. The balanced two-dimensional serration eliminates the need for sharpening these knifes. Stainless-steel handles are curved to provide an ergonomically-friendly hold for chefs. The knife block features sturdy hardwood construction to protect knives and permit quick access while cooking. For cleaning convenience, the knives are dishwasher- safe. Ginsu covers the set with a limited lifetime warranty. The knife block measures 8-1/2 by 6 by inches. The set weighs 9 pounds upon shipping. --Jessica Reuling

What’s in the Box
Set includes: 3-1/2-inch paring knife; 4-1/2-inch utility knife; 5-inch boning knife; 8-inch slicer; 8-inch chef’s knife; 8-inch bread knife; six 4-1/2-inch steak knives; kitchen shears; knife block.

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Ginsu 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set, with Black Block Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Squeezebox Duet Chicco Cortina Travel System

Chef Knives - Buying a Kitchen Knife Set

Most knife experts will tell you to never buy a knife set. I'm here to say that a proper knife set is a cook's best friend and kitchen's best asset. Here's how to decide if a knife block is right for you, find the perfect knife set, and maintain it for a lifetime.

Knife Block

Who is a knife set really for?

Knife Block

The sort of person who really gets the best out of a knife set is someone who loves to prepare nice meals from fresh ingredients, who has a kitchen that they adore and who really basks in how homey and comfortable or sleek and stylish it is. A knife block works great for someone who is very busy, and who doesn't mind making dinner, but knows that in order to make it more enjoyable, they need to make the prep work run smoother. If they had more time, or if it were easier to prepare it, they would use fresh produce in every meal. A knife set is best for someone who doesn't have very much time to do research and wants to find a their new tools efficiently.

Why are so many people against knife blocks then?

If you've asked around about buying a knife set, you probably were told - don't do it! Why is that? Well, most knife experts are severe knife enthusiasts. In most cases they are knife collectors. They know all about steel types and edge geometry and patinas and forging techniques and, well, everything you could possibly know about a knife. While this is all very useful information, it is much more than even the greatest chef bothers to know.

These knife experts have sampled hundreds of knives, and they all have very set opinions on what the best knife in each category of knives is. Someone with the time to read hundreds of reviews of each type of knife that they'll need will have a non-matching set of the best knives in the world. If you don't have much time though, and if you want your knives to match, it's really in your best interest to purchase a set.

The other argument that most knife experts make is that sets are loaded with "filler knives that you'll never use," or that "all you ever need is a chef knife." I'm going to say it once and for all. Yes, you can eek by with just a chef knife, and yes, you will use your chef knife more than any other knife that you have. But try to use your chef knife to carve a pumpkin, remove the scales from a fish, or slice a loaf of freshly baked Italian bread and you will see that while you don't do those jobs very often, when you do them you want the proper knife for the job. It's like your stand mixer. While the paddle attachment gets 95% of the action, you still need the whisk attachment for whipped cream and the dough hook for dough.

How to choose your knife set?

The chef knife will be getting the most usage, so you will want to select your set predominantly on it. You can find streams and streams of information on choosing a chef knife, but here's what's most important - the handle must fit comfortably in your hands, and the blade should be made of decent steel. How can you tell about the steel? The simplest answer is that if it is a well-known company than they probably use decent steel. If you really want a valuable opinion, call the professional who you will have sharpen your knives and ask for a recommendation. If you plan to purchase online and won't be able to go in store and hold the knives in your hand, look for a handle that seems ergonomic and has no hard corners, which may cause calluses.

Second in line is the appearance of the set. Now I'm not being vain, but really, being able to display your knives in a beautiful block right out on the counter top adds a real touch of prowess to any kitchen. So chose a set that you'll be proud to have out on display. You'll most likely see it everyday, so be sure that it goes well with the appearance of the kitchen and that you feel glad to see it in your home.

Finally, you will also want to consider the other knives that are in the set. Why isn't this first on the list? There are no "useless" knives. What's most important when it comes to the knives in your block is knowing what tasks to use them for. Chances are if it's in your block it has a special purpose and it is worth if for you to take some time and find out how to use it. Ask a salesperson, a chef friend, or do a quick search online for each knife in your set and how it should be used. This will save you hours of frustration in kitchen, trying to use a santoku to debone a fish. If you knife set does not include a honing/sharpening steel you will need to purchase one and learn how to use it in order to maintain your knives. Your steel will not need to be stored in any special way, but if it is not included in your set you must consider this as an added expense.

How to maintain your set?

A knife set should be cared for specially in only two ways. Always insert completely dry, clean knives into the block to prevent bacteria from going inside, and whenever you are vacuuming, carefully remove the knives from your block and suck out any debris that may have fallen into the slots to prevent your knives from getting scratched or dented. Otherwise, maintain each knife as it normally should be. Hand wash your knives, only use them on wooden or rubber cutting boards, and use each knife for it's proper job. Your chef knife should be honed after each half-hour of use and should be sharpened professionally at least once or twice per year.

Any extra bonuses?

This is actually why I love knife sets so much. A properly chosen and well maintained set will last a lifetime, becoming your best friend in the kitchen and perhaps someday, a family heirloom.

Chef Knives - Buying a Kitchen Knife Set

Knife Block

Special Price!!! Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray <<

Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray Feature

• Holds up to three 10-inch blades and four 6-inch blades
• Keeps knives safely stored in drawer
• Designed to fit most drawers
• Made of oak
• 16-1/4 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/2

Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray Overview

Keep your most precious kitchen tools stored safely using this Wooden In-Drawer Knife Tray. Fits most drawers and provides 7 separate slots to accommodate knives of different lengths. It's a great way to prevent pitting and dulling of quality knives that would otherwise sit loosely with other knives and utensils. Always be sure to dry knives completely before storing..

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Wusthof In-Drawer 7-Slot Knife Storage Tray Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Frigidaire Microwave Weller Digital Soldering Station Wireless Music Receiver

Miracle Blade Knife Block

Special Price!!! Miracle Blade Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Miracle Blade Knife Block <<

Miracle Blade Knife Block Feature

• Includes 4 steak knives
• This beautiful piece will hold and protect your Miracle Blade III Perfection Series for years of dependable service and it looks great on your kitchen counter.

Miracle Blade Knife Block Overview

You can safely store and display all your new Miracle Blades in our gorgeous, custom, Miracle Knife butcher's block. Includes 4 steak knives.

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Miracle Blade Knife Block ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Miracle Blade Knife Block Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block

Special Price!!! Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block <<

Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block Feature

• 11-slot bamboo knife block designed to hold Shun Asian-style cutlery
• Durable bonded-bamboo construction with clear finish and nonslip feet
• Horizontal position of slots keeps pressure off fine blade edges
• Includes slots for wide knives, kitchen shears, and sharpening steel
• Bamboo is an earth-friendly, renewable resource tougher than wood

Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block Overview

Storage block is made from bamboo; an abundant, renewable resource.

Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block Specifications

Shun knives are a significant investment in superb craftsmanship and deserve the best storage possible. This bamboo block features 11 slots positioned horizontally, which keeps pressure off the extremely fine edges of Shun blades. The variety of slot sizes ensures all your Shun cutlery can be accommodated, from that large cleaver or santoku to small parers. There's even a hole for a sharpening steel and a lower opening for kitchen or poultry shears. Stable on its nonslip feet, the block is finished with a clear water-resistant finish that can be wiped clean.

Bamboo, a grass, grows so quickly that it has become popular as an eco-friendly, renewable replacement for slow-growing trees. Harder even than maple, bamboo makes excellent cutting boards, kitchen utensils, flooring and counter tops. Add in the attractive, natural variations in color and its tough, non-porous quality, and bamboo is clearly an excellent choice for products for the modern home. --Ann Bieri

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Shun 11-Slot Bamboo Block Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak <<

Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak Feature

• Holds 6 large knifes and 8 small knives
• Room for a sharpening steel
• Smaller slots for steak knives or parers
• Unique wave design makes knives easier to remove
• Dimensions: 17L x 9W x 2H

Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak Overview

Wusthof 11-slot Indrawer Knife Tray will hold knives up to a 10 inches.

Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak Specifications

This knife tray conveniently houses all kitchen cutlery in a drawer without occupying valuable counter space. Made of hardwood, the tray is a slim 7-1/2 inches wide and 1-1/2 inches high and fits within a drawer that is 16-3/4 inches deep. The 14 knife slots include space for eight steak knives or shorter knives with up to a 5-inch blade and six longer knives with up to a 10-inch blade or, alternately, a sharpening steel. The slots intersperse the longer knives between the shorter in what Wusthof refers to as a "wave" pattern, which makes knife handles easier to grasp and remove. Blades are completely covered in the slots to prevent against accidental cuts and to keep them from dulling. A felt backing underneath the tray keeps it from scratching kitchen drawers. --Cristina Vaamonde

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Limited Offer Today!! Wusthof 14-Slot In-Drawer Knife Organizer Tray, Oak Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set <<

J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set Feature

• 2-3/4-inch paring knife, 6-inch utility knife, 5-1/2-inch boning knife, 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch carving knife, 8-inch bread knife
• 7-inch hollow-edge Santoku, 9-inch sharpening steel, eight 4-1/2-inch steak knives, and a black storage block
• Made of stamped German stainless steel with hand-honed blades that can be resharpened
• Handles formed of contoured santoprene and backed with brushed stainless steel
• Full-tang blades for enhanced balance and control; hand wash and dry for best results. Measures 15-1/5 by 9 by 5-1/5 inches; lifetime warranty

J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set Overview

The J.A. Henckels International Fine Edge Synergy 17 pc Block Set features all the essential knives you need for a variety of kitchen tasks. The blades are constructed from stamped stainless steel and are hand honed for a long lasting cutting edge. The co

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Order Now J.A. Henckels International 15707-000 Fine Edge Synergy 17-Piece Knife Block Set Best Price at Amazon.com

How to Choose a Knife Block For Style and Safety

Improperly stored knives become damaged and dull more quickly. Using a knife block to store them not only protects them, but is also safer than placing them in a drawer. Cuts can occur when you are trying to find a knife entangled with other items. Drawers are also easier for young children to reach. With blocks, you can find models that have locks to prevent children from removing the knives. With so many styles and colors on the market, you should be able to easily find a style to complement your kitchen.

Knife Block

You will often find bamboo included in categories labeled as wood. While not technically made of wood, bamboo is actually very durable. These are traditionally pale in color. Hardwoods, such as maple, oak, or cherry, are also used for blocks. Stains can vary, but typically maple and oak are chosen for lighter finishes, while walnut and cherry are used for dark ones. Beech and pine is also used in some economical models, but these are less desirable since they can warp much more easily.

Knife Block

Slot free blocks use magnets to keep knives in place. The magnets are hidden beneath the surface, which is most often wood. Since knives are held on the exterior of the block, it is more convenient for knives with an odd shape. The knives are also fully visible, so selection is made faster and easier.

For those who want to add a splash of color, plastic blocks provide the most variety, offered in colors from snow white to apple red. There are some cheaper styles that may not wear well, but the more expensive models are extremely durable. They are also more practical to clean than wood, which can be warped if placed in water.

Under the cabinet knife blocks keep the counter space clear while storing knives safely. Some models swivel or pull out to make it easier to retrieve the proper knife. These styles place knives even further out of reach of young children. Most styles are wood, but there are also magnetic and plastic styles available.

Locks keep the knives safely out of the hands of children. Most of them work on the premise that two separate elements must be engaged to release the lock. Locking models of virtually every style of block can be found.

Improper storage will result in knives that need to be sharpened more frequently. They can also be nicked or scratched by other utensils. A knife block can prevent this. With the number of choices on the market, you will likely have little trouble locating a suitable one.

How to Choose a Knife Block For Style and Safety

Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Kapoosh Knife Holder, Stainless Steel <<

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Stainless Steel Feature

• Works on Any Knife at Any Time
• Washable Freedom Rods
• No Specific Knife Slots so Quick and Easy to Use
• Stainless Steel

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Stainless Steel Overview

The Kapoosh knife holder is a unique new system to hold any knife any time, no need to find a specific slot to slide knife into. The Kapoosh utilizes fredom rods, which allow you to mix and match kitchen knives form different sets and to store practically any utensil easily - anywhere in the block. Plus the rods keep your knives sharper by eliminating the potential of scraping blades on the edges of traditional knife block sets. These rods are removable and dishwasher safe. Just place the freedom rods on the top rack of your dishwasher for cleaning. This Kapoosh has a stainless steel exterior.

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Kapoosh Knife Holder, Stainless Steel ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Order Now Kapoosh Knife Holder, Stainless Steel Best Price at Amazon.com

Calphalon Knife Block Sets - Contemporary Vs Katana Cutlery

When shopping for a good set of kitchen cutlery, it's important to know the differences between the various sets of knives offered by each manufacturer. There are a couple of Calphalon knife block sets you may come across when looking into the best sets on the market. While both are of good quality, there are a few things you should know before making a decision as to which one to buy.

Knife Block

The Contemporary series of knives is a good quality set that comes in at just under 200 dollars for a good-sized set of 17 pieces. This set includes kitchen shears, a bamboo block and a sharpening stone. You get decent quality German steel, which is capable of holding an edge and is fairly easy to sharpen. The blades are very sharp, and they are resistant to stains and discoloration. The name of each type of blade is etched into the end of the handle so you know exactly which piece you're pulling out.

Knife Block

The Katana series is significantly more expensive, with a 14-piece Calphalon knife block set running close to 0. You get shears and a sharpening stone with this set as well. Instead of using German steel, the blades are crafted from 33 layers of VG-1 Japanese steel in a manner similar to how the ancient Japanese samurai made their swords. This gives them a unique look, and makes them razor-sharp and extremely rust resistant. The Japanese steel used is known for its strength and rigidity, and it has excellent edge retention. As with all cutlery, the edges will need to be sharpened periodically, but there will be a much larger gap between sharpenings than there are with normal blades.

OK, here's the question you're probably dying to have answered...Is the difference between the two sets enough to justify spending the extra money on the more expensive set? The answer is a resounding...maybe. If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen and would truly appreciate the precise cuts and the fine balance of the Katana series, then by all means it's the better choice. You definitely won't regret going with the more expensive option. They look nicer and cut better, albeit marginally. The Japanese steel used is widely considered to be at the top of the heap when it comes to quality and durability, and you can rest assured you're buying quality.

On the other hand, if you're going to have to break the bank to buy the more expensive set, you may be better off going with the less expensive set. You will save money and still get a good Calphalon knife block set. Don't worry about the fact you're not getting the Japanese steel, as German steel is almost as good. Contemporary cutlery will still last you a long time, and the blades are balanced nicely and make smooth cuts. They may not be as refined as their more expensive brothers, but they are still of very high quality. You owe it to yourself to check both of these sets out the next time you're looking to add a new tool to the kitchen.

Calphalon Knife Block Sets - Contemporary Vs Katana Cutlery

Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

>> Click here to update Cheapest prices for Kapoosh Knife Holder, Black, Small <<

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Black, Small Feature

• Works on any knife at any time
• Washable freedom rods
• No specific knife slots so quick and easy to use
• Safe to use in dishwasher

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Black, Small Overview

The Kapoosh knife holder is a unique new system to hold any knife any time, no need to find a specific slot to slide knife into. The Kapoosh utilizes fredom rods, which allow you to mix and match kitchen knives form different sets and to store practically any utensil easily - anywhere in the block. Plus the rods keep your knives sharper by eliminating the potential of scraping blades on the edges of traditional knife block sets. These rods are removable and dishwasher safe. Just place the freedom rods on the top rack of your dishwasher for cleaning. This Kapoosh has a black exterior.

SAVE NOW on the special offers below!

Available In Stock.

This Kapoosh Knife Holder, Black, Small ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Order Now Kapoosh Knife Holder, Black, Small Best Price at Amazon.com

Knife Set With Block - Choosing The Correct Knives For Your Household Kitchen

When choosing a knife set with block it is always worth considering, firstly, the type of steel that is used in the knife blade and also how it is made as this will determine how long the knife will last and how easy it will be to sharpen.

Knife Block

Generally, there are 2 processes in which knives are manufactured, stamping and forging. A stamped blade is simply cut from a sheet of metal followed by shaping or pressing it into the shape of a blade. Forging, however, involves taking a piece of metal, heating it to a high temperature and grinding it into the shape of a blade, making it much heavier and more durable than a stamped knife.

Knife Block

Many knives today are manufactured with a high blend of carbon stainless steel, which is good, as anything else will be prone to rust and corrosion over time. The edges are also tapered to make it easier to sharpen. Although everyone wants to have high quality kitchen knives (at reasonable prices) not everyone is happy with high maintenance, such as professional chef knives that have quality, light weight, precision blades but need re-sharpening every time they are used.

In order to find the right type of knives for you to use in your kitchen it is always worth knowing exactly what you are going to be using the knives for, for example, cutting, slicing, boning, chopping or dicing. This is why a knife set with block is designed today to be more suited to household uses as they contain a variety of knives for many uses.

Most decent sets will usually contain around 7 knives, but can be up to 15 depending on how seriously you take your cooking preparations. These are some of the more common ones contained in a set:

Chef knife - It has a triangular blade around 6 to 12 inches long giving it good leverage. It is basically an all-purpose, professional knife that usually requires sharpening more often than the others Paring knife - This is the most commonly used knife. It is like a 3 inch extension of your hand, used for paring and chopping fruit and vegetables Serrated knife - It has a long wavy, saw-like blade used for slicing things like bread or any fruit and vegetable that tends to bruise easily Boning knife - These have quite a narrow, durable blade used for slicing meat off bones Slicing knife - Again used with meats but having a long, thin blade it tends to be used for preparing joints of ham, roast or turkey into very thin slices for serving Butcher knife - This is the pre-evolution of the chefs knife. It has a long blade with many uses and is usually much heavier and more durable than the others in the set. Consequently, it does not require sharpening that often Cleaver knife - This can have either a curved or straight edge and is used for heavy chopping or cutting through bone and the likes

You could always decide to purchase your knives separately, but not everyone knows what knives are required for what purpose, therefore, can end up with an incomplete set lying around, unsafely in their kitchen draw. So for the everyday household kitchen it is advisable to always select stainless steel knives in a block set as many come with lifetime guarantees to suit any budget, along with being complete and multi-purpose.

Knife Set With Block - Choosing The Correct Knives For Your Household Kitchen

Knife Block

Shun Knife Block Set - Top of the Line Knife For Every Need

Do you do a lot of cooking? A shun knife block set will help you to get the fruits, vegetables, and meats that you prepare for your family and house guests. A shun block set is also a great gift to give someone for their birthday or for a holiday occasion. There are several qualities that a shun knife possesses that makes it a gift at the top of everyone's wish list. Here, you will find all of the information that you need if you are thinking of purchasing a knife set for yourself or for someone special.

Knife Block

A shun knife block set has everything that you could ask for in a top of the line chef knife. You will find that it has one of the sharpest blades on the market, and slicing through hard to cut items can even be done with relative ease. This means that you will no longer have to struggle and strain trying to cut through cheese or any other edible item that you fix.

Knife Block

The blades as well as the handle on a shun block set are all very sharp and durable. All of the knives are made with the finest quality steel that is sure to last for decades if cared for properly. This may be the last set of knives that you will ever have to purchase. If you are looking for a great place to get a shun knife review you can find one at the site below. You will be able to watch a short video that will show you all of the great features and benefits of owning shun knives.

Shun Knife Block Set - Top of the Line Knife For Every Need

Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

Henckels 20-Slot Super Knife Storage Block Feature

• 20-Slot to house 8-steak knives and cutlery
• Made of Hard wood
• Great for counter tops
• Ideal for all sizes of cutlery
• Twin logo on side

Henckels 20-Slot Super Knife Storage Block Overview

Dull cutlery is dangerous cutlery. One of the easiest ways to maintain sharp edges on your fine cutlery is to store the knives in a block. An added benefit is that your knives are conveniently ready and waiting for the next time you need to carve a roast

Available In Stock.

This item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please.

Order Now Best Price at Amazon.com

Does a JA Henckels Knife Block Set Cut the Mustard?

Deciding which new set of kitchen cutlery to purchase can be a difficult decision because of two reasons. One, unless you purchase a Ginsu knife set, it is a significant investment. Second, there are a lot of options to choose from and, of course, each brand claims to be the best. JA Henckel is a brand name that has gained itself a great reputation and is considered to be, within many circles, one of the top kitchen knife sets on the market today. But does a JA Henckels knife block set live up to its reputation?

Knife Block

The first thing to consider here is price. Henckel cutlery is not cheap. No quality kitchen cutlery is. So what are you paying more for when you purchase a Henckels knife block set?

Knife Block

1. Over 275 years of manufacturing knives. Experience counts for a lot here. This company has been at the forefront of knife manufacturing for centuries and has done a very good job of adapting to change and incorporating new materials and technology into their manufacturing process.

2. Ergonomic design. Many think that the blade of the knife is the most important part of it. It is very important, but an argument can be made that the handle is even more important. Every knife in a Henckels knife block set contains an ergonomically designed handle which ensures that the knife will be well balanced, easy to grip and comfortable in the hand. A knife that is hard to hold is frustrating and potentially dangerous.

3. Polypropylene handles. I won't go into the details but polypropylene handles make the knife more resistant to germs, shock resistant and dishwasher safe.

4. High grade stainless steel. This material is not cheap, but it's worth the price and is a big factor in what separates Henckels knife sets from others. It is harder, stronger, and more durable than many other materials. This allows the blade of the knife to be much sharper than the others and to hold its edge longer. When re-sharpening is required, the material will not get worn down. It can be resharpened again and again.

There are many other differences between a JA Henckels knife block set and other knife block sets.

Does a JA Henckels Knife Block Set Cut the Mustard?

Knife Block

The Care and Cleaning of Your Wooden Knife Block

When you invest in quality kitchen knives, you should take into consideration how you are going to store them. Keeping them in a drawer in the kitchen will dull them much more quickly than they should, and it can chip and damage the blades as well. Using a wooden knife block is a good way to store your knives and keep them from being damaged.

Knife Block

The problem with wooden blocks is that they can often trap germs and pieces of food within their tiny slots. They can be difficult to clean, but if you take proper care to clean your knives properly before storing them, it can prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria. It is still important to clean your storage block every once in a while. Here are some steps that will help make this difficult task easy and quick.

Knife Block

First, make sure you wash all your knives and let them dry properly before storing them. Trapping water in the knife slots can cause mold or warping. While the knives are drying, turn the knife block over and shake out as many crumbs as possible. Keep shaking until no more crumbs will come out. When shaking won't do the job, you can use a can of compressed air -like you would use to clean your computer keyboard-to blow some of the gunk out.

Fill a spray bottle with water and add a teaspoon of bleach. Spray into the slots, then rinse out with your kitchen sprayer. Let the block dry upside down on the counter. Make sure it's completely dry before you put the knives back in.

If you are concerned about your knife block splitting or cracking because of the moisture, you can use a mineral oil to restore and protect the finish. It shouldn't be too much of an issue. Preventing germ and food buildup by ensuring your knives are clean before storage will keep you from having to clean the block very often.

Even if you don't see any crumbs inside the slots of the storage block, remember that dust can build up over time. Prevention is all well and good, but you should at least clean the block once a year or so to get any regular dust out that may have settled inside the slots.

A caveat for those thinking about using steam to try and clean your block: the high heat and moisture can cause the glue to melt.

The Care and Cleaning of Your Wooden Knife Block

Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

J.A. Henckels International 10-Slot Knife Storage Block Feature

• 10 slot block for 8 knives, a sharpening steel and kitchen shears
• Classic Wood finish with J.A Henckels International logo
• Rubber feet keep block from slipping
• Forward slant allows for easy access to knives

J.A. Henckels International 10-Slot Knife Storage Block Overview

The J.A. Henckels International 10 slot storage block features high quality, classic wood styling at a great value. Solid and sturdy, this block will keep your knives from chipping or dulling.

Available In Stock.

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Woodgrain Finish, Small

Click for larger image and other views

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Woodgrain Finish, Small Feature

• Storage for knives with no slots
• Hardwood Construction
• Single Compartment
• Easy, safe, convenient
• Safe to use in dishwasher

Kapoosh Knife Holder, Woodgrain Finish, Small Overview

The Kapoosh knife holder is a unique new system to hold any knife any time, no need to find a specific slot to slide knife into. The Kapoosh utilizes fredom rods, which allow you to mix and match kitchen knives form different sets and to store practically any utensil easily - anywhere in the block. Plus the rods keep your knives sharper by eliminating the potential of scraping blades on the edges of traditional knife block sets. These rods are removable and dishwasher safe. Just place the freedom rods on the top rack of your dishwasher for cleaning. This Kapoosh has a woodgrain exterior.

Available In Stock.

Get the Ultimate Knife Block

Are you fond of cooking different items? Well you need a knife block set that would help you to cut different items. If you do not have enough time to go out in the market, then you do not have to worry at all. There are different websites that you can find where it offers you with a wide range of different items.

Knife Block

You would find that the prices of these items are not that costly and it would help you to save a lot of your money. But it is very important that you look at the quality of the product before you wish to order it online. You can even gift this wonderful gift to your sisters or your dear ones. It contains all different sizes of knives that would help you to cut different small or big items. Its blades are quite sharp and you can cut many things in a very short duration of time.

Knife Block

You can even buy ceramic knife set online. It has the sharpest blades and you can slice your food items and vegetables without much effort from your side. The main reason why people usually buy these types of knives is that it is much durable and it stays sharper for a longer period of time. In some websites you can have a look at the video on how these types of knives helps in slicing different food items. So it is very important that you have a look at the different types of knives that would help you to choose according to your needs as well as your budget.

When you buy knife block, you would feel that you do not have to struggle to cut through even the hardest substance. You would be able to slice everything with a single touch of the tip of the blade. It is important that you keep these blades or knives away from the reach of children. You can also get to read different reviews that you can find in the website. You would not have to look further to buy any knives after you get the best one.

Get the Ultimate Knife Block

Knife Block

Click for larger image and other views

Wusthof Create-A-Set Knife Storage Block Feature

• For the pro or home chef who already has the perfect cutlery collection in mind or in hand
• Set includes a 9-inch honing steel, kitchen shears, and an angled wood storage block
• Knife block features 17 slots
• Come-apart shears separate for easy cleaning
• Sharpening steel is magnetic

Wusthof Create-A-Set Knife Storage Block Overview

The Wusthof Create a set includes the three essential items of any knife block set. The set is designed to allow you to choose your perfect set of knives by providing a set that only includes a wood storage block, sharpening steel and a come apart kitchen shear. Unlike knife set where the knives are chosen for you with the create a set you choose the knives that you want to use.

Available In Stock.