I've never had a "nice" set of knives before. These are great! They have a nice feel in my hands. The only reason I didn't give them a 5 star rating is because the kitchen scissors do not come apart. The scissors I bought at Smart & Final come apart for easy washing and drying.

I debated this purchase for a while and am very glad to have purchased these well balanced knives.

I have this set for about a month now and I am very happy with it. The set contains a good variety of knives that are well made and seem to hold their edge. I understand that they need a bit more care because of the type of steel used, but I prefer the extra care over using a poor quality knife. I wash and dry them individually and I haven't noticed any staining.

I think for the money the block could be made bigger to hold all the knives. I also think the steak knives are not quite as sturdy as the other knives in the set. However, these are the only shortcomings I've noticed. I also like that the set includes a bread knife. I find this very useful and a lot of inexpensive sets leave one out.

This is a good value for the price. I also like the labelled handles, it's a very nice touch.

I've noted many reviews for $99-$200 knife-sets for most manufacturers (KitchenAid, Cuisinart, and Calphalon) complaining about "staining" or "rusting" of knives. I contacted Calphalon customer service department with the question if it was true for this set, and if it is true, what solution is there to prevent/clean staining. Here is their email response:

"Due to the high carbon content, if the knives are not cared for
correctly, they can rust. If the knives are exposed to moisture for a very long time, they can begin to rust. Also, washing in the dishwasher can cause rusting due to the harsh detergents. If the knives are cared for correctly and are hand washed and dried completely after use, you will not have any rusting.

If the knives were to rust, you can restore the stainless steel by washing them with the cleaner Bar Keepers Friend, hot water and a nylon sponge. This is true for all of the knives.

Thank you,
Consumer Relations"

Hope this helps in your decisions.

When choosing any cutting tool, whether you're slicing food or shaping wood or anything else, three things are desirable:

1. Your tool should hold an edge for a long time (although nothing holds an edge forever)
2. It should be easy to sharpen
3. It should resist corrosion and/or staining

Unfortunately, there's a law of metallurgy that you can't ignore -- PICK ANY TWO of the three. Sorry about that, we just have to deal with it. And as pretty as stainless steel knives are, the problem with stainless is that once the edge is dull it's nearly impossible to get it back. Choose SS kitchen knives and within a year they'll be useless for cutting anything. The sad thing is that consumer preferences ave driven practically everything *except* SS knives off the market.

I was incredibly happy when I found these, and when I got them they didn't disappoint. I'll confirm all the positive things others have said about these knives -- beautiful fit-and-finish, handy to use, everything else. Best of all, they are SHARP and unlike a SS chef's knife you're able to KEEP them sharp. It's a superior product. Toweling them off after washing them by hand is a very small price to pay for having a knife that actually WORKS.

I've had this set of knives for quite some time now (more than a year). They're heavy, they're sharp, and they definitely get the job done.

On the edge of the handle on each piece (except for the 6 steak knives) is etched a description of what each piece is. This makes for easy selection when taking one out of the storage block for use.

Everyone that has used them in my kitchen has told me how much they really like them.

I noticed someone here online saying that their set was staining from washing them in the dishwasher. I've ONLY washed mine in the dishwasher and haven't noticed any staining whatsoever.

Are there any negatives to this set? Just one. The block needs 3 more slits in it! It holds all pieces except for 3 of the steak knives. This was also pointed out by at least a couple of other reviewers on this item. In my case, since I don't have any children in my home I can place the remaining 3 in a kitchen drawer. Still, it would have been nice to have a block that could hold ALL of the cutlery.

To recap, a great set of knives that you will be happy to own and use. Get ready for positive feedback from visitors to your kitchen as well!

As my cooking skills increased beyond the capability of an old set of Farberware knives (which could not be sharpened), I found myself in search of a new set. I didn't want to spend a king's ransom, but was really looking for quality.

I looked at every knife set in the $200 price range at BB&B. I found myself greatly disappointed with the low-end Henckels set - cheap construction and a flimsy blade. I finally settled on the Calphalon set because the knives have fantastic balance, sturdy, heavy-duty blades, and a comfortable grip. And they're not too heavy, either. When I brought the set home and tried it out, I was even more impressed with the quality of the set. These knives cut through everything like "a hot knife through butter," substantially reducing hand fatigue/strain when you cut a lot of stuff. In addition, I have tiny hands. My husband has huge hands. The grips on these knives are comfortable for both of us. (high end Henckels knives felt a little too big to be comfortable in my hand)

You'll want to pick up a 3 1/2" paring knife, a boning knife and a cleaver, but other than that, this is a fantastic set for the $$. Certainly better than low-end Henckels or Wustof, and IMHO is quite competitive with the mid-to-high range Henckels.

One last thought: HAND WASH ONLY. These knives are stainless steel, but diswasher detergent can stain the blades.

I purchased the 15 piece set, thought they were a good price. After using for a couple months they started staining. I had cheaper sets of knives that didn't stain at all. They do hold a nice edge, but everytime you go to use them you have to clean real well so the people you have over don't think your giving them dirty knives. Upon contacting the company they say it is normal for them to stain and you have to dry them right away, removing any water on them. seems like good knives shouldn't stain at all . I will probally throw them out and purchase another set from another company. The price may be right but the aggravation isn't worth it.

I am very pleased with the Calphalon knife set. The knives are all heavy, full tang blades, and the handles are ergonomic and easy to work with. They arrived razor sharp, and they hold an edge well. I compared this set to my friend's set of Henckel's, and mine are far superior in quality and price paid. They also match our Calphalon cookware, which is nice. The only drawback is there is no room for the steak knives in the block, which is minor. I think $150 for this set of knives is a very fair price.

I bought this set to replace a Henckels set I bought three years ago. The Henckels set was constantly rusting, and were not very good to begin with (it was a lower end set). So, finally I decided I needed a new set. I compared this set against lower end Wusthof sets (Silverpoint, Emirilware) and this seemed to be the best value. The good reviews for this product is finally what sold me on it. The set looks good, and the knives are good quality (much better than the Henckels set I had). I like how the knives are identified on the bottom. It comes with kitchen shears and a sharpening steel which is really nice.

The reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is because the knife block is not meant to hold the 6 steak knives that come with this set, although you can fit 3 of the steak knives in the 3 additional slots in the block(which are really meant to store the additional "essential" knives that Calphalon assumes you will purchase which do not come with the set wuch as: a boning knife, bird's beak, tomato/bagel, etc.). My old Henckels set held all of the steak knives in the block, which I kept high up on the counter. Now, I don't know what to do with these steak knives, I would keep them in my drawer but I have very small children who know how to get around child safety locks.

But, for the price (I got this set for $156 with tax at Bed Bath and Beyond w/ a 20% off coupon [I also received a free Calphalon Bread Board as well as a gift]), it is a good value.

These knives are great. I have been cooking with inferior knives for years, after finally deciding on these, I am so happy! I have had to get stitches twice, just because I'm not used to the sharpness and precision these knive offer. I highly recommend them, they also look nice on the counter.

I haven't gotten the knives yet, but I just wanted to point out that Bed Bath and Beyond has a regular price of 179.99 for this item - and that store is not known for bargains. On the other hand you can get free shipping with no tax from Amazon. So if you had one of those 20% off store coupons and there was no Amazon promotional at the time, you might look closer at both options. Also you may want to take a look at this in a store before you buy because it looks better on the website (not false advertising by any means, but I was expecting a more polished look for an original MSRP of $400). The shipping was quicker than estimated.

I shopped around for several months and checked out lots of knives (including Henckels and Wusthof) and finally decided on these. I've only had this set for about a month, but I couldn't be more pleased. All of the knives (except the steak knives) are made of forged steel. The knives were sharp out of the box, and have great balance and weight. These are by far the best knives that I've ever used. If you're considering buying a good set of knives, keep these in mind. This set offers very good quality at an unbelievably low price.

these knives are absolutely amazing! quality is just as good as Wusthof or Henckels, but at a fraction of the price. you won't find a better set of knives.....at any price!

This set is wonderfully designed, attractive, and durable. We recently received these knives as a wedding gift and I am absolutely serious when I say that I am excited every time I pull one of them out of the block. They cut through everything that I place at their mercy with ease and precision. From frozen cake to broccoli and even frozen chicken, these knives have proven their worth time after time. They were sharp out of the box, and well packaged at that.

The block is quantitatively heavy piece. I can agree with others in saying that it does look a little busy as there are 15 individual items located within the same block - but the value of what you get is monumental.

My set actually came with 2 free Calphalon cutting boards. I haven't cut anything necessitating the large one yet, but I have used the small one. They are attractive boards with well-made stainless steel handles and store well. Here's the drawback - the small board is starting to split near the top. But then, this review is about the knives and not the cutting boards - right?

i've had this set for a couple weeks now, and it's really a very good set, especially considering the price. the knives are well made and well balanced. they have a very nice heft to them.

the only thing i can complain about is the block... the knives sit very close together, in some cases the handles are even touching each other. makes it a little difficult to pull them out sometimes.

overall though, i'd recommend these to anyone. they're not wusthoffs, but they don't carry the same price tag either.

After a year of researching knives and about 10 years struggling with a bad-quality set, I settled on the Calphalon 15-piece for a few reasons...

*The collection included in this set is comprehensive and sufficient, especially the fact that it includes the steak knives and a scissors.
*You get the "full tang" construction of expensive brands like Henckels and Wusthoff but without the price
*The handle construction is more sealed off and sturdy than the one Wusthoff knife I own, which has rivets in the handle that rust!
*The blades are strong and sharp, and cleanup is easy.
*The labels on the ends of each knife are so helpful--what a great idea!

I am very happy with this set, although I do wish the block had a few more slots. It only fits the knives in the main collection plus three steak knives. They are quite heavy, so do take care when wielding one. Nonetheless, good price, good quality, and great looks!

I just bought my first set of Calphalon Contemporary cutlery and wow what a difference between this set and some other sets I've owned. The edges are incredibly sharp and the labeling concept is truly an ingenious idea. Not to mention the overall design of the product is fantastic. Design, balance, comfort, and a lifetime warranty for half the cost, how can you go wrong? I've owned lesser sets of cutlery before that have cost me far more money. I'm sold on Calphalon's latest line of cutlery and I know I'll never buy any other brand again.

Excellent set for the serious beginner/advanced chef. Has all the blades you could think of and you just have to pick up the 6 inch chef or the 7 inch santoku to complete this set. Other blades are also available as well. Slices like a dream even under heavy use. Overall this should be your second set. Still chopping and slicing...

I recieved a set of these knives for Christmas this year, and they're a real joy to work with. After working with a set of ill suited cheap Farberware knives that never cut well to begin with and couldn't be sharpened, I was (and still am) amazed how quickly these can get any task done, and how easy it is to make accurate cuts. The curving of the handle seen in the large knife in photo (on all handles too!) is a great feature to make grip easier, and they have a good weight to them without being too heavy and cumbersome. Just be sure you hand wash these to keep them in top condition :)

The etched name on each knife is as helpful as I thought it would be.
I have never had knives that require me to sharpen them so it took some getting use to. But the "new" edge is always nice and makes cooking easier.
I like the handles and balance as well. The steak knives are the only negative. They are not very "weighty" or sturdy. It would also be nice if they came with their own small block. The other knives and the shears are all good quality.
Also, you will have 3 empty slots in the block. I bought more knives to match (3.5-inch a paring knife, 5.5-inch bagel knife, and a 5-inch boning knife). They cost me another $60 but, since I cook a lot, they are very useful in the kitchen.
MAY 2007 UPDATE: The Steak knives are spot rusting, but the large knives are as good as new. Would buy again.
DEC 2008 UPDATE: All of the large knives have held up. The spot rusting is minimal and has not gotten any worse than a year ago; their serated edges aer still good.

The produce is exactly what I expected, Quality is first rate, but when it came time to contact Calphalon Customer Relations, the staff left a bit to be desired....I still havn't heard from them and it's been 10 days...very poor customer service...

This is a fantasic set! Excellent weight, forged stainless steel. This is the perfect set for yourself, the experienced chef, or as a gift. The etched ends provide easy identification of tools in the knife block. It would have been great for Calphalon to provide the other 3 knives that would best complete fill the knife block as 3 slots are empty since the 6 bonus steak knives do not fit within. Perhaps they were giving the buyer an opportunity to select the completer knives. My suggestion: the tomato/bagel knife, the bird's beak, and a boning knife.

Awesome, heavyweight knife set. I bought this set for my husband for Christmas and he loves it! The construction of the knives are great and the blades are SHARP! My husband cut his pinky the first time he used one of the knives, so be careful! I started to buy the Wustoff or Henkels and I decided on these since I have tried the Calphalon cookware and love it too. You can't go wrong with these. They are definitely worth the price; and they are a lot less expensive than the other high end knives. The fork is almost scary! I can't see why anyone would need a knife set better than this (unless you're serving grizzly or alligator)!

I finally grew out of my cheap kitchen knife set as my cooking frequency and skills have increased. I looked around at Henckel's and others, and even bought some single pieces. Everyone advises to get German steel, full tang, and a riveted handle. Well, unless you are hung up on the rivets, this is the set. The price is excellent. The heft is great, and the knives fit my large (male) hands very well. After dealing with a "starter" set it's like I've moved on to a whole new level of enjoyment in cooking. As far as the rivets, I noticed that one of the high-end Henckel's (I think 4) doesn't have rivets either. Since purchasing this set, I have also bought the boning knife separately and have found this to be a nice addition.

I have been cooking for many years and find these knives to be better then the high-end cutlery names lower end sets. The balance is great. They are forged, not stamped, look great, and are very sharp. The steel that comes with the set is full size. The steak knives are nice too. If you want to get a $$$$ set for $$$$ buy these knives. They are worth it.

These knives live up to their description. They are first rate, high quality knives with a substantial casting and good sharpness out of box. I really like the contemporary handles with the knife description on the end of the handle. They are quite comfortable and have an excellent balance. They seem like they'll last a lifetime despite the lack of rivets on this style handle.
Only the steak knives are a bit of a disappointment- thus the four stars. Although they are also full tang construction they lack the bolster and just feel a bit lighter duty than the rest of the set. Nevertheless, even your toughest steaks will still cut like butter with these knives. I guess this is what really counts anyway.