There’s a common misconception about knives in the home. Many people are nervous about using the very sharp blades found in the best chef knife sets. Although a wound from a sharp knife can be serious, the likelihood of an injury occurring is vastly increased when using a blunt one.
Ideally, a knife should perform it’s task with the minimum of pressure, or force. In the absence of a sharp cutting edge, more force is needed and that is what leads to slips and accidents. A top quality chef’s knife will retain it’s keen edge for prolonged periods and make life easier and less dangerous. It’s ability to do so, is greater with the higher priced sets. A wooden, or plastic, chopping board, rather than the inexplicably popular glass ones, will also help to maintain the sharpness.
