9 Best Kitchen Knife Sets with Blocks (November 2026)

The best kitchen knife sets with blocks include the McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block for built-in sharpening, the Astercook Knife Set for guarded storage, and the Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block for coated block sets.

On this page (3 sections)

1. The best kitchen knife sets with block storage
2. How to choose a knife block set for your kitchen
3. Which kitchen knife set with block should you choose?

The best kitchen knife sets with block storage combine useful blade sizes, safe countertop organization and a practical sharpening method.

Our top pick is the McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block because it includes 15 pieces, forged German stainless steel knives and a built-in sharpener.

That combination suits cooks who prepare food most days and want the main tools in one visible place.

A block set works best when you use several knife types and want them within reach.

It also helps when loose knives in a drawer would knock against other utensils or hide at the back.

Before choosing, consider your counter space, cleaning habits and whether you need steak knives, shears or a bread knife.

Counter space matters because a block needs a fixed spot and enough headroom to lift knives out safely.

Cleaning habits matter because some sets are described as dishwasher safe while others recommend hand washing and prompt drying.

The included tools matter because steak knives add serving value, while shears and a bread knife cover different everyday tasks.

Think about the blade sizes you reach for first, such as a chef knife for chopping and a paring knife for small work.

A larger set can cover more tasks, but it can also feel crowded if you rarely use every piece.

A smaller set can leave room for the knives you actually use and may be easier to clean.

Storage style is another decision, since a block sits on the counter while guarded knives can move into a cupboard.

Sharpening style also counts, because a built-in sharpener supports routine upkeep in a different way than a separate sharpening steel.

For a primer on blade shapes, read our guide to types of kitchen knives.

If you do not want steak knives, compare these best knife block sets without steak knives.

Use those guides to narrow the shape, size and storage choices before you compare full sets.

Then compare the pieces, care needs and footprint against the meals you cook most often.

That approach keeps the choice practical and avoids paying for tools that will stay unused.

It also helps you spot whether a block, a sharpener or a compact guarded set fits your kitchen better.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for built-in sharpening

   McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for guarded storage

   Astercook Knife Set

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for coated block sets

   Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set

   Best for a traditional hardwood block
   Check it
5. 5

   Amazon Basics 14-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel

   Best for classic full-tang value
   Check it
6. 6

   Farberware 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set

   Best for a new kitchen
   Check it
7. 7

   Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block

   Best for detailed prep
   Check it
8. 8

   Brewin Knife Set

   Best for a compact modern block
   Check it
9. 9

   Astercook Knife Set

   Best for full-tang styling
   Check it

The best kitchen knife sets with block storage

The McCook set is the strongest all-around choice, while the other picks focus on guarded storage, coated blades, traditional sharpening or a smaller countertop footprint.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

That mix means the ranking is not only about piece count.

It also reflects how the knives are stored, how they are cleaned and how the edge is maintained.

Some cooks will value a block that stays on the counter for daily access.

Others will prefer guards that allow cupboard storage, travel or a smaller footprint.

Coated blades suit buyers who want a coordinated finish and easier upkeep.

A sharpening steel suits cooks who already know how to use one during regular prep.

A compact set suits smaller counters and simpler cooking routines.

The comparisons below follow those different priorities rather than treating every set as the same.

1

McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block: Best for built-in sharpening

9.7/10Our score

• 15 pieces
• Built-in sharpener
• Forged German stainless steel
• Bamboo wood block

This complete set combines everyday knives, steak knives, shears and a block with an integrated sharpener. It suits cooks who want countertop storage and a simple way to maintain the edge.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Built-in sharpener
• Full tang construction
• Includes 6 steak knives

Cons

• Hand washing is recommended
• Not dishwasher safe

McCook is the best fit for cooks who want a large set with sharpening built into the storage block. The 15-piece collection includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 5 in santoku, 5.5 in serrated utility knife, 5 in utility knife and 3.5 in paring knife.

It also includes six 4.5 in serrated steak knives, 2 pairs of kitchen shears and a wood block with an integrated sharpener. That mix covers daily prep, serving and many common cutting tasks without needing several separate purchases.

The knives use forged German stainless steel, a 15° cutting angle and full tang construction. The stainless steel handles are designed for balanced control, while the block keeps the pieces together on the counter.

Hand washing is recommended, and the set is not dishwasher safe. Choose McCook when integrated sharpening and a broad assortment matter more than easy dishwasher cleanup.

2

Astercook Knife Set: Best for guarded storage

9.7/10Our score

• 13 pieces
• 6 blade guards
• Anti-rust coating
• Dishwasher safe

Astercook covers core prep tasks with six knives, shears and six guards. It is a strong fit when you need compact cupboard storage instead of a countertop block.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Six blade guards
• Dishwasher-safe design
• Easy to carry

Cons

• No knife block
• Plastic handles

The 13-piece Astercook is the better choice when you want individual blade protection instead of a countertop block. It includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 7 in santoku, 8 in serrated bread knife, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, kitchen shears and 6 blade guards.

The guards allow compact storage in a cupboard and make the knives easier to carry for camping, picnics or RV storage. This is a meaningful difference from the block sets, which need a fixed counter location.

An in-drawer knife block organizer is another way to keep knives off the counter.

Its high-carbon stainless steel blades have an anti-rust coating and the set is dishwasher safe. Astercook also describes a 15° cutting angle and ergonomic handles with anti-slip support.

Choose this set if storage flexibility matters most. It is not the right pick if you specifically want a block to display and organize the knives on the counter.

3

Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block: Best for coated block sets

9.6/10Our score

• 15 pieces
• Built-in sharpener
• Black anti-rust coating
• Hardwood block

This Astercook set gives you a full block arrangement with steak knives, shears and a built-in sharpener. The black coated finish suits cooks who want a coordinated countertop look.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Built-in sharpener
• Includes 6 steak knives
• Dishwasher-safe design

Cons

• Heavier than some compact sets
• Block takes counter space

This Astercook is a strong fit for a full block set with a dark coordinated finish. The 15-piece assortment includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 7 in santoku, 8 in serrated bread knife, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six 4.5 in steak knives, shears and a black hardwood block.

The block has a built-in sharpener, so routine edge maintenance stays in the same place as the knives. The blades use 1.4116 high-carbon German stainless steel with a black non-stick and anti-rust coating.

Astercook describes the set as dishwasher safe and includes a lifetime warranty system. Even with dishwasher-safe care, drying knives promptly can help keep the block area clean and orderly.

Pick this model if you want a 15-piece block set with coated blades and integrated sharpening. Its larger assortment also means more counter space than a compact set.

4

Henckels Statement 15 pc Knife Block Set: Best for a traditional hardwood block

9.5/10Our score

• 15 pieces
• 14-slot hardwood block
• Sharpening steel
• German engineered

Henckels pairs a broad knife selection with a hardwood block, kitchen shears and a sharpening steel. Its stamped construction offers a lighter alternative to forged knives.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Includes sharpening steel
• Full tang knives
• Six steak knives

Cons

• Stamped rather than forged
• Large block footprint

Henckels suits cooks who prefer a traditional hardwood block and a separate sharpening steel. The 15-piece set includes a 3 in parer, 5 in serrated utility knife, 5 in and 7 in santoku knives, an 8 in bread knife, an 8 in chef knife, six 4.5 in steak knives, shears and a 9 in sharpening steel.

The 14-slot hardwood block gives every included piece a defined storage position. Its stamped stainless steel blades are lighter than forged knives, and the full tang with triple-rivet handles supports control during prep.

The set is designed for dishwasher or hand cleaning, and the blades are described as stain and rust free. The sharpening steel helps maintain the existing edge between larger sharpening sessions, but it requires a separate technique from a built-in sharpener.

Choose Henckels for a classic block arrangement and broad knife coverage. Its block is substantial, so measure your counter before ordering.

5

Amazon Basics 14-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel: Best for classic full-tang value

9.4/10Our score

• 14 pieces
• High-carbon stainless steel
• Full tang handles
• Pinewood block

This set covers chef, slicing, bread, utility, paring and steak-knife tasks, with shears and a sharpener. It suits a first kitchen that needs a broad traditional set.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Includes sharpener
• Includes 6 steak knives

Cons

• Hand washing is recommended
• Plastic handles

Amazon Basics offers a traditional 14-piece mix for a first kitchen. It includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 8 in bread knife, 5.5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six 4.5 in steak knives, 8 in kitchen scissors, an 8 in sharpener and a pinewood block.

The high-carbon stainless steel blades use full tang, triple-riveted handles for balance and control. That construction gives the set a familiar feel for cooks who want a standard chef knife and a wide range of supporting tools.

The care guidance is practical: hand wash and dry the knives immediately, then wipe the block with a damp cloth and air-dry it upside down at least once per month. This matters because a wooden block needs occasional cleaning around the knife slots.

Pick Amazon Basics for a classic assortment with a sharpener and six steak knives. Choose Brewin instead if you need fewer pieces and a dishwasher-safe block.

6

Farberware 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set: Best for a new kitchen

9.2/10Our score

• 15 pieces
• High-carbon stainless steel
• Black pinewood block
• Sharpening steel

Farberware supplies a wide mix of prep knives, six steak knives, shears and a sharpening steel. The set works well for a first apartment, registry or kitchen refresh.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Broad knife selection
• Includes sharpening steel
• Ergonomic handles

Cons

• Hand washing is recommended
• Plastic and stainless steel handle materials

Farberware is suited to a new kitchen that needs prep knives, serving knives and basic maintenance tools in one box. The 15-piece set includes an 8 in chef knife, 6 in bread knife, 6 in slicer, 5 in serrated utility knife, 4.5 in santoku, 3 in paring knife, shears, sharpening steel, six 4.5 in steak knives and a black pinewood block.

The blades are high-carbon stainless steel, and the handles use plastic and stainless steel with a satin finish. That combination gives you a broad task range while keeping the set visually coordinated on the counter.

Hand washing and drying are recommended to maintain the high-carbon steel. The sharpening steel is useful for regular edge upkeep, but it does not replace careful sharpening when a blade becomes very dull.

Choose Farberware for a complete starter collection or registry-style gift. Its 6 lb weight and larger block make it less suited to a very small counter.

7

Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block: Best for detailed prep

9.0/10Our score

• 15 pieces
• Forged high-carbon stainless steel
• Full tang
• 8 in sharpening steel

Cuisinart adds both a standard paring knife and a bird's beak paring knife to its complete block set. It suits cooks who want detailed prep tools alongside the main chef and slicing knives.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Forged full tang construction
• Includes bird's beak paring knife
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Hand washing is recommended
• 6.2 lb set weight

Cuisinart stands out for cooks who want more detailed prep options in a forged set. Along with the 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 7 in santoku and 5.5 in serrated utility knife, it includes both a 3.5 in paring knife and a 2.75 in bird's beak paring knife.

The set also includes six 4.5 in steak knives, household shears, an 8 in sharpening steel and a wooden block. Its high-carbon stainless steel blades are forged from one piece, with full tangs, triple rivets and an extra-wide safety bolster.

The white handles give the block a coordinated appearance. Hand washing and immediate drying help maintain the finish, while the sharpening steel supports edge maintenance between more intensive sharpening.

For more Cuisinart options, see our guide to the best Cuisinart knife block set. Pick this set if a bird's beak paring knife and forged construction are more useful to you than a built-in sharpener.

8

Brewin Knife Set: Best for a compact modern block

8.9/10Our score

• 8 pieces
• Universal block
• Knife sharpener
• Drainage holes

Brewin focuses on five core knives, scissors, a sharpener and a universal block. It is a practical choice when you want fewer pieces and a modern storage design.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact 8-piece format
• Universal block
• Dishwasher-safe knives and block

Cons

• No steak knives
• Smaller assortment than 15-piece sets

Brewin is the compact choice in this roundup, with 8 pieces instead of the larger 14- and 15-piece assortments.

It includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 8 in bread knife, 5 in utility knife, 5 in santoku, kitchen scissors, a knife sharpener and a universal knife block.

That selection covers the main prep tasks without adding six steak knives.

It suits cooks who want fewer pieces and a block that fits a modest counter area.

The blades use German 1.4116 stainless steel and have a coated finish.

Brewin describes a 14–16° edge per side, a 56+ Rockwell hardness rating and textured anti-slip dots on the polypropylene handles.

Those details point to a sharp edge for everyday slicing and chopping, with grip support during wet tasks.

The universal polypropylene block has drainage holes, and both the knives and block are dishwasher safe.

That makes the set easier to clean than picks that recommend hand washing.

Drainage holes also help the block dry more easily after washing, which supports cleaner storage.

Choose Brewin when you want essential knives, a sharpener and modern storage without six steak knives.

It is less suitable for households that want a complete serving set.

9

Astercook Knife Set: Best for full-tang styling

8.8/10Our score

• 14 pieces
• Full tang construction
• Built-in sharpener
• Hardwood block

This Astercook set combines full-tang knives with a cream-white look, six steak knives and built-in sharpening. It suits buyers who want a coordinated block set with a broad assortment.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Includes 6 steak knives
• Built-in sharpener

Cons

• Block takes counter space
• 3.66 kg set weight

This Astercook gives you a 14-piece full-tang set with a cream-white style.

The assortment includes an 8 in chef knife, 8 in slicing knife, 8 in serrated bread knife, 5 in utility knife, 3.5 in paring knife, six 4.5 in steak knives, kitchen shears and a hardwood block with built-in sharpener.

That mix covers everyday prep, bread, serving and basic kitchen cutting tasks.

The high-carbon stainless steel blades and stainless steel handles suit cooks who prefer full-tang construction.

Full tang construction means the blade steel continues through the handle, which supports balance and control during chopping.

The block keeps the complete collection together, while the integrated sharpener provides a convenient maintenance option.

A built-in sharpener keeps routine edge care in the same place as storage.

The set weighs 3.66 kg, so it is a substantial countertop collection.

Measure the storage area and leave enough room to remove knives without reaching across other tools.

Pick it for full-tang styling, six steak knives and built-in sharpening.

The higher score of the other Astercook block set reflects its broader stated coating and dishwasher-safe details.

How to choose a knife block set for your kitchen

Start with the knives you use most.

An 8 in chef knife handles general chopping, while a paring knife helps with small produce and detail work.

Those two sizes form the core of most daily prep, from onions and herbs to trimming and garnish.

For sets centered on this blade, see our chef knife sets.

A bread knife matters if you regularly cut crusty loaves, and a slicing knife helps with larger cooked foods.

A santoku can suit a chopping style that uses a rocking or straight cut on vegetables and smaller ingredients.

A utility knife fills the middle ground between a paring knife and a chef knife for produce, packaging and smaller prep tasks.

Next, decide whether you want steak knives included.

McCook, both larger Astercook block sets, Henckels, Amazon Basics, Farberware and Cuisinart include six steak knives.

Those sets suit households that serve steak or other table meats and want matching knives ready at mealtime.

If you do not need them, a smaller set can leave more room for the knives you actually use.

Without steak knives, the block can be more compact and the price focus stays on prep tools.

Shears are another useful extra because they handle poultry, herbs, packaging and kitchen tasks that a blade may not suit.

A bread knife is worth keeping if loaves are a regular part of meals, but it is less essential for cooks who buy sliced bread.

Match the assortment to your normal shopping and cooking patterns rather than to an ideal kitchen.

If you rarely serve steak, paying for six steak knives may add storage pressure without daily benefit.

If you serve them often, a coordinated set saves the need to buy serving knives separately.

Blade size also affects control and storage, since longer knives need more height and a deeper slot.

Smaller knives can be easier for detail work, while larger knives give more leverage for dense ingredients.

The right mix should feel complete for your routines without forcing you to store tools you seldom touch.

Do you want a built-in sharpener or sharpening steel?

A built-in sharpener is the simplest choice for routine maintenance. McCook and the two Astercook block sets place the sharpener in the block, while Brewin includes a separate sharpener.

Henckels, Farberware and Cuisinart include sharpening steels. A steel helps realign an edge during regular upkeep, but it does not perform the same role as removing metal to create a new edge.

For more options, compare the best kitchen knife sets with a sharpener and best knife block sets with sharpeners.

How much counter space does the block need?

Measure the block's footprint and height, then check the space above it. A block should sit where you can lift each knife out safely without hitting cabinets, lights or nearby appliances.

If your counter is crowded, guarded knives may be easier to store in a drawer or cupboard. Our guide to the best knife sets for drawers covers that alternative.

What care keeps a knife block set ready?

Follow the care instructions for the exact set. Hand wash and dry knives promptly when recommended, and keep wooden blocks dry.

Amazon Basics specifically recommends wiping its pinewood block with a damp cloth and air-drying it upside down at least once per month.

Do not place loose knives in a drawer where blades can strike other tools. Use guards when included, keep the block stable and remove one knife at a time by its handle.

For stainless steel-focused options, see the best stainless steel knife block set guide.

Which kitchen knife set with block should you choose?

Choose the McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block if you want the strongest mix of 15 pieces, forged German stainless steel and built-in sharpening.

It suits cooks who want a broad set with storage and routine edge maintenance in one place.

Choose the 13-piece Astercook if guarded cupboard storage matters more than a block.

That option suits smaller counters, renters and cooks who want to carry knives for camping or picnics.

For a traditional hardwood setup, pick Henckels.

Its sharpening steel and classic block arrangement suit cooks who prefer separate edge maintenance.

For a compact modern collection, pick Brewin.

That set suits smaller kitchens and buyers who want fewer pieces with dishwasher-safe storage.

If you want detailed prep tools, Cuisinart's bird's beak paring knife gives it a clear reason to stand apart.

That smaller paring shape can help with precise work that a standard paring knife may not suit as well.

For a first kitchen, a broad set with a chef knife, paring knife, utility knife and block is a practical starting point.

For a refresh, compare the care rules first, since hand washing and dishwasher-safe sets fit different routines.

Measure your counter before choosing any block set, because every block needs safe lifting room.

Consider whether steak knives earn their space in your home before paying for a larger assortment.

See our broader guide to the best kitchen knife sets if you are still comparing block and non-block storage.

That guide can help if you prefer drawer storage, individual guards or a set without a countertop block.

The best choice is the one that matches your cooking habits, cleaning routine and available space.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for built-in sharpening

   McCook Knife Set Kitchen Steel Knife Block

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for guarded storage

   Astercook Knife Set

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for coated block sets

   Astercook Knife Set for Kitchen with Block

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What should a kitchen knife set with a block include?

A useful kitchen knife set with a block usually includes an 8 in chef knife, a paring knife, a utility knife and storage. Larger sets may add a bread knife, slicing knife, santoku, steak knives, shears and a sharpening tool.

Choose the mix that matches how you cook.

Are built-in knife sharpeners useful?

A built-in knife sharpener gives you a convenient way to maintain an edge without storing a separate tool. McCook, Astercook and the later Astercook pick include one in the block.

Use light, controlled passes and follow the care instructions for the set.

Should kitchen knives go in the dishwasher?

Check the care instructions for your exact set. Astercook and Brewin describe dishwasher-safe designs, while McCook, Amazon Basics and Farberware recommend hand washing or hand washing for best results.

Dry knives promptly and keep blades from striking other utensils.

Do knife blocks take up much counter space?

Yes, a knife block needs a permanent countertop spot and enough room to remove each knife safely. Measure the available area before buying.

If your counters are crowded, a guarded set such as the 13-piece Astercook can store in a cupboard instead.