The Basics of Selecting a Sushi Knife Set 
According to the kitchen veterans, selecting a sushi knife set is something that requires thorough research as there are certain things you need to know to help you distinguish what seems to look good, from what actually is the best and right for you. If you have a sushi knife set, and have already found out that it doesn’t meet your standards as evidenced by the outcome of your puffer fish or tuna, then you’re about to see why. 1. High carbon steel – this is what composes a high-quality sushi knife. Dating back in the 16th century, this kind of steel was used in making military and samurai swords. After the wars ended, sword smiths concentrated instead on cutlery production so as not to waste their skill. Knives made from high carbon steel are held in high esteem, the traditional handle usually being round wood and tapered towards the blade. They are also mostly sharpened on one side so as to provide a cleaner cut. 2. Specific knife for a specific job – are you sure that knife you got for the puffer fish or tuna is the one designed to handle such? There are different kinds of sushi knives and each has its own specialty. For example, the “fugu hiki” is exactly designed for the puffer fish and for bigger fish such as tuna, it is best to use knives with large blades. The sashimi knife on the other hand, is the most often used all-purpose knife. Being aware of the differences will help give you a better “cutting experience”. 3. Price range selection – then again, it may be that you don’t have a quality sushi knife set because you settled for low-end bargains. The cheapest come at around $25 and go all the way up to over $1,000. Obviously, the cheap ones have a tendency not to hold their edge and are not as sharp as expected. To avoid confusing your brain on the price issue, choose a price point where you are most comfortable and buy the best within that range. 4. Sharpening stone. – never use a mechanical sharpener as you risk ruining the blade. That type is only good for knives with both edges sharpened. For maintenance purposes and to ensure that your sushi knife set stays as sharp, accurate, and clean as it should be, always make a purchase with a sharpening stone.
