Stainless steel is a harder metal. A stainless steel knife holds its edge, but it’s difficult to sharpen using home tools. You'll need to take it to a professional sharpener if it gets too dull.

There’s nothing quite like the feel of a new, factory-sharp chef’s knife – or cook's knife as it's also known. It’s easy to fall in love with a knife as you’re slicing up tomatoes and ...