We like to think of cooking as an art, and it can become that with time and experience. But first, it begins as a trade and the knife is your primary tool. Lots of people will go through life never experiencing the effortless and precise feel of great culinary knives. But for those of us who are life-long cooks, great knives are just a matter of time, and once you've used one there is no going back.

Your kitchen knives, particularly your essential pieces, should be an investment in your love of food and cooking. Quality knives will reward you with safe, enjoyable performance every day and inspiration over a lifetime. And all the while your skills will grow using the right tools for the right jobs.