Best knife sets

Top pick: Yatoshi Classic 9-piece set — the sweet spot for most kitchens. High-carbon stainless blades, a full set of the knives you actually use, and a strong rating from a large pool of owners. It's the one I'd buy for a first good set.

Who the others suit:

• HexClad Damascus 7-pc — for someone who wants a showpiece: 67-layer Damascus, 60+ Rockwell hardness, espresso pakkawood handles.
• Cutluxe Pro Kitchen Block 15-pc — a big, complete block with 8-inch chef, bread and carving knives.
• IMARKU 10-pc with drawer organizer — if counter space is tight; it stores under the cabinet.
• Our Place Knife Trio — just the three essentials, Japanese high-carbon steel, no clutter.
• Senken Imperial 8-pc — Damascus-look steel on a budget.
• Rada Starter Gift Set — American-made, thin surgical-steel blades; a nice gift.
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 12-pc — style-first block for a starter kitchen.
• HENKELIVING 13-pc / Axidou 7-pc / Ambler 7-pc — cheap starter sets; expect softer steel that needs sharpening more often.