First, a chef’s knife is one of the only knives you need in your kitchen, but like any good gear, it must be sturdy, strong, and serve multiple purposes. The Global 8″ Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife certainly does that but manages to retain the modern Japanese design Global has become famous for. Unlike a Slap-Chop, you’ll make mincemeat out of your meal preparations with it’s hollow ground blade which provide air pockets as you slice to prevent sticking (think: perfectly sliced tomatoes).

Manufactured in Niigata, Japan, a Global Chef Knife is renown for three things. First, its straight tip, versus the more traditional Wester bevelled edge. This creates a remarkably sharp edge (1/4″ longer than most) that you can actually see it with the naked eye. Secondly, the Global Chef’s knife, like a BMW, is perfectly balanced front to back. Global actually creates a hollow handle which is then filled with the exact amount of sand to balance the knife perfectly. And last but not least is the Globals’ construction, which is comprised of CROMOVA 18 stainless steel, a mix of Chromium, (for stain resistance), Molybdenum, and Vanadium (edge retention). With proper care, a Global Chef’s knife might just outlast your kitchen. If not, it does come with a lifetime warranty.

Cost: $105