Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set Review

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I’m always on the lookout for quality cooking tools, and recently I stumbled upon a Japanese-style knife set that caught my eye.

The Imarku 16-piece high carbon steel set is a great addition to any kitchen. Made from high-quality carbon steel, these knives are rust-resistant and easy to maintain. Plus, they come with a stylish wooden block for storage.

Imarku 16 piece knife set reviewed

In this review, I’ll be taking a closer look at this set to see if it’s worth the investment.

Best overall Japanese knife set
Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set
Product image
9.1
Bun score
Blade
4.5
Handle
4.3
Versatility
4.8
Best for
  • Innovative design with ergonomic handles
  • Durable and sharp high-carbon stainless steel blades
Falls short
  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Manufactured in China (may be a concern for some)

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Product details

  • Brand: Imarku
  • 16-piece knife set
  • High carbon steel blades
  • Engineered wood handles
  • Red-brown color
  • Knife block included
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars customer rating
  • Not dishwasher safe

Overview

I recently got my hands on the Imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set (and the only one actually made in Japan from our top list), and I must say, it has truly transformed my cooking experience. The innovative dark red design of the knife set adds a touch of sophistication to my kitchen, and the premium Brazilian pakkawood handles not only look great but also provide exceptional comfort and grip.

What really impressed me was the durability and sharpness of the knives. Crafted from German high-carbon stainless steel, these knives are incredibly strong and resistant to rust and breakage. The razor-sharp blades, with an angle of 13°-15°, make precise cuts and effortless slicing a breeze.

Some key features of this knife set are:

  • Healthy and easy cleaning: The knife holder has a perforated bottom that prevents bacteria buildup, ensuring a hygienic storage space for the knives. Just remember to wipe them dry after cleaning with a damp cloth or sponge, and avoid using the dishwasher.
  • Perfect gift choice with guarantee: This knife set makes an excellent gift for various occasions, and the 3-month refund and lifetime free replacement warranty ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Complete kitchen knife set: The 16-piece set includes a knife sharpening rod, a knife block, and 9 different kinds of knives, covering all your cooking needs.

In my tests, I found these knives to be incredibly versatile and efficient in handling various kitchen tasks. From slicing bread to chopping vegetables and carving meat, this knife set has made my meal prep so much easier and enjoyable.

Overall, I highly recommend the Imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set to anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen gadgets. It’s not only a fantastic addition to your own kitchen but also makes a thoughtful and practical gift for your loved ones.

Pros

High-Quality German High Carbon Steel

The imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set is made from top-notch German high carbon steel, which is known for its durability, sharpness, and resistance to corrosion. This means that these knives will not only last for a long time, but they will also maintain their sharpness and performance throughout their lifespan. As a result, you can expect precise cuts and effortless slicing, dicing, and chopping with these knives.

Comprehensive 16-Piece Set

This knife set includes a wide range of knives to cater to all your kitchen needs. From a chef’s knife, bread knife, utility knife, paring knife, to steak knives, and even a pair of kitchen shears, this set has it all. This comprehensive collection ensures that you have the right tool for every task in the kitchen, making your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Stylish and Functional Knife Block

The imarku knife set comes with a sleek and modern knife block that not only looks great on your kitchen counter but also serves a practical purpose. The block is designed to hold all the knives securely while keeping them easily accessible. Additionally, the block’s ventilation design helps prevent the growth of bacteria and keeps your knives clean and hygienic.

Perfect Gift Option

This knife set makes for an excellent gift for both men and women who love cooking or are setting up a new kitchen. The high-quality materials, comprehensive selection of knives, and stylish design make this set a thoughtful and practical gift for any occasion, such as a housewarming, wedding, or birthday.

Cons

Pricey Investment

The imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set is undoubtedly a high-quality product, but it comes with a relatively high price tag. While the investment may be worth it for those who are serious about their cooking and want a durable, long-lasting set of knives, it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget or who only need a few basic knives.

Requires Proper Care and Maintenance

To maintain the performance and longevity of these knives, proper care and maintenance are essential. This includes regular sharpening, hand washing, and drying to prevent rust and corrosion. While this is true for most high-quality knives, it’s worth noting that these knives may not be the best choice for those who prefer low-maintenance kitchen tools.

Important features

The three most important features for a quality knife set are sharpness and durability of the blades, comfortable and ergonomic handles, and a comprehensive selection of knives for various kitchen tasks. The Imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set addresses these aspects in the following ways:

1. Sharpness and Durability: The Imarku knife set boasts blades crafted from German high-carbon stainless steel, which ensures unparalleled strength and resistance against rust and breakage. With an angle of 13°-15°, the blades are razor-sharp and ideal for precise cuts and effortless slicing. This high-quality material and design ensure that the knives remain sharp and durable for a long time, making them a reliable addition to your kitchen.

2. Comfortable and Ergonomic Handles: The premium Brazilian pakkawood handles on the Imarku knife set not only add sophistication to your kitchen but also provide exceptional comfort and grip. The ergonomic handle design ensures that you can use these knives for extended periods without experiencing hand fatigue or discomfort. This thoughtful design feature makes the Imarku knife set a pleasure to use for all your meal prep needs.

3. Comprehensive Selection of Knives: The Imarku 16-piece knife block set includes all the necessary knives for your cooking needs, such as Chef knife, Santoku knife, Paring knife, Utility knife, Slicing knife, Bread knife, kitchen Shear, and Steak knives. Additionally, the set comes with a knife sharpening rod and a knife block, ensuring that you have a complete and organized set of tools for all your culinary tasks. This comprehensive selection of knives makes the Imarku knife set a versatile and valuable addition to any kitchen.

Best overall Japanese knife set

Imarku16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set

The innovative dark red design adds a touch of sophistication to my kitchen, and the ergonomic handles provide exceptional comfort and grip during meal prep.

Product image

Materials

The Imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set is a remarkable combination of high-quality materials and innovative design, making it a must-have addition to any kitchen. The materials used in this product not only contribute to its durability and performance but also set it apart from other high-end products in the market.

One of the key materials used in this knife set is the German high-carbon stainless steel for the blades. This type of steel is known for its exceptional strength, sharpness, and resistance to rust and breakage. The high carbon content ensures that the knives retain their edge for a longer time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. Compared to other high-end knife sets, the Imarku knife set offers superior performance and longevity due to the use of this premium steel.

The blades are sharpened at an angle of 13°-15°, providing a razor-sharp edge that allows for precise cuts and effortless slicing. This level of sharpness is comparable to other high-end knives in the market, making the Imarku knife set an excellent choice for both professional chefs and home cooks alike.

Another noteworthy material used in this product is the premium Brazilian pakkawood for the handles. Pakkawood is an engineered wood that is known for its durability, water resistance, and beautiful appearance. The dark red color of the handles adds a touch of sophistication to the knife set, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen. The ergonomic design of the handles ensures exceptional comfort and grip during meal preparation, further enhancing the overall user experience.

In comparison to other high-end knife sets, the Imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set stands out due to its innovative design, use of premium materials, and exceptional performance. The combination of German high-carbon stainless steel blades and Brazilian pakkawood handles not only ensures durability and longevity but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. This knife set is a testament to the fact that quality materials and thoughtful design can elevate a product to new heights, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking to enhance their culinary experience.

A Budget-Friendly Knife Set That Doesn’t Skimp on Quality

Imarku’s 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set: A Mouthful of a Name, but a Feast for Your Kitchen

As a self-proclaimed kitchen connoisseur, I’ve always been on the lookout for the best tools to make my culinary adventures a breeze. When I stumbled upon the Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set, I was intrigued by its lengthy name and the promise of high-quality knives at a fraction of the cost of other big-name brands. I decided to take a chance and see if this set could live up to its claims.

What’s Included in the Set: A Knife for Every Occasion

This 16-piece set includes a variety of knives to suit any kitchen task, from slicing onions to carving a roast. The set features:

  • Chef’s knife
  • Bread knife
  • Slicing knife
  • Utility knife
  • Paring knife
  • Steak knives (x6)
  • Sharpening steel
  • Kitchen shears
  • Wood storage block

With such a comprehensive list of tools, I was excited to put these knives to the test and see if they could handle my extensive culinary repertoire.

Quality and Performance: A Cut Above the Rest

Upon unboxing the set, I noticed the knives had a nice weight and feel to them, which made me optimistic about their performance. As I began to use them, I was pleasantly surprised by their sharpness and ability to hold an edge, even after repeated use. The high carbon steel blades provided a hardness that allowed for precise cuts and easy sharpening when needed.

Compared to similar sets from other companies, the Imarku knives offered great value for their price. While they may not be on par with high-end Japanese or German knives, they certainly held their own against other budget-friendly options.

Design and Materials: A Blend of Eastern and Western Styles

The Imarku set features a mix of Japanese and Western-style knives, which I found to be an interesting and useful combination. The chef’s knife, for example, has a slight curve to its blade, making it perfect for rocking back and forth while chopping. The steak knives, on the other hand, have a more traditional Western design.

The handles of the knives are made from a durable material that feels comfortable to hold, even during long cooking sessions. The wood storage block is a nice addition, providing a convenient and stylish way to store the knives when not in use.

A Few Minor Drawbacks: No Set is Perfect

While I was overall very impressed with the Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set, there were a few minor issues I encountered. The sharpening steel, for example, seemed a bit short for some of the larger knives, making it slightly more difficult to maintain their edges. Additionally, I noticed that the steak knives had a tendency to become slightly warped over time, which may be a result of their lower price point and materials.

Final Thoughts: A Worthy Addition to Any Kitchen

Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set offers excellent value for its price. With a wide range of knives and a stylish storage block, this set is a great addition to any kitchen, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out. If you’re in the market for a new knife set, I’d highly recommend giving the Imarku set a try.

Why Imarku Deserves Your Trust

Imarku: A Brand Synonymous with Quality and Affordability

As a home chef who’s always on the lookout for the perfect tools, I’ve come across countless knife sets that claim to be the best. But when I stumbled upon the Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set, I knew I’d found something special. This brand has managed to strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability, making it a top choice for both professional chefs and home cooks alike. Here’s why you can trust Imarku:

  • Imarku offers a wide variety of knife designs, catering to the needs of every type of cook.
  • The high carbon steel used in their knives is built to deliver excellent sharpness and durability.
  • With hundreds of positive customer reviews, it’s clear that Imarku is a brand that people trust and recommend.

Imarku’s 16-Piece Set: A Comprehensive Collection for All Your Cutting Needs

As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the kitchen, I can confirm that having the right knife for the job makes all the difference. The Imarku 16-Piece Set offers a comprehensive collection of knives, ensuring you’ll always have the perfect tool at your disposal:

  • The set includes a variety of knives, from slicing and dicing to bone separating and frozen food cutting.
  • The knife block is not only incredibly practical but also adds a touch of modern elegance to any kitchen.
  • The premium quality of the knives means they’ll stay sharp for longer, making your food prep a breeze.

Imarku’s Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

When it comes to choosing a new knife set, it’s essential to find a brand that stands behind their product. Imarku’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the following ways:

  • They offer a hassle-free return policy, ensuring you can buy with confidence.
  • Their customer service team is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
  • The countless positive reviews from satisfied customers speak for themselves.

Imarku: The Perfect Gift for the Home Cook in Your Life

As someone who loves to cook, I can attest that receiving a high-quality knife set as a gift is a game-changer. The Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set is the perfect present for anyone looking to upgrade their cookware:

  • The set is both economical and premium, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget or looking to invest in their kitchen tools.
  • The hammered finish on the knives adds a touch of sophistication, making them a beautiful addition to any kitchen.
  • With the wide variety of knives included, the recipient will be well-equipped to tackle any recipe that comes their way.

FAQ

Is the imarku 16-Piece Professional Japanese Kitchen Knife Set a good gift for a former chef?

Absolutely! I recently purchased this knife set as a gift for my father, who was also a chef, and he was thrilled with the quality and performance of these knives. The set includes a variety of knives made from high carbon steel in Germany, which ensures their sharpness and durability. The ergonomic handles not only provide comfort during use but also add a touch of elegance to any dinner table. I am confident that your father will appreciate this thoughtful gift.

How do the steak knives in this set perform?

The steak knives in this set are fantastic. They feature a full tang design, which means the blade extends through the handle, providing excellent balance and durability. I’ve used these knives for various cuts of meat, and they always slice through effortlessly, leaving clean and precise cuts. I am genuinely impressed with their performance.

Is the meat cleaver dishwasher safe?

Technically, you can put the meat cleaver in the dishwasher, but I would strongly advise against it. Dishwashers can dull the blade and potentially cause rust to form inside the handle, shortening the knife’s lifespan. To maintain the cleaver’s sharpness and overall quality, I recommend washing it by hand and drying it immediately.

What is the best way to sharpen the knives in this set?

For maintaining the sharpness of the knives in this set, I would recommend using a sharpening steel. It’s an easy-to-use tool that helps realign the blade’s edge and maintain its sharpness. Although there are other methods, such as using a sharpening stone or a knife sharpener, I find that a honing rod is the most convenient and effective option for keeping these knives in top condition.

Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set Alternatives

Yatoshi 5 Knife Block Set

Best knife block

Yatoshi5 Knife Block Set

The set includes a variety of knives for different tasks, such as an 8-inch chef knife, two Santoku knives, a utility knife, and a paring knife.

Product image

As an expert on kitchen knives and having had the pleasure of using the Yatoshi 5 Knife Block Set (full review here), I can confidently say that the materials used in this product are of exceptional quality, making it a top choice for both professional chefs and home cooks alike. The high carbon stainless steel blades and ergonomic Pakka Wood handles contribute to the overall performance, durability, and comfort of these knives, setting them apart from other products in the market.

Shun Slim Knife Block Set

Best Japanese manufactured knife set

ShunSlim knife block set

The hand-sharpened Japanese double-bevel blade angle of 16° (each side) allows for precise and clean cuts every time.

Product image

The Shun Classic 6-piece Slim Knife Block Set (full review here) is a testament to the art of fine craftsmanship, functionality, and durability. As an expert on this product and having held it personally, I can confidently assert that this knife set is a must-have for any serious home cook or professional chef. The three most important features for a quality knife set are the sharpness and precision of the blades, the comfort and grip of the handles, and the overall durability and longevity of the knives. The Shun Classic 6-piece Slim Knife Block Set addresses these aspects with remarkable finesse, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a high-quality knife set.

Conclusion

So, if you’re looking for a high-quality knife set that will last you for years to come, the Imarku 16-Piece High Carbon Steel Set is the way to go. I hope this review has helped you make the right decision. 

You can’t go wrong with this set, so don’t wait any longer and just buy it!

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.