I am addicted to kitchenwares, and have a near fetish for quality kitchen knives. When I saw the new ergonomic cutlery from Ergo Chef, I was immediately intrigued and inquired about doing a review. They kindly sent me a 7" Santoku from their Pro-series, for this review, and I have been using it for a few weeks now.
Since Santoku knives are designed for more of a chopping motion, rather than rocking slice motion like most western chef's knives, it took me a few tries to become accustomed to the knife. I am sure I would have adjusted much quicker to one of their regular chef knives, as my adjustments were not in the handle, but rather in the contact with the food. I actually found the knife comfortable in my hand right from the start.
I do a ton of vegetable chopping and slicing in my kitchen, and have found myself reaching for this Ergo Chef chef knife, over my German blades for these tasks the majority of the time. Although it has only been a week, this knife has gotten a bit of a workout already, and the blade has held up well so far. It seems to be holding it's edge, as well as the rest of my premium knives, and I have no concerns over handle construction, whatsoever. I do see some difference, in the stress placed on my wrist during cutting tasks, and I think the difference would be even more pronounced for those switching out their most used chefs knife.
If you have an avid cook on your holiday shopping list, who has carpal tunnel or any other condition which causes them discomfort in the hand or wrist, I would suggest one of the 8" Pro Series Chef Knives from this line, as this is the most frequently used knife for most cooks. Of course, if budget allows a block set would make a lovely and caring gift.
PS. For Guy Fieri fans, Ergo Chef has a wild looking set of knifes called "Guy Fieri Knuckle Sandwich Knives", that you just have to check out.
Update : It has now been 10 years since my original review and I still use this Santoku knife regularly. Since then, I have added a utility knife from this series and an off-set bread knife from their Crimson series to my kitchen knife collection. Both are fantastic!
blueviolet says
I'll bet that could pretty much do everything I would ever need it to do!
Annie @ Mama Dweeb says
oh that sounds wonderful! My mom really needs new knives - I am going to browse their selection. It sounds like these will last her a very long time!