Store up to eight knives plus a sharpening steel and a pair of kitchen shears in this compact 10-slot Hardwood Knife Storage Block from J.A. Henckels. Made to fit the Henckels brand, the block also accepts most other brands of forged or stamped steel knives.
This laminated hardwood block takes up only a small space on the countertop, with dimensions of 7.2 inches long by 4.5 inches wide by 10.8 inches tall. Expect to use a little more space than the minimum measurements since the block is canted forward for easy access to knife handles. Weighing only about four pounds, the block sits on high-friction rubberized feet which keep it in place and above any countertop spills. Shift it easily for cleanup underneath if things get a bit messy.
The water-repellent finish wipes down quickly with only a damp cloth. Keep the block oiled with an occasional rub of mineral oil for the best resistance to stains and moisture. Henckels makes the block by laminating layers of hardwood lumber together with food-safe adhesive, and if cared for properly, the storage block should be a nearly permanent fixture in the kitchen. Pick a spot for the block where the wood won’t be exposed to steam or radiant heat.
Wooden storage blocks are the best way to keep sharp prep knives safely stored but in easy reach, protecting the edges of the blades and the fingers of the chef. The horizontal slot system puts the stress and abrasion on the side of the blade, not the cutting edge. Slots do extend completely through, so be aware that storing a knife with a blade longer than the block could damage the counter surface. Store the butcher knife with the 12-inch blade somewhere else.
