With so many shapes and sizes, it’s hard to pick and choose.

If you’re going to make an investment, make it an 8-inch chef’s knife.

Its small enough to where you’ve got the option to really cut through all of that.

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High-quality knives completely transform your cooking experience.

When youre in a kitchen, youre going to be doing a host of jobs, says Scott.

A good knife needs to be as durable as it is sharp.

Broth in Bowl on gray background, healthy food, top view.

Chris Scott is a chef at the Institute of Culinary Education and a finalist on season 15 of Top Chef.

He says the latter are great for home chefs.

No matter what kind of knife you get, you have to take care of it.

They sharpen them regularly, theyre cleaning them after every use, they never lend them out.

Close-up of sliced purple cabbage,

Our knives are very near and dear to us.

Once you get started with your 8-inch knife, Scott says you may want to expand your collection.

Its best to do that one knife at a time instead of investing in a big set.

soba noodles

Get what you need, says Scott.

Take your time to figure out what you need and make smart investments withhigh-quality kitchen toolsthatll last for years.

However, he says theyre great for a home chef who isnt cooking for dozens of people every day.

A hand is stirring a sourdough starter in a glass jar, on a kitchen countertop. The light casts a warm glow, highlighting the ingredients inside the jar.

Chris Scott is a chef at the Institute of Culinary Education and a finalist on season 15 of Top Chef.

The lightweight knife has an ergonomic handle, preventing fatigue and providing greater control.

Its also certified by the National Sanitation Foundation as meeting the high-level safety standards.

The steels on those are usually pretty hardcore.

Frozen beef steaks on brownish packaging paper. Light effect.

The design has been perfected across two centuries.

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