The Unlikely Success of Global Knives

Global knives have rapidly become one of the56-58 Rockwell C, several points above most
best recognised brands of kitchen knives in thecompetitors.
world. The desirability of Global knives is based onIn addition, every Global knife is individually finished
their outstanding, professional-level cuttingto ensure perfect balance. Further information on
performance and strong aesthetics.the individual knives is available on the Global
Global knives were launched in 1985 and havesection of the Cooks&Kitchens website
rapidly gone on to be one of the leading premiumAs the company has grown, so has the range of
knife brands in the World. A young Japanesekitchen knives. Global now offer well over 60
designer called Komin Yamada was tasked withdifferent blades, including cook’s knives, paring
redeveloping traditional Japanese kitchen knivesknives, santoku knives and a full range of filleting
using all the technology and design know-how thenand boning knives. Many of these can be viewed
available. These Japanese knives have been largelyat
responsible for many people changing the wayOne important point to note for users of
they view kitchen knives as they introduced aEuropean knife brands like Wusthof and Henckels
lightness of touch and handle design that’sis that Global knives, like most Japanese knives,
unlike any competing product.are sharpened to an angle of 15 degrees from
In many ways, Global knives, although notthe vertical. This compares with 20 degrees for
traditionally Japanese, broke through into WesternEuropean brands and explains why Japanese
markets first. This has allowed other high-qualityknives feel sharper when cutting, although they
brands like Shun and Tojiro to follow. You can seeare less ‘controlled’.
examples of these knives at theAlso note that Globals should not be sharpened
Cooks&Kitchens website. In fact, thewith metal steels. Only use ceramic or diamond
santoku shape (a Japanese chef’s knife) nowsharpening tools such as whetstones or diamond
outsells Western-style cook’s knives in moststeels. This is actually true of all quality Japanese
of the major markets.knives.
Global use Japanese Cromova 18 steel to createWhilst the weight and balance of Global knives are
a high carbon, stain resistant knife that retains itsnot to everyone’s liking, they should be a
edge for longer. Ice tempering and controlledserious option for those interested in using
hardening allows Global to achieve hardnesses ofprofessional quality kitchen knives.