Kitchen Knives That Blend Tradition and Technology
A good kitchen knife is more than just a tool—it’s an extension of every chef’s hand, whether they cook professionally or simply value precision in their kitchen. Choosing the right knife impacts comfort, safety, and the quality of food preparation. Among the many materials used for blade production, X50CrMoV15 steel holds a special place—a alloy that has long been the foundation for professional kitchen knives used in both restaurants and home kitchens.
This guide, prepared by Sharg.pl, explores why knives made from X50CrMoV15 steel are so highly regarded by chefs and cooking enthusiasts alike. We’ll pay special attention to the Portuguese brand MAM Portugal (Fábrica de Cutelarias Filmam, Lda.)—one of the oldest and most respected knife manufacturers in the world, known for its hand-sharpened blades and unwavering commitment to quality since 1870.
The MAM brand proves that modern kitchen knives made from X50CrMoV15 stainless steel can combine traditional European craftsmanship with the latest advancements in metallurgy. As a result, their products are durable, corrosion-resistant, easy to maintain, and ensure precise cutting every day. They’re an excellent choice for those seeking professional kitchen knives with high-quality craftsmanship and timeless design.
In the following sections, you’ll learn about the properties of X50CrMoV15 steel, discover what sets MAM Portugal knives apart, and see a comparison of various kitchen knife models that combine precision, durability, and aesthetics. This guide is not just a buying guide but also a source of knowledge to help you understand which kitchen knives truly deserve to be called the best.
Which Kitchen Knife to Choose in 2025?
The best kitchen knives in 2025 combine cutting precision, corrosion resistance, and user comfort. Models made from X50CrMoV15, VG-10 Damascus, and 420 steels stand out for their durability and ease of maintenance. In this category, MAM Portugal knives—hand-sharpened and 100% made in Portugal—are particularly noteworthy, earning praise from chefs worldwide.
The Sharg.pl range offers a wide selection of kitchen knives tailored to various uses:
- MAM Cooks Chef 250 (540) - A chef’s knife made from X50CrMoV15 steel, a classic choice for slicing meat, chopping vegetables, and herbs. Perfect as the primary knife in any kitchen.
- Due Cigni Classic 100mm (2C 750/10) - A precise vegetable knife made from X50CrMoV15 steel with a 10 cm blade. Offers full control and excellent sharpness for peeling and cutting smaller ingredients.
- Tramuntana Utility VG10 Damascus (TK-CD12) - A utility knife combining Japanese VG-10 steel and 67-layer Damascus. Ideal for slicing fruits, fish, and delicate ingredients.
- Top Cutlery Peeler 420 (17439-RO) - A paring knife with a lightweight 420 steel blade. Perfect for vegetables and fruits, ensuring maximum precision and safety.
- Mikov Filet 150 (60-NH-15) - A flexible fillet knife made from AISI 420 stainless steel. Excellent for portioning fish and poultry.
- MAM Cleaver X39Cr13 (710) - A sturdy kitchen cleaver for portioning meat and tough ingredients. Made from durable X39Cr13 steel, perfect for tasks requiring strength.
Every MAM kitchen knife and other models available at Sharg.pl combines tradition, ergonomics, and modern materials. In 2025, opt for knives that not only look great but also make daily cooking easier—from quick chopping to precise filleting.
Why Is X50CrMoV15 Steel Ideal for Kitchen Knives?
X50CrMoV15 stainless steel (also known as 1.4116) is one of the most popular materials for producing premium kitchen knives. Developed in Germany, this martensitic steel with high chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium content has been a standard in professional kitchens for years. Its secret lies in a perfectly balanced chemical composition that ensures exceptional corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, and edge durability.
The typical chemical composition of X50CrMoV15 includes approximately 0.5% carbon (C), 15% chromium (Cr), 0.8% molybdenum (Mo), and 0.2% vanadium (V). This combination results in a hardness of 57-58 HRC, maintaining high rust resistance and ease of resharpening. In practice, this means that kitchen knives made from X50CrMoV15 retain sharpness for a long time without being brittle—an ideal balance between performance and user safety.
Thanks to its resistance to moisture, food acids, and high temperatures, X50CrMoV15 steel performs well in both home kitchens and professional gastronomy. Whether you’re slicing meat, vegetables, fish, or fresh bread, the blade remains stable and retains its properties even after hundreds of cuts. An added advantage is ease of maintenance—simply wash in warm water and dry thoroughly to keep the knife’s original shine for years.
For more details on this steel and its properties in outdoor applications, check out our post: X50CrMoV15 (1.4116) Steel in Outdoor Knives - Worth It Over Premium Steels?. It’s a comprehensive resource on the performance of X50CrMoV15 steel in various conditions.
This predictability, stability, and ease of maintenance make X50CrMoV15 the backbone of MAM Portugal’s offerings—a manufacturer that has been hand-sharpening its kitchen knives in Guimarães, Portugal, for over 150 years. Combined with traditional craftsmanship and modern heat-treatment processes, MAM knives guarantee longevity, precision, and reliability.
Comparison of Selected Steels in Kitchen Knives - X50CrMoV15, VG-10, and 14C28N
When choosing a kitchen knife, consider not only the blade shape or handle ergonomics but also the type of steel used. The steel determines hardness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention. Among the most popular steels for kitchen knives, three stand out: X50CrMoV15, VG-10, and 14C28N. Each has unique characteristics, and comparing them helps you select the right knife for your needs.
| Steel | Characteristics | Advantages | Potential Drawbacks | Example Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X50CrMoV15 (1.4116) | European stainless steel with a hardness of ~57-58 HRC. Balanced composition with molybdenum and vanadium additives. | Easy to sharpen, high corrosion resistance, flexibility, durable for daily use. | Slightly shorter edge retention compared to premium steels. | MAM Portugal kitchen knives, utility knives, chef’s knives. |
| VG-10 | Japanese premium steel with a hardness of 59-61 HRC. High carbon and cobalt content. | Excellent sharpness, superior edge retention, striking appearance in Damascus versions. | Harder to sharpen, prone to chipping with tough ingredients. | Kasumi Damascus Santoku and other premium knives. |
| 14C28N | Swedish Sandvik steel with a hardness of 58-60 HRC, enhanced with nitrogen for better corrosion resistance. | High structural purity, good edge retention, easy maintenance, rust-resistant. | Slightly lower wear resistance compared to powder steels. | Civivi Cibus Chef Knife and other modern mid-range kitchen knives. |
From the comparison, it’s clear that X50CrMoV15 offers a golden mean between premium and budget steels. It ensures long-term durability, corrosion resistance, and easy maintenance, making it a favorite for MAM Portugal in their kitchen knife production. Meanwhile, VG-10 is suited for professional chefs, and 14C28N is a great choice for those seeking lightweight, modern knives with high moisture resistance.
MAM Portugal - Tradition, Precision, and 150 Years of Knife-Making Expertise
MAM Portugal (Fábrica de Cutelarias Filmam, Lda.) is a Portuguese family-owned company with over 150 years of tradition, one of the oldest manufacturers of kitchen knives and cutlery in the world. Founded in 1870 by Manuel António Martins, the brand’s name is an acronym of his initials and surname. Today, the fifth generation of the Martins family leads the company, preserving the spirit of craftsmanship and attention to detail that has distinguished MAM products for over a century.
All MAM kitchen knives are produced in Portugal at the Guimarães facility. Each knife undergoes over 55 production stages, with most steps still performed by hand. The knives are hand-sharpened and subjected to rigorous quality control, while handles made from natural wood or polymer are quadruple-impregnated—making them resistant to water, moisture, and temperature changes. This multi-step process ensures not only durability but also exceptional user comfort.
MAM Portugal is an official supplier of knives to, among others, the Portuguese Naval School, confirming their reliability in extreme conditions. All MAM knives come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty, covering repairs or blade replacement for damages during proper use. This is a testament to their confidence in the quality that blends traditional European craftsmanship with modern steel processing technology.
In MAM’s knife production, X50CrMoV15 steel plays a key role, offering optimal hardness, ease of sharpening, and full corrosion resistance. This is why MAM kitchen knives are a top choice for chefs who value reliability, comfort, and precision in daily work. The hand-finishing of each knife ensures uniqueness, ready to tackle even the most demanding kitchen tasks.
MAM Portugal is a brand that proves perfection requires no compromises. Each knife is the result of blending traditional craftsmanship, modern technology, and a passion for perfection. That’s why MAM knives are trusted by users in over 50 countries and are a staple in the Sharg.pl catalog—the brand’s official distributor in Poland.
Explore kitchen knives with 24h delivery and a 10-year warrantyKitchen Knives from Sharg.pl - Comparison of Steels and Premium Brands
The Sharg.pl catalog includes not only Portuguese MAM kitchen knives but also a wide range of premium products from renowned global manufacturers. You’ll find Japanese, American, and Chinese knives made from the most advanced blade steels. Below, we highlight three exceptional examples showcasing the diversity of approaches to culinary excellence.
Kasumi Damascus Santoku (VG-10)
Kasumi Damascus Santoku embodies the essence of Japanese craftsmanship. Its blade, with a VG-10 steel core wrapped in 32-layer Damascus, ensures extreme sharpness, corrosion resistance, and a unique blade pattern. Produced in Seki, Japan’s knife-making capital, these knives are ideal for slicing, chopping, and portioning ingredients for both Asian and European cuisines.
- Hardness: 59-60 HRC
- Material: VG-10 steel with Damascus
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Handle: Pakka wood
Spyderco Z-Cut Pointed Tip (CTS BD1N)
Spyderco Z-Cut exemplifies modern ergonomics. Its CTS BD1N steel blade features an offset profile that reduces wrist strain and enhances cutting efficiency on a board. This lightweight, precise kitchen knife is designed for maximum effectiveness and comfort, perfect for daily use in both home and professional kitchens.
- Hardness: Up to 63 HRC
- Material: CTS BD1N steel
- Country of Origin: USA
- Handle: Polypropylene
Civivi Cibus Chef Knife (14C28N)
Civivi Cibus Chef Knife, designed by renowned Polish knifemaker Ostap Hel, combines modern design with Swedish precision. Its blade, made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, retains sharpness for a long time and is highly corrosion-resistant. The lightweight G10 handle ensures stability and excellent balance. This kitchen knife is for those who value functionality and minimalist style.
- Hardness: 58-60 HRC
- Material: 14C28N steel
- Country of Origin: China (WE Knife)
- Handle: G10
Each of these brands showcases a different approach to kitchen perfection: Kasumi—Japanese tradition and artistry, Spyderco—functionality and innovation, and Civivi—modern technology with excellent value. All these knives are available at Sharg.pl.
How to Choose a Kitchen Knife? A Practical Guide
Choosing the right kitchen knife directly impacts comfort, precision, and safety while cooking. Contrary to popular belief, there’s no single “best knife for everything”—different blade types serve distinct purposes, and quality determines how long a knife stays sharp and functional. Here are key factors to consider when purchasing a kitchen knife.
1. Match the Knife to the Task
In a professional kitchen, you’ll find various knife types, each designed for specific purposes:
- Chef’s Knife - Versatile, wide, and heavier, ideal for slicing, chopping, and portioning.
- Santoku Knife - The Japanese counterpart to a chef’s knife, with a shorter blade and broader tip, perfect for vegetables and fish.
- Bread Knife - With a serrated edge to easily cut through crusty bread without crushing the crumb.
- Utility Knife - Medium-length, great for fruits, cheeses, and daily tasks.
- Paring Knife - Small, lightweight, and precise, ideal for tasks requiring accuracy.
2. Consider the Steel
The type of steel determines how long a knife stays sharp, how easy it is to sharpen, and its corrosion resistance. For daily use, X50CrMoV15 steel knives—like those from MAM Portugal—are the best choice, combining ease of sharpening with high rust resistance. Alternatives include more advanced alloys like VG-10 (premium sharpness) or 14C28N (excellent corrosion resistance).
3. Ergonomics and Balance
A well-designed kitchen knife should feel natural in your hand without straining your wrist. The handle must provide a secure, non-slip grip—like in MAM Cooks Chef knives, which use a polymer structure for a stable hold even with wet hands. Balanced weight between the blade and handle allows for smooth, controlled cuts and less fatigue during use.
4. Care and Sharpening
Even the best knife loses effectiveness without proper care. Regular sharpening (every few weeks with heavy use) and washing with mild detergent are essential. Do not wash knives in the dishwasher—harsh chemicals and high temperatures can weaken the cutting edge and damage the handle. Always dry the knife thoroughly after washing to maintain its durability and shine.
5. Match Blade Length to Your Needs
The most popular blade lengths are 20-25 cm for chef’s knives and 17-20 cm for Santoku knives. Shorter blades (10-15 cm) are ideal for precise tasks. If you cook frequently and diversely, a set of knives with varying lengths is ideal—such as the MAM Cooks Chef 250 as the main chef’s knife, paired with smaller utility knives for vegetables and fruits.
Remember: the perfect kitchen knife is one that fits your hand, cooking style, and frequency of use. By choosing brands like MAM Portugal, Kasumi, or Civivi, you’re investing in durability and safety that will last for years.
Explore the MAM Portugal Knife Collection in X50CrMoV15 Steel
If you’re looking for a kitchen knife that combines durability, sharpness, and traditional craftsmanship, explore the MAM Portugal collection—one of Europe’s oldest knife manufacturers. Since 1870, MAM Fábrica de Cutelarias Filmam has been creating products that delight both professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts.
Every MAM kitchen knife is hand-sharpened and made from X50CrMoV15 stainless steel—the same steel used in professional chef’s knives and surgical tools. The handle scales are quadruple-impregnated, ensuring resistance to both fresh and saltwater, and the production process involves 55 stages. This guarantees quality backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Choose a knife that will become your daily kitchen companion—durable, sharp, and beautifully crafted.
Explore the full range of MAM Portugal knives in X50CrMoV15 steel at Sharg.pl“Portuguese precision, German steel, and handcrafted quality—this combination makes MAM knives the choice of chefs worldwide.”
All kitchen knives available at Sharg.pl come from reputable manufacturers, each backed by a guarantee of authenticity and support from the Polish distributor.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Knives in 2025
The best choice for daily cooking is a chef’s knife with a 20-25 cm blade. A versatile model like the MAM Cooks Chef 250 made from X50CrMoV15 steel is ideal for slicing meat, chopping vegetables, and portioning fish. X50CrMoV15 steel combines corrosion resistance with ease of sharpening, ensuring long-lasting sharpness. It’s the perfect balance between a professional tool and everyday convenience.
For precise vegetable cutting and peeling, a short knife with a thin blade is ideal, such as the Due Cigni Classic 100mm made from X50CrMoV15 steel. With a 10 cm blade and slim geometry, it enables precise cuts, such as for decorative vegetable or fruit slicing. The Italian brand Due Cigni is renowned for perfect balance and durable POM handles, ensuring a secure grip even during heavy use.
A paring knife is shorter—typically 6-9 cm—and designed for precise tasks like peeling thin fruit skins. A vegetable knife has a longer blade (around 10 cm) and is better suited for slicing and chopping ingredients. A great example is the Top Cutlery Peeler 420—a lightweight, agile paring knife made from 420 stainless steel, perfect for daily kitchen tasks.
The best bread knife has a long, serrated edge that effortlessly cuts through crusty bread without crushing the crumb. A prime example is the MAM Bread Red Metacrylate (4340) from MAM Portugal, made from stainless steel. Its serrated blade profile and balanced handle ensure clean, even cuts for any type of bread.
For filleting fish, choose a knife with a flexible, narrow blade of 15-20 cm. The Mikov Black 150mm (60-NH-15) is a classic fillet knife made from AISI 420 stainless steel. It ensures precise blade guidance along bones and skin, with a lightweight ABS handle for a secure grip. It’s perfect for both home kitchens and professional gastronomy.
If you frequently portion meat or poultry, opt for a kitchen cleaver—a sturdy, well-balanced knife with a wide blade. The MAM Cleaver 710 made from X39Cr13 steel combines strength and precision, making it easy to separate meat from bones and portion large pieces. Its polymer handle is comfortable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean.
X50CrMoV15 is a European steel with an excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. VG-10 is a Japanese premium steel, harder and more wear-resistant but tougher to sharpen. In practice, X50CrMoV15 is ideal for everyday users, while VG-10 suits professional chefs. Both are available at Sharg.pl, e.g., in the MAM Chef (X50CrMoV15) and Tramuntana Utility (VG-10 Damascus) models.
The choice of steel depends on the application:
- 420 - Corrosion-resistant, easy to sharpen, ideal for lightweight knives like the Top Cutlery Peeler.
- X50CrMoV15 - The most versatile steel for kitchen knives, combining hardness and flexibility.
- VG-10 - Premium steel with exceptional sharpness and longevity, used in Damascus knives.
All these steels are available at Sharg.pl, so the choice depends on your preference for ease of maintenance versus edge durability.
Yes. X50CrMoV15 combines corrosion resistance, good hardness (~57-58 HRC), and easy sharpening. It’s used by top knife manufacturers like MAM Portugal and Due Cigni. Ideal for daily cooking—from slicing meat to chopping vegetables—it’s often cited as the standard for professional kitchen knives.
To keep a kitchen knife sharp for years:
- Wash by hand—never in the dishwasher.
- Dry after each use.
- Sharpen regularly using a stone or sharpener.
- Store on a magnetic strip or in a knife block.
- Avoid cutting bones or frozen foods (use a cleaver for those).
Learn more about knife care in our guides at Sharg.pl.
MAM Portugal knives combine over 150 years of craftsmanship with modern technology. Each knife is hand-sharpened, undergoes over 50 production stages, and comes with a 10-year warranty. X50CrMoV15 steel ensures corrosion resistance, while polymer or wood handles are quadruple-impregnated. These knives blend European precision with durability and elegance.
Authentic MAM Portugal knives are available exclusively through the authorized distributor, Sharg.pl. The store offers the full range of MAM kitchen knives in X50CrMoV15 steel, with 24-hour delivery and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
