If you’re looking for the 15 best professional knife sets, I recommend options that combine quality materials, ergonomic handles, and versatile blade collections suitable for both chefs and home cooks. Sets like McCook with built-in sharpeners, HENCKELS, Ninja, and Astercook offer durability, sharpness, and stylish design. They feature essential knives, balanced construction, and easy maintenance. Keep exploring the options, and you’ll discover the perfect set tailored to your cooking needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Top professional knife sets feature high-quality steels, full tang construction, and advanced blade technology for durability and precision.
- Ergonomic, ergonomic handles made from durable materials ensure comfort, safety, and proper weight distribution during extended use.
- These sets include essential knives like chef’s, paring, utility, and specialty blades, often with accessories and storage options.
- Maintenance features such as built-in sharpeners, honing steels, and easy cleaning extend blade sharpness and lifespan.
- Aesthetic designs, premium materials, and versatile configurations cater to both professional chefs and home cooks, balancing performance and style.
McCook Knife Sets with Built-in Sharpener
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable knife set that’s perfect for both professional chefs and home cooks, the McCook Knife Sets with Built-in Sharpener stand out. Crafted from forged, high-carbon German stainless steel, these knives resist tarnish and rust, ensuring long-lasting performance. The set features an innovative built-in sharpener within the wooden block, keeping blades razor-sharp without extra tools. With balanced weight and ergonomic design, chopping, slicing, and dicing become effortless. Easy to clean and maintain, this 15-piece set offers excellent value and safety, making it ideal for everyday cooking and gifting occasions alike.
Best For: both professional chefs and home cooks seeking a durable, versatile, and easy-to-maintain knife set with built-in sharpening features.
Pros:
- Made from high-carbon German stainless steel, offering exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- Built-in sharpener within the wooden block ensures blades stay razor-sharp without additional tools.
- Balanced weight and ergonomic design make chopping, slicing, and dicing effortless and comfortable.
Cons:
- Hand-washing is recommended to maintain the blades and prevent damage to the wooden block.
- The set may be considered expensive compared to basic knife sets without built-in sharpeners.
- The wooden knife block, while space-efficient, may require periodic cleaning to prevent grime buildup.
HENCKELS 15-Piece Knife Set with Block
The HENCKELS 15-Piece Knife Set with Block stands out as an excellent choice for home cooks and professional chefs who demand top-tier performance and durability. This exhaustive set includes all essential knives, crafted with razor-sharp, German-engineered blades from high-quality stainless steel that resist rust and stains. The lightweight, stamped construction combines strength and agility, while the full tang and ergonomic triple-rivet handles ensure comfort and control. The set also features a stylish hardwood block for organized storage, plus accessories like a honing steel, kitchen shears, and steak knives. Designed for long-lasting sharpness and ease of use, it’s a versatile, reliable addition to any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks and professional chefs seeking a comprehensive, durable, and high-performance knife set for everyday use.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp, German-engineered blades that maintain their edge longer
- Ergonomically designed triple-rivet handles for comfort and control
- Stylish hardwood block provides organized, attractive storage
Cons:
- Hand washing recommended to prolong blade sharpness and prevent rust
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic knife sets
- Full set may be more than needed for casual or infrequent cooks
Ninja Foodi 17-Piece Knife Block Set
The Ninja Foodi 17-Piece Knife Block Set stands out as an excellent choice for serious home cooks and professional chefs who demand high performance and durability. The blades are forged from German stainless steel, making them rust-resistant, strong, and long-lasting. Full tang construction and ergonomic handles provide perfect balance and comfort, allowing for precise cuts. The set includes a variety of knives, like a chef’s, fillet, and paring, plus scissors. With built-in NeverDull technology, the knives stay sharp for over a decade and are easy to sharpen. Although the plastic block feels cheap, the overall quality and performance make this set a smart investment.
Best For: home cooks and professional chefs seeking a durable, sharp, and versatile knife set with easy maintenance.
Pros:
- Forged from German stainless steel for rust resistance and long-lasting sharpness
- Built-in NeverDull sharpener and full tang construction ensure precision and durability
- Well-organized set with a variety of knives suitable for multiple kitchen tasks
Cons:
- Plastic knife block feels cheap compared to traditional wooden options
- Dishwasher use discouraged; knives should be hand-washed to prevent rust and water spots
- Some users find the overall block design less premium in appearance
2025 Knife Set 15 Pcs Japanese High Carbon Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Sets
Designed for serious home chefs and professional cooks alike, the 5 Knife Set 15 Pcs Japanese High Carbon Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Sets combine advanced craftsmanship with ergonomic design to deliver exceptional performance. These knives feature revolutionary NextGen forged steel, making blades three times tougher and highly resistant to chipping. The high carbon stainless steel guarantees durability, stain resistance, and sharpness that lasts over five years. With exclusive 10° blades achieved through heat treatment, they cut effortlessly through meat, bones, and delicate ingredients. The handles are ergonomically crafted from grip data, offering a secure, comfortable hold for extended use. This versatile set is perfect for all cooking tasks, blending precision, safety, and style.
Best For: home chefs and professional cooks seeking durable, high-performance knives with ergonomic design and versatile functionality.
Pros:
- Crafted with revolutionary NextGen forged steel, making blades three times tougher and highly resistant to chipping.
- High carbon stainless steel ensures durability, stain resistance, and sharpness lasting over five years.
- Ergonomically designed handles based on extensive grip data provide comfort, security, and fatigue-free use.
Cons:
- Hand washing recommended for maintenance, which may be less convenient for some users.
- The set’s premium features and craftsmanship may come at a higher price point compared to standard knives.
- Limited color or design options for the knife handles and block may not suit all aesthetic preferences.
Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality knife set that combines sharpness with durability, the Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block is an excellent choice. Made from high carbon German stainless steel, these blades are ultra-sharp, rust-resistant, and designed for long-lasting performance. The set includes a variety of knives, all with ergonomic handles that fit comfortably in any hand—left or right. The attractive acacia wood block features a built-in sharpener for easy maintenance. Dishwasher safe and tested over 999 cycles, these knives offer excellent value, everyday cutting precision, and a sleek modern design that elevates any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks, beginners, and those seeking a durable, sharp, and stylish knife set for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp blades made from high carbon German stainless steel for precise cutting
- Ergonomic, comfortable handles suitable for both left and right-handed users
- Dishwasher safe with proven durability over 999 cycles and rust-resistant technology
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy-duty meat processing due to lightweight and thin blades
- Limited to everyday kitchen use, may not satisfy professional or heavy-duty chefs
- The laser pattern on blades is not Damascus, which might be less visually intricate for some buyers
15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block
This 15-piece kitchen knife set with a built-in block is an excellent choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike who want a stylish, all-in-one solution for their food prep needs. Featuring sleek black modern design, it includes essential knives like chef, Santoku, slicing, serrated bread, utility, paring, and six steak knives, plus kitchen shears and a self-sharpening block. Made of rust-resistant stainless steel with ergonomic, anti-slip handles, the blades stay sharp longer and are easy to clean. The self-sharpening block guarantees maintenance is simple, while the elegant look enhances any kitchen. Overall, this set offers durability, versatility, and style for everyday cooking or gifting.
Best For: home cooks and professional chefs seeking a stylish, versatile, and durable all-in-one knife set with easy maintenance.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades that cut effortlessly through a variety of ingredients
- Self-sharpening block extends blade life and ensures consistent sharpness
- Ergonomic, anti-slip handles provide comfort and reduce fatigue during extended use
Cons:
- Some users may find handle size less suitable for small hands
- Minor coating wear possible after dishwasher cleaning, requiring hand-washing for preservation
- The set’s modern design might not match all kitchen decors
Astercook 21-Piece Knife Set with Block
The Astercook 21-Piece Knife Set with Block is an excellent choice for home cooks who want a versatile, high-quality collection of knives that can handle everything from slicing bread to delicate peeling. It includes a wide variety of blades, such as chef knives, santoku, bread knives, utility, paring, and specialty knives, plus scissors and a sturdy wood block with a built-in sharpener. Crafted from high-carbon German stainless steel, these knives stay sharp and resist rust. The comfortable handles and sleek black design make them both functional and attractive. Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, they’re a reliable, low-maintenance set that meets most cooking needs effortlessly.
Best For: home cooks seeking a comprehensive, durable, and stylish knife set that handles a wide range of kitchen tasks with minimal maintenance.
Pros:
- High-carbon German stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting sharpness and rust resistance
- Includes a variety of knives and accessories, making it versatile for different cooking needs
- Dishwasher safe with a built-in sharpener for easy, convenient blade maintenance
Cons:
- Hand washing is recommended to preserve handle integrity and extend product lifespan
- The weight (~11.92 pounds) may be heavy for some users during handling or storage
- The black non-stick coating, while beneficial, may wear over time with frequent use
SHAN ZU 16-Piece Japanese Kitchen Knife Set
For professional chefs and serious home cooks seeking both precision and style, the SHAN ZU 16-Piece Japanese Kitchen Knife Set delivers ultra-sharp blades crafted from high carbon steel with advanced forging. The 15° cutting edge guarantees precise, clean cuts across a variety of ingredients. Its stylish design features laser-engraved patterns on each blade, adding a modern touch—though it’s not Damascus. The set includes essential knives, a sharpener, scissors, and a sturdy knife block, all with ergonomic, triple-riveted pakkawood handles for durability and comfort. Keep in mind, these knives aren’t dishwasher safe, so hand washing and proper storage will prolong their lifespan.
Best For: professional chefs and serious home cooks who value precision, durability, and stylish design in their kitchen tools.
Pros:
- Crafted from high carbon steel with a 15° cutting edge for ultra-sharp, precise cuts
- Features stylish laser-engraved blade patterns for a modern aesthetic
- Includes a comprehensive set of knives, a sharpener, scissors, and a sturdy knife block for all culinary needs
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing and careful maintenance
- Not a Damascus knife set, so the design lacks the layered pattern often associated with Damascus steel
- Handles, while ergonomic, may require proper care to prevent drying or cracking over time
Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block
If you’re looking for a versatile and stylish knife set that delivers professional-quality performance, the Cuisinart 15-Piece Knife Set with Block is an excellent choice. It features high-carbon stainless steel blades with forged construction and triple rivet handles, ensuring durability and control. The set includes essential knives like a chef’s, slicing, santoku, utility, paring, and birds beak paring knife, plus six steak knives, a sharpening steel, and household scissors—all stored in a sleek wooden block. Its tapered ground blades stay sharp, and the white finish adds a modern touch. While hand washing is recommended, users praise its sharpness, stability, and overall quality, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks and professional chefs seeking a versatile, stylish, and durable knife set for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros:
- High-carbon stainless steel blades for exceptional sharpness and precision
- Forged construction with triple rivet handles for durability and control
- Complete set includes a variety of knives, scissors, sharpening steel, and a sleek wooden block
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing to prevent handle cracking
- Some users report handle cracking after extended use
- Heavier weight may be less comfortable for prolonged use or those with limited strength
CAROTE 14-Piece Knife Set with Block
Looking for a stylish, space-saving knife set that combines modern design with reliable performance? The CAROTE 14-piece Knife Set with Block is perfect. Its sleek cream finish and sturdy hardwood block add elegance to any kitchen. The set includes essential knives like chef, bread, santoku, utility, paring, steak knives, plus kitchen shears and a sharpening steel. Crafted from high carbon stainless steel with full-tang construction and triple-riveted handles, these knives offer excellent balance and durability. Sharp out of the box, they effortlessly slice vegetables and meats. While dishwasher safe, hand washing extends their lifespan. Overall, a beautiful, functional choice for home cooks and small families.
Best For: home cooks, small families, and gift-givers seeking a stylish, durable, and space-saving knife set with modern design and reliable performance.
Pros:
- Sharp, high-quality stainless steel blades that effortlessly cut through vegetables and meats
- Elegant cream finish and sturdy hardwood block enhance kitchen decor and organization
- Full-tang construction with triple-riveted handles provide excellent balance, stability, and comfort
Cons:
- Some users have experienced rust or staining when not hand washed and properly dried
- The knife slots in the block are tailored specifically for this set, limiting customization or expansion
- Dishwasher cleaning may reduce the lifespan of blades if not followed with immediate hand drying
15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Built-in Sharpener
This 15-piece kitchen knife set with a built-in sharpener stands out as an excellent choice for both professional chefs and home cooks who want convenience and reliability. It includes a versatile selection of knives—chef, slicing, Santoku, bread, utility, paring, and steak knives—plus kitchen shears, all crafted from high carbon German stainless steel for exceptional sharpness and rust resistance. The ergonomic handles provide comfort and control for any hand, while the built-in sharpener makes certain blades stay precise with every use. Dishwasher-safe and durable, this set combines modern design with practical features, making it a reliable, all-in-one solution for everyday cooking needs.
Best For: home chefs, professional cooks, and culinary enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, durable, and easy-to-maintain knife set with built-in sharpening.
Pros:
- Includes a wide variety of high-quality knives suitable for all kitchen tasks
- Built-in sharpener ensures blades remain ultra-sharp and precise over time
- Dishwasher-safe design and rust-resistant blades offer easy maintenance and longevity
Cons:
- The set may be heavier due to the full collection and sturdy materials
- Some users might find the size of the knife block bulky for limited counter space
- The initial investment is higher compared to basic knife sets
Amazon Basics 14-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set
The Amazon Basics 14-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set is an excellent choice for home cooks and beginners seeking reliable, versatile cutlery without breaking the bank. It includes essential knives, steak knives, scissors, a sharpener, and a pinewood block, covering all your basic kitchen needs. The high carbon stainless steel blades deliver precision, durability, and lasting sharpness, making prep work easier. The ergonomic, full tang handles provide balance and comfort, ensuring control during use. Just remember to wash the knives by hand to keep the blades in top condition. Overall, this set offers great value for those starting their knife collection or upgrading their current tools.
Best For: home cooks and beginners seeking a comprehensive, reliable, and affordable knife set for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros:
- Includes a wide variety of essential knives and tools for versatile use
- High carbon stainless steel blades provide durability and sharpness
- Ergonomic full tang handles offer comfort and good control during cutting
Cons:
- Requires hand washing to maintain blade quality
- May be heavier or bulkier for some users due to full tang construction
- Limited to basic kitchen tasks; lacks specialized or high-end features
Cuisinart 15-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set
If you want a versatile, durable knife set that suits both beginner and experienced cooks, the Cuisinart 15-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set is an excellent choice. It includes essential knives like an 8” chef, slicing, santoku, utility, and paring knives, plus six steak knives, a sharpening steel, all-purpose shears, and a wooden block. Made from high-carbon stainless steel with precision-ground edges, these knives stay sharp and offer great control. The ergonomic handles provide comfort, and the forged construction guarantees durability. Whether for everyday cooking or gifting, this set offers reliable performance and organization, earning high praise from users.
Best For: both beginner and experienced home cooks seeking a comprehensive, durable, and stylish knife set for everyday culinary tasks and gifting.
Pros:
- Sharp, high-carbon stainless steel blades with precision-tapered edges for excellent cutting control
- Ergonomically designed stainless steel handles for comfort during extended use
- Includes a versatile range of knives and accessories, plus a wooden storage block for organization
Cons:
- Some users report that the knives can be somewhat brittle and delicate
- Hand washing is recommended to maintain the knives’ quality, which may be less convenient
- Slight issues with crooked slots in the wooden block or minor rusting if not properly maintained
Astercook 15 Piece Knife Set with Sharpener Block
For home cooks and aspiring chefs seeking a versatile, all-in-one knife set, the Astercook 15 Piece Knife Set with Sharpener Block stands out as an excellent choice. It includes a wide variety of knives—chef, slicing, Santoku, bread, utility, paring, and steak knives—plus kitchen shears, all stored in a stylish black hardwood block with an integrated sharpener. Made from durable high-carbon German stainless steel, these knives resist rust and stains while maintaining sharpness. The built-in sharpener makes touch-ups effortless, and the set’s lightweight, comfortable handles ensure easy handling. Customers love its value, sharpness, and sleek design, rating it highly for everyday kitchen use.
Best For: home cooks and aspiring chefs seeking a versatile, all-in-one knife set with sharpener for everyday kitchen use.
Pros:
- Includes a wide variety of knives and kitchen shears, suitable for multiple tasks
- High-carbon German stainless steel blades resist rust and stains, maintaining sharpness
- Built-in sharpener and stylish hardwood block enhance convenience and aesthetic appeal
Cons:
- Heavier knives may require some adjustment for users accustomed to lighter utensils
- The set’s large size might be excessive for small or minimalist kitchens
- Some users might prefer different handle materials or ergonomic designs
Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Blade Guards
Designed for home cooks and culinary enthusiasts, the Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set offers a versatile and safe solution for everyday food prep. It includes 13 sharp, forged blades made from carbon steel, with anti-rust and non-stick coatings to maintain their edge. The set features various knives—Chef, Slicing, Santoku, Bread, Utility, Paring—plus kitchen shears and blade guards for safe storage. Lightweight and dishwasher safe, these knives are easy to handle and clean. Handles provide good grip, while blade guards keep blades protected and safe in drawers or on the go. Overall, a practical, durable, and attractive set for any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks, culinary enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a versatile, safe, and durable knife set for everyday food preparation.
Pros:
- Includes a comprehensive 13-piece selection suitable for various kitchen tasks, from slicing to paring.
- Made from high-quality carbon steel with anti-rust and non-stick coatings that maintain sharpness and ease cleaning.
- Comes with blade guards and is dishwasher safe, ensuring safe storage and convenient maintenance.
Cons:
- Handles are made of plastic, which may not provide the premium feel of wood or ergonomic grips.
- White blades may show stains or discoloration over time, affecting appearance.
- Some users might find the set’s plastic handle design less durable compared to full-metal or ergonomic handles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Professional Knife Sets
When choosing professional knife sets, I focus on blade material quality, handle comfort, and how well the edges stay sharp over time. It’s also important to take into account the variety of knives included and how easy they are to maintain. These factors help ensure I pick a set that’s durable, functional, and suits my cooking needs.
Blade Material Quality
Choosing the right blade material is essential because it directly affects a knife’s durability, sharpness, and resistance to rust and chipping. High-quality steels like German stainless steel and Japanese high-carbon steel offer excellent edge retention and longevity. The steel’s alloy composition and heat treatment determine the blade’s hardness and ability to resist dulling or chipping over time. Forged blades, made from a single piece of steel, tend to be stronger and less prone to breaking than stamped blades. Additionally, the taper grind and sharpening technology influence how easily the knife can be re-sharpened and how well it maintains a consistent edge. Advanced alloys and coatings, such as anti-rust or non-stick layers, further boost blade longevity and performance in demanding kitchen environments.
Handle Ergonomics Design
A knife’s handle is more than just a grip; it’s a crucial factor that determines comfort, safety, and control during food prep. An ergonomic handle design offers a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended use. Handles shaped to fit the natural curvature of your hand improve maneuverability and precision, making cutting easier and safer. Non-slip textures and materials in the handle enhance safety by preventing slips, even when your hands are wet. Proper balance and weight distribution in the handle help reduce wrist strain and enhance control. Handles designed with universal ergonomics accommodate various hand sizes and grip styles, ensuring ease of use for everyone. Investing in a well-designed handle means a more comfortable, safer, and more efficient cooking experience.
Sharpness and Edge Retention
The sharpness of a knife considerably impacts its performance and safety, making edge retention a top priority. High-quality professional sets feature blades with advanced sharpening technologies like taper grind or precision heat treatment to maintain their edge longer. The steel’s carbon content and alloy composition play vital roles; higher carbon levels typically mean better edge retention. Proper honing and regular maintenance, including using built-in or standalone sharpeners, are essential to preserve sharpness and extend knife lifespan. Some blades incorporate micro-grind or laser-engraved edges, which cut more precisely and stay sharp longer than standard stamped blades. Additionally, forged blades, due to their denser, one-piece construction, generally offer superior durability and edge retention compared to stamped knives.
Set Composition Variety
When selecting a professional knife set, it’s vital to take into account the variety of blades included to guarantee you’re equipped for all kitchen tasks. A good set should feature essential knives like chef’s, utility, paring, bread, and slicing knives, making sure you can handle everything from chopping vegetables to slicing bread. Including specialized knives such as steak knives or boning knives adds versatility for different ingredients and techniques. Look for sets that come with useful accessories like kitchen shears or sharpening tools, which boost functionality. Variations in handle designs and blade lengths can improve comfort and precision, catering to different cooking styles. A well-rounded assortment ensures you’re prepared for everyday cooking, professional tasks, and specialized culinary needs.
Maintenance and Durability
Choosing a durable professional knife set hinges on selecting blades made from high-quality materials like high-carbon stainless steel or forged German steel, which resist rust, stains, and chipping over time. Proper maintenance is essential; hand washing and drying immediately after use greatly extend their lifespan and sharpness. Regular honing with a sharpening steel or built-in sharpener helps keep edges aligned, reducing the need for professional sharpening. Full tang construction and sturdy handle materials improve overall durability, preventing loosening or cracking with extended use. Additionally, sets with built-in or accessible sharpening tools ensure consistent performance. Investing in these features means your knives stay sharp and reliable longer, making them a worthwhile choice for both professional chefs and home cooks alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Maintenance Routine for Professional Knife Sets?
To keep my professional knife set in top shape, I clean each knife immediately after use with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly. I hone my blades regularly with a honing steel to maintain sharpness, and I only sharpen when necessary using a whetstone or professional sharpener. I store my knives properly in a knife block or on a magnetic strip, avoiding loose drawers to prevent damage.
How Do Knife Handle Materials Affect Comfort and Durability?
Think of knife handles as the handshake of your tools—they’re essential for comfort and durability. I find that materials like pakkawood and stainless steel offer a great balance: they feel sturdy and resist wear, making long use comfortable. Rubber and synthetic handles provide excellent grip and comfort, especially during extended prep. Ultimately, the right handle material depends on your grip preference and how much wear and tear you expect.
Are Ceramic Knives Included in Professional Chef Sets?
Yes, ceramic knives are sometimes included in professional chef sets, although they’re less common than stainless steel. I find ceramic knives offer exceptional sharpness and maintain their edge longer, making them great for precision tasks. However, they can be more fragile and prone to chipping or breaking if mishandled. If you’re considering a set that includes ceramic knives, make sure they’re suited for your specific cooking needs and handled with care.
What Are the Safety Features of Modern Knife Blocks?
Honestly, modern knife blocks are practically fortresses for your blades. They feature safety features like non-slip bases, which keep everything steady—no surprise sword fights in your kitchen. Soft-close slots prevent abrupt removals, and some even have locking mechanisms for added security. Plus, many are designed with heat-resistant, antimicrobial materials. So, you can slice with confidence, knowing your knives are safe, sound, and ready for culinary battles without any accidental injuries.
How Do I Choose the Right Knife Set for Specific Cuisines?
When choosing a knife set for specific cuisines, I focus on the types of knives that suit those dishes. For example, I pick a flexible fillet knife for seafood or a paring knife for intricate prep. I also consider the blade material, weight, and handle comfort. Matching knives to your cooking style guarantees efficiency and safety, making prep work enjoyable and precise.
Conclusion
Choosing the right knife set isn’t just about quality—it’s about trusting your tools to elevate your cooking. I believe that when you invest in a durable, well-designed set, you’re more inspired to create and experiment. It’s not just a purchase; it’s a commitment to your craft. So, don’t just buy any set—choose one that makes you feel confident in the kitchen, because great food starts with great tools.
