Ginsu Essentials 5-Pc Bakelite Block Prep Set Review

The Ginsu Prep Set consists of 4 knives in a compact wooden block. This looks like a handy set that includes the types of knives I tend to use most often. I was curious to see how these bakelite knives perform and why they're so popular.

How the Ginsu Essentials Prep Set Performed

September 15, 2009 This set is very compact with a small, but nice assortment of practical knives including a 5" Santoku, which quickly became the knife I reached for the most for chopping, mincing and dicing. The design of the whole set is very nice. Blades have sharp edges, are made of quality steel with full tang that extends into riveted bakelite (man-made) handles. The shape of the handle fits comfortably in my hand and the construction makes them very durable.

Knives are all reasonably well-balanced, offering very good control. I especially like the length of the knife blades and size of the handles - this set feels good in my small hand and performs very well. Three of the knives have serrated edges, while the Santoku has a straight fine edge. The block has a softwood interior construction and a hardwood laminate exterior with a natural finish.

I found that this small knife set has a lot of practical applications and compliments my larger knife collection. By keeping this set close to the toaster and bread storage corner, which is by the refrigerator (away from my main workspace), I could access a knife quickly to slice toast or a sandwich, slice a tomato, chop an onion, or pare an apple, without having to step away from this corner to reach the knife drawer, or take everything over to the main prep counter. With a small footprint, the set is barely noticeable at that end of the counter and it saves a few steps, which can add up over a day.

Overall Impression

This is a well-designed, good performing compact prep set that includes some of the most common and practical knives I use every day. Though it lacks enough assortment as a full starter knife set for most kitchens, it would be a sufficient starter for those who don't cook a lot.

It's especially handy for a secondary food prep area, even in a small kitchen. So portable, it transfers easily out to the barbecue or patio for outdoor meal preparations, or to the camper or RV. It's also ideal for the tiny kitchen or dorm room, where counter space is extremely limited. The price of this Ginsu prep set is very good.

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