After five years my Wüsthof knives continue to cut everything with ease, thanks to good care and solid, balanced construction.

• Classic Santoku knife, 6.5 inch
• Classic Utility knife, 4.5 inch
• Classic Bread knife, 9 inch

I expect these knives, with proper care, will last a lifetime. My parents have had the same set of Chicago Cutlery knives, with wooden handles, for about 30 years.

Knives I’d still consider:

• Tomato knife: to provide more consistent slices when innards are soft or the skin is tough.
• Cheese knife set: but these knives must have handles that are comfortable and give you the right leverage. The handles on most cheese knives I’ve experienced are too decorative and dysfunctional.