ProCook Knife Block: Storage Solutions and Set Options
A knife block from ProCook serves two purposes: safe knife storage that protects edges, and a cohesive aesthetic that makes your kitchen setup look intentional. ProCook's knife blocks come as part of their set offerings and occasionally as standalone purchases. Here's what you need to know.
ProCook's Approach to Knife Blocks
ProCook designs their knife blocks to pair with their specific knife lines. The slots are sized and angled for their blade profiles, which means the fit is clean and the knives don't rattle around or get scratched by loose contact. This matching approach is one advantage of buying a complete ProCook set over mixing brands.
Block Materials and Construction
ProCook knife blocks are typically made from wood composites or bamboo, finished in a dark stain that works with most kitchen color schemes. The construction is solid enough for daily use, and the base is weighted to prevent tipping when drawing knives out.
The slot configuration varies by set size. Larger blocks include a honing steel slot, kitchen shears slot, and enough knife slots to hold the included set. Some versions have a small slot on the side for a paring knife, keeping the smaller blade accessible without reaching into the main body of the block.
Block Sizes Available
ProCook sells block sets in multiple configurations:
5-piece sets: Typically include a chef's knife, bread knife, utility knife, paring knife, and block. Good for minimal kitchen setups.
7-piece sets: Adds a carving knife and sometimes a santoku to the base configuration.
14+ piece sets: Includes steak knives and occasionally a second utility knife or fillet knife.
The block is always sized for the included knives, so if you're buying to store your existing collection, verify the slot configuration matches what you have.
Which ProCook Line Has the Best Block?
The knife block design is consistent across ProCook's ranges, but the complete package differs by line:
Professional Steel sets: Solid blocks with reliable construction, matched to stamped knives at accessible pricing.
Professional X50 sets: Same block quality with significantly better knives. Worth the upgrade for regular cooks.
Damascus sets: Premium block materials with the Damascus knives, which are ProCook's top-performing line.
If you're choosing between ProCook block sets, the block itself isn't the deciding factor, focus on which knife line fits your cooking level and budget.
Storing Non-ProCook Knives in a ProCook Block
If you already have some ProCook knives and want to add the block later, standalone blocks are occasionally available. More commonly, people buy a ProCook set and use the block with a mix of knives.
The slots in ProCook blocks accommodate standard knife profiles. German-style blades with a full bolster may not sit as cleanly as the ProCook knives they were designed for, but they'll store safely. Very wide Japanese blades might be tighter than ideal.
For a complete picture of the best knife block sets available, our Best Knife Block Set guide covers all the top options, and the Best Knife Block roundup focuses specifically on storage quality.
Caring for a ProCook Knife Block
A knife block lasts longer with a bit of regular attention. Turn it upside down and tap it every month or so to dislodge accumulated debris, bread crumbs and food particles collect in the slots over time. For a deeper clean, use a thin bottle brush through each slot, then dry thoroughly before returning knives.
Never store wet knives in a block. Water trapped in the slots promotes rust on blades and mold inside the wood. Dry knives with a clean cloth before inserting them.
Keep the block away from the stove, dishwasher exhaust, and sink splash areas. Sustained heat and moisture will eventually crack or warp even a well-made wooden block.
ProCook Knife Block vs. Magnetic Strip
ProCook also sells magnetic knife strips, which offer a different storage approach. Magnetic strips display all blades at once, are easier to clean than slot blocks, and don't restrict knife sizes. The trade-off is that blades are fully exposed to ambient dust and oil mist that builds up over a cooktop.
For most home kitchens, the block is the more practical and safer storage option. Magnetic strips work best for serious cooks who use their knives constantly and benefit from the accessibility.
FAQ
Do ProCook knife blocks fit all ProCook knives? Blocks are designed for the specific set they're packaged with. If you're mixing and matching, most ProCook knives fit ProCook blocks since the brand maintains consistent slot sizing across their lines.
Can I buy a ProCook knife block separately? ProCook occasionally sells standalone blocks, but availability varies. Their retail stores are the best place to check for standalone block purchases.
How do I clean inside the knife block slots? A thin bottle brush works best. Shake out loose debris first, then brush through each slot, and let the block dry completely before reinserting knives.
Is a magnetic strip or knife block better? For most home cooks, a knife block is safer (blades are enclosed) and more practical. Magnetic strips are good for cooks who want all knives visible and accessible simultaneously, but they expose blades to the environment.
How long do ProCook knife blocks last? With proper care, keeping them dry and away from heat sources, a ProCook knife block should last as long as the knives themselves, typically many years of regular use.
What's the best way to mount a ProCook knife block on a counter? These blocks are freestanding countertop units with a weighted base. No mounting is needed. Position it away from the stove and sink for best longevity.
Conclusion
A ProCook knife block is a solid storage solution that pairs well with their knife lines. Whether you're buying a complete set or looking to understand what ProCook offers for knife storage, the blocks deliver clean design, adequate construction, and practical slot sizing. For the best results, buy the complete set where knives and block are designed together, the matched fit makes a real difference in daily use.