A Look for knives made from high-carbon stainless steel, which offers a good balance of sharpness, durability, and resistance to rust and corrosion. Some premium sets may feature Damascus steel or VG-10 steel, known for their sharpness and edge retention.

A A good set should include a variety of knives for different tasks, such as a chef's knife, paring knife, utility knife, bread knife, and carving knife. Optional additions like a santoku knife, boning knife, or kitchen shears can add versatility.

A The handles should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip, even when wet. Materials like wood, resin, or synthetic composites are common. The handle should also be well-balanced with the blade to reduce hand fatigue during use.

A A full-tang design (where the blade extends through the handle) adds strength and balance to the knives. The knives should feel sturdy, with no loose parts, and the construction should be solid enough to withstand regular use.

A The knives should come sharp out of the box and maintain their edge over time. A good set should also include a honing steel or sharpening tool to help keep the blades in top condition.