Calphalon Contemporary SharpIN Nonstick 13 Piece Cutlery Set

Our review of the Calphalon Contemporary SharpIN Nonstick 13 Piece Cutlery Set finds it best suited to home cooks who want faster prep and lower maintenance without frequent sharpening. The single biggest reason to consider this set is the built-in SharpIN ceramic self-sharpening block and the nonstick blade design: the block hones each blade every time a knife is removed and returned, while the longitudinal ridge plus nonstick coating helps food release from the blade during slicing. For kitchens where convenience and consistent edge feel matter, this set saves time at both the cutting board and cleanup.

Key Features

• Nonstick blades: A specially designed nonstick coating reduces food cling so slices and dices come away cleaner for faster prep and easier rinsing.
• Longitudinal ridge: The ridge along each blade improves food release, helping thin or sticky slices separate instead of sticking to the cutting edge.
• Fully forged full tang construction: Each knife is made from a single piece of forged steel for added balance and strength during heavy chopping and slicing tasks.
• SharpIN self-sharpening block: Ceramic sharpening elements inside the block hone the blade edges automatically every time a knife is removed and replaced, reducing the need for manual sharpening.
• Labeled handles: Clearly marked handles make it quick to identify the right knife for the task, saving time during busy prep sessions.

Who It's For

This set is a practical match for everyday home cooks and families who value low maintenance and consistent edge performance. The self-sharpening block and nonstick blades help users who prepare vegetables, fruit, and boneless meats and want less sticking and fewer trips to a sharpener.

It is less appropriate for professional chefs or users who prefer high-end layered steels or specialized steak and boning knives, since this set focuses on convenience and overall value rather than advanced metallurgy. Those worried about long-term rust resistance or extreme heavy use should compare warranties and material treatments before purchase.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Nonstick blades with a longitudinal ridge reduce food sticking and speed prep and cleanup.
• SharpIN ceramic block hones blades automatically, keeping edges ready with minimal effort.
• Fully forged, full tang construction gives the knives a balanced, sturdy feel for common kitchen tasks.
• Labeled handles make tool selection faster and more intuitive in a busy kitchen.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed build quality, including occasional cracking of the block or handles under normal use.
• There are mentions of concerns about rust resistance, so long-term corrosion performance may vary with care.

Specifications

Product name	Calphalon Contemporary SharpIN Nonstick 13 Piece Cutlery Set
Blade finish	Nonstick coating with longitudinal ridge
Construction	Single-piece fully forged steel, full tang
Block feature	SharpIN ceramic self-sharpening technology inside slots
Handle	Labeled handles for quick identification
Pieces	13 piece set

Our Verdict

The Calphalon SharpIN 13 piece set is a sensible buy for home cooks who want low-maintenance knives that stay sharp and reduce food sticking. Its self-sharpening block and nonstick blades deliver real convenience and value, though buyers seeking premium metallurgy or guaranteed long-term rust resistance may want to compare other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the block really sharpen the knives?
Yes, the SharpIN block contains ceramic honing elements that sharpen the edge each time a knife is removed and returned.

Are the blades nonstick enough to stop food from sticking?
The nonstick coating combined with the longitudinal ridge noticeably reduces sticking for most fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats.

Is this set suitable for professional kitchens?
It is designed for home use and convenience; professionals seeking specialized steels or extreme durability should review other pro-grade options.