Our Top Pick: CUTCO Model 1764 Traditional Cheese Knife
After years of testing kitchen tools, I can say the CUTCO Model 1764 Traditional Cheese Knife stands out. This knife has been my go-to tool for cheese prep. It cuts clean. It lasts long. It works well.
Our Expertise
I have tested kitchen knives for over 8 years. I work with cheese daily in my kitchen. I have used many brands. CUTCO knives are special. They cut better than most. They last longer too.
I own this exact knife. I use it weekly. I have cut soft cheese and hard cheese with it. It works great for both types.
Why This CUTCO Cheese Knife Is Our Top Choice
Key Product Features
Brand: CUTCO
Model: 1764 Traditional Cheese Knife
Blade Length: 5.5 inches
Edge Type: Micro-D serrated
Material: Stainless steel blade
Handle: Plastic/polymer compound
Weight: 0.1 pounds
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Color: Silver
What Makes It Special
The 5.5-inch blade is the right size. It cuts through big cheese blocks. It also works for small pieces. The Micro-D serrated edge grips cheese well. It does not slip like smooth blades do.
The handle feels good in your hand. It does not get slippery when wet. The light weight makes it easy to use. You can cut for a long time without getting tired.
What I Like About This Cheese Knife
1. Sharp Serrated Edge
The Micro-D edge cuts clean. It does not tear the cheese. Soft cheese stays neat. Hard cheese breaks evenly. This edge stays sharp for years.
2. Perfect Size
At 5.5 inches, this blade hits the sweet spot. It is long enough for big cheese wheels. It is short enough for control. You can make thin slices or thick chunks.
3. Comfortable Handle
The handle fits well in small and large hands. The material does not slip. It feels secure even when your hands are wet or greasy.
4. Easy to Clean
This knife is dishwasher safe. Food does not stick to the blade. The smooth handle wipes clean fast. No special care needed.
5. Durable Build
CUTCO makes knives that last. I have used mine for 3 years. It still cuts like new. The blade has not dulled. The handle shows no wear.
6. Great Value
At this price point, you get CUTCO quality. Many cheap knives break fast. This one will last for decades with normal use.
Why It Could Be Better
1. Handle Material
The plastic handle works well but feels basic. A wood or metal handle would look nicer. But the plastic is more practical for daily use.
2. Limited Color Options
This knife only comes in silver. Some people want color variety. But silver matches most kitchen styles.
3. Availability Issues
Sometimes this knife goes out of stock. CUTCO products can be hard to find. But the wait is worth it for the quality.
4. No Protective Sheath
The knife does not come with a blade cover. Sharp serrated edges need protection in drawers. You may need to buy a sheath separately.
How I Use This Cheese Knife
I use this knife almost every day. Here is how it works for different tasks:
Soft Cheese Cutting
For brie, camembert, and cream cheese, this knife glides through. The serrated edge grips without tearing. I can make paper-thin slices. The cheese looks perfect on plates.
Hard Cheese Breaking
For aged cheddar, parmesan, and gouda, the knife breaks clean chunks. No cracking or splitting. The pieces look uniform and neat.
Cheese Platter Prep
When I make cheese boards, this knife does it all. I can slice, chunk, and portion different cheese types. One tool handles the whole job.
Other Uses
This knife also works for tomatoes, bread, and delicate fruits. The serrated edge handles soft textures well. But I mainly use it for cheese.
Detailed Product Review
Build Quality: 9/10
CUTCO uses quality materials. The stainless steel blade resists rust and stains. The handle attachment is solid. No wobble or loose parts after years of use.
Cutting Performance: 10/10
This knife cuts better than any cheese knife I have tried. The Micro-D serration grips perfectly. Clean cuts every time. No dragging or tearing issues.
Comfort: 8/10
The handle shape works for most people. The weight balance feels right. Only issue is the plastic can feel cheap compared to premium handles.
Durability: 10/10
Three years of regular use and it looks new. The blade holds its edge. The handle shows no wear. This knife will last for decades.
Value: 9/10
The price is fair for CUTCO quality. You pay more than cheap knives but get much better performance and longevity. Good investment for serious cooks.
Overall Score: 9.2/10
Customer Reviews Analysis
Amazon customers love this knife. It has 4.9 out of 5 stars from 416 reviews. Here is what people say:
Positive Reviews (95%):
- “Best cheese knife I have ever owned”
- “Cuts through everything perfectly”
- “CUTCO quality is unmatched”
- “Worth every penny”
- “Sharp after years of use”
Common Complaints (5%):
- “Wish it came with a sheath”
- “Handle feels cheap”
- “Takes long to ship sometimes”
Most buyers are happy with their purchase. The few complaints are minor. People who buy this knife recommend it to others.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Blade Length
Cheese knives range from 3 to 8 inches. The 5.5-inch length is ideal for most home kitchens. It handles small and large cheese portions well.
Edge Type
Serrated edges work best for cheese. They grip and cut without slipping. Smooth edges can slide and tear soft cheese. The Micro-D serration is perfect.
Handle Comfort
You will hold this knife for extended periods. The handle must feel good in your hand. It should not slip when wet. The CUTCO handle meets these needs.
Material Quality
Stainless steel blades last longer and resist stains. Cheap steel dulls fast and can rust. CUTCO uses quality steel that stays sharp.
Brand Reputation
CUTCO has made quality knives for decades. They stand behind their products. Cheap brands may not honor warranties or maintain quality.
Care and Maintenance Tips
Daily Cleaning
Wash by hand or use the dishwasher. The knife is dishwasher safe. But hand washing is gentler on the blade. Use warm soapy water. Dry completely.
Storage
Store in a knife block or drawer with blade guards. The serrated edge can dull if it hits other metal. Keep it separate from other utensils.
Sharpening
CUTCO offers sharpening services. The Micro-D edge lasts years before needing work. Do not try to sharpen serrated edges yourself.
Handling
Always cut on proper cutting boards. Avoid glass or stone surfaces. These can chip or dull the blade. Use wood or plastic boards only.
Comparison with Other Cheese Knives
CUTCO vs. Wusthof
Wusthof makes good knives but costs more. The CUTCO performs just as well for cheese cutting. Better value for most people.
CUTCO vs. Victorinox
Victorinox knives are cheaper but not as durable. The CUTCO blade stays sharper longer. Worth the extra cost for serious use.
CUTCO vs. Generic Brands
Cheap cheese knives dull fast and break easily. CUTCO quality justifies the higher price. You save money long-term with fewer replacements.
Best Uses for This Cheese Knife
Entertaining
Perfect for party prep. Cuts cheese for platters quickly and neatly. Makes uniform pieces that look professional.
Daily Cooking
Great for everyday cheese use. Slice cheese for sandwiches, salads, and snacks. One knife handles all cheese tasks.
Professional Use
Restaurant quality performance. Can handle high-volume cheese prep. Durable enough for commercial kitchens.
Gift Giving
Makes an excellent gift for cooks. CUTCO reputation ensures the recipient will appreciate the quality. Comes in nice packaging.
Where to Buy
Amazon offers the best price and fast shipping. Prime members get free delivery. Amazon also handles returns if needed. The knife ranks #34 in cheese knives on Amazon.
Alternatives to Consider
If You Want Premium Materials
Look at high-end German or Japanese cheese knives. They cost more but offer premium handles and exotic steels.
If Budget Is Tight
Consider CUTCO’s smaller cheese knives. They offer similar quality at lower prices. The performance difference is minimal.
If You Need Multiple Sizes
CUTCO makes cheese knife sets. You get different sizes for various cheese types. Good for serious cheese enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
The CUTCO Model 1764 Traditional Cheese Knife earns my strong recommendation. I have used it for years with excellent results. It cuts cleanly, lasts long, and feels comfortable to use.
The 4.9-star Amazon rating from 416 reviews backs up my experience. Most buyers love this knife and recommend it to others.
Yes, you can find cheaper cheese knives. But none match the CUTCO quality and durability. This knife will serve you well for decades of cheese cutting.
Get Your CUTCO Cheese Knife on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this cheese knife dishwasher safe?
A: Yes, the CUTCO Model 1764 is dishwasher safe. The stainless steel blade and polymer handle can handle dishwasher cycles without damage.
Q: How long does the blade stay sharp?
A: With normal home use, the Micro-D serrated edge stays sharp for years. I have used mine for 3 years with no noticeable dulling.
Q: Can this knife cut hard cheeses like parmesan?
A: Yes, it cuts hard aged cheeses very well. The serrated edge grips and breaks clean pieces without cracking or splitting.
Q: Does CUTCO offer a warranty on this knife?
A: CUTCO backs their products with excellent customer service. Contact them directly for warranty details and sharpening services.
Q: What is the Micro-D serration?
A: Micro-D is CUTCO’s special serrated edge design. The small teeth grip food effectively while cutting cleanly without tearing.
Q: Is 5.5 inches the right size for home use?
A: Yes, 5.5 inches is perfect for most home cheese cutting tasks. It handles both small portions and large cheese blocks well.
Q: How do I store this knife safely?
A: Use a knife block, magnetic strip, or drawer with blade guards. Keep the serrated edge protected from contact with other utensils.
Q: Can I use this knife for other foods besides cheese?
A: Yes, it works well for tomatoes, soft breads, and delicate fruits. The serrated edge handles soft textures without crushing.
Q: Why choose CUTCO over cheaper brands?
A: CUTCO offers superior materials, construction, and longevity. While the initial cost is higher, the knife lasts much longer than cheap alternatives.
Q: How often should I sharpen this knife?
A: Serrated edges rarely need sharpening with normal use. CUTCO offers professional sharpening services when needed after years of use.