Quality Cooking Starts with Quality Knives, So Upgrade Yours While They’re on Major Sale at Walmart

One of the biggest (and yes, overdue) revelations in my cooking journey is this: A good set of knives will completely transform the way you cook. I used to think my kitchen struggles—like hacking away at an onion till I sob or sawing through a tomato like it owes me money—were a necessary part of my journey toward chef status. Turns out, they were just signs of subpar cutlery.

I spent the last few years working with a knife set that I, uh, acquired in college (read: someone left it behind, and I claimed it as my own). It technically got the job done, and I still have all ten fingers, but it wasn't exactly top-tier and it definitely wasn't well cared for. Who knows how many roommates, cousins, or ex-boyfriends’ uncles used them before I did?

I finally upgraded recently, and wow. It's a new era: Suddenly, slicing and dicing are no longer upper-body workouts. I don't have to brace myself (or shake off forearm cramps) just to cut through an apple. Cooking has become so much safer, more efficient, and—dare I say—more enjoyable, and I feel very Chef Sydney when I saunter into my kitchen.

If you can't remember the last time you sprung for a new blade, take this as your sign to upgrade with Astercook knives—especially while Walmart is offering amazing deals on tons of their sets.

14-Piece Knife Set with Block and Built-in Sharpener — $48

Originally $300

This well rounded, 14-piece set has everything you need to slice, dice, and mince like a pro, and it's all housed in a beautiful acacia block. The built-in sharpener keeps your blades in check, and the kitchen scissors will become your new BFF for chopped salads, homemade pizzas, and herbs. Bonus: These knives are dishwasher-safe (which is definitely not true of all cutlery) so you won’t be stuck scrubbing after dinner.

15-Piece Knife Set with Block and Built-in Sharpener — $39

Originally $200

Go for bold with a moody black or electric blue block. Just like its 14-piece counterpart, this set is designed with anti-rust technology and ergonomic handles to ensure a firm and comfortable grip for any hand size (and both righties and lefties). Oh, and you get a lifetime warranty when you purchase—which you should do right now while it's 80 percent off.

14-Piece Colorful Knife Set with Block and Built-in Sharpener — $36

Originally $80

A functional knife set, but make it kitchen decor. This 14-piece set comes in millennial pink, sky blue, and yellow for a pop of color on your countertop—but you can opt for black or white if you're more into a minimalist aesthetic. Each knife is made with a non-stick coating to improve durability, so choose a color you'll like for the long haul.

Seven-Piece Kitchen Knife Set — $20

Originally $130

Small kitchen? No problem. This sleek set of seven comes without a block but with all the same stainless-steel, razor sharpness you find in higher-ticket options. Each piece, which you can grab in a chic tan gradient or a fun paisley print, comes with blade guards that make drawer storage and carrying extra safe.

Six-Piece Color-Coded Kitchen Knife Set — $17

Originally $100

If you’ve ever accidentally used your raw chicken knife on a cucumber (oops), this set is for you. The color-coded blades make it easy to keep your food groups separate, while the lifetime warranty and blade guards add a welcome dose of comfort. And at 83 percent off? It's hard to turn these down.

21-Piece Knife Set with Block and Built-in Sharpener — $40

Alongside the essentials you'll find in the 14- and 15-piece sets (like a chef's knife, a slicing knife, a paring blade, a serrated bread knife, and steak knives), this 21-piece set includes a peeler and six measuring spoons. It's a one-and-done deal for all the meal prepping you could ever dream of, and it's 70 percent off right now.

So go ahead—retire that hand-me-down knife set (but none of your college nostalgia, of course) and upgrade to blades that actually do the work for you. Your apples, tomatoes, and forearms will thank you.