Serrated Bread Knife, 10 In.

A good bread knife should saw through a crackly sourdough crust and leave the tender crumb inside perfectly intact. The wide, scalloped serrations on this 10-inch blade grip the crust on the first stroke instead of skating across it, then glide through with long, easy passes.

The extra length handles big country loaves, layer cakes, and even whole pineapples or melons. It is also the best tool we know for slicing a tall grilled cheese or a pressed sandwich without squashing all that melted goodness out the sides. A tall blade and full tang handle keep your knuckles clear of the board.