First off, I know nothing when it comes to knives and I know it's pretty silly to even consider getting these, but how are those Ronco knives that you see on infomercials? Anyone have any experience with them? 25 some knives for 40 bucks seems pretty cheap. What I need is a simple set of knives, nothing fancy. I can't afford to spend hundreds on top notch german knives or whatever, espeically since I don't know how to use them. I am interested in learning more about cooking, so I don't want to buy something that is a complete waste of money. Thanks!
Just go to KFC and grab all the sporks and knives you can carry. It's worked for me the past ten years.
I would recommend the following: A good chef's knife, preferably 8"; smaller is no use, bigger is clumsy for beginners. and A cleaver for bone work. OR a 7" Santoku will do the job of both. Get one with a solid handle, wusthof or ja henckels (with 2 men, not 1!) if possible, check overstock.com It is better to spend a little more money up front and get a knife that will last a long time than get el cheapo knives over and over and over again. Then you can get ok quality bread knives, paring etc. Splurge on the santoku, you'll be glad you did later when you know what you are doing.
Are you using these knives for butchering people or animals? If people, use a machete, and a cleaver for game.
