Lamson Cutlery

Precision, durability, and unmatched craftsmanship. That's Lamson Cutlery, creating exceptional kitchen tools in the USA since 1837 for chefs who demand only the best.

About Lamson Cutlery

Silas Lamson, an inventor with a knack for ergonomics, laid the foundation for Lamson & Goodnow in 1837 in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts.

Known for his early patent on a curved snath, which improved the use of a scythe, Silas teamed up with his sons and Abel Goodnow to start what would become the oldest cutlery manufacturer in the United States.

An image showing a Lamson chef's knife set. The knives feature high-quality stainless steel blades and a sleek, polished finish.

Bringing in skilled craftsmen from Sheffield, England, and Germany, Lamson & Goodnow quickly became known for producing top-notch butcher and table knives. During the Civil War, the company expanded, employing over 500 workers and introducing tableware to their product lineup.

Their reputation for quality was so strong that in 1869, they created a custom dinner set for President Ulysses S. Grant.

Today, Lamson & Goodnow operates from the same historic buildings in Shelburne Falls, blending modern technology like lasers and CNC grinders with traditional hand-finishing techniques. Many of their workers are descendants of the original craftsmen, keeping the legacy of fine American cutlery alive over 175 years later.

What types of knives does Lamson offer?

Lamson offers an extensive range of meticulously crafted kitchen knives, each designed for precision, durability, and versatility. Lamson Cutlery collections include:

Brad Leone Signature

A collaboration with renowned chef Brad Leone, this line features kitchen knives and tools designed for all types of chefs, whether avid home cooks or professional chefs. Each piece is stamped with Brad Leone's signature.

Examples of knives and tools included in the collection:

Chinese Santoku cleavers
Large and small Santoku cleavers with walnut handles
Leather sheaths for Chinese Santoku cleavers
Griddle turners with walnut or noir handles

Premier Forged

Made with high-carbon stainless steel and forged for durability, this collection offers a wide selection of kitchen knives for both professional chefs and home cooks.

An image showing a beautiful set of Lamson knives in a wooden knife block.

Each blade in the Premier Forged Collection is individually forged from the finest quality 4116 grade high-carbon stainless steel from Germany, ensuring superb hardness and long-lasting durability. These knives are built to handle rigorous use while maintaining their sharpness and precision over time.

Examples of expertly crafted kitchen knives tools featured in this collection:

Santoku knives
Utility knives
Four-piece steak knife sets
Chef knives
Fillet and boning knives
Bread knives
Sharpening steels

Vintage Precision

This collection features laser-cut blades, fabricated from Lamson’s proprietary 420HC high-carbon stainless steel made in the USA. These knives offer exceptional sharpness and durability, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern materials for precise cutting performance. Vintage Precision knives are perfect for those who value both form and function in their kitchen tools.

Knives and kitchen tools in this collection include:

What other products does Lamson offer?

Lamson also offers accessories designed to elevate every kitchen, including:

Cutting boards made from premium woods like acacia, walnut, and maple
Knife tool storage, such as knife blocks, magnetic strips, and sheaths
Professional-grade BBQ tools like tongs, spatulas, and forks
Kitchen utensils, such as spatulas, turners, and slotted spoons
Sharpening tools, like honing steels and sharpening stones

Where are Lamson knives made?

Lamson knives are proudly made in the USA at their Massachusetts facility, continuing a tradition of craftsmanship that dates back to 1837. Lamson is one of the oldest cutlery manufacturers in the country.

What is the history of Lamson knives?

Founded in 1837, Lamson has a long history of producing high-quality kitchen tools and knives. Over the years, they’ve earned a reputation for craftsmanship, using durable materials like high-carbon stainless steel and American hardwoods for handles.

What cutlery does MasterChef use?

The specific cutlery used on the show can vary, but professional chefs often favor brands like Lamson for their reliable performance and American craftsmanship. Lamson knives are known for their sharpness, durability, and ergonomic designs, making them a great choice for both professional and home kitchens.

How do I clean my Lamson knives?

Regular cleaning ensures your Lamson knives are always in tip-top shape. Some tips:

Clean your knife immediately after use. Use a sponge and warm, soapy water, washing in the direction of the grain.
Dry the knife thoroughly after washing to prevent moisture buildup.
Use a mild scouring pad or powder for stubborn grime, but avoid heavy-duty products like steel wool to prevent scratches on the blade and handle.
Do not use a dishwasher to clean your knives.
Although Lamson knives are resistant to both heat and water, don't soak them for long periods. Dry them immediately after washing and before storing.
To preserve the appearance of your knives, occasionally apply mineral oil to the blade and handle to seal out moisture and preserve the rich colors of the wood and acrylic.
Never use your knife for prying or twisting. The steel may chip or snap under excessive force.
Store your knives safely in a knife block, on a magnetic strip, or in a sheath to prevent damage.

How should I store my Lamson knives?

Lamson recommends storing your knives in a knife block, on a magnetic strip, or in a knife sheath to protect the blades and prevent accidents. Keeping them in a drawer unprotected can dull the blades and cause damage to the knife.

How do I sharpen my Lamson knives?

For optimal performance, sharpen your Lamson knives using any of the following tools:

Sharpening stone

Also called a whetstone, a sharpening stone is a flat stone used to sharpen blades by grinding and honing the edge.

Honing steel

A honing steel is a long, rod-shaped tool used to realign the blade's edge rather than sharpen it. Lamson block knife sets usually include a honing steel, such as in this 10-piece Vintage set.

Professional knife sharpener

This type of sharpener is an electric or manual device that helps sharpen blades quickly and consistently. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a professional sharpener.

An image featuring a Lamson vegetable cleaver on a solid black background.

Regular honing helps maintain the blade's sharpness, but for a more thorough sharpening, consider having them professionally sharpened every 6-12 months depending on usage.

What materials are Lamson knife handles made from?

Lamson knives feature handles made from high-quality materials like American hardwoods (e.g., walnut and maple), depending on the specific knife series. The handles are designed for comfort and long-lasting durability.

Are Lamson knives covered by a warranty?

Yes, Lamson offers a lifetime warranty against material or manufacturing defects. This warranty applies to the original purchaser and does not cover defects resulting from abuse, misuse, neglect, or modification.

Lamson also offers a free "sharpening for life" program for all their knives, where customers only need to cover the shipping costs to and from the factory.

Can Lamson knives rust?

Lamson knives are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, which is highly resistant to rust. However, to prevent rusting, it’s important to dry your knives thoroughly after washing and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.

Where can I buy Lamson sharp knives?

Northwest Knives is a trusted premium knife distributor for brands like Lamson, Miyabi, Shun, Henckels, Bradford, Benchmade, and many more. Need sporting knives for your next trip into the wild? We got automatics, fixed blades, and folding knives.