Dalstrong vs. Coolina Knives: Which Brand Should You Go With?
Having reliable and high-quality kitchen knives is essential, as they are crucial tools in any kitchen. With so many companies around, it can be challenging to determine which one to choose. It’s best to choose a reputable and reliable company to ensure you get a durable and effective kitchen knife that meets your needs and preferences.
Dalstrong and Coolina are two prominent brands in the market for kitchen knives. Both companies have gained a reputation for producing stylish and visually appealing knives. In this article, we will discuss and compare the two companies in terms of product quality, customer service, overall reputation, and other relevant factors for you to decide which brand is best for you.
1. Dalstrong And Coolina Company Overviews
When it comes to looks, the world of knives can sometimes be a somewhat boring, conservative scene. A lot of knifemakers choose to stick to the tried-and-true look, resulting in knives that are virtually indistinguishable from each other. But luckily for those of us who like knives that combine solid performance with stylish design, that seems to be slowly changing.
Two brands that have made names for themselves by creating visually interesting, stylish knives are Dalstrong and Coolina. Just take a look at either company’s catalog of excellent knives, and you’ll find some truly beautiful kitchen powerhouses, stuff that is guaranteed to elicit comments from friends and family. Of course, sometimes putting an emphasis on the looks of a tool comes at a cost, resulting in less than optimal performance.
Let’s explore the backgrounds and histories of both of these knife-makers; see what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what makes one of them superior to the other. First, let’s talk about the companies themselves.
Coolina Knives: Bringing the old-world look to the new world
A Coolina knife looks like it's smuggled over from the olden days via a time machine. But despite their decidedly old-world look, this knife company is actually very young.
Coolina was founded in 2017, just five years ago, by friends Ilya Gringaz and Sergey Markosian. The story goes that the pair bonded over their love of cooking and lamented the lack of high-performing, good-looking knives that fit their particular style. They set out to create a line of kitchen-friendly blades that used a decidedly traditional hand-forging technique as well as a rugged, eye-catching aesthetic.
Coolina knives are affordable since they cut out the middleman and sell strictly online. They are available worldwide and over the past five years, have sold over 150,000 knives. They have headquarters in Miami, Florida, United States. They also have warehouses across the USA, Canada, and Australia.
Thanks to their attention to detail, quality customer service, and distinct look & feel to their blades, Coolina has been featured in several noteworthy publications and amassed a community of over 400,000 followers.
Dalstrong: Bringing form and function together
Like Coolina, Dalstrong is also a very young company that has made a considerable splash in the market. Dalstrong was started back in 2014, three years before Coolina, by David Dallaire. Based out of Toronto, Canada, Dallaire was similarly enamored with the idea of creating knives that were beautiful objects as well as powerful kitchen tools.
Dalstrong is a company that values both function and beauty in its knives. They believe that knives shouldn’t be merely functional, but also speak to the customer’s personality and aesthetic. Through their knife design and manufacturing processes, they place a strong emphasis on creating visually stunning and ornate knives that are not only practical and efficient in the kitchen but also have aesthetic appeal. They view their knives as both functional tools and works of art and strive to make them both visually exciting and high-performing.
In service of this, Dalstrong offers a very wide variety of designs and styles to appeal to different tastes, from the classic look of the Crusader Series to the modern, futuristic design of the Shadow Black Series. There’s the icy-cold beauty of the Frost Fire Series and the razor-sharp elegance of the Damascus Shogun Series, and many more. Whatever your taste is, you’re bound to find something you’ll love.
This variety isn’t all about design; it also extends to materials and overall knife style. Dalstrong offers a wide range of knife types, including both Western and Japanese styles, each made with the best materials to ensure optimal performance. They carefully select the materials for each type of knife in order to meet the specific requirements and demands of that particular style, resulting in a diverse selection of high-quality and effective knives.
Dalstrong's expert bladesmiths use their expertise and skill to craft high-quality knives in a modern facility located in YangJiang, China. YangJiang has a long and storied history of knife-making that stretches back nearly 1500 years, and Dalstrong is proud to continue this tradition by producing its knives in this city.
The combination of the city's rich knife-making heritage and Dalstrong's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility allows them to create exceptional knives that are both durable and finely crafted.
2. Dalstrong Knives
Valhalla Series Chef & Cleaver Hybrid Knife 8"
If you’re looking for variety, Dalstrong is your pick. If you’re looking for performance, Dalstrong is your pick. If you’re looking for customer service and overall community, Dalstrong is your pick. And if all you’re looking for is a good-looking multipurpose knife… yep, Dalstrong’s your pick as well.
Dalstrong is renowned for its wide selection of high-quality Western and Japanese-style knives, offered in a variety of different series. One of their most famous series of Japanese knives is the Shogun Series, which is a line of premium knives made from ultra-premium Japanese high-carbon AUS-10V steel and featuring 67 alternating layers of Damascus cladding. This special clad steel helps to increase the knife's stain resistance and durability, making it an excellent choice for cutting tasks in the kitchen.
Among Dalstrong's most popular products is the 8 inch chef's knife from the Shogun Series, which is a prime example of the brand's commitment to creating knives that excel in both form and function. The knife's precision-forged design and exceptional craftsmanship make it popular among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
In addition to their popular Shogun Series, Dalstrong also offers the Firestorm Alpha Series, a collection of high-quality knives that are perfect for any culinary warrior. These knives are designed to channel the power of mother nature into a lightning-fast blade that is double beveled and hand-sharpened to ultra-precise angles of 8-12° degrees. The result is a knife that you can confidently wield in the kitchen, knowing that it is capable of delivering precise, clean cuts every time.
Made from premium 10CR15MOV high-carbon steel and rated at 61+ Rockwell Hardness, the Firestorm Alpha Series knives are forged for enhanced strength and durability. If you are a professional chef or a home cook, these knives are an excellent choice for anyone who values performance and style in their kitchen tools.
Among the other awesome knife series in Dalstrong’s varied arsenal is the Valhalla Series. A Valhalla knife features the cutting ability of a Viking weapon, it is precision-sharp, wear-resistant, has 5-layer stainless steel at 60+ Rockwell, and sports a beautiful sandblasted finish. And then there’s the Shadow Black Series, a collection of stylish knives inspired by the F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter jet with a black titanium nitride coating.
While Dalstrong is known for its stylish and visually appealing knives, the brand also offers a range of classic and timeless options for those who prefer a more understated look. One such example is the Gladiator Series, which features precision-forged knives made from premium quality high-carbon ThyssenKrupp German steel. These knives are hand-sharpened to precise angles of 16-18 degrees per side, resulting in reliable, sharp edges that are perfect for a variety of cutting tasks.
The Gladiator Series is known for its simple, elegant design, which combines a timeless look with a modern aesthetic. If you are a professional chef or a home cook, these knives are a great choice for those who value classic beauty and excellent performance in their kitchen tools.
In summary, Dalstrong offers a truly wide variety of tools to fit the needs of just about any cook. No matter where you are in your culinary journey, Dalstrong has something to meet your needs. Be sure to check out their deals on knife blocks if you want to quickly stock your kitchen with some of the best tools available; they also have cutting boards, tongs, and many more useful tools.
3. Coolina Knives
While Dalstrong offers a wide variety of knife collections, Coolina's selection is more limited, with only a few different types of knives available on their website. This can be seen as a positive for some customers who prefer a more streamlined selection process, but it may be limiting for those who are looking for a wider range of options.
On Coolina's website, the brand's knife offerings are organized into four categories: "Kitchen," "Butcher," "Camping," and "Collectors favorites." However, there is some overlap between the categories, with certain knives appearing in multiple sections. For example, the Doozi knife can be found in all four categories, as does the Coolina promaja cleaver knife.
One potential drawback for customers considering Coolina's knife offerings is the fact that all of the brand's knives have a similar look and aesthetic. While the rugged, outdoorsy design of these knives is certainly eye-catching (especially for those who love outdoor cooking), it may not appeal to everyone, and some customers may prefer more variety in terms of visual style.
The design of Coolina's knives, which is vaguely reminiscent of medieval weapons, may be particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional or vintage look, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer a more modern or contemporary aesthetic.
Coolina offers a unique feature for those who want to customize their knife purchase: custom engraving. This service allows customers to have their knives engraved with a custom message or design, adding an extra level of customization to their purchase. This is an amazing option for those who are looking to give a gift or simply want to add a special touch to their own kitchen tools. Keep in mind that custom engraving may come at an additional cost.
4. Dalstrong Knife Vs. Coolina Knife: Differences And Similarities
So how different are Dalstrong knives and Coolina knives? Let’s take a quick look at the companies and their products.
|
Coolina |
Dalstrong |
|
|
Founded |
2017 |
2014 |
|
Headquarters |
Miami, Florida |
Toronto, Canada |
|
Steel Blade material |
Carbon steel and manganese steel |
Japanese steel, American steel, German steel, Sino steel, Scandinavian steel |
|
Handle material |
Wooden handles |
G10, carbon fibre, stabilized wood, pakkawood, resin |
|
NSF certified |
No |
Yes |
|
Blade hardness |
60-61 HRC |
55- 62+ HRC |
|
Knife collections |
4 |
15 (and counting!) |
|
Price point |
$$ |
$$ |
|
Warranty |
Limited lifetime warranty |
Limited lifetime warranty+ 100% satisfaction or 70 days money-back guarantee |
|
Cookware |
Yes |
Yes |
|
BBQ tools |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Premium packaging |
No |
Yes |
Materials
Coolina and Dalstrong have distinct approaches when it comes to the materials they use in their knife-making process. Coolina knives are crafted using traditional hand-forging techniques and made with carbon steel blades and manganese steel. Dalstrong, on the other hand, offers a wide variety of materials for their knives, including Japanese steel and American stainless steel. The specific type of knife being made will determine which materials Dalstrong uses. Both companies offer high-quality options for those in search of durable and reliable knives.
Manganese steel is a type of steel alloy known for its high-impact strength and durability. But one of the downsides of manganese steel knives is that they may be more difficult to sharpen than knives made from other materials. Manganese steel is a very hard and tough material, which can make it challenging to sharpen the blade to a fine edge.
Manganese steel knives are also more prone to chipping or breaking if subjected to tough cutting tasks or if they are dropped. While manganese steel is known for its high impact strength, it is not immune to damage and may be more prone to breakage than knives made from other materials.
Attitude
Coolina and Dalstrong have a similar attitude when it comes to their approach to knife design and innovation. Both companies are relatively young and are known for their innovative and forward-thinking approach to creating state-of-the-art knives. They both see knives as more than just functional kitchen tools, but also as aesthetic products that can be appreciated for their design and craftsmanship.
This shared focus on innovation and design has led both Coolina and Dalstrong to strive for disruption in the traditional knife market. They are both driven to create high-quality, visually appealing knives that are built to last and offer something new and exciting to consumers. In this way, both companies have a lot to prove and are committed to pushing the boundaries in the world of knife-making.
Appearance
Dalstrong is known for its wide array of knife designs, offering options for just about every preference. Some of their knives have very ornate and intricate designs, while others have a more timeless and classic look. This wide variety means that Dalstrong's knives can fit all kinds of preferences, from the more conservative to those with a penchant for quirkiness.
In contrast, Coolina knives all have a unified aesthetic, with a rugged, almost medieval look. While they are certainly good-looking knives, they all have a similar appearance that may not appeal to everyone. However, Coolina does offer custom engraving, allowing customers to personalize their knife and add a unique touch.
Overall, both Dalstrong and Coolina create visually appealing knives, but Dalstrong has a wider selection that caters to many different tastes and interests. Dalstrong's knives also feature the elegant Dalstrong lionhead logo, which adds a touch of sophistication to their designs. While Coolina's medieval aesthetic may be attractive to some, Dalstrong's wider variety of designs allows for more flexibility and customization in terms of appearance.
Variety
In addition to the appearance of their knives, Dalstrong's selection includes a range of forms and functions. They have large slicers, meat cleavers, small paring knives, specialized BBQ knives for pitmasters, and many other unique types of knives. This wide range of options allows Dalstrong to cater to many different types of chefs, whether they are home cooks just starting their culinary journey or professionals working in a busy kitchen.
Coolina, on the other hand, offers fewer types of knives in total, and their designs don't vary as much. While their knives are certainly functional and well-made, Dalstrong's wider selection allows for more flexibility and customization in terms of form and function.
Overall, Dalstrong provides a wide range of tools for many different types of chefs, while Coolina's selection is more limited. Whether you are a home cook, professional chef, or anything in between, Dalstrong has a knife that is sure to suit your needs.
Cost
Coolina and Dalstrong both make premium products, so it's no surprise that their knives are more expensive than what most regular folks have in their kitchens. But let's be real, who wants regular when you can have premium? Plus, when it comes to knife-makers, both Coolina and Dalstrong are actually on the cheaper side of the premium spectrum. How do they do it? Well, both companies implement measures to keep costs low, such as selling directly to customers and cutting out the middle man.
Don't get us wrong, these knives are still going to cost you more than your average Walmart special. But when it comes to the world of premium knives, Coolina and Dalstrong are definitely more budget-friendly options. And in many cases, the price of Coolina knives and comparable Dalstrong knives are very similar, so you really can't go wrong either way.
Customer Service
When it comes to customer service, both Dalstrong and Coolina offer limited lifetime warranties on their products, which is always a plus. However, Dalstrong takes it a step further by offering a 100% satisfaction or 70 day money-back guarantee. This demonstrates their confidence in their products and their commitment to making sure their customers are happy.
But it's not just about the warranty – Dalstrong's customer service is renowned for being extremely attentive and helpful. They go the extra mile to make sure any question customers may have is answered thoroughly. From customer comments, it seems that Coolina's customer service may not be quite as attentive, which can be a bummer if you need help with your new knife.
Overall, both Dalstrong and Coolina offer excellent warranties on their products, but Dalstrong's customer service seems to be a cut above the rest. So if you're looking for a company that will be there for you every step of the way, Dalstrong might be the way to go.
Community
When it comes to building a community, both Coolina and Dalstrong have done an excellent job. Coolina has built a following of over 400k on social media, where they share recipes, humorous videos, and more. They definitely know how to keep things fun and engaging for their followers.
Dalstrong is also extremely active online, engaging with their users on a regular basis. On their Facebook page they run polls, share memes, open up conversations, and share in the enthusiasm of their products. In addition to its social media presence, Dalstrong also has a wonderful chef blog, which features recipes, how-to guides, profiles on various famous chefs who use Dalstrong products, and much more. This is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about cooking and using high-quality knives.
Overall, both Coolina and Dalstrong have fostered a good sense of community, with active social media presence and helpful resources for their customers. So whether you're looking for some inspiration in the kitchen or just want to hang out with like-minded folks, both Coolina and Dalstrong have got you covered.
5. Dalstrong Vs. Coolina: Pros And Cons
Let’s break it down. What do you need to know about these two knife companies?
Dalstrong
PROS:
- Dalstrong is known for its amazing assortment of high-quality, durable blades. Whether you're in the market for a large slicer, a small paring knife, or something in between, they've got you covered.
- In addition to a wide variety of blade materials, Dalstrong offers a diverse range of knife styles to choose from. This means that you can find a knife that suits your specific needs and preferences.
- If presentation is important to you, Dalstrong's knives are sure to impress. Many of their blades feature gorgeous designs that are sure to make a statement in your kitchen.
- Dalstrong's knives are extremely sharp right out of the box, so you won't have to spend time honing and sharpening before you can use them.
- The company's 100% satisfaction or 70 days money-back guarantee means that you can feel confident in your purchase. If you're not happy with your knife, they'll make it right.
- Dalstrong has received wide acclaim for their speedy and attentive customer service, so you can feel confident that you'll be taken care of if you have any questions or concerns.
CONS:
- If you prefer a more understated look, some of Dalstrong's knife blades may be too flashy for your taste. They have a wide range of designs to choose from, so you may be able to find something more understated, but their more ornate options may not be for everyone.
- As a younger company, Dalstrong is still working on defining its identity and establishing itself in the market. This isn't necessarily a negative, but it's something to consider if you prefer more established brands.
- With a lot of options to choose from, it can be hard to decide on the perfect knife. While Dalstrong's Knife Finder tool can help narrow down your options, you may still feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices.
Coolina Knives
PROS:
- A more concise selection of available knives will make choosing much easier.
- Sharp and durable blades that are hand-forged with traditional methods
- Their designs look very cool, reminiscent of old world blades.
- They offer custom engraving on their knives.
CONS:
- Not a lot of variety in terms of designs.
- They don’t offer much variety in their blade materials, either.
- There have been customer complaints about blades being warped.
- Common complaints about cutting performance and usability.
6. Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the perfect knife for your kitchen, both Dalstrong and Coolina have a lot to offer. Coolina offers cool-looking knives at good prices, and their rugged, medieval aesthetic may be appealing to some users. However, Dalstrong has a much greater variety, with a wide range of blade materials, styles, and designs to choose from.
When it comes to the best choice for a lot of home cooks and professional chefs, we think Dalstrong offers the best in terms of value and quality of products. Their powerful blades are known for their incredible performance, and their user community is always ready to share tips and recipes. Plus, their wide variety of knife styles means that there's something for everyone, whether you're a home cook or a professional chef.
So if you're looking for a knife that's powerful, stylish, and backed by a great community of users, Dalstrong is definitely the way to go. Happy cooking!
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Coolina knives?
Coolina knives are made by Coolina, an eCommerce company founded in 2017 by Ilya Gringlaz and Sergey Markosian.
What are Coolina knives used for?
Coolina has a wide array of knives that can be used for many different kitchen tasks. Many are multitaskers, while others are used for deboning meat and cutting meat.
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