Grunwerg Rockingham Forge Jumbo XL Universal Knife Block
Grunwerg Rockingham Forge Jumbo XL Universal Knife Block
- In stock, ready to ship
- Inventory on the way
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
The Grunwerg Rockingham Forge Jumbo XL is a 20-slot universal knife block designed to accommodate knives from any manufacturer in an upright orientation. Its extra-large designation refers to the breadth of storage it provides: a full knife collection alongside a knife sharpener and kitchen scissors, all at one accessible point on the worktop. The universal slot design means it works with whatever knives you own or add in future, without requiring a matched set. Available in natural bamboo and matt black plastic, it suits a range of kitchen aesthetics at the same price point. Like the Sloped Block, it comes from Grunwerg's Rockingham Forge range, a Sheffield brand with roots in the city's cutlery-making tradition dating back to 1948.
- 20-slot universal fit: Holds up to 20 knives from any brand in an upright position, with a universal slot design that accommodates a wide range of blade widths and lengths.
- Extra-large capacity for a full knife collection: Designed to store an entire knife collection in one place alongside a knife sharpener and kitchen scissors, keeping everything accessible at one point on the worktop.
- Upright storage orientation: Knives are stored upright rather than at an angle, which suits the Jumbo XL's broader footprint and maximises slot capacity without increasing the block's height significantly.
- Choice of bamboo or matt black plastic: Available in natural bamboo or matt black plastic to suit different kitchen aesthetics, both at the same price.
- Sheffield heritage brand: Grunwerg has manufactured knives and kitchen tools in Sheffield since 1948, with the Rockingham Forge range continuing that tradition in contemporary designs.
What Customers Ask About This Product
What is the difference between this and the Sloped Knife Block?
The Jumbo XL stores knives upright at 23x11x24cm and is described as extra-large, designed to accommodate a full knife collection including scissors and a sharpener. The Sloped block holds the same number of knives but at a sloped angle that directs handles towards the user for easier access, with dimensions of 27x11x25cm at the top. Both hold 20 knives and are the same price. The choice between them is mainly about whether you prefer upright or angled knife orientation and which physical footprint suits your worktop.
Will knives from any brand fit?
Yes. The Jumbo XL uses a universal slot design intended to accommodate knives from any manufacturer. The upright orientation means slot depth is the key dimension rather than length, and the design is built to accept a wide range of blade widths. Very unusual blade profiles or particularly oversized knives may not fit in every slot.
How do I clean it?
Hand wash only. Do not put the block in the dishwasher. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Use a small brush to clean the interior slots periodically, removing any debris that accumulates. Allow to dry fully before replacing knives.
In our experience...
Universal knife blocks suit households with mixed knife collections. If you have knives from different brands, a universal block is more practical than a brand-specific one designed for a set. The Jumbo XL is designed for exactly this situation, accepting any knife rather than requiring a matched collection.
Storing scissors and a sharpener alongside knives is more useful than it sounds. Kitchen scissors and a honing steel or sharpener are the tools most likely to be needed immediately after a knife, but they are often stored separately and require an extra trip to the drawer. A block that integrates storage for all three keeps the workflow at the cutting station without interruption.
Upright versus sloped orientation is a genuine preference, not just an aesthetic one. Upright blocks store knives vertically, which means the handle is at a consistent height regardless of blade length. Sloped blocks angle the handles towards you, which feels more natural when drawing the knife out. Neither is objectively better, but if you reach for your knives dozens of times a week, the angle matters to how comfortable the action feels.
A knife block is a long-term kitchen investment that outlasts individual knives. A quality knife block, properly maintained, can last decades. Knives will be replaced, upgraded, or added to a collection over the years, and a universal block means you are not tied to one brand or set. The Jumbo XL's universal fit is a practical consideration for a worktop fixture that may serve multiple generations of knives.
The bamboo and plastic versions differ in more than just appearance. Bamboo is a natural material that can be refreshed with a light oiling and has a slightly warmer acoustic quality when knives are placed and removed. Plastic is more impervious to moisture, easier to wipe clean, and maintains a consistent appearance over time. Both are practical choices; the decision comes down to which aesthetic suits the kitchen and which maintenance approach you prefer.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Exterior: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. For the bamboo version, occasional light oiling with food-safe oil will maintain the surface. For the plastic version, wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent if needed.
Interior slots: Use a small brush to clean debris from the slots periodically. Shake out loose particles and allow to dry fully before replacing knives.
What to avoid: Do not put the block in the dishwasher. Do not allow water to sit in the slots. Store away from direct heat sources. Do not place damp knives into the block.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality tableware and cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
- No-quibble returns, even used items
- Half-price accidental damage replacement for two years
- Price match guarantee
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no-quibble guarantee covers used items. If it's not right for you, get in touch and we'll sort out a refund.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
If you accidentally break this item within two years of buying it, we'll replace it at half price. Just get in touch with proof of purchase and a photo of the damage.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take 5-7 working days (but is usually much quicker than that), and it's free on orders over £49. Next day delivery is available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Can I collect this item instead of having it delivered?
Yes. You can collect from our Reigate shop (72 High Street, RH2 9AP), our Cobham shop (16 Anyards Road, KT11 2JZ), or our warehouse in Redhill (40 Ormside Way, RH1 2LW). Just select click and collect at checkout. If the option isn't available, this is because there isn't enough stock in your selected collection location. Please get in touch and we can organise stock to be transferred to the right place.
