Most Americans have become obsessed with santoku knives, and now consider Wusthof knives to be ‘old school’ or less ‘hip’. This is mainly because European chefs have been using these knives since they were first made in Germany by the Wusthof company. However, there are many reasons why these knives are still in demand after all this time.
Santoku knives are also a good choice, but the products of German engineering can still hold their own. The most popular line of knives from Wusthof’s higher end, the Wusthof Classic knives, have excellent heft, a razor sharp blade, a bolster for balance, and an extremely comfortable handle. If this sounds like the kind of chef’s knife you would like, read on.
Materials
A single piece of high-carbon stainless steel is used to forge Wusthof Classic blades, which also are extremely sharp and stain-resistant. There are many rave reviews about how this knife slices through carrots, tomatoes, squash, etc. The sharpness of the blade means little force is necessary and a time-consuming meal can be prepared far more easily.
The Classic knife’s bolster gives it perfect balance, allowing you to mince, dice, slice and chop with amazing precision. This knife will suit those who, like many professional chefs, prefer to grip their knife with their thumb and index finger forward of the bolster. Though if lighter, less hefty knives are more your thing, then you may be better off with the Global chef knife or Shun Classic knives.
The full tang handle is triple-riveted for comfort. The handles are black and made from slip resistant, synthetic material, which will not harbor bacteria, unlike wood.
Care and Durability
Although Wusthof claim their Classic knives are dishwasher safe, I would not recommend it. Instead, hand wash each time you use it and store it safely on a magnetic holder or in a knife block. It could get badly damaged if you place it in a drawer with the rest of your cutlery, though you can purchase a blade guard for it. And Wusthof has designed many alternatives for knife storage.
The Wusthof Classic will not be at its optimum sharpness straight out of the box. Once you receive it, you should sharpen it immediately to appreciate just how incredibly sharp the Wusthof Classic knife can be. Most professional chefs would also sharpen their knives after each use, but this is not necessary for the average home. Most cooks only sharpen their knives on a weekly or monthly schedule while others only do it when they feel the blade is getting a little bit dull.
The Wusthof knife sharpener is a popular choice for this task.
Types
The 8-inch multipurpose Wusthof chef’s knife is the most popular Wusthof knife. It is ideal for chopping, dicing, slicing, and mincing and everything in between. It is perfect if you just want one main kitchen knife that will cover all tasks.
There is also a 2-piece knife starter set, which includes the 8-inch chef knife, and a 3.5-inch paring knife, which is also a popular buy. Although there is a 23-piece knife block set, this 2-piece set will provide most home cooks will everything you need.
Lifetime Guarantee
Wusthof knives come with a lifetime guarantee, so once you buy a Wusthof knife, it is unlikely that you will ever need to purchase another. If you do encounter a problem, you will get a replacement from Wusthof free of charge simply by sending your own blade back to them.
Conclusion
Wusthof Classic knives will please both professional chefs and amateur chefs in the home with their excellent high quality. You will enjoy watching these knives easily handle whatever task you throw their way. For more information or to purchase, see Wusthof Classic Knives on Amazon.
