The Best Wusthof Knives Review
If there is one company that knows knives, it is Wusthof. They make some of the best knife sets out there. Our Wusthof knives review will cover the company, their best knives and knife sets, and which ones are worth your hard-earned money.
Wusthof knives are made in Solingen, Germany; the company was established in 1814. They use a specific type of steel formula on all their knives, and all of them are forged or laser cut. Their steel formula is X50 CR Mo 15.
They, along with Henckel Knives, are known world round for their high quality and detail to attention. They are one of the top kitchen knife brands in the world and top our list of high end knife sets
The “Made in Solingen” is a distinction because it is the home of German steel manufacturing. They use Precision Edge Technology (PETec). Their state-of-the-art computer-controlled technology enhances the knives’ sharpness by 20% and lasts twice as long. (Source: GYGI)
We’ve had Wusthof knives in our kitchen for the past 20 years and it’s been a great addition. But you will need to read on to make sure they are right for you.
Best Wusthof Knife Set Reviews
Included components:
- 3.5″ paring
- 4.5″ utility
- (4) 4.5″ steak knives,
- 6″ utility,
- 8″ bread,
- 8″ cooks,
- 10″ steel,
- Kitchen shears
Features
- High carbon, stainless steel blades.
- 3 riveted black synthetic handles
- Made in Solingen, Germany
Wusthof Classic Ikon Review: 12 Pieces and 15 Slot Wood Block
Knives Included:
- 3 1/2″ Paring Knife
- 4 1/2″ Utility Knife
- Four 4 1/2″ Steak Knives
- 6″ Utility Knife
- 8″ Bread Knife
- 8″ Cook’s Knife
- 10″ Steel
- Come-Apart Kitchen Shears
- 15-Slot Block
Block Material: Cherry Wood
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- High carbon, stainless steel blades.
- 3 riveted black synthetic handles
- Made in Solingen, Germany
- Several different style offerings in the Ikon series in case you want a different type of wood for the woodblock
- Precision-forged
- Full tang blades
- Polyoxymethylene (POM) – which has a tighter molecular structure to resist fading and discoloration
- Each knife blade is buffed and polished by Hand
- Block has room for other knives
Cons:
- Fewer knives than other knife sets at this price point.
- Higher priced than other sets
Overall Review of the Wusthof Classic Ikon 12 Piece Set :
We’re kicking off our Wusthof kitchen knife set reviews with a great set! When I look at this set, it screams high-end. The custom-designed handles look like they fit your hand nicely, and the quality of the steel means you should have no problem using them for years to come.
This is the Classic Ikon which differs from the other Ikon sets. The handle is the same shape but made from a different material. The knives have a very distinct look and are truly beautiful. The handle is made of a highly durable synthetic material that doesn’t fade as fast.
This set is also available in a cream color called Wusthof Classic Icon Creme. You can see it here.
Wusthof Legende Knives Review: 7 Piece Set
Knives Included:
- 4.5″ Paring/Utility Knife
- 5″ Serrated Utility/Tomato Knife
- 6″ and 8″ Chef Knives
- 9″ Double Serrated Bread Knife
- Come-Apart Kitchen Shears
- 6 Slot Cherry Knife Block
Block Material:
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- 14-degree blade edge for lasting sharper longer
- The handle is sculpted to reduce fatigue
- 58+ Rockwell hardness
- Lightweight
- More affordable than other sets
Cons:
- Thermoplastic handle
- No table knives
Overall Review of Wusthof Legende Review: 7 Piece Block Set:
This knife set is a good balance between quality, affordability, and function. It has everything you would need in the kitchen and a nice smaller storage block so that it can be kept out. The Wusthof logo is prominently displayed on both the block and knives and demonstrates its value in the sharpness of the knives. This is a nice set of knives at an attractive price.
Wusthof Classic Knife Set Review
Knives Included:
- 3 1/2″ Paring Knife
- 4 1/2″ Utility Knife
- 8 x 4 1/2″ Steak Knives
- 5″ Hollow Edge Santoku
- 6″ Utility Knife
- 6″ Cleaver
- 6″ Straight Meat Fork
- 8″ Hollow Edge Carving Knife
- 8″ Cook’s Knife
- 8″ Bread Knife
- 9″ Steel, Come-Apart Kitchen Shears
- 25-Slot Block
Block Material: Wood
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- Full tang
- Best selling knife set for generations
- 58 degree HRC (hardness
- Crafted to resist corrosion and dulling
- Lifetime warranty
- Lazer tested for sharpness
Cons:
- Higher priced knife set and may be more than you need
Overall Review of Classic Knife Set 20 Piece Set :
This is the complete set and the real deal. This knife set has been the best seller for Wusthof for generations, not years but for generations. There is something very valuable in knowing that a company can make something so durable that it last for so long. This knife set has everything a home chef would need, and it will last a long time.
The full tang and triple-riveted handle show that this is a serious knife set.
Wusthof Ikon (Blackwood) Knives Review
Knives Included:
- 3-1/2″ Paring
- 6″ Utility
- 8″ Bread
- 8″ Cook’s
- 10″ Steel
- Knife block
Block Material: Wood
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- Blackwood handles
- Wusthof’s Premier line
- The knife block has extra holes for more knives
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Smaller than other sets
- No steak knives
Overall Review of Wusthof Ikon 7 Piece Set :
The Ikon is the crown jewel in Wusthof’s line of knives. The African Blackwood handles and handles design is truly something rare in the knife world. The biggest decision will be if you should splurge over the Classic Ikon for this knife series or not.
Wusthof Gourmet Knives Review: 26 Piece Block Set
Knives Included:
- 2 ½” Paring Knife
- 2 ¾” Trimming Knife
- 2 ¼” Peeling Knife
- 3” Spear Point Paring Knife
- 4 ½” Utility Knife
- Four, 4 ½” Steak Knives
- 5” Spreader
- 5” Santoku, Hollow Edge
- 8” Bread Knife
- 8” Cook’s Knife
- 9” Honing Steel
- Come-Apart Kitchen Shears
Block Material: Bamboo
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- Affordable
- Full tang
- 3 Rivets
Cons:
- Stamped knives
- Hard plastic handles
Overall Review of Wusthof Gourmet Piece Set :
This is one of Wusthof’s more affordable sets. If you are looking to get in the world of Wusthof, this is likely the best set you can grab at a low price. The knives are made from stamped steel, the same steel they use in all of their lines, but that is partially how they can offer this set at this price.
The look of them is classic Wusthof, so if you are looking for a good amount of knives at a decent price, this is the set for you.
Wusthof Epicure Review: 12 Piece Block Set
Knives Included:
- 3.5-inch pairing knife
- 4 x 4.5-inch steak knives
- 5-inch serrated utility knife
- 8-inch cook’s knife
- 9-inch double serrated bread knife
- 9-inch slicing knife
- 10 inch brushed stainless honing steel
- Stainless steel come-apart kitchen shears
Block Material: Wood
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- Incredibly sharp
- Translucent ceramic coating on blade surface to increase hardness
- Handle made of same wood composite found in Epicurean cutting boards
- Precision-forged steel
- It contains everything you will need in a knife set
Cons:
- Depending on your family size, you may need more table knives.
Overall Review of the Wusthof Epicure 12 Piece Set :
This is a beautiful set of knives and would last you a lifetime if you went with it. The modern lines of the knife and handle, coupled with the two rivets on the handle, demonstrate durability along with elegance.
If the price point is a little high, or you already have a steak knives set, you can get the 7-piece version of the Epicure knife set here.
Wusthof Grand Prix Knives Review
Knives Included:
- 8-inch cook’s knife
- 8-inch serrated bread
- 6-inch utility
- 4-1/2-inch utility
- 3-1/2-inch paring
- 3-inch straight paring
- 2-3/4-inch trimming
- 9-inch sharpening steel kitchen shears, and 17-slot beechwood block
Block Material: Wood
Knife Material: High carbon, stainless steel blades
Pros:
- Sturdy, steel bolsters;
- Full tang
- Ergonomically designed
- Slip-resistant handles
- A sleek, contemporary look
- 20% sharper with twice the edge retention
Cons:
- No steak/table knives
- Plastic looking handles
Overall Review of Piece Set :
These are the most affordable in the Wusthof lines of knives. They are still beautiful but definitely easier on the wallet if you are looking for a Wusthof at a better price; this is it.
Which Wusthof knives are made in Germany?
All Wusthof knives are crafted in Solingen, Germany.
Wusthof Lines of Knives
Wusthof makes 9 distinct lines of knives. Each one of them has its own look and feel, but all of them are proudly Wusthof. All of them are forged knives with the exception of Urban Farmer, Pro, and Gourmet, which are laser-cut.
Crafter
- High-carbon stain-free steel
- Ergonomic and hygienic handle
- Sanitary for professional chefs
Epicure
- High-carbon stain-free steel
- Handles made with Richlite (a composite recycled wood, not the same as pakkawood).
- Sustainable and luxurious
Ikon
- High-carbon stainless steel
- Grenadaill wood handle
- Easy to maintain sharpness
Classic Ikon
- Forged from high-carbon stain-free steel
- Ergonomic handle design
- Balanced for easy cutting
Classic Ikon Crème
- Forged from high-carbon stain-free steel
- Ergonomic handle design
- Balanced for ease of cutting
Classic
- High-carbon stain-free steel
- Black, composite material handle
- For professionals and at-home chefs
Grand Prix II
- High-carbon stain-free steel
- Synthetic handle
Pro
- High carbon steel
- Black poly handle
- Stain-free blade
- Lower priced, entry line of knives
Urban Farmer
- High-carbon stain-free steel
- Smooth smoked beech handle
- Non-slip black bolster
Gourmet
- High-carbon stain-free steel.
- Comfortable, synthetic handle.
- Laser-cut manufacturing ensures sharp edges
Which Wusthof Line is the Best?
When it comes to the best lines of Wusthof, the Classic Ikon is the best set of knives. This is largely due to the look and design. However, they use the same steel on all knives; the only difference is whether you want forged knives (more expensive) or stamped knives (lower priced).
Beyond that, you will need to determine which knives you want and if a complete knife set makes sense instead of just buying the ones you know you will definitely need. There are certain kitchen knives every home should have, but that doesn’t mean you need them all right now.
Given the price points of all of them, the Classic Ikon set has several block options and is a beautiful, meticulous knife set.
Which is better Wusthof Classic Ikon or Ikon?
If you are fighting between buying the Wusthof Classic Ikon vs. Ikon, know that they are pretty much the same knife. Given that these knives are designed to last a lifetime, it’s up to you to decide if the extra money is worth it. The biggest difference between the Classic is the handle. Knife wise it’s the same steel, and they are both forged, but the handles on the Classic Ikon are simply just a better handle.
The Ikon is made from African Blackwood and has curve lines in it that feel better in your hand. In contrast, the Classic has a polyoxymethylene handle that is more straightforward. Simply put, the Ikon is a better design.
From a cutting and performance point of view, they are virtually the same knife; you are paying for a nicer design and a higher grade handle. The Classic Ikon chef knife makes our top 10 rated Best Chef Knife under $200.
What is the difference between Wusthof Classic and Classic Ikon?
If you are fighting between buying the Wusthof Classic vs. Classic Ikon, without a doubt, the Classic Ikon is a better knife, but it is more expensive.
The main difference is in the handle material and its design. The Classic Ikon is made from African Blackwood and has curve lines in it that feel better in your hand. In contrast, the Classic has a polyoxymethylene handle that is more straightforward. Simply put, the Classic Ikon is a better design.
Given that these knives are designed to last a lifetime, it’s up to you to decide if the extra money is worth it. The biggest difference between the Classic is the handle.
Knife wise it’s the same steel, and they are both forged, but the handles on the Classic Ikon are simply just a better handle. Either way, you are buying a solid, reputable knife; the decision is in what type of handle you prefer.
Which is better, Wusthof Classic or Gourmet?
If you are comparing the Classic to the Gourmet, the Classic is a better quality knife due to the handle and the forged steel. Their Gourmet set makes our Best Knife Sets Under $200 list.
What is the best line of Wusthof knives?
The best line is the Ikon or the Classic Ikon. These are essentially similar knives with small differences between each of them.
Need to brush up on your knife anatomy? Check out the parts of a knife post.
Wusthof vs. Shun
Shun makes beautiful Damascus style knives with intricate patterns etched into the blade surface. Wusthof offers a more technologically advanced product, using robotics in combination with human skills to create precision-forged knives.
Shun’s 100-step process creates durable full tang knives that are less likely to snap under pressure, while Wusthof’s shorter 40-step process results in a blade with a high chromium content that is resistant to rust and corrosion.
If you’re looking for a traditional knife made with skilled craftsmanship, Shun is the way to go. If you’re looking for a more modern knife that is still high quality, Wusthof is the better option.
Read more in our Shun vs. Wusthof analysis.
Wusthof vs. Misen
Misen and Wusthof are two of the most well-known knife brands in the world. Misen knives are made in Shanghai, China, while Wusthof knives are made in Solingen, Germany.
Misen knives are stamped while Wusthof knives are forged. Misen blades have a Rockwell Hardness Scale rating of 58 HRC, while Wusthof blades have a rating of 64 HRC.
Both Misen and Wusthof knives are high-quality and well-crafted. However, they differ in terms of where they are made, how they are made, and the materials used.
If you are on a budget Misen is a great choice and used in our kitchens. If you want a knife with a more expensive cut but has been around over a century, Wusthof is your choice.
Wusthof vs. Global
Global and Wusthof knives are two of the most popular brands on the market. While they share some similarities, there are a number of key differences that set them apart. Global knives are made with Chromova18 Japanese steel and hardened to a Rockwell Hardness Score of 56-58 HRC. This makes them slightly softer than Wusthof in terms of blade hardness.
Additionally, Global sharpens its edges to about 15-degree angles per side. This gives it a sharper edge than most kitchen knives, but not quite as sharp as Wusthof. Ultimatley both are great knife makers and choosing between them is a matter of price and knife style.
Wusthof vs. Henckels
The difference between Wusthof and Henckels is mainly price. For those who can afford it, the higher quality of a Wusthof knife will be worth your investment. Both knife makers are of high quality and worthwhile.
Wusthof vs. Dalstrong
Dalstrong and Wusthof are two quality knife brands that offer high-carbon German steel blades. Dalstrong forges all their knives, while Wusthof uses a 40-step precision forged process. However, the sharpening and polishing process really sets the two brands apart.
Dalstrong uses the three-step Honbazuke method, which gives their knives a “true edge.” Wusthof’s 14-degree angle on chef’s knives is also quite impressive. In addition, Wusthof constructs stamped knives as a cheaper option for some customers, whereas Dalstrong only produces forged knives.
Ultimately, both brands produce high-quality knives that will last a lifetime with proper care. If you have the budget room, I would buy the Wusthof line.
Wusthof vs. Cutco
Cutco vs. Wusthof knives, which one is better? When it comes to Cutco vs. Wusthof, both brands have their pros and cons.
In terms of manufacturing, Wusthof offers a little more than Cutco in terms of durability and sharpness. However, Cutco knives are stamped rather than forged, which makes them less durable but also cheaper.
Additionally, Wusthof’s warranty is only 2 years compared to Cutco’s lifetime warranty.
Ultimately, the choice between these two brands depends on what the buyer values most – for those who prioritize quality and want a knife that will last longer, Wusthof is the better option; while for those who prioritize affordability and don’t mind replacing their knives more often, Cutco is the better choice.
Wusthof vs. Cangshan
Both Wusthof and Cangshan make great knives, but there are some key differences between the two brands that can help you decide which is better for you.
The first major difference is that Wusthof has been in the knife business for over 200 years, while Cangshan is a much younger brand.
Second, Wusthof knives are made in Germany, whereas all of Cangshan’s knives are manufactured in Southern China.
Third, each company sources its materials from different parts of the world. While Wusthof obtains its steel blades strictly from Germany, Cangshan also uses German, Japanese and Swedish steel. This gives Cangshan a greater variety of products to offer consumers.
Fourth, the design of the handles on these knives vary significantly. For example, typical Wusthof chef knives come with either synthetic or wood handles – while typical Cangshan chef knives can be made of wood, steel or plastic.
Fifth, when it comes to performance, each brand excels in different areas; Wusthof offers a sharper edge with blade angles per side at 14 degrees, while Cangshan offers a wider range of hardness levels. All said if you can buy Wusthof it’s what I would be buying.
Wusthof Knives Sharpener
This 10-inch full tang, double bolstered handle is straight out of the chef cooking shows and will be a welcome addition to your kitchen.
Want knives that are always sharp? Read Best Self Sharpening Knife Sets
Wusthof Steak Knives
Wusthof makes several lines of steak knives. As we covered earlier, some will be stamped, but the higher-end ones will be forged.
Wüsthof Classic Steak Knife Set, 4-Piece
Wusthof Gourmet Four Piece Steak Knife Set
Wusthof Knives Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wusthof made in China?
No Wusthof knives are not made in China.
What is Wusthof’s Warranty?
Wusthof has a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.
Are Wusthof Knives Dishwasher Safe?
These knives are best washed by hand and immediately hand dried. This is the standard for all higher-end knives because the prolonged exposure to water can lead to rust spots. Dishwasher detergents can be corrosive and abrasive, causing damage to the knives.
Are Wusthof Blades 15 or 20 Degrees?
Wusthof knife blades are at a 14 to 16-degree angle, making them extremely sharp right out of the box.
What are Wusthof Knives Made Of?
All of Wusthof’s knives are made from high-carbon stain-free steel, some are forged, and others are laser-cut.
Where is Wusthof made?
Wusthof knives are crafted in Solingen, Germany.
Are Wusthof knives worth the money?
Yes, they are worth the money. Wusthof has a solid reputation, and their knives give enormous value, they hold their edge very well, and their edge is very sharp. While you are paying a premium for these knives, those that buy them love them and feel they were worth it.
Final Thoughts on our Wusthof Knives Review
When compared to some of our other knife sets (See our Cangshan knife review, Chicago Cutlery knife review, Tomodachi knife review, and Dalstrong knife review), these ones are at a higher cost. But they are a higher grade of a knife, from a knife maker that has been around over 200 years. You don’t last this long without being of good quality and having a sounds reputation. If you are looking for a knife set that can last you a lifetime, then Wusthof is the right knife set for you. To answer your question, “Are Wusthof knives good?”, yes, they are a great knife set.