Wusthof Knives - Wusthof Classic Series

About Wusthof Classic knives

The WÜSTHOF Classic line is a flagship collection trusted by home cooks and professional chefs around the world. Each knife is precision-forged in Solingen, Germany by WÜSTHOF—a family-owned company with over 200 years of knife-making expertise. Crafted from a single block of high-carbon stainless steel, these knives offer exceptional durability and edge retention.

The full tang construction, combined with a triple-riveted handle, provides outstanding balance and control with every cut. Known for their timeless design and consistent performance, WÜSTHOF Classic knives feature a full bolster for added safety and a comfortable grip for extended prep work.

These knives are built to handle everyday kitchen tasks with lasting precision—from slicing and dicing to more detailed prep work.

What to expect from Wusthof Classic knives

When you choose WÜSTHOF Classic knives, you're investing in professional-grade tools built for performance, longevity, and everyday ease of use.

• Built to stay sharp longer: One of the defining characteristics of WÜSTHOF Classic knives is their extraordinary hardness. Each blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel, so you can count on clean, precise cuts—whether you’re slicing thick meats or delicate produce.

• Made to last: Wusthof Classic knives combine high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and rigorous quality control, resulting in knives that are built for everyday use. Designed to handle years of chopping, slicing, and dicing, they’re a smart choice for anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen.

• Resistant to rust and stains: WÜSTHOF Classic knives are forged from a single piece of stainless steel that resists rust, stains, and corrosion. That means less time worrying about upkeep and more time focusing on cooking. Just rinse, dry, and you’re good to go.

What are some of the best Wusthof Classic knives?

The WÜSTHOF Classic collection offers a wide range of kitchen essentials, each built for a specific task. From prepping vegetables and carving roasts to slicing through crusty loaves or tackling dense wedges with a hard cheese knife, every knife in the lineup makes prep work faster, easier, and more enjoyable.

Here are some of our top picks:

Wusthof Classic paring knife

The Wusthof paring knife is a must-have for small, precise tasks. Its razor-sharp blade and ergonomic handle make it ideal for peeling, trimming, and slicing with control and confidence. Built with the same attention to detail WÜSTHOF is known for, this knife delivers lasting sharpness and reliability.

Wusthof Classic steak knife

Enjoy a better steak night with the WÜSTHOF steak knife set. These finely crafted knives feature serrated edges that glide through meat without tearing, preserving flavor and texture. Made from high-carbon stainless steel and paired with comfortable, balanced handles, they’re built to impress—on the plate and in the hand.

Wusthof Classic chef knife

A kitchen essential, the WÜSTHOF Classic 6" chef’s knife can handle just about everything—chopping, mincing, slicing, and dicing. Its broad blade and full bolster offer excellent balance and control, making it a dependable workhorse in any kitchen.

To elevate your cooking experience, consider investing in a Wusthof Classic knife set. Available in various configurations, including the bestselling Classic 8" chef's knife, these sets include a well-rounded selection of essential knives to suit any kitchen—from versatile chef’s knives to precision paring knives.

Wusthof Classic Nakiri knife

Perfect for vegetables, the WÜSTHOF Classic Nakiri knife features a straight edge and squared tip for clean, easy cuts. Its wide blade is great for scooping up chopped produce, while the sharp edge of the knife glides effortlessly through everything from carrots to cabbage.

Wusthof double-serrated bread knife

Tackle crusty loaves and delicate pastries without crushing or tearing. The WÜSTHOF double-serrated bread knife features a second serration inside each large tooth, giving you more control and cleaner cuts through every slice of bread.

Wusthof carving knife with hollow edge

Designed for slicing roasts, poultry, and ham, this carving knife features a long, narrow blade with a hollow edge to reduce friction and keep slices smooth and even. It's a go-to for holiday meals and Sunday dinners alike.

To keep your knives in top shape, WÜSTHOF offers sharpening steels that help maintain a razor-sharp knife edge with just a few strokes.

Which knives are better, WÜSTHOF or Shun?

Both WÜSTHOF and Shun are respected brands known for quality craftsmanship, but they cater to different preferences.

• WÜSTHOF knives are German-made and emphasize durability, balance, and a thicker blade profile ideal for heavy-duty prep.

• Shun knives are Japanese-made with a finer, sharper edge and lighter build, often preferred for precision slicing.

The better choice depends on your cutting style and how the knife feels in your hand.

What is better, WÜSTHOF or Henckels?

Both WÜSTHOF and Henckels are premium German knife brands with long histories and strong reputations, but there are some key differences that may make one a better fit for your needs.

WÜSTHOF tends to be favored by professional chefs and serious home cooks for their slightly heavier, more substantial feel. All Wusthof knives are precision-forged, resulting in a sharper factory edge and a more traditional construction.

Henckels, on the other hand, offers both high-end forged lines and more budget-friendly stamped options. These knives tend to be lighter and are available in a wider range of styles and price points. Some lines use slightly softer steel, which can be easier to sharpen.

In terms of quality at the high end, both brands make exceptional knives that can last for generations with proper care. That said, the "better" choice depends on your personal preferences:

• Want a heavier knife with a traditional feel and don't mind spending more? WÜSTHOF might be for you.

• Need more variety at different price points or want a lighter knife? Henckels might suit you better.

Are Wusthof Classic knives worth it?

Yes, the WÜSTHOF Classic line is widely considered a solid investment for serious home cooks and professionals alike. These knives are fully forged from high-carbon stainless steel, triple-riveted for durability, and designed for long-term performance.

Their balanced feel and consistently sharp edge make them a staple in many kitchens.

Are WÜSTHOF knives good?

WÜSTHOF knives are known for their excellent quality, precise edge retention, and long lifespan. Manufactured in Solingen, Germany, a city famous for blade-making, they’re forged from a single block of high-carbon stainless steel and go through a rigorous production process.

The result is a knife that performs reliably through years of use.

Does Gordon Ramsay use WÜSTHOF knives?

Yes, Gordon Ramsay has used WÜSTHOF knives, along with other high-end brands, in both his restaurants and televised cooking shows. He has been seen using WÜSTHOF alongside brands like Henckels, depending on the task.

Professional chefs often use a mix of knives based on personal preference and specific kitchen needs.

Do professional chefs use Wusthof?

Yes, professional chefs frequently choose WÜSTHOF knives for their commercial kitchens. The brand is respected for several qualities that matter in professional settings:

• Durability that holds up to the intense daily use of restaurant kitchens

• Excellent edge retention, reducing the need for frequent sharpening

• Precision manufacturing that ensures consistent quality across the line

• Balanced weight and ergonomic handles that help reduce hand fatigue during long shifts

WÜSTHOF's Classic and Ikon series are especially popular among chefs. While not every professional uses them exclusively, many chefs build personal collections from multiple brands. WÜSTHOF has earned its place as a trusted standard in high-end kitchens and culinary schools around the world.

What is the best WÜSTHOF knife line?

The WÜSTHOF Classic line is widely considered the brand’s flagship series, known for its traditional three-rivet design, full bolster, and excellent balance. It’s the most popular line and sets the standard for professional-quality performance.

That said, WÜSTHOF offers several other lines that are equally high in quality but differ in design and feel:

• Classic Ikon: This line features a more ergonomic handle, a slightly different balance, and a half bolster that makes sharpening easier and more convenient.

• Ikon: The Ikon line uses the same blade as the Classic Ikon but is paired with a handle made from African Blackwood, which offers a more premium, natural finish.

• Amici: A high-end line, the Wusthof Amici series knife features Italian olive wood handles, a distinct contoured design, and precision-forged blades with a half bolster for a refined look and feel.

• Grand Prix II: This series offers a modern appearance with a synthetic, slip-resistant handle that provides excellent grip and control, even when your hands are wet.

All Wusthof lines use the same high-quality X50CrMoV15 high-carbon stainless steel and are precision-forged in Solingen, Germany. The differences come down to handle material, bolster design, and visual appeal.

• For a traditional feel: Classic

• For comfort and easier sharpening: Classic Ikon

• For premium natural materials: Amici or Ikon

• For a modern, grip-focused design: Grand Prix II

How do I care for my Wusthof Classic knives?

To keep your WÜSTHOF Classic knives in top condition, hand wash them with warm water and a mild detergent, then dry immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid placing them in the dishwasher, as high heat and harsh detergents can damage both the blade and handle over time.

Regular honing with a sharpening steel helps maintain the edge between sharpenings. When it’s time for a more thorough edge restoration, consider finding a local professional service by searching for “knife sharpening near me”—or use a high-quality sharpening system at home.

Where can I find Wusthof Classic knives?

You can find WÜSTHOF Classic knives at trusted retailers like Northwest Knives, a well-known Meridian, ID knife store offering a wide selection of premium kitchen cutlery. Whether you're shopping for a go-to chef's knife or expanding your collection, we offer WÜSTHOF Classic knives both in-store and online.

Northwest Knives isn’t just a destination for home cooks and chefs—we also stock a curated selection of sporting knives for outdoor use, making us a one-stop shop for high-quality blades of all kinds. If you're searching for a knife store near you with knowledgeable staff and a deep inventory, you can't go wrong with Northwest Knives.

Got additional questions? Email info@northwestknives.com or fill out this contact form. We reply within 24 hours.