There are really two main competitors in the high-end mainstream kitchen knife market: Henckels and Wusthof. Those who have used both usually have a preference. My preference (and therefore bias you should know about) is for the Wusthofs.
The Wusthof Classic line is the more conservative counterpart to the Grand Prix line. The only difference, however, is the handle style. I personally prefer the Grand Prix, but this is an issue of personal preference. The balance and grip of these knives are as close to perfect as I have found. For those wondering what benefits a higher priced knife provides, one benefit is that the blade (or tang) is one piece all the way through the handle. This makes the blade much stronger, and less likely to snap.
This set includes an 8 inch chef's knife, a 3 ½ inch paring knife, a 6 inch sandwich knife, 8 inch bread, a 5 inch salami, a 2 ¾ inch trimming knife, a sharpening steel, and an oak block
The 8 inch chef's knife is a great knife. Wusthof offers four sizes of chef's knives in the Classic version, 5, 6, 8 and 10 inch. For most home cooks, I think the 8 inch knife is the best choice. The 6 inch is a bit small for bigger jobs, but the 10 inch is too big for most jobs. While the 8 inch isn't perfect for all uses, if you are only buying one size chef's knife (and most people only buy one), this is the one I would recommend.
As for the 3 ½ inch paring knife, this knife falls into the category of overkill for me. Most cooks will get by just fine with the 4 ½ inch utility knife. There is really no notable difference in size for the vast majority of applications between the 3 ½ inch paring knife and the 4 ½ inch utility knife. I prefer the 4 ½ inch utility knife, but the 3 ½ inch paring knife will do the trick.
I have found very few uses for the 6 inch sandwich or 5 inch salami knives. I prefer the larger size of the chef's knife or the smaller 4 ½ inch utility knife. These knives are just the wrong width and length for most tasks, and falls into the overkill department, except when part of a set.
The 3 ¾ inch trimming knife, however, is a good length for small tasks, like trimming fat from cuts of meat.
The bread knife, is a great knife. Many people think tomatoes are the hardest food items to clearly cut. I think bread is much more difficult; but this knife makes the task seem easy. However, I prefer the 9 inch knife over the 8 inch included in this set.
When it comes to sharpening steels, I have found very little difference between Henckels and Wusthof. As long as you buy a high end steel, you really won't go wrong. Therefore, I shop for this item on price, and Henckels has a price advantage. However as the steel comes with the set, you won't go wrong with this steel.
This set is a good deal as far as price. However, keep in mind you really only get 7 knives. Adding the set of steak knives (which I consider a luxury, and not a necessity), will fill the remainder of the block.
Finally, I would recommend you compare this set with the 10 piece couple's set, listed as ASIN: B00005MGKD. That set replaces provides a second chef's knife, a longer bread knife, and deletes the 2 ¾ inch trimming knife. It is more expensive, so compare your needs, and see my review of the other set.
I love these knives. They are truly amazing. My wife and I did a fair amount of research before we bought our set (comsumer reports, etc..)and we concluded that Wusthof knives were the best. You might think that they are a bit pricey, but the are worth it. If you have never prepared a meal with a truly fine knife such as a Wusthof, then you are in for a treat. Use these knives once, and you will never want another.
When buying these knives, our biggest problem was deciding between the Classic and the Grand Prix. Although the Grand Prix is slightly more comfortable, I prefer the construction of the Classic. If you inspect the knives, you will see that the Wusthof Classic has a full metal tang with 3 rivets. The Grand Prix, although having the same blade, has a smaller, cylindrical tang that runs the entire handle of the knive. This tang is secured by a single large rivet at the end of the handle. Although I'm sure the Grand Prix is well built, I bought these knives for a lifetime of use and heartier construction of the Classics just appealed to me more.
So, In a nutshell, if you buy Wusthof, you will not be disappointed.
Buy Wusthof Classic 10-Piece Knife Set with Block Now
The Wuthof Classic is probobly the last set of knives you ever have to buy. I used to own many different types of knives and knives sets, but unfortunatly they were made of poor quality steel. I had to sharpen them all the time. With my new knives it is a totally new experience. Don't worry about the price. These knives cost much more than a chip set of knives, but they will last forever.
Read Best Reviews of Wusthof Classic 10-Piece Knife Set with Block Here
The Wuthof Classic is probobly the last set of knives you ever have to buy. I used to own many different types of knives and knives sets, but unfortunatly they were made of poor quality steel. I had to sharpen them all the time. With my new knives it is a totally new experience. Don't worry about the price. These knives cost much more than a chip set of knives, but they will last forever.
Want Wusthof Classic 10-Piece Knife Set with Block Discount?
My parents have owned this set for years, and growing up and even now I use them when I'm at their place. I think they are good knives. Sturdy. We have never had a problem with them. Dishwasher safe. About the only problem was having to resharpen them, but what knives don't you have to resharpen after years of use? I am purchasing this set for myself.
