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Wusthof Gourmet 6-Inch Cook's Knife by Wusthof
Product SummaryManufacturer: Wusthof Brand: Wüsthof Model: 4562-7/16 Product features: - 6-inch cook's knife for slicing, chopping, and quartering fruits, vegetables, and meats
- Stamped from high-carbon steel with a stain-resistant alloy
- Synthetic polypropylene handle is triple riveted for durability
- Precisely tapered from base to tip; no bolster
- Made in Germany; hand wash for best results; limited lifetime warranty
Kitchen and Housewares Reviews of Wusthof Gourmet 6-Inch Cook's KnifeCustomer Review: Better than the more expensive classic line? Summary: 4 Stars
I am posting this review in response to another customer who rated the knife 2 stars simply because it was "stamped." FYI, stamped means that a blade was basically cut/"stamped out" of a large sheet of metal, then ground and sharpened. Common sense dictates that not every stamped knife is equal. Also, that a knife is "fully forged" does not automatically qualify it for a superior rating. It is true that the best knives in the world are hand forged by master blade smiths, then sharpened by craftsmen trained to do nothing else(these knives cost hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars). Such knives are the best because they were made with meticulous attention to detail and with masterful skill that cannot be replicated easily in a mass production scenario. As an aside, though this is my personal preference, I have an extreme aversion against fully bolstered heels on a chef's or cooks knife(exceptions could be applied to boning knives, since it could serve to protect your hand...but there are other ways to do that). Not only do they limit the functionality of the heel, they are extremely bothersome for re-sharpening. For this reason alone, I would rather own the "stamped" Wusthof gourmet line of knives instead of the fully forged classic line(not to be confused with the classic ikon line, which is an even more expensive Wusthof line and by all indications an excellent set of knives). Anyway, my point is that a fully forged knife isn't always better in every way. There are several very good affordable options including the A.G. Russell non-forged knives(AUS8A steel, an excellent choice, takes and holds a wicked edge!), and the Forschner/Victorinox line of knives. These would beat out many fully forged knives in function and cost!
Regardless of the origin and manufacturing process, the qualities of a knife are determined by the following: the steel/alloy, the treatments performed on the steel(heat treatment, quenching, etc), the grind, and finally the cosmetic elements(finish, handle material and design, balance, ergonomics, etc).
If I am not mistaken, the steel used in this budget "gourmet" line of Wusthof knives is the same as the steel used in their higher end knives, X50crMoV15. From my experience with a couple of knives in this line which I have purchased, the edge retention is good, and when re-sharpening, I was able to put an adequately sharp, "shaving sharp" edge. I have had some people consider this edge to be "scary sharp." In summary, though there are many, indeed a plethora of inexpensive stamped and some "fully forged" knives available at a lower price point, this knife is not a rip-off. I would think of it as a knife that is almost as good as the higher end Wusthof knives which cost more than triple. In that light, this is almost a bargain.
Description of Wusthof Gourmet 6-Inch Cook's KnifeW STHOF precision forged knives are goods of only the highest quality. Painstakingly manufactured these knives are pure fun to work with and will turn even the preparation of a dish into a culinary pleasure. Prized possessions of professional chefs, Wusthof knives are an invaluable asset of any kitchen. Every element of this renowned cutlery contributes to its precision and ease of use. Made in Solingen, Germany, this knife comes with a high-carbon stainless steel blade that's hardened to maintain a sharp edge, a full tang that provides perfect balance and a riveted, high-impact composition handle.
Features Very sharp
Chef's Knives
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