KITCHEN KNIVES

Wusthof Classic vs Gourmet: Which one is better?

22.10.2015

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gourmet header

The Wusthof brand is one of the most reliable and affordable, but it offers so many different lines that sometimes it’s hard to choose the right wusthof knife. That’s why we’re going to take a look at two different lines of knives by the company, the Classic and the Gourmet, as well as their starter sets to see which one is the right choice for every kitchen.

Quick Comparison: Our Favorite Classic and Gourmet Sets

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Wusthof Classic vs Gourmet

comparison

You’ll find that there are two lines that stand out from the rest: classic and gourmet. While both of these lines offer the same quality that consumers love about Wusthof, each one is a little bit different.

It’s important to note that both of these designs are very similar. The brand ensures that all knives feature a high carbon metal design. This is stainless steel metal that is rust resistant. So, you’ll enjoy this rust resistance and strong blade on both the gourmet and classic line.

The triple riveted design is featured on both lines, too, but the edges are slightly different.

  • Classic: The classic has a 14 inch angle per side with a PEtec Edge.
  • Gourmet: The gourmet features a traditional sharp edge design that has an 18 inch angle per side.

You’ll also notice that the gourmet line does not feature a bolster and hand guard. These are extra safety features that will ensure you do not get cut when using these knives. Hardness levels are equal to 58 on the Rockwell scale for both knife lines.

Let’s quickly take a look at both of these lines to see what they have to offer.

Wusthof Classic Line: Better Quality, More Durable

classic

The classic line is the company’s best-selling line of knives. What really makes this line stand out from the gourmet is that it offers exceptional durability and has been tested time and time again by consumers.

Knives forged under this line feature a traditional triple riveted handle with the full-length tang. You’ll also notice that the tang is exposed. A bolster and hand guard are present, while the knife is forged rather than stamped.

Pros

  • Full tang design
  • Exposed tang, which can be used for crushing
  • PEtec Edge featuring a 14 inch angle per side

Cons

  • More expensive than the gourmet

Wusthof Gourmet Line: Cheaper, But Still Good

gourmet

The gourmet is your low-end knife line. This is the line of knives that you’ll want when first owning a home, or if you’re tight on a budget. While durable, there are some glaring differences between these knives when compared to the classic.

The gourmet is a stamped blade, which means it’s not forged.

These knives only feature the full tang design when the blade is 4.5 inches or longer. What this means is that there is the potential for the blade to break away from the handle itself, which is not optimal for any serious chef.

While separation is not common, it may be a problem and is always a concern when buying any knife. For example, if you’re going to cut into a thick piece of meat and don’t realize that there’s a bone in the middle, the force you need to cut through the meat may be enough to cause the blade to separate if the bone is hit.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Features a variety of knife types

Cons

  • Lacks full tang design
  • Stamped versus forged blade

Now that we know a little bit about both lines, let’s take a look at the starter knife block sets that the company offers under both lines.

Wusthof Classic 7 Pc. Starter Knife Block Set Review

classic set

When we tried the Classic, we were thrilled to see that had a knife for every occasion. There is there a paring knife, utility knife, bread knife, chef’s knife, honing steel and even kitchen shears to use for cutting.

A 13 slot storage block is available.

While listed as a seven piece set, keep in mind that there are really only 4 knives. The honing steel, shears and a woodblock account for the final three pieces. You won’t receive seven knives, but you really don’t need them. This includes everything you’ll need to cut bread, meats, vegetables and even pare your potatoes.

I must admit that I use the Classic knives virtually every day. These are not new knives to me, and I know just how durable and versatile they are. Owning these knives for years, I can easily cook an elaborate dinner or make a simple lunch for on the go.

You need to know that there is a little bit of an overlap between the utility knife and the paring knife. Since these knives are similar in size, you may find yourself using your utility knife in lieu of your paring knife – and, that’s fine.

The bread knife might be my favorite as it cuts evenly and easily while also being able to slice through fragile tomatoes with ease. I can make myself a sandwich and cut the tomatoes without having to clean another knife in the process.

The perfect weight with a good balance, these knives are comfortable in your hand and are easy to grip. Stainless steel and rust resistant, it’s recommended that you clean all knives manufactured by Wusthof by hand.

Immensely sharp, be careful not to cut through your kitchen towels when trying these knives – they are that sharp.

And, the 9 inch honing steel allows you to sharpen the blades if they begin to dull. With the lifetime limited warranty and the best in German craftsmanship, these knives will last you a lifetime if properly cared for. Also, the full tang design ensures these knives will never break where the handle meets the blade.

[easyazon_link identifier=”B003MU9F4W” locale=”US” tag=”knifepla-20″]> Check Out The Classic Set on Amazon <[/easyazon_link]

Wusthof Gourmet 7 Pc. Starter Knife Block Set Review

gourmet set

The Gourmet set is very similar to the Classic line of knives that we just reviewed. But, there are some glaring differences, especially in the knives that are offered. You’ll receive a paring knife, utility knife, a 6 inch utility knife that is serrated, and a cook’s knife. Shears, a nine-slot block and honing steel are also included with the set.

Immediately, you’ll note that there are far less fewer in this knife block. While a minor indifference, this means you won’t have a place to hold the knives you already own and would like to keep. In addition, these knives are stamped and do not include the full tang for the utmost in quality and durability.

But, this isn’t to say that the Gourmet isn’t a good starter knife set.

I would always choose the Classic over the Gourmet for the simple fact that the knives feature a full tang, and they are forged knives. This makes them higher-quality and longer-lasting. While they may look similar in appearance, the Classic will always outperform the Gourmet.

The only area where the Gourmet excels is in the price department. If you’re on a very tight budget, the Gourmet will work just fine. But, if you want a knife set that will last for years, always choose the Classic.

Also, you may have noticed that the Gourmet set does not include the bread knife – which is immensely useful as discussed earlier.

[easyazon_link identifier=”B00GAFGL02″ locale=”US” tag=”knifepla-20″]> Check Out The Gourmet on Amazon <[/easyazon_link]

Decision time: Classic or Gourmet?

If I had to choose just one knife set, I would always go with the Classic by Wusthof. A more durable design and a full tang, this knife set more expensive, yet far more durable and safer than its Gourmet counterpart.

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