While there are countless brands available, Wusthof is one of the most reputable knife manufacturers. Based in Solingen, Germany, this family-owned company has been managed by seven generations. They offer a wide selection of mid-range to high-end knives, including those that are used by seasoned chefs.
The company has diverse knives for almost everyone. In this short guide, however, our focus is on Wusthof Classic vs Wusthof Ikon. Which one is more suitable for your needs? Keep on reading and find out.
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About Wusthof
Wusthof started in 1814 in Solingen, which is also dubbed as the City of Blades. It is home to some of the most reputable knife manufacturers in the world. The business was founded by Johann Abraham Wusthof. His three sons all took an active role in the growth of the company and soon took over. Under the helm of Eduard Wusthof, the company introduced over 1,200 knives in different categories, which also helped in the growth of their global reputation.
The knife manufacturer takes pride on how they are rooted in tradition. Despite the high cost of labor in Solingen, they stayed and kept their production in Germany. Many others left in search of cheaper human capital. With every Wusthof knife that you purchase today, you can be confident that its quality is similar to what made it popular since the company started in the 1800s.
A Quick Comparison of Wusthof Classic vs Classic Ikon
Over the years, Wusthof has released a collection of different knives, each with a distinct feature. Two of their best collections are Classic and Classic Ikon, the subjects of this buying guide. They are both exceptional in terms of quality. To help you decide what is better, let’s look at some of their similarities and differences below.
Origin
Like all other Wusthof knives, both are made in Solingen. They are made in the same manufacturing facility and by the same people, so you can be confident that the quality is second to none. Regardless of which one you choose, your satisfaction is a sure thing.
Handle
The handles of the Wusthof Classic and Classic Ikon are made using triple-riveted polyoxymethylene, which is a synthetic material that looks like wood. They both looked great and they are also long-lasting.
Bolster
This is one of the biggest differences between the two. In case you do not know, a bolster is the part where the handle meets the blade. It affects the shape of the knife and has a direct impact on its strength. This also lets you apply pressure on the blade without hurting yourself.
The Classic series comes with a full bolster, making it easier for you to cut. The Classic Ikon series, on the other hand, has a double bolster. You can find one at the bottom of the handle and one below the blade. However, for the cross section, there is only a half bolster. The latter is beneficial for making it easier to sharpen the blade.
Knives
The two are also different in terms of the knives that are included. The Wusthof Classic is a favorite of many because it has been around for a long time. As the name implies, it is a true classic. Almost any type of knife that you need is present in this collection. There are more than 70 knives available. They also vary in length.
With the Wusthof Classic Ikon, on the other hand, you will find a fewer selection of knives. Nonetheless, the sharpness is equally impressive, as well as the durability.
Construction
Both the Classic and Classic Ikon knives from Wusthof feature a forged construction using a one-piece steel. This helps ensure stability and durability. It is also reflective of how every knife is a product of unrivaled craftsmanship that has been tried and tested through time. This is unlike other knives that easily disintegrate.
Wusthof Classic vs Wusthof Ikon — What’s the Difference?
Wusthof Classic Vs. Classic Ikon Knives: Reviews of Top 5 Best German Knives Brand to Choose
If you have no idea about what to buy, we got your back. Below are some of the top products that are worth considering.
1. Wusthof Classic 10-inch Cook’s Knife
Unlike most of the products that are mentioned in this buying guide, this model comes as a single piece. Nonetheless, there’s no need to worry about versatility. I love how this 10-inch knife can deliver multiple functions in a compact body. From chopping to dicing to slicing, this knife is a versatile addition in the kitchen.
With the high carbon stainless steel blade, you can be confident of its durability. The blade is precision-sharpened by robots, ensuring its exceptional performance. Despite this, there are still some people who noted that the sharpness does not last long. We recommend that you pay attention to regular care and maintenance to prevent such issue.
Holding the knife is easy and comfortable, even for a long time. Thanks to its ergonomic handle with a triple-riveted design, it follows the natural contour of your hand. There are also no joints. Plus, there is a full tang, which is essential for your safety.
Lastly, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This is one thing that you will find in the other Wusthof knives on our list. You can have peace of mind knowing that it is covered by the manufacturer forever!
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle
- Multiple uses in a single knife
- Precision-forged for exceptional durability
Cons:
- Can easily loosen its sharpness
2. Wusthof Classic Knives 12-piece Cutlery Set with Storage Block
If one knife is not enough, then this set is an excellent alternative. Aside from several knives, it also includes a honing rod, which makes it easier to retain the full performance of the blades. There is also a kitchen shears included, as well as a wooden block.
One of the highlights of this product is the Precision Edge Technology. This isn’t exclusive to this set. It is also found in other Wusthof knives and is the one responsible for enhancing the sharpness by more than 20% and significantly improving edge retention. Even after a long time, the blades remain sharp. If ever they dull, no need to worry since the set comes with a honing rod.
More so, another similarity with the other Wusthof knives on this list is the triple-riveted handle. The latter allows ease of control, especially because of the full-tang construction. There is also a full bolster, as well as a finger guard.
Pros:
- Comes with a honing rod and shears
- Exceptional sharpness
- Has a finger guard for safety
Cons:
- Wooden block is easily prone to cracks
3. Wusthof 7-Acacia Block 7-piece German Knife Set
This is sure to be a stand-out in the kitchen. We love how it comes with an elegant acacia block, which is sure to turn heads. It is also a good thing that there are seven slots, making sure that you have more than enough space for the things that you already have in the kitchen.
One of the highlights of this set is the 3.5-inch paring knife. It has a small narrow blade that tapers as it reaches the handle. It may be small, but the design of the blade is optimized for more coverage.
We also love the 8-inch cooks knife, which is sure to be a workhorse in the kitchen. Other knives that are included in this set are 6-inch utility knife and 8-inch breading knife. You will also get multifunctional come-apart shears and a honing rod. The lather will align the microscopic teeth in the blade of knives, making it easy to restore its peak performance.
If there’s one drawback, it would be the price. Nonetheless, like anything else from Wusthof, we believe that the cost is justifiable. You can enjoy the best bang for the buck with this knife set.
Pros:
- Elegant wooden block with extra slots
- Slim half bolster design
- Comes with multifunctional shears
Cons:
- Expensive
4. Wusthof 1040330120 Classic Ikon 8-inch Cook’s Knife
With a length of eight inches, this is smaller than the cook’s knife from the Classic series mentioned earlier, which is ten inches. Aside from the blade, the two are also different in the bolster design. This model has a double-bolster, which is perfect for professionals. Along with its small and sophisticated handle, you can be confident that handling the knife is effortless.
As it is common with Wusthof knives, it is also worth mentioning that this product is precision-forged. It is made from a single block of high-carbon stainless steel. With the one-piece construction, the durability is unquestionable. It has also been tempered to make it stronger. This alone is more than enough to justify the high price of the knife.
Lastly, it is also worth mentioning that this is a versatile knife. A cook’s knife is a multifunctional addition to the kitchen since it replaces the functions of multiple knives. You can use it for slicing, mincing, dicing, and chopping, among other tasks.
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle
- Delivers multiple functions
- Precision forged construction
Cons:
- Blade can be sharper
5. Wusthof Classic Ikon 8-piece Knife Block Set
The first thing that you will notice in this knife set is its price. This is enough to drive some people away, but that should not be the case. Take a look at the inclusions and evaluate their quality. For sure, you will understand why it is priced that way.
This is similar to the third product that we mentioned in this guide. They are both from the Classic Ikon series. One of the main differences is that while the other one has an acacia block while this one has a mahogany wooden block. Nonetheless, both blocks are attractive.
There is also a slight difference in terms of the inclusions. The third product has seven pieces. This one, meanwhile, has eight pieces. The only difference is that it comes with a 4.5-inch utility knife.
As you would expect from the Classic Ikon series, it comes with a double bolster. The slim design of the bolster allows the knife to be lightweight while providing ease of control. The handle is also ergonomic, so there is nothing you will complain about regarding your comfort. Plus, with its contoured shape, it follows your hand will not easily slip.
Pros:
- Ergonomic synthetic handles
- Durable forged steel
- Attractive wooden block
Cons:
- Expensive
Conclusion
In sum, if there’s a key takeaway in this short guide about Wusthof Classic vs Classic Ikon, it would be that they are both exceptional! There is one major difference – the bolster. Honestly, that did not matter much. Regardless of which on you buy, you can be confident of top-notch quality and exceptional value for the money.