Wusthof is a popular brand for quality kitchen utensils and cutlery. This German brand has existed for over two centuries, starting around 1814 in Solingen.
Hence, this family business managed to sprout into a global powerhouse. Over the years, they’ve remained pioneers and continue to evolve.
Therefore, Wusthof earned its top market position through hard work and devotion. Nowadays, many deem their products to be top-of-the-line, and as such, they generally cost more than most branded cutlery.
Yet, although their level of craft is undeniable, customers often wonder why Wusthof knives are so expensive?
Is it due to the rarity of the materials and the resources needed to make the knives, or is it simply a trick to attract more customers?
In this piece, we’ll examine their production process and the conditions that warrant these knives’ elite status.
At the same time, we’ll compare their methods to some of the more common ones in the market. In that way, we’ll single out the four biggest reasons why Wusthof knives are so expensive.
4 Reasons Why Wusthof Knives Are So Expensive
1. State of the Art Engineering
Wusthof started with the idea to create top-tier chef’s knives using the most modern techniques. Then, they proceeded to expand on this idea by inventing new and better ways to stay ahead of the curve.
Due to that, pro chefs all over the world prefer using Wusthof products to prepare all sorts of dishes. In short, these are some of the finest crafted knives in the industry.
First, all Wusthof knives come from the brand’s fully automated production sites in the heart of the City of Blades – Solingen.
The company utilizes a unique mix of stainless steel, vanadium, molybdenum, and chromium to create these fancy-looking knives. As a result, these products possess unique qualities that most experts look for.
For example, aside from the sharpness, these blades are resistant to corrosion and sturdy enough to not turn dull anytime soon. Plus, they achieve a score of 58 on the Rockwell Hardness scale!
Also, Wusthof employs state-of-the-art robotics and, at the same time, has over 400 artisans to ensure quality control. The production follows 40 distinct phases, including the laser-assisted whetting process – Precision Edge Technology.
This method is the company’s patented system that guarantees the sharpness of the final product. Plus, Wusthof sharpens the knives to 14 degrees on both sides, giving them premium cutting power.
Also, they ensure proper balance by way of carefully deriving the handle’s shape and weight.
On top of that, the blades come with handles that allow for effective handling. As a result, chefs use Wusthof knives to cut meat, bony meat, veggies, fruit, frozen food, etc. Plus, even beginners can hone their skills using lightweight models.
Adei from that, the knives’ design is another noteworthy highlight. Today’s offerings follow the classic Wusthof outline, further amplified with the latest tech and finished with finer shades.
2. Long-Lasting With a Limited Lifetime Warranty
As evident on the Wusthof website, you can get a lifetime warranty for any of their products. Hence, this means you won’t have to look for replacements even after years of daily usage.
However, as much as the blades are built to withstand non-stop work, the warranty only lasts as long as you properly care for the knife.
This is due to the specific way the brand utilizes for production. After all, they don’t share any of the standard methods to make kitchen knives. Instead, they derive a formula of their own.
So, they use stainless steel and carbon content to achieve a level of hardness and sharpness.
Where other products have a maximum of 0.2% Carbon composition, Wusthof blades hold 0.5% or more.
Next, the knives contain chromium and molybdenum, two principal materials that provide non-rust and non-corrosive properties to steel. In fact, the latter also contributes to the hardness and strength of the steel.
3. Bolster
A bolster is that thick part of a knife between the blade and the handle. While many think of it as a design choice, that thick, wide junction does much more.
Firstly, it provides extra safety to the user by enhancing the handler’s grip. At the same time, it plays a big role regarding the knife’s center of mass.
In that way, a bolster is often the key to balancing the item’s weight.
Generally, the blade is heavier than the handle. Therefore, as the fulcrum of the cutting tool, bolters provide the correct weight shift.
Thanks to that, users won’t take long to adjust to handling a Wusthof blade, nor have troubles with fatigue. By implication, they can make hundreds of slices in a minute without ever losing control.
4. Excellent Edge Retention
The carefully crafted knives remain sharp for years, meaning you can easily keep them in tip-top condition.
Naturally, pro chefs will have to reserve some time to check the knife’s sharpness, but this is due to their intense work hours.
Yet, while constant and every day will inevitably cause the steel to wear, proper care and regular honing will help keep the blade in shape.
Hence, while standard knives require sharpening every six months, Wusthof knives make for far superior standing.
Wusthof knives come factory sharpened as they all undergo the PEtec process, the company’s patented edging method. This process utilizes lasers to create “impeccable” edges for exceptional cutting power.
Precision Edge Technology is a pushbutton process handled by robots and monitored by the company’s team of 400 highly-skilled workers.
Also, it is the company’s careful usage of carbon and vanadium content that allows for this route in the first place. As a result, PEtec ensures a uniform result of 14 degrees of the knife’s edges.
Are Wusthof Knives Worth the Price?
There is no simple answer to the question of whether or not Wusthof knives are worth their price tag.
These knives are widely regarded as being some of the best quality knives on the market, and they are designed to last a lifetime with proper care.
On the other hand, the high price tag may be off-putting for some home cooks who are simply looking for a good quality knife that will get the job done without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not a Wusthof knife is worth the investment.
What are the Different Levels of Wusthof Knives?
Wusthof offer a wide range of knives, from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models. The different levels of Wusthof knives are as follows:
Gourmet: These are entry-level knives that are perfect for home cooks. They’re made with lower-quality steel, but they’re still sharp and durable.
Silverlake: These knives are similar to the Gourmet series, but they feature a more stylish design. They’re still great for home cooks who want a beautiful knife to display in their kitchen.
Pro: These knives are designed for professional chefs and serious home cooks. They’re made with high-quality steel and feature ergonomic handles that make them comfortable to use.
Classic: The Classic series is Wusthof’s flagship line of knives. They’re made with the best materials and construction techniques, and they’re designed to last a lifetime.
Which Line of Wusthof knife is the Best?
The Classic Ikon line of Wusthof knives is the best option for anyone looking for a high-quality, comfortable and durable knife.
The retracted bolster allows for easy sharpening, and the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip. The thermoplastics used in the construction of the knife are of excellent quality and easy to clean.
The balance between edge retention, toughness and ease of sharpening is nearly perfect.
The knives are a bit on the soft side, but this is not a significant issue. Overall, the Classic Ikon line offers the best combination of features and performance.
Conclusion
Even in 2022, Wusthof knives remain one of the most expensive items on the market. Yet, that isn’t an accidental outcome given the history of this brand.
Instead, the high costs find justification in how they make these blades. Wusthof’s legacy continues for more than 200 years, as evident in their elite production methods.
Plus, they use unique formulas and a slew of patented phases to produce every single offering carefully. On top of that, they employ advanced quality control patterns, ensuring no subpar item enters commerce.
As a result, this brand funnels large sums of money into creating any of their stuff, which is why Wusthof knives are so expensive.
