Wüsthof Classic 2-Piece Chef's Knife Set (Black Handle)

How often do these knives need sharpening?

With the Precision Edge Technology these knives typically need professional sharpening only every 3-5 years with regular home use. Between sharpenings you should hone the blades weekly using a ceramic or steel honing rod to maintain the edge. The PEtec technology provides twice the edge retention of previous Wüsthof models so they stay sharp significantly longer than standard kitchen knives.

Can these knives go in the dishwasher?

No these knives must be hand washed only. Dishwasher detergents and high heat can damage the blade edge and handle materials. The best practice is to wash immediately after use with warm soapy water then dry completely with a towel. This prevents water spots and maintains the blade's sharpness and appearance.

What cutting boards work best with these knives?

Use wooden or plastic cutting boards to protect the blade edges. Avoid glass marble or ceramic cutting surfaces as these will quickly dull the blades. End-grain wooden boards are ideal as they're gentler on the blade whilst providing excellent cutting stability. Replace cutting boards when they become heavily scarred to prevent bacteria buildup.

Are these knives suitable for professional kitchen use?

Yes these knives are used by professional chefs worldwide. The Wüsthof Classic series is designed to withstand heavy commercial kitchen use whilst maintaining their edge and balance. Many culinary schools recommend Wüsthof knives to their students. The full tang construction and precision forging make them durable enough for daily professional use.

What's the difference between the 20.32cm and 8.89cm knives?

The 20.32cm cook's knife is designed for general kitchen tasks like chopping vegetables dicing onions and slicing meat. Its length and weight make it efficient for processing larger quantities of food. The 8.89cm paring knife excels at detailed work like peeling fruit removing seeds and making precise cuts on smaller items.

How should these knives be stored?

Store knives in a knife block magnetic strip or blade guards to protect the edges and prevent accidents. Never store loose in drawers where blades can knock against other utensils and become damaged. Proper storage prevents dulling and maintains the precision edge. Magnetic strips allow air circulation which helps prevent moisture buildup.

What makes German steel different from other knife steels?

German high carbon stainless steel like that used in these Wüsthof knives is formulated for durability and edge retention. It's typically softer than Japanese steel at 58 HRC which makes it easier to sharpen and more forgiving of harder cutting surfaces. The steel composition balances sharpness with toughness making it ideal for general kitchen use.

Do these knives come with any warranty?

Wüsthof provides a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects for knives purchased from authorised retailers. This covers issues with the blade handle or construction but doesn't include normal wear from use or damage from misuse. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty demonstrates Wüsthof's confidence in their manufacturing quality.