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Knife Makers

As you consider which knife to purchase, take a look at some of the top knife makers on the market.  Each manufacturer comes from a rich tradition and history.  Some are based on European approaches to knife construction while others use a Japanese approach.   Each has its strengths and weaknesses.  At the end of the day, only you can decide what style works best for you and your kitchen.

Forschner/Victorinox


Based out of Switzerland, Victorinox first gained renown by making the first Swiss Army Knife.  They are known for razor sharp knives that are beautifully balanced.  They have both forged and stamped knives.  Their stamped knives (the R.H. Forschner line), which are lighter weight and razor sharp, have won high praise from Cooks Illustrated magazine. Their forged line of knives are just as popular with professionals and home cooks alike.

Henckels


Zwilling J.A. Henckels history begins in Solingen, Germany about 275 years ago in 1731.  Henckels blends traditional craftsmanship and innovative manufacturing methods to make excellent, long lasting knives.  They focus on design which is ergonomic and of the highest quality.  They are the first company to manufacture knives and kitchen shears make from stainless steel.  Since then, they have contnued to refine their forging process.  They use a special high-carbon no stain steel that is ice hardened to increase anti-corrosion and for great edge retention.  In addition to their full forged lines they have a lighter weight stamped line of kitchen knives.
granprix IIWusthof Knives
Wusthof


The Wusthof company have been making knives since 1814 and are known for very high quality craftsmanship.  They are located in Solingen, Germany which is known as a center for the highest quality knives in Europe.  Their primary product lines are Ikon, Classic Ikon, Classic, Le Cordon Bleu, Culinar and Gran Prix II.  These are designed with the professional chef in mind as well as the cooking enghusiast.  The blades are forged using processes developed over hundreds of years and now utilize the precision offered by computers and laser technology.  ...more
Shun Knives
Shun by Kershaw


Shun knives blend the craftsmanship of the Japanese Samurai blades with modern technology to make an exceptional knife.  The blades are made from fusing 33 layers of their very high density stainless steel known as VG-10.  This gives the knives a “damascus” look, although the process of making a damascus knife is different.  Because of the hardness of the blade and the excellent edge retention, Shun knives are ground to an angle of 16 degrees.  German knives are ground to around 22 degrees. These knives are sharp! The handles are made of Pakka wood, which is layered, resin impregnated maple that is very hard, durable and cleanable.  The handle is shaped in the form of a “d” which fits perfectly in the hand.  These knives are beautifully crafted and a joy to use in the kitchen....more

Global Knives


Global Knives are make from the Yoshikin company and are inspired by Japanese swordsmiths.  They make of a single piece of molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel.  The blades are ground to a very sharp angle and they hold their edge very well.  The knives are made from a single piece, including the handle which gives it a very unique look.  The handle is hollow and filled with sand to achieve the perfect balance and feel.
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