Wusthof IKON Cook's Knife, 8 Inch, Brown

I spent a great deal of time researching and reviewing knives before I settled on the flagship of the Wusthof line. I dont have the kind of money to go around buying $200 knives that I dont intend to use for the rest of my life; it took me a very long time to save up to buy this sucker, and I wanted to make sure I got the perfect one for my needs.It was worth the work I put into the purchase. I have been delighted with this knife in every way. Ive been working with it for a while now, and even as a fan of knives in general it still continues to amaze me what a difference working with a very high-quality knife makes. Sometimes this knife makes me think there's no such thing as friction.The balance is perfect. The feel of the wood handle is amazing. I specifically wanted the genuine Grenadill (African Blackwood) handle because of the feel and the texture of it it in my hand, and I am so glad that I went for that. It makes an enormous difference, and using this knife is pure joy. It makes it easier for me to use and vastly improves my grip and control.If you've been wanting a really good cook's knife, there is simply no way you can go wrong with this one. This is a German blade, not a Japanese blade, so if you're a fan of Japanese blades, this one won't be your best choice. It's a heavy knife, heavier than any Japanese blade I've used. But it's one of the best, if not the best, non-Japanese blades you can buy, so if your preference is for the German blade, as mine is, this is the one you want.I love my Santoku, and I will eventually get a good, high-end one to replace my midrange workhorse Mercer. I have a few other knives that I use regularly whenever I cook; utility and slicing and paring. But this Wusthof cook's knife is my go-to blade for all occasions. I dont see that ever changing. This is the kind of thing you bequeath in a will, along with your precious cast iron.If you love to cook, amateur or pro, this is the knife you want. Go for it. You'll make up the cost in a year, because it's such an excellent knife you'll actually *want* to cook every meal, just so you can use it.

Wusthof IKON series are great knives for someone who loves to cook and spends a lot of time in the kitchen. The hardwood handles feel good and look terrific (either in black or brown). The knives hold a good edge, are sturdy, sharpen easily and feel well balanced in the hand. The IKON series is one of the higher priced Wusthof lines. Similar knives with a lower price point can be found in the Classic series. I have some of each. I prefer the IKON, but the Classic series is a better value.

The knives are perfectly balanced, and not too light. The handles are smoothly rounded and fit like a glove. And the blackwood is a really nice touch. It's a smooth and dark texture that just feels and looks perfect. Expensive - yes. If you cook a lot, and you have cheap knives, this is a serious upgrade, and I have had no regrets. I can't imagine ever using my old knives for anything after using these. The chef's knife (or cook's knife) and honing steel are the workhorses if you want to save some money and just get the essentials upgraded...

I must admit, this Wusthof is the first hone steel I have ever owned. I have been an electrician all of my life, and if there's one single primary tool of an electrician, it's their knives. I have used many different knife sharpening systems from whet stones to canvas/leather barber strops to ceramic, diamond, and sanding systems. I purchased a set of Wusthof Classic knives in August of 2019 and have not sharpened them as I wanted a system from Wusthof for their knives. I purchased one of their sharpeners as well as this hone steel and thought I would have to sharpen them prior to using the hone steel. Instead, I tried using just this hone steel first, and I was amazed, to say the least. It only took about ten strokes on each side on each knife to bring them back to razor sharp. I have bald spots on my left arm to prove it.This is a very high quality honing steel, and I would highly recommend it! Pay the price! It's well worth it!

Beautiful knife. Very sharp. Works well. Dont forget you oil to protect the blade and wood handle

I have high end knives and this is my favorite. Well balanced and just as sharp as a razor and hold it’s sharpness. I highly recommend it.

Last time I checked the African blackwood handle Wusthof knives were discontinued so it was awesome finding this exceptional quality rare knife on Amazon. The handle is stunningly beautiful and lightweight and feels substantial in the hand. The blade is extremely strong so you don't have to worry about a flimsy knife as this knife is perfect for boning. It's not recommended to place these knives in the dishwasher and I suggest washing and honing immediately after use. They do required maintenance (oiling the handles) to keep them looking pristine but this can be avoided with the avoidance of water for extended periods. I have several knives from this set including the block that houses them and I have been very pleased.

These are famous knives, so I am finally at a time in my life I can afford them.... they are so sharp (as they should be!) I have cuts all over my fingers... am not used to good knives! I wish they came with a full set in the rack - you do have to buy extra ones to fill it.