Any chef will attest to the importance of a set of good quality cutlery. A superior knife is safer and easier to use. A fine sharp blade is less likely to accidently cut you than a dull blade that you have to hack and saw as you cut. You can slice, chop, or pare with ease if the knife is comfortable and honed to sharp edge. You must judge a knife by the handle, the blade, the bolster, and the tang. These factors determine a quality knife. First-rate knives will make all the difference in how well you can slice, chop, or pare; they will make you a rock star in the kitchen.

One top of the line, quality knife is Wusthof. Wusthof knives are a result of over 200 years of German knife making know-how and experience. Considered to be one of the worlds finest knifes for both professional kitchen and home use, they come with a lifetime guarantee.

The handles of the Wusthof knives are made of perfectly balanced, bacteria free, polypropylene, riveted handles. The result is a comfortable and durable knife that will provide a secure heft and feel. The blades are high carbon stainless steel, which contribute to the balance and will last a lifetime. The tang, where the blade extends into the handle, is one piece, making this the best quality. The Wusthof Classic IKON, their professional line, has a double bolster. The bolster is the thick ridge between the blade and the handle and adds to the heft, balance, and modern design.

The well appointed kitchen will have a variety of knives, each for a specific use. Primary is the chef's knife for cutting and slicing. The 10 inch Chef's knife provides for cutting and chopping pleasure. Wusthof offers the Bird's Beak knife, particularly suited for peeling, cleaning, or shaping any fruit or vegetable with a rounded surface. There are carving sets and steak knife sets to impress any gathering. Wusthof has specialty knives for boning, a fillet knife, a serrated tomato knife, and cleavers. There is a knife for cutting soft cheeses, as well as a deli knife, and a bread knife

Any cook would appreciate the gift of a fine set of knives or just one specialty knife. Check out Excalibur Cutlery and Gifts online for a complete selection of Wusthof cutlery; in most cases you will receive free shipping.