Wusthof Le Cordon Bleu 3.5 inch Paring Knife

A connoisseur's paring knife
The Wusthof Classic 3-1/2-Inch Paring Knife is close to perfection as a kitchen tool. But how do you improve on perfection? In this case, by making a paring knife that's a little less idiot-proofed, and a lot more powerful.

Wusthof's Cordon Bleu line has the same handle as their Classic line. But:

- The knives have no bolster behind the cutting area. This gives you a second point at the back of the knife - perfect for things like pricking the skin of a tomato to insure a clean slice, or scoring an apple or potato skin as you rotate it against the blade. However, because there is nothing between your finger and the blade, you have to balance the knife properly as you use it, and pay attention to where the knife is resting in your hand. Yes, you can hurt yourself with this knife. Much more easily than with the Classic.

- The blades are thinner, harder, and more highly polished than...

Sharp, sturdy knife
I ordered this knife to replace one that had been used as an icepick (by a nameless spouse), and this design is even a bit better -- good length and taper -- than the one we replaced (which was part of "Emeril" Wusthof knives). We won't be testing its usefulness as an icepick, however.

Holds an Edge
I bought two Wusthof knives and I love both of them. They are the best knives I've ever owned and worth the money. They are easy to sharpen with the Wusthof sharpener and hold the edge for a long time. I would highly recommend these knives.

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