Is this set worth it over buying one chef's knife?

If you cook daily, the chef's knife does most of the work, but the paring and serrated knives cover tasks a chef's knife handles poorly, like peeling and crusty bread. Buying the three together is simpler than assembling them one at a time.

How does the Partner line compare with Wüsthof Classic?

Both are forged in Solingen from the same family of steel. Partner uses a simpler handle and finish and a half bolster, while Classic adds a full bolster and more polished handle detail.

Can these knives go in the dishwasher?

Wüsthof recommends hand washing. Dishwasher heat and detergent dull the edge and can wear the handle over time.

What is the half bolster and why does it matter?

The bolster is the thick collar between blade and handle. A half bolster stops short of the edge, which lightens the knife and lets you sharpen more of the blade, though the heel still needs care on a stone.

What comes in the box?

An 8-inch chef's knife, a 3½-inch paring knife and a 5-inch serrated utility knife. No block, sheath or honing steel is included.

Is 58 HRC good for a kitchen knife?

Yes. It is a common hardness for German forged knives, balancing edge retention with enough toughness to resist chipping under normal board use.

Where is the Wüsthof Partner 3 Piece Knife Set cheapest?

At Bloomingdale's, for $235.00, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Wüsthof Partner 3 Piece Knife Set?

11 stores we checked sell it, including WÜSTHOF USA, Williams-Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Bloomingdale's, Everything Kitchens.

Wüsthof Partner 3 Piece Knife Set Price History: Lowest $235.00

What reviewers say

Owners of Wüsthof Partner knives praise the sharpness out of the box, the balance of the forged blades and how well the edge holds up with regular honing. The recurring complaints are the half bolster getting in the way of full-length sharpening and the plainer handle compared with the Classic line.

What people mention

SharpnessPraisedOwners say the knives arrive very sharp and keep a usable edge with occasional honing.
BalancePraisedThe forged full tang gives a steady, controlled feel that reviewers like for everyday prep.
SharpeningCriticisedThe half bolster makes it awkward to sharpen the last part of the blade near the heel.
HandleMixedThe ergonomic handle is comfortable, but some find it plainer than Wüsthof's Classic handles.
Set contentsMixedReviewers like the three core knives but miss a bread knife and shears for a complete kit.

From WÜSTHOF USA

3-piece set: 8" chef's knife, 3½" paring knife, 5" serrated edge utility knife
Forged half bolster for ideal weight and balance
Full tang adds stability and control
Ergonomic handle fits securely in the hand
Serrated utility knife glides through rolls, tomatoes, sausages and cheeses without tearing
Made in Solingen, Germany; 58 HRC

Materials: Premium forged steel, corrosion resistant
Fit: Ergonomic handle; handle length 4.6 in
Care: Wash by hand and immediately towel-dry; avoid abrasive sponges or soaking in the sink; store safely; avoid cutting on metal, glass or hardwoods like bamboo; hon
Guarantee: Limited lifetime warranty
Returns: Free returns
Shipping: Free shipping
In the box: 8" chef's knife, 3½" paring knife, 5" serrated edge utility knife

About the Wüsthof Partner 3 Piece Knife Set

The Wüsthof Partner set includes three knives: an 8" chef's knife, a 3½" paring knife and a 5" serrated utility knife. The blades are made from forged, corrosion-resistant stainless steel and have a hardness of 58 HRC. The knives are made in Solingen, Germany.

Each knife has a full tang and a forged half bolster, which add stability, control and balance. The ergonomic handle is 4.6 inches long and fits securely in the hand. The serrated utility knife cuts through rolls, tomatoes, sausages and cheeses without tearing.

Set size: 3 pieces
In the box: 8" chef's knife, 3½" paring knife, 5" serrated utility knife
Blade material: Forged stainless steel, corrosion resistant
Hardness: 58 HRC
Construction: Full tang, forged half bolster
Handle length: 4.6 in
Origin: Made in Solingen, Germany
Care: Hand wash and towel-dry right away; avoid abrasive sponges and soaking
Cutting surface: Avoid metal, glass and hardwoods such as bamboo