Wüsthof Classic 3½-inch Paring Knife

Performance

Excels at every task from peeling apples to hulling strawberries. Owners at Amazon.com also describe the Wüsthof Classic paring knife as incredibly versatile. One says, "This knife is good for everything from mincing herbs to slicing fruit to filleting small fish - it even makes a pretty good steak knife." Another describes using it to slice lemons, quarter apples and cut cheese. However, a couple of users think this knife's 3½-inch blade is a bit too short; they consider a 4½-inch blade more generally useful.

Both professional testers and home users say the Wüsthof Classic is very sharp, well balanced and comfortable to handle. More than one Amazon.com owner describe the balance of this knife as "just about perfect." Home users at Amazon.com and Cooking.com also say the knife holds its edge well.

Construction

A forged steel knife. It resembles a miniature chef's knife, with a curved, smooth blade suitable for mincing and a pointed tip that is great for popping the eyes out of potatoes. It has a full tang, meaning that the metal of the blade extends all the way down to the end of the handle, held in place with three rivets. It also includes a bolster (a lip of metal between the handle and the blade that protects the fingers). Most owners say this design feels very solid, but we did see a couple of complaints about durability. The outer part of the handle is made of a special plastic resin that professional testers say feels "like hard, smooth wood." Home users generally find this grip very comfortable.

Appearance

A very traditional shape and design. Its appearance isn't particularly striking, but it isn't objectionable either; reviews don't mention its styling one way or the other.

Bottom line

In terms of performance, the Wüsthof is nearly tied with the J.A. Henckels Four Star 3-inch Paring Knife (*Est. $30). Both offer forged-steel construction, precise handling, a sharp blade that holds an edge well and a comfortable grip. However, the Wüsthof paring knife "edges" out its competitor because its slightly longer blade makes it more versatile. For any kitchen task requiring precision and maneuverability, this little knife is a winner.