Since 1814, Wusthof has been one of the most respected names in knife making. Located in the "Cutlery Capital," Solingen, Germany, Wusthof produces top quality knives that are the favorites of many well-known chefs. Gordon Ramsay, James Martin, and Jamie Oliver, among others, have been known to use Wusthof knives to prepare their best meals. An extensive, forty-step process ensures that each blade that bears the Wusthof names is of the very best quality - sharp and precise.

Wusthof offers many different series of knives, from those aimed at culinary aficionados looking to improve their kitchen to those tailored for top restaurants. Read on for an overview of Wusthof's current product catalog, set by set. You're sure to find a knife or knife set that is exactly what you're looking for.

Culinary master Emeril Legassi personally endorses this set of Wusthof cutlery. Having used this brand of knife all through his career and on his hit show, Emeril Live!, Emeril personally selected the knives that make up this collection. Ergonomic handles maximize the comfort and ease of use of these blades. The handles, with their fine pebble grain finish, are also built to prevent slipping and dangerous kitchen accidents. The alloy that comprises the blades is durable and also resistant to stains, so they should serve you well for a long time. Emerilware pieces start sharp and stay sharp, and even when they do go dull they are easily sharpened.

Wusthof knives rarely come cheap, but the Emerilware collection should be within most people's price range. Despite their lower price, make no mistake - these are Wusthof quality knives and will uphold that reputation. Each knife in the set costs about $20 purchased individually, while a full set of 18 pieces can be found for $150. For a similar price, you can find knives from the Silverpoint collection, which was the basis for many pieces of the Emerilware set.

If you're looking for knives of a higher caliber from Wusthof, take a look at the Le Cordon Bleu collection. These knives are notable for the clearly displayed red trident logo displayed on the seamless triple-riveted handle. Designed to be very lightweight and perfectly balanced, these knives are built for comfort. Anyone who has spent a long while on a repetitive chopping task can appreciate the reduced fatigue offered by this design. Their price isn't through the roof, but their quality is superb - these are some of the sharpest blades Wusthof produces.

Starting at around $50 for a single knife, you can find 14 piece sets of the Le Cordon Bleu collection for around $400. It may seem like a big investment, but these knives are built to last. They are constructed with full tangs, which means that the metal that holds the blade to the handle runs the full length of the handle. This offers superior durability for a knife that won't break easily. For other options in a similar price range, the Wusthof Gourmet and Grand Prix sets are available. The latter set is similar to the Le Cordon Bleu, but features a different handle design.

If price is no object, a high-end option from Wusthof is the Ikon set. Ikon knives feature a unique new triple-riveted handle design optimized for the perfect feel in your hand. The handle is constructed of Grenadill, or Mozambique Ebony, one of the toughest woods available. These knives are precision forged, giving them incredible sharpness and durability. The edges of these blades are laser tested to ensure maximum sharpness. Most of the blades feature full tangs, which increases balance and durability.

High quality means high expense. If you're going to purchase some of the finest blades available in the world, you can expect to pay a healthy sum. Individual knives from the collection run a minimum of $100, while the 18-piece set will set you back $1,400. The Ikon set is likely out of the question for the casual cook - these knives are meant for culinary professionals. For about the same price, you can also purchase the Ikon Classic or the Culinar collection, which are finely crafted stainless steel pieces.

No matter your needs or culinary skill, there's a high quality Wusthof knife with your name on it. Don't waste your money on cheap knives that go dull in days - make an investment that will last with super sharp, long lasting Wusthof blades.