Wüsthof Classic 7 Inch Santoku Knife (Black, 18cm)

What makes the hollow edge different from a regular santoku blade?

The hollow edge features evenly spaced vertical indentations along the blade surface that create small air pockets. These air pockets prevent food from sticking to the blade when cutting, particularly useful for slicing potatoes, onions, cheese and other sticky ingredients. Regular santoku blades lack these indentations, so food tends to cling to the smooth surface during cutting.

How often does this knife need sharpening?

The Precision Edge Technology means this knife stays sharp significantly longer than standard knives. Most users report excellent sharpness for 4-6 months with regular honing using a steel rod. The high carbon stainless steel and 58-degree HRC tempering provide twice the edge retention of previous Wüsthof models, so professional sharpening is typically needed only once or twice per year with normal home use.

Can I put this knife in the dishwasher?

No, this knife must be hand washed only. Dishwashers expose the blade to harsh detergents and high temperatures that can damage the edge and cause pitting in the steel. The polyoxymethylene handle can also be affected by dishwasher chemicals. Hand washing with warm soapy water and immediate drying preserves both the blade sharpness and handle integrity.

What's the difference between this and a chef's knife?

The santoku has a thinner blade profile than traditional chef's knives, making it better for precise slicing and dicing. The straighter edge near the tip provides more blade contact with the cutting board, whilst the 10-degree angle creates a sharper cutting edge. Chef's knives typically have a curved belly for rocking motions, whilst santokus excel at up-and-down chopping and precise slicing work.

Is the 7-inch size suitable for small hands?

Yes, the 7-inch blade length is ideal for people with smaller hands or those who prefer more control during detailed cutting work. The 85-gram weight provides good balance without being too heavy and the ergonomic handle design accommodates different grip sizes. Many users find this size perfect for most kitchen tasks whilst being less intimidating than larger chef's knives.

What foods work best with this santoku knife?

This knife excels at cutting vegetables, fruits, fish, boneless meat, herbs and cheese. The hollow edge is particularly effective for slicing potatoes, onions, cucumbers and tomatoes without sticking. It handles delicate tasks like mincing garlic and herbs as well as heavier work like chopping cabbage or butterflying chicken breasts. Avoid using it on bones, frozen foods or very hard items that could chip the blade.

How do I maintain the blade edge between sharpenings?

Use a honing steel before each use to realign the blade edge and maintain sharpness. Store the knife in a knife block, magnetic strip or blade guard to protect the edge from damage. Always use appropriate cutting boards - wood or plastic rather than glass or stone. Clean and dry immediately after use to prevent corrosion and avoid cutting on hard surfaces that could dull or chip the blade.

What's included with the knife purchase?

You receive one Wüsthof Classic 7-inch hollow edge santoku knife in black. No additional accessories like knife blocks, sheaths or sharpening tools are included. The knife comes with Wüsthof's quality guarantee and requires online age verification as it's restricted to buyers over 18 years old. Hand washing instructions and care guidelines are provided with the product documentation.