Wüsthof Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife - 58 HRC Forged Steel

Wüsthof Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife, model 1040100120, is the US version of the 20-centimeter Classic cook's knife. Its forged German blade, full bolster, and black riveted handle give it the traditional profile associated with Western chef's knives.

Forged German Construction

Wüsthof lists an 8-inch blade, 1.9-inch blade width, and 4.5-inch handle for SKU 1040100120. The company identifies the knife as forged, made in Germany, and rated at 58 HRC, the Rockwell hardness value used for the blade.

The handle uses resilient synthetic material with stainless-steel rivets. A full bolster and finger guard sit between the blade and handle, while the straight chef's-knife edge suits chopping, slicing, mincing, and dicing.

Size, Weight, and Price

The official US listing sets the price at $170.00 as of 09/24/2026. A 9.45-ounce comparison listing for the Classic 8-inch model places it close to the product-page specification, while an independent test measured a bolstered Wüsthof Classic at 9.1 ounces.

TechGearLab recorded a 9.1-ounce measured weight and a 2.60-millimeter spine for the tested Wüsthof Classic 8-inch knife. That heavier construction contrasts with lightweight stamped chef's knives, and the difference is relevant when a cook prefers a substantial bolster and forged body.

Warranty and Kitchen Fit

WÜSTHOF USA, Inc. covers qualifying workmanship and material defects in the United States under a limited lifetime warranty. The warranty policy defines coverage for normal culinary use and gives the US returns address in Norwalk, Connecticut.

The 8-inch blade is longer than a compact utility knife but shorter than many 10-inch chef's knives. Compared with the Wüsthof Classic Ikon 8-inch chef's knife, the Classic uses a full bolster and a 4.5-inch synthetic handle; the Ikon is a separate forged model with a different handle design and a $200.00 listed price.

Best Use and Limits

Wüsthof Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife fits cooks who want a forged German chef's knife with a full bolster, a documented 58 HRC hardness rating, and a US limited lifetime warranty. Its 9.45-ounce listed weight favors a substantial feel over the lighter handling of a stamped blade.

The knife's format works for general prep involving vegetables, herbs, fruit, fish, and meat. The full bolster adds a defined transition at the heel, while the 8-inch blade leaves less reach than a 10-inch chef's knife. The verdict is straightforward: it is a traditional, weight-forward kitchen knife for users who value forged construction and a full bolster more than minimum weight.