How to decide between a French or a German pattern chef's knife?
I'm getting ready to buy (or commission) a nice 10" chef's knife. I need to decide between a French or a German pattern. What are the pros and cons of each?
Best Answer
It really is an issue of personal preference.
If you prefer a rocking motion, the German profile suits your style better; if you are a push-and-slide person, the French profile is more suitable for you. It also possible to find models at various points within the range.
See this Chef Talk thread for an in depth discussion (with diagrams at one point). The original poster concludes, quite correctly in my opinion:
But... let's keep our senses of perspective and humor. A German knife won't turn a good cutter into a bad one, and a French knife won't do the opposite. Both profiles suit the classic, European and American styles of food and knife skills. It comes down to taste and training.
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Quick Answer about "How to decide between a French or a German pattern chef's knife?"
The differences between German knives and French knives are primarily that German knives are heavier and begin to curve more toward the middle of the blade. French knives are typically a bit thinner and lighter, and the blade usually curves more toward the tip. Chef's knives are essential in kitchen work.Why are German knives better?
The heavier, thicker, and all-around more robust German knife is ideal for, well, more robust chores. \u201cThe weight and softer steel translate to making the knife meatier and more durable, and good for cracking through bones,\u201d explains Moses.What kind of knives does Gordon Ramsay use?
Gordon Ramsay uses both W\xfcsthof and Henckels branded knives; the brands are known for quality products, and they are two of the best knife manufacturers in the world. W\xfcstoff has been making knives since 1814, and Henckels has been around since 1895.The Difference Between German or Japanese Chef Knives | The Euge Food | This or That
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