European knives

The best kitchen knife models from Europe are made in Germany. The Mercator knife is a perfect example. However, this does not prevent other countries from standing out with their different knife models. For example, the French have the Laguiole knife, which is the product of 100% French artisan craftsmanship. It is a multi-function knife that can be used on a daily basis. We also have the Opinel knife, which is the star of folding knives.

Italy also offers beautiful and practical knives, but stands out especially for its long and thin automatic knife. Spain is not to be outdone with its Pallares knives, which are folding knives with a carbon steel blade. Then there is the famous Swiss knife, which is a multi-function folding knife. Finally, there are also Swedish knives, which are small, high-performing, lightweight and well-designed knives, useful for everyday use or outdoor activities.

Manufacturing of the European knife

European knives have a thicker blade than Japanese knives. The advantage is that the blade is less vulnerable and, as such, perfect for more tasks. Cutting a melon is a piece of cake with a European knife. You can use a European knife for practically everything.

You can easily sharpen a European knife. For daily maintenance, you use a honing or sharpening steel, and when you really want to get into sharpening, you can use any type of sharpening method.

The specificities of the European knife

• The blade angle is approximately 17 to 20 degrees and is located on both sides of the blade (double bevel)
• The blade is thicker, more robust especially with regard to the bolster they often have.
• The hardness of the steel can vary, but they are generally softer than Japanese knives at around 55 to 60 HrC Rockwell
• The shape of the knives is more curved, which makes chopping easier using the rocking technique
• They are generally heavier than Japanese knives, which gives a heavier feel in the hand. The balance point of the knife is often closer to the handle.
• They are very sturdy, but can dull more quickly than Japanese knives due to the softer steel.

The advantages and disadvantages of European knives

Advantages of the European blade

• Easy to sharpen
• Less vulnerable, can be used for more tasks
• Does not require much maintenance

Disadvantages of the European blade

• Needs to be sharpened more often
• More resistance when you use it

Why choose European knives?

European knives are practical and perfect for many tasks. European knives are made from less hard steel than Japanese knives. The hardness of a European knife is often between 54 and 58 Rockwell. Since the steel is not as hard, the sharpening angle is slightly larger, namely 20 degrees per side. This also makes the blade slightly thicker. Due to the thickness and larger sharpening angle, European knives are sturdier than Japanese knives.