Ikon 8-Inch Cook's Knife

+1 on the already recommended Wüsthof Ikon. You might want to get a Classic Ikon though. Exact same blade, but POM (plastic) handle instead of wood. So even more carefree. It has a thin edge for a German stainless steel knife, so it’s very sharp and fun to cut with. But at the same time sturdy as he

The Shiro Kamo Black Dragon is really good but it is carbon steel. If your dad is not comfortable with that you can look at stainless. Tojiro DP is a solid choice. And I may be going against the grain here but if you want durability over anything else, also consider a Wüsthof Classic Ikon.

If you can find a Takamura within your budget, get it. Be aware that those are considered "lasers" - very thinly ground, so they cut amazingly, but they are also relatively brittle. The ones I can find now are slightly above your budget though. For around €120 you can get a Tojiro DP, a slightly bet

I have a Wüsthof Classic Ikon as the workhorse next to my thinner Japanese knife, it's great.

Paring €5 Serrated €33 Boning €18 This leaves about €100-150 for a good chef knife. You say you decided on a German style one. I recommend the Wüsthof Classic Ikon. It was my first real knife and I don't regret that decision. It's sturdy, very comfortable, and doesn't have a bolster.

Here's the counter to your spin "Wusthof knives are highly recommended for beginners because they are durable, safe, and versatile workhorses. However, they are quite expensive." Classic 8-inch Chef Knife $170 [regular handle]Classic Ikon 8-inch Chef Knife $200 [ergonomic handle]Ikon 8-inch Chef Kni

A Wüsthof knife was my best QOL purchase, precisely because it’s NOT Japanese. Here’s my hot take: A Wüsthof Classic Ikon is the single best quality-of-life upgrade I’ve made for my kitchen, and the reason is simple—it’s not a Japanese knife. Look, I get it. Those “laser-sharp” Japanese knives are c

I have the Tojiro Santoku and WÜSTHOF classic ikon. I am careful with the Tojiro because it is a thinner blade. I reach for the wusthof when breaking down chickens for example. They are more robust. MAC could be similar to Tojiro because those are Japanese? Not sure. Maybe get one of each. A workhor