Zwilling

Origin and heritage

Zwilling J.A. Henckels, founded in Solingen in 1731, is one of the oldest cutlery brands in the world and a cornerstone of the German school of edges. Nearly three centuries of forging in the steel city stand behind its famous twin-figures logo.

What sets it apart

Its knives are forged from a single piece of special stainless steel, with the weight and sturdiness heavy butchery demands. The Twin Four Star II 7-piece set with block sums up the approach: a seamless injection-moulded polypropylene handle with no rivets, comfortable and free of joints where grime collects, over the same forged blade as ever. A block like this equips a whole kitchen with balanced, low-maintenance pieces.

Our assessment

At mikamado we recommend Zwilling because, based on the specifications, its long reputation and our experience cooking on our Big Green Egg Large, it is a reliable workhorse: solid, balanced and easy to re-sharpen, with a medium-hardness steel that forgives daily use. The Four Star line has been a kitchen standard for decades for exactly that reason.

The honest caveat is the one shared by the whole German school: it doesn't chase the extreme edge of a Japanese blade, and it is heavyweight cutlery. Its natural rival is Wüsthof, its Solingen neighbour; they share materials and philosophy, and the decision usually comes down to the handle and how it feels in your hand.

Who it's for

For the kamado cook who wants a complete block that lasts decades, with no ceremony or special care. If you'd rather make a single purchase that covers chef, boning and fine work at once, the Four Star with block is a solid base to build the rest of the kitchen on.