If you need high-quality kitchen knives, you’ve probably seen Lamson knives. This brand has a rich history that goes back to 1837. But the big question remains: Are Lamson knives good? Do they hold up against top competitors like Wüsthof, Victorinox, or Shun?
Yes, Lamson knives are top-notch kitchen knives made in America. They are known for their durability, comfy handles, and high-quality steel. The Premier Forged series uses forged German steel. The Vintage series has lighter, stamped blades. They are ideal for durability, but require frequent sharpening. Best for those who prefer heavier, German-style knives.
In this guide, we’ll explore Lamson’s history, materials, craftsmanship, durability, and user feedback. This will help us decide if they are worth the investment.
The History and Craftsmanship Behind Lamson Knives
A Legacy of American Craftsmanship
Lamson is one of the oldest cutlery manufacturers in the United States. Founded in 1837, the company is known for its high-quality kitchen tools. These include knives, spatulas, and other cooking accessories.
Where Are Lamson Knives Made?
Lamson knives are made in the USA. Their forged blades use high-carbon German steel, specifically 4116 steel. This combines American craftsmanship with European-quality steel, creating sharp and durable blades.
Lamson Knife Lines: Premier Forged vs. Vintage Series
Premier Forged Series (High-End Option)
- Material: Forged 4116 high-carbon German steel
- Edge: 20-degree double bevel
- Handle Options: G-10, acrylic, striated wood, walnut
- Full Tang & Full Bolster for durability
- Hardness: 58 HRC (standard for German-style knives)
- Price: Around $160 for an 8-inch chef’s knife
Vintage Series / Brad Leone Signature Series (Mid-Range Option)
- Material: 420HC-LAM high-carbon American steel
- Edge: 20-degree double bevel
- Handle: Infused walnut, with 2–3 rivets
- Stamped (not forged), making it lighter
- Price: Around $90 for an 8-inch chef’s knife
Which One Should You Choose?
- If you prefer a heavier German-style forged knife, go for the Premier Forged Series.
- If you like a lighter knife for easier handling, the Vintage Series is a great alternative at a lower price.
Are Lamson Knives Good for Everyday Use?
1. Sharpness & Edge Retention
Lamson knives arrive reasonably sharp out of the box. Here’s how they stack up in independent tests:
- Premier Forged 8″ Chef Knife: 170 g (sharp, utility razor-level).
- Vintage 8″ Chef Knife: 130 g (razor-sharp).
Verdict: While sharp initially, edge retention is moderate due to the 58 HRC steel hardness. Regular honing is needed.
2. Blade Durability & Hardness
- Lamson’s 4116 German steel, from the Premier Forged line, has a Rockwell hardness of 58 HRC. This makes it durable without being brittle.
- The Vintage/Brad Leone line uses 420HC-LAM steel. This steel is a bit softer, so it needs sharpening often.
Verdict: Good balance of hardness & durability, but Wüsthof knives hold an edge longer.
3. Ergonomics & Comfort
- Premier Forged line: Full tang design for a solid feel. It comes in various handle materials.
- Vintage line: Lighter and easier to manoeuvre, but has a simpler design.
Verdict: Excellent grip & comfort, but some users found handles dry and needing oiling.
Lamson Knives vs. Competitors: How Do They Compare?
Lamson Premier Forged vs Wusthof Classic
| Feature | Lamson Premier Forged | Wusthof Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | 4116 German Steel | X50CrMoV15 (same composition) |
| Sharpness | 20-degree angle | 14-degree angle (sharper) |
| Handle Options | Multiple choices | POM handle only |
| Weight | 8.8 oz | 8.5 oz |
| Price | ~$160 | ~$170 |
Winner? If you want a traditional German knife with more handle choices, Lamson is a solid pick. However, Wusthof has a sharper factory edge and a more refined finish
Lamson Vintage vs Victorinox Fibrox Pro.
| Feature | Lamson Vintage | Victorinox Fibrox Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | 420HC-LAM | Swiss high-carbon stainless |
| Sharpness | 20-degree angle | 15-degree angle (sharper) |
| Handle | Walnut (wood) | Textured plastic |
| Weight | 7.1 oz | 8 oz |
| Price | ~$90 | ~$52 |
Pros & Cons of Lamson Knives
Pros
- Made in the USA with premium materials.
- Good sharpness out of the box (especially the Vintage series).
- Comfortable handles (wide selection: walnut, acrylic, POM, G-10).
- Lifetime warranty and excellent customer support.
- Good balance and durability, especially the Premier Forged series.
Cons
- Edge retention is average compared to Japanese or higher-end German knives.
- Some quality control issues reported (uneven grinds, slight tip bends).
- Pricey compared to competitors like Victorinox Fibrox Pro.
What Users Are Saying About Lamson Knives
Positive Reviews:
- “Lamson’s Premier Forged feels like a tank in my hand. I love the balance and weight.” – BladeForums.com.
- “My Vintage Chef’s Knife is razor-sharp and great for everyday use.” – Reddit r/chefknives.
Negative Reviews:
- “Quality control needs work. My Lamson 8” Santoku had uneven grind edges out of the box.” – Reddit r/chefknives.
- “Fit and finish isn’t as polished as Wüsthof.” – Hungry Onion Forum.
Are Lamson Knives Worth Buying?
Who Should Buy Lamson Knives?
- Home cooks who prefer American-made knives
- Fans of German-style cutlery who want a durable, full-bolster knife
- Chefs who want a classic, well-balanced blade with premium handle options
Who Might Prefer Another Brand?
- Users who need ultra-sharp edges (consider Japanese knives like Shun or Takamura)
- Budget-conscious buyers (Victorinox offers better affordability)
- Chefs who prefer lighter, more agile knives (Messermeister or Global may be better choices)
Overall Rating: 8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lamson knives are top-notch, American-made kitchen tools. They’re perfect for chefs who appreciate durability and tradition. They have some small fit-and-finish issues, but they are still a reliable choice for anyone wanting a solid, everyday chef’s knife.
FAQs About Lamson Knives
Are Lamson knives made in the USA?
Yes, Lamson knives are designed, assembled, and finished in the USA. However, some blade blanks come from Germany.
Do Lamson knives hold their edge well?
They hold an edge well, but need regular honing to stay sharp because of their 58 HRC steel hardness.
What is the best Lamson knife series?
- Premier Forged: For heavy-duty, full-bolster German-style knives.
- Vintage/Brad Leone Series: Lighter, stamped knives for everyday use.
Are Lamson knives dishwasher safe?
No. Hand-washing is recommended to maintain edge sharpness and prevent handle damage.
Do Lamson knives have a lifetime warranty?
Yes! Lamson offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
Where can I buy Lamson knives?
Lamson knives are available on Amazon, Lamson’s official website, and select kitchenware retailers.
Conclusion: Are Lamson Knives Good?
Yes, Lamson knives are a fantastic choice, especially for those who love classic American craftsmanship. They may not seem the best at first, but their durability, comfort, and lifetime warranty make them a smart buy. If you want a tough, dependable Western-style knife, Lamson is a solid choice. But if you prefer Japanese knives or need a budget-friendly option, you might want to look at other brands.
